Category Archives: Inspired Message

We have a saying that if you want to get someone’s attention, hit him in his pocketbook. What it means is that people often put a higher priority on their income and financial wellbeing than anything else. This saying was certainly true with regard to the religious leaders in Jerusalem during Jesus’ ministry. The priests and teachers of the Law had turned God’s Temple in Jerusalem into a place of business. They profited from selling sacrificial animals to those who came to worship and from charging people to change their money into the coins required to pay the Temple tax. The leaders conducted this business in the courtyard intended as the place for non-Jewish people to worship and seek God. In this way the very people who claimed that their lives were dedicated to God perverted God’s Law and destroyed the purpose of the Temple.

Jesus would not tolerate this. He drove the traders and businessmen out of the Temple and proclaimed in the words of the prophet Isaiah that the Temple was to be, “a house of prayer for all nations.” (Isaiah 56:7) It is worth noting that neither the priests, nor the teachers of the Law, nor the businessmen, nor the Temple police were able to stop Jesus from cleansing the Temple. This should have put everyone on notice that Jesus was acting in God’s power. Otherwise, how could just one man, acting alone, accomplish this?

In spite of the evidence, the priests and teachers of the Law demanded to know by what authority Jesus was acting. Jesus responded with a question of His own. He asked whether John’s baptism was from heaven or from men. The leaders realized that if they admitted that John was a prophet, Jesus would ask why they hadn’t believed John’s message. On the other hand, they couldn’t deny that John was a prophet for fear of the people. So, they demonstrated their own hypocrisy by saying they did not know where John received his authority.

Since the leaders would not be honest about John, Jesus refused to answer them about the source of His own authority. In chapter 12, verses 1 through 12 in the Gospel which bears his name, Mark tells us what happened next, “He then began to speak to them in parables: “He began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a pit for the wine press, built a tower, rented it out to a farmer, and went into another country. When it was time, he sent a servant to the farmer to get from the farmer his share of the fruit of the vineyard. They took him, beat him, and sent him away empty. Again, he sent another servant to them; and they threw stones at him, wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully treated. Again he sent another; and they killed him; and many others, beating some, and killing some. Therefore still having one, his beloved son, he sent him last to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But those farmers said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ They took him, killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard. What therefore will the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the farmers, and will give the vineyard to others. Haven’t you even read this Scripture: ‘The stone which the builders rejected was made the head of the corner. This was from the Lord. It is marvelous in our eyes’?” They tried to seize him, but they feared the multitude; for they perceived that he spoke the parable against them. They left him, and went away.”

The religious leaders could not have mistaken Jesus’ meaning in this parable because the prophet Isaiah had already used the same metaphor to refer to the Jewish people. After describing the vineyard and how it did not produce the kind of fruit it should have, Isaiah wrote, “The vineyard of the LORD Almighty is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are the garden of his delight. And he looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress.” (Isaiah 5:7 NIV)

In light of Isaiah’s words the meaning of Jesus’ parable is obvious. The vineyard is the people of Israel. The owner is God. The wall, watchtower and winepress refer to the protection and blessings which God granted the Jewish people. He gave them everything they needed to prosper and be successful. The tenants of the vineyard are the religious leaders into whose hands God committed His people. According to Isaiah, the fruit God expected to receive from His people was justice and righteousness. He was rewarded instead with bloodshed and cries of distress.

In order to obtain what was due him, the owner sent servants to the tenants. This refers to the many prophets which God sent to Israel. Instead of listening to the prophets and giving God what was due Him, the people and their leaders dishonored, humiliated and insulted them. Many of the prophets they killed.

At last, the owner of the vineyard sent his beloved son, hoping that the tenants would respect him though they had mistreated the servants. There is no doubt that in using the metaphor of the beloved son, Jesus was referring to Himself. In chapter one of this Gospel, Mark already recorded that at Jesus’ baptism, “…a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”” (Mark 1:11 NIV) By killing the son, as the religious leaders were planning to do to Jesus, the tenants of the vineyard brought certain destruction on themselves.

To drive the point home, Jesus quoted from Psalm 118. The very stone which the builders, that is the religious leaders rejected, God would make the cornerstone, that is the most important stone. In other words, by rejecting Jesus, the religious leaders were rejecting the One whom God proclaimed was the most important of all.

The leaders understood what Jesus was saying. Unfortunately, instead of changing their attitude toward Him, they continued to play the part of the dishonest tenants. The only reason they did not arrest Jesus, then and there, was because they were afraid of the crowd. In just a few days, however, they would succeed in killing Jesus. Not long afterwards a man named Stephen would tell these men, “You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit! Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him—”(Acts 7:51-52 NIV)

Like the tenants in the parable, by killing the son, these men brought upon themselves the destruction Jesus predicted. Within 40 years Jerusalem and the Temple would be destroyed. What about us? Will we listen to the Son, or will we be like the dishonest tenants who killed Him?

Appearances are often deceiving. What we think we see does not represent reality. Sometimes this difference can be a pleasant surprise. The hulking, brutish, hardened looking man turns out be someone who is very kind, compassionate, and humorous with a genuine interest in serving others. Other times, reality is not so pleasing. We cut into a beautiful looking fruit, only to find that it is rotten on the inside.

When people pretend to be something they are not, particularly when they show a righteous face to the public while living unholy lives, we call them hypocrites. During the last few days of His life on earth Jesus taught some important lessons about hypocrisy. In chapter 11, verses 12 through 26 Mark writes, “The next day, when they had come out from Bethany, he was hungry.
Seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came to see if perhaps he might find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. Jesus told it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again!” and his disciples heard it. They came to Jerusalem, and Jesus entered into the temple, and began to throw out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and overthrew the money changers’ tables, and the seats of those who sold the doves. He would not allow anyone to carry a container through the temple. He taught, saying to them, “Isn’t it written, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer for all the nations?’ But you have made it a den of robbers!” The chief priests and the scribes heard it, and sought how they might destroy him. For they feared him, because all the multitude was astonished at his teaching.
When evening came, he went out of the city. As they passed by in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered away from the roots. Peter, remembering, said to him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree which you cursed has withered away.” Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God. For most certainly I tell you, whoever may tell this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ and doesn’t doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says is happening; he shall have whatever he says. Therefore I tell you, all things whatever you pray and ask for, believe that you have received them, and you shall have them. Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father, who is in heaven, may also forgive you your transgressions. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your transgressions.””

The incident of the fig tree troubles many people. Why would Jesus curse the tree for not having any figs when it was not the season for figs? Why blame the tree for not bearing fruit out of season? However, when we take a closer look, we realize that Jesus did not curse the tree for not bearing fruit out of season. Instead, he cursed it for giving a false impression. Though it was not the season for figs, the tree was in leaf indicating that it had figs as well. However, when Jesus examined the tree He discovered that the tree’s appearance did not match reality. It was a hypocrite.

Jesus dealt with a more serious form of hypocrisy when He entered Jerusalem. God intended the Temple to be a place of prayer and worship. Moreover, the Temple was not only for the Jewish people. Around the sanctuary was a large courtyard. Though non-Jewish people were forbidden to enter the Temple, itself, the courtyard was a place where they could pray and seek God. However, the religious leaders in Jerusalem had turned the courtyard intended for non-Jewish people into a place of business. They not only sold animals for sacrifice, they also exchanged the money used for the Temple tax there. Mark indicates that some of the things which were bought and sold were not even related to the Temple rituals. In short, the leaders who controlled the Temple had forgotten its purpose. Instead of helping and encouraging foreigners to seek after God, they were making it impossible for them to worship. They were serving themselves and profiting from the Temple instead of serving God. They were using a cloak of religion to mask their own greed.

Jesus would have none of it. He drove the businessmen out of the Temple and cleared the courtyard so it would be available for worship and prayer again. The religious leaders were powerless to stop Him. However, instead of repenting of their sin and hypocrisy, they plotted to kill the One who exposed them for what they were.

The next day the disciples noticed that the fig tree which Jesus cursed, had withered. Jesus not only used the fig tree as a lesson in faith, He also used it to teach about forgiveness. The tree was a metaphor for the corrupt, hypocritical religious leaders of the Temple. Jesus cursed the tree because, contrary to appearances, it had no fruit. The religious leaders would similarly be cursed if they continued in their hypocrisy. In the same way, the disciples could not expect God to forgive their own hypocrisy if they would not forgive others.

When Jesus arrived back at the Temple, the religious leaders confronted Him. In verses 27 through 33 Mark writes, “They came again to Jerusalem, and as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders came to him, and they began saying to him, “By what authority do you do these things? Or who gave you this authority to do these things?” Jesus said to them, “I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. The baptism of John—was it from heaven, or from men? Answer me.” They reasoned with themselves, saying, “If we should say, ‘From heaven;’ he will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ If we should say, ‘From men’”—they feared the people, for all held John to really be a prophet. They answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus said to them, “Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.””

The religious leaders showed their own lack of spiritual awareness when they asked Jesus about His authority. How could one man clear the Temple courts by Himself? The fact that none of the businessmen or, more importantly, the Temple police could stop Jesus should have been an indication that He was doing it in the power of God. Further, these men who prided themselves on knowing the Scriptures should have remembered what God said through the prophet Malachi, ““…suddenly the Lord you are seeking will come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant, whom you desire, will come,” says the LORD Almighty. But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner’s fire or a launderer’s soap. He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; he will purify the Levites and refine them like gold and silver.” (Malachi 3:1-3 NIV) Just as a refiner’s fire causes the dross to come to the surface and as soap lifts the dirt from cloth, Jesus’ question exposed the dishonesty of those who confronted Him.

Jesus’ disciples believed that He was the Messiah the prophets predicted would come and for who’s appearing the people of Israel had waited for hundreds of years. One of the roles of the Messiah is that of King. The disciples were convinced that Jesus would openly declare Himself as King and inaugurate His kingdom when He went to Jerusalem.

The disciples were correct that Jesus was the Messiah and a king. The question was, what sort of king would Jesus be? Jesus had already taught His disciples that the way to attain greatness is through service. On the way to Jerusalem, Jesus had a opportunity to demonstrate this. In chapter 10, verses 46 through 52 of the Gospel account which bears his name, John writes, “They came to Jericho. As he went out from Jericho, with his disciples and a great multitude, the son of Timaeus, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, was sitting by the road. When he heard that it was Jesus the Nazarene, he began to cry out, and say, “Jesus, you son of David, have mercy on me!” Many rebuked him, that he should be quiet, but he cried out much more, “You son of David, have mercy on me!” Jesus stood still, and said, “Call him.” They called the blind man, saying to him, “Cheer up! Get up. He is calling you!” He, casting away his cloak, sprang up, and came to Jesus. Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” The blind man said to him, “Rabboni, that I may see again.” Jesus said to him, “Go your way. Your faith has made you well.” Immediately he received his sight, and followed Jesus on the way.”

By calling Jesus the ‘Son of David’, it is evident that Bartimaeus, as well as the disciples, regarded Jesus as the King who’s coming the prophets predicted. The title points to the promise God made to King David, “Your house and your kingdom will endure forever before me; your throne will be established forever.” (2 Samuel 7:16 NIV) Jesus did not rebuke Bartimaeus for calling Him ‘Son of David’. By accepting the title Jesus acknowledged that He was the promised King.

Though Jesus did not rebuke Bartimaeus, the crowd tried to silence him. Perhaps they thought it was inappropriate for someone to interrupt a king. Bartimaeus would not be silenced. He shouted all the more. He understood the nature of King Jesus better than the crowd. He had confidence that Jesus would listen to his petition. His confidence was not misplaced. Because of his faith, Jesus granted his request and healed him. Upon being healed, Bartimaeus followed Jesus. It is worth noting that Jesus is still a compassionate King today. He is still willing to hear our petitions when we cry out to him. Scripture says, “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:16 NIV) The question is whether we have the courage to call out to Jesus like Bartimaeus or whether we will let the indignant crowd stifle our cry.

It is amusing that when Jesus called Bartimaeus the attitude of the crowd changed. The same people who tried to discourage Bartimaeus now encouraged him. It seems like they were more concerned about trying to curry favor with Jesus than about Bartimaeus’ needs. Are we so concerned about trying to look good that we forget about serving?

Shortly after this incident Jesus gave another indication about what sort of king He was. In chapter 11, verses 1 through 11, Mark writes, “When they came near to Jerusalem, to Bethsphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, he sent two of his disciples, and said to them, “Go your way into the village that is opposite you. Immediately as you enter into it, you will find a young donkey tied, on which no one has sat. Untie him, and bring him. If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs him;’ and immediately he will send him back here.” They went away, and found a young donkey tied at the door outside in the open street, and they untied him. Some of those who stood there asked them, “What are you doing, untying the young donkey?” They said to them just as Jesus had said, and they let them go. They brought the young donkey to Jesus, and threw their garments on it, and Jesus sat on it. Many spread their garments on the way, and others were cutting down branches from the trees, and spreading them on the road. Those who went in front, and those who followed, cried out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the kingdom of our father David that is coming in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” Jesus entered into the temple in Jerusalem. When he had looked around at everything, it being now evening, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.”

Most rulers don’t hesitate to take what they want. Though Jesus did not hesitate to make use of someone else’s property when He needed it, the difference between Him and other kings is that He promised to return it. He was not the kind of ruler who despoils and loots His subjects.

But why did Jesus choose to ride into Jerusalem on a donkey’s colt? Surely a warhorse would have been more appropriate for a great king to ride? What Jesus did was the fulfillment of a prophecy. The prophet Zechariah wrote, “Rejoice greatly, O Daughter of Zion! Shout, Daughter of Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and having salvation, gentle and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the war-horses from Jerusalem, and the battle bow will be broken. He will proclaim peace to the nations. His rule will extend from sea to sea and from the River to the ends of the earth.” (Zechariah 9:1-10 NIV)

Contrary to what many of Jesus’ disciples thought, He did not come to establish a political kingdom who’s armies would defeat the Romans and conquer the world. Instead, Jesus came to rule people’s hearts. He came to persuade rather than force. His was a mission of reconciliation and peace rather than one of conquest. He came to win people over with love rather than make them submit. He came to set people free rather than enslave them. His kingdom is of the spirit rather than physical territory. “Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.”” (Luke 17:20-21 NIV)

Jesus accepted as His right the shouts of the crowd welcoming Him to Jerusalem as King. He went in triumphal procession to the Temple – the center of Jewish religious life and the embodiment of Jewish nationalistic fervor. Then, He did a surprising thing. Instead of proclaiming the beginning of His reign or making an impassioned speech to the crowd, He merely looked around and quietly left the city.

The very same event can cause some to fear and give hope to others. This is what happened when, in spite of the religious leaders’ opposition, Jesus traveled to Jerusalem. In chapter 10, verses 32 through 34 of the Gospel which bears his name Mark writes, “They were on the way, going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus was going in front of them, and they were amazed; and those who followed were afraid. He again took the twelve, and began to tell them the things that were going to happen to him. “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem. The Son of Man will be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes. They will condemn him to death, and will deliver him to the Gentiles. They will mock him, spit on him, scourge him, and kill him. On the third day he will rise again.””

Mark does not tell us why the disciples were astonished and the rest of Jesus’ followers were afraid when Jesus led the way to Jerusalem. Perhaps the disciples were astonished that Jesus would deliberately go to a place where so many influential people opposed Him. Perhaps Jesus’ followers were afraid that the authorities would take action against them as well as against Jesus. If this is the case, it speaks well of their faith in Jesus that they were willing to risk trouble and suffering in order to follow Him.

Of the two groups, Jesus’ disciples seemed the least aware of what Jesus faced. This is amazing because Jesus had already told them twice before that the religious leaders would reject Him and have Him executed. Now, for the third time, Jesus privately told the disciples what would happen in Jerusalem. This time Jesus added explicit detail about what would be done to Him – He would be condemned, mocked, tortured and killed by the very people who should have welcomed and supported Him the most. However, this betrayal would not end in disaster. In three days time, Jesus would rise from the dead.

It is obvious that in spite of Jesus’ specific warning about His coming humiliation and death, the disciples still did not understand. They thought that Jesus was going to Jerusalem to establish an earthly kingdom. Some of them decided to benefit from it. In verses 35 through 45 Mark writes, “James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came near to him, saying, “Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we will ask.” He said to them, “What do you want me to do for you?” They said to him, “Grant to us that we may sit, one at your right hand, and one at your left hand, in your glory.” But Jesus said to them, “You don’t know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to him, “We are able.” Jesus said to them, “You shall indeed drink the cup that I drink, and you shall be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit at my right hand and at my left hand is not mine to give, but for whom it has been prepared.” When the ten heard it, they began to be indignant toward James and John. Jesus summoned them, and said to them, “You know that they who are recognized as rulers over the nations lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you, but whoever wants to become great among you shall be your servant. Whoever of you wants to become first among you, shall be bondservant of all. For the Son of Man also came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.””

Perhaps James and John realized that their desire was not entirely in harmony with God’s will, for they asked Jesus to grant their wish without telling Him what it was. However, Jesus was too wise to be caught that way. He would not allow anyone to put Him in a position where He had to either break His promise or to grant something contrary to God’s will. Instead, He forced James and John to clearly state what they wanted.

In reply to James’ and John’s request for places of honor Jesus told them that they did not understand what they were asking for. While they were correct that Jesus would be glorified, He would first have to pay a great price.

Jesus used two metaphors to describe the price He was about to pay. The first was a cup. In several places the Old Testament pictures judgment as if someone were drinking from a cup filled with God’s wrath. The judgment for the sins of the entire world would come upon Jesus. The second metaphor Jesus used was that of baptism. He would be immersed in trouble and suffering. Were James and John willing and able to pay the same price in order to receive the honor they craved?

Foolishly, James and John declared that they were able. Jesus told them that they would indeed suffer, but He could not grant their request. God is the One who has decided who will sit at Jesus’ right or left. Jesus would not try to usurp that authority.

The other disciples harbored the same ambition as James and John. They did not understand that the principles of the Kingdom of God are the opposite of the principles upon which worldly power is based. Jesus had to explain to them that the world measures position and power by how many people serve a ruler. In contrast, in the Kingdom of God, position and greatness is measured by how much a person serves. Not even Jesus, Himself, was exempt from this principle. He did not come to receive service. On the contrary, He came to serve others. In fact, Jesus was going to lay down His own life on behalf of others.

In light of Jesus’ teaching we can say that those who are truly great do not seek power and position at all. Their focus is not on themselves and their own honor. Their concern is how much and how well they can serve and help others.

Similar to Jesus’ disciples in this incident, there are many in the church, even today, who have not learned the lesson. As Jesus said on another occasion about the religious leaders of His day, “They tie up heavy loads and put them on men’s shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. Everything they do is done for men to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long; they love the place of honor at banquets and the most important seats in the synagogues; they love to be greeted in the marketplaces and to have men call them ‘Rabbi.’” (Matthew 23:4-7 NIV) What about us? Do we crave positions of honor and power over others? Do we seek the acclaim of men? Or, do we have a heart of service? Are we willing to sacrifice ourselves that others may benefit?

Even though death is universal, there is something in our souls which refuses to accept this and which longs for eternal life. This is not surprising because God created us for life. However, as a consequence of Adam’s disobedience God banned access to the Tree of Life. Mankind has been searching for it ever since. Someone once asked Jesus what is the key to obtaining eternal life. In chapter 10, verses 17 through 23 of the Gospel which bears his name, Mark tells us about it.

“As he was going out into the way, one ran to him, knelt before him, and asked him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except one—God. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not give false testimony,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and mother.’” He said to him, “Teacher, I have observed all these things from my youth.” Jesus looking at him loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack. Go, sell whatever you have, and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me, taking up the cross.” But his face fell at that saying, and he went away sorrowful, for he was one who had great possessions. Jesus looked around, and said to his disciples, “How difficult it is for those who have riches to enter into God’s Kingdom!””

Jesus’ reply was unexpected. He asked why the man called Him good. Only God is good. There are many people who are willing to acknowledge Jesus as a great teacher, or even as a prophet. However, the truth is that we cannot call Jesus good without also recognizing that He is far more than just a man. In reality He is God come down to live among us. As Scripture says, “He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:15-17 NIV)

The man who came to Jesus may have only intended to seek His opinion or advice. But by calling Jesus ‘good’ he acknowledged Jesus’ divine authority. Whatever Jesus said to him would not merely be a suggestion; it would be a divine command. He had to follow it or disobey God.

Jesus, then recited something the man already knew – a portion of the part of the Law of Moses which we call the Ten Commandments. If someone were to keep the Law perfectly he would receive eternal life because God, Himself, said, “Keep my decrees and laws, for the man who obeys them will live by them. I am the LORD.” (Leviticus 18:5 NIV)

In spite of keeping the commandments the man still must have felt some lack or he would not have asked the question about how to obtain eternal life. Apparently the man was sincere because Jesus loved him and invited him to become one of His followers. It is worth noting that this is very similar to the invitation Jesus gave to His disciples. Jesus pinpointed the man’s lack when He told him to sell everything and give it to the poor. His problem was that though he kept the Law, it was only an external compliance. He kept the letter, and missed the spirit. Instead of depending on God, he was relying on his own efforts and his possessions to secure his place in eternity. By doing so he violated the most important of all the commands in the Mosaic Law: “Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5 NIV). Or, as it says in the Ten Commandments, “You shall have no other gods before me.” (Exodus 20:3 NIV) The man went away sad because he put a higher value on his riches than on serving Christ. He could not bear to give up the temporary in order to gain the eternal. What about us? Are willing to give up our idols in order to gain eternal life?

In verses 24 through 31 Mark tells us the disciples’ reaction to Jesus comment about how hard it is for rich people to enter God’s Kingdom, “The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus answered again, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter into God’s Kingdom! It is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye than for a rich man to enter into God’s Kingdom.” They were exceedingly astonished, saying to him, “Then who can be saved?” Jesus, looking at them, said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God, for all things are possible with God.” Peter began to tell him, “Behold, we have left all, and have followed you.” Jesus said, “Most certainly I tell you, there is no one who has left house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or land, for my sake, and for the sake of the Good News, but he will receive one hundred times more now in this time: houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and land, with persecutions; and in the age to come eternal life. But many who are first will be last; and the last first.””

The disciples’ reaction is typical of many people even today. If it is difficult for the rich to enter God’s Kingdom, then what hope does anyone else have? They thought that wealth was a sign of God’s blessing and favor. Jesus seemed to be saying that instead of a sign of God’s favor, wealth is often an obstacle to obtaining God’s favor. A rich man can’t enter the Kingdom any more than a camel can pass through a needle’s eye. Jesus’ point is that rich or poor, it is impossible for anyone to earn salvation or eternal life by his own efforts. If anyone is going to be saved or obtain eternal life it is only because God makes it possible.

The disciples were still thinking in terms of earning God’s favor by their good works. In contrast to the rich man who refused to part from his wealth, they had given up everything to follow Jesus. What would they gain for doing so? In reply Jesus said that anyone who gives up something for the sake of the Gospel will receive a hundred times more in return. However, we should not think of this in material terms. Jesus spoke of the new relationships and community one enters when he decides to follow. As He had previously said, “Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3:35 NIV) When we choose to do God’s will, we enter the same spiritual family as everyone else who does God’s will. Just as blood relatives help one another and share their possessions, so do the members of this spiritual family. When we enter this family, we gain far more than we gave up. However, the gain does not come without cost. We will also experience persecution. Are we willing to pay the price?

Jesus ended with warning: Many who are first will be last and the last first. In the context, those who cling to their wealth, or those who depend on their own good works to earn eternal life will be disappointed.

Instead of promoting Himself, Jesus constantly served others and put their interests ahead of His own. Not only His teaching, but His very life was a threat to the religious leaders of the time. His humility, service and righteousness exposed their pride and hypocrisy. The religious leaders tried their best to discredit Jesus. The problem was that the miracles Jesus performed validated His message and proved He was from God.

Since they could not deny that the miracles Jesus performed were genuine, the leaders tried to discredit Him another way. In chapter 10, verses 1 through 12 of the Gospel which bears his name Mark writes, “He arose from there and came into the borders of Judea and beyond the Jordan. Multitudes came together to him again. As he usually did, he was again teaching them. Pharisees came to him testing him, and asked him, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” He answered, “What did Moses command you?” They said, “Moses allowed a certificate of divorce to be written, and to divorce her.” But Jesus said to them, “For your hardness of heart, he wrote you this commandment. But from the beginning of the creation, God made them male and female. For this cause a man will leave his father and mother, and will join to his wife, and the two will become one flesh, so that they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.” In the house, his disciples asked him again about the same matter. He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife, and marries another, commits adultery against her. If a woman herself divorces her husband, and marries another, she commits adultery.””

On the surface, the question the Pharisees asked could be taken as a genuine request for information. However, Mark indicates that these men were not sincerely seeking to know God’s will. Instead they asked their question to test Jesus. If they could get Him to say something which was contrary to the Law of Moses, they could label Jesus as a blasphemer or a heretic. Perhaps another reason they asked this particular question was that this incident took place in the area ruled by Herod Antipas. Herod had already arrested and executed John the Baptist because John had declared that Herod’s divorce and remarriage was illegal. If Jesus took the same position, perhaps Herod would arrest Him too.

If the intent was to catch Jesus saying something contrary to the Law of Moses, the Pharisees set themselves up for disappointment. Since Jesus came from God and only preached the message God gave Him, His words would never contradict any message God had already given.

Instead of trapping Jesus, Jesus trapped the Pharisees. The Pharisees were a group of men who had dedicated themselves to keeping the Law of Moses. Since they were experts in the Law, Jesus turned their question about divorce on its head by asking them what law Moses had given them concerning divorce. There is an important principle here. If we already know what God’s word says about a certain topic, then there is no need to ask someone to tell us what it says. If we do, it calls our own motives into question. Either we are seeking an excuse to disobey what God has said, or we are trying to discredit the person we ask.

In reply to Jesus the Pharisees had no option but to quote the Law: Moses permitted divorce. Jesus could have said, “You’ve answered your own question,” and left it there. However, Jesus went on to talk about the reason God, through Moses, permitted divorce and, in so doing, subtly encouraged the Pharisees to examine their own motives. Yes, Moses permitted divorce, but that was not God’s intention. God’s intent was for a man and woman to become one for life through the covenant of marriage. In marriage the two persons become a single organism. Since God joins the two together in marriage, people should not tear that union apart. From this we learn that not everything which is legal is ethical or moral. God permitted divorce, not because He desires it but as an expedient because men’s hearts are hard. By divorcing his or her spouse a marriage partner rejects the will of God.

When the disciples asked Jesus to clarify His teaching, Jesus went on to say that divorcing and remarrying is equivalent to committing adultery. Needless to say, this teaching is not welcome by people who have hard or selfish hearts.

Jesus’ disciples exhibited another form of hard heart. In verses 13 through 16 Mark writes, “They were bringing to him little children, that he should touch them, but the disciples rebuked those who were bringing them. But when Jesus saw it, he was moved with indignation, and said to them, “Allow the little children to come to me! Don’t forbid them, for God’s Kingdom belongs to such as these. Most certainly I tell you, whoever will not receive God’s Kingdom like a little child, he will in no way enter into it.” He took them in his arms, and blessed them, laying his hands on them.”

Those who think too highly of themselves tend to look down on those whom they regard of less importance. In the view of the disciples, children were insignificant and not worth bothering a great man like Jesus about. Even if the disciples were merely trying to spare Jesus from interruption or overwork, their actions infuriated Jesus. Earlier Mark wrote that Jesus proclaimed that some among those gathered around Him would witness the Kingdom of God come with power (Mark 9:1). Here the the disciples were turning away the very people who belonged to the Kingdom.

Why did Jesus say that the Kingdom belongs to those who are childlike? It is because children are receptive. In spite of all their learning, most of the religious leaders rejected Jesus and cast doubt on His character. Luke writes in his account of this same incident that Jesus called the children to Him (Luke 18:16). In contrast to the religious leaders, when Jesus called, the children came to Him and accepted Him. When the children came, Jesus placed His hands on them and blessed them.

The same principle applies to us today. We cannot reject the King and still enter the Kingdom. We cannot receive Christ’s blessing without coming to Him. Each one of us needs to look into our own hearts: Have we accepted King Jesus with the same trust and confidence as a little child? Or are our hearts still hard and unbelieving?

There is something in most people which craves status and recognition. We want to be first. We want others to acknowledge our importance. We often think we are better than other people. Jesus’ disciples were no different. They, too, wanted to put themselves first.

However, Jesus taught that true greatness is measured by service and by putting others first. The disciples had a hard time comprehending this, let alone accepting it. When Jesus spoke of His own coming sacrificial death, they did not understand.

In chapter 9, verses 33 through 37 of the Gospel which bears his name, Mark writes, “He came to Capernaum, and when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you arguing among yourselves on the way?” But they were silent, for they had disputed with one another on the way about who was the greatest. He sat down, and called the twelve; and he said to them, “If any man wants to be first, he shall be last of all, and servant of all.” He took a little child, and set him in the middle of them. Taking him in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever receives one such little child in my name, receives me, and whoever receives me, doesn’t receive me, but him who sent me.””

Why did the disciples keep quiet when Jesus asked them what their argument was about? Perhaps they were afraid Jesus would not select them if they asked Jesus to settle the argument of who was greatest. Perhaps they felt guilty or embarrassed. They might have sensed that Jesus would not approve of their worldly, selfish desires. Though they kept silent, Jesus knew their ambition and so He explained the principle of greatness to them: It is service which makes one great. The more one serves, the greater he is. This principle is diametrically opposed to what the world teaches. Many believe that in order to advance it is necessary to put other people down. They measure how important they are by how many people serve them. This may be true in the eyes of society. It is not true in the Kingdom of God. God measures how great someone is by how well and how many other people they serve.

To illustrate His point, Jesus took a little child in His arms. Those who are truly great pay attention to the concerns of those the world considers unimportant or insignificant. If we are Jesus’ disciples we will care about the people He cares about. By extension, the same people Jesus is concerned about are the same as those God cares for. By welcoming them in Jesus’ name, we not only show them Christ’s love, but also the love of God.

There is another way in which people try to show that they are greater than others. In verses 38 through 50 Mark writes, “John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone who doesn’t follow us casting out demons in your name; and we forbade him, because he doesn’t follow us.” But Jesus said, “Don’t forbid him, for there is no one who will do a mighty work in my name, and be able quickly to speak evil of me. For whoever is not against us is on our side. For whoever will give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you are Christ’s, most certainly I tell you, he will in no way lose his reward. Whoever will cause one of these little ones who believe in me to stumble, it would be better for him if he were thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around his neck. If your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life maimed, rather than having your two hands to go into Gehenna, into the unquenchable fire, ‘where their worm doesn’t die, and the fire is not quenched.’ If your foot causes you to stumble, cut it off. It is better for you to enter into life lame, rather than having your two feet to be cast into Gehenna, into the fire that will never be quenched— ‘where their worm doesn’t die, and the fire is not quenched.’ If your eye causes you to stumble, cast it out. It is better for you to enter into God’s Kingdom with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into the Gehenna of fire, ‘where their worm doesn’t die, and the fire is not quenched.’ For everyone will be salted with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt. Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its saltiness, with what will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.””

In this incident the disciples made a common mistake. In their pride they thought that since Jesus had chosen them, they were above everyone else who followed Jesus. They forgot that Jesus is the Master and it is He who assigns each person his task. It was not the disciples’ place to tell someone else that he could not serve in Jesus’ name. Do we, like the disciples, become a hindrance to Christ’s work because we refuse to recognize the role He has assigned to others?

Jesus went on to say that any service, no matter how humble is worthwhile. We tend to think that only the highly visible and prominent things are worth doing – most likely because we think that doing the so-called ‘big’ things shows how great we are. However, giving even a simple cup of water for the sake of Jesus will be rewarded. Are we willing to do the humble tasks which receive no public recognition?

Jesus next discussed influence. What we say and do has an impact on those around us. In their desire to prove how great they were, the disciples had not considered how they were affecting others. Their example in seeking to become number one might cause an innocent child to sin. In such case, instead of obtaining the high position they lusted after, drowning would be better than what would happen to them. What is more important – obtaining worldly position or having a place in God’s Kingdom? We should be willing to pay any price to enter the Kingdom of God – even a part of our bodies if that is necessary to prevent us from sinning. It is better to be crippled or maimed and have a place in the Kingdom than to remain whole and be thrown into the eternal fire of hell. If we should be willing to give up a part of our body in order to obtain God’s Kingdom, then how much more should we be willing to let go of status or position to obtain it!

To make His point even more clear, Jesus referred to the sacrifices God required in the Law of Moses. God instructed the people to, “Season all your grain offerings with salt. Do not leave the salt of the covenant of your God out of your grain offerings; add salt to all your offerings.” (Leviticus 2:13 NIV) By telling His disciples that “Everyone will be salted with fire.” (verse 49) Jesus was saying that just as salt accompanied the sacrifices, His disciples would experience trouble, persecution and hardship. Instead of putting themselves first they should sacrificially serve others. Salt also preserves and brings out the flavor of food. However, it is useless if it loses it’s saltiness. By seeking to be first the disciples could lose their saltiness. Instead of arguing about who was greatest, the disciples were to be at peace with one another.

Why doesn’t God grant our requests even when we ask for what is good? One of the reasons is that in our heart of hearts we sometimes doubt that God is able to do what we ask of Him.

Similarly, why do our attempts to serve God sometimes seem so ineffective? Could it be that we are not doing the things required for success? In the Gospel which bears his name, Mark tells of an incident which illustrates these points. Jesus took three of His disciples up on a mountain where He was transfigured before them and they saw His divine glory. In chapter 9, verses 14 through 29 Mark tells us what happened when they came down from the mountain. “Coming to the disciples, he saw a great multitude around them, and scribes questioning them.
Immediately all the multitude, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and running to him, greeted him. He asked the scribes, “What are you asking them?” One of the multitude answered, “Teacher, I brought to you my son, who has a mute spirit; and wherever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams at the mouth, and grinds his teeth, and wastes away. I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they weren’t able.” He answered him, “Unbelieving generation, how long shall I be with you? How long shall I bear with you? Bring him to me.” They brought him to him, and when he saw him, immediately the spirit convulsed him, and he fell on the ground, wallowing and foaming at the mouth. He asked his father, “How long has it been since this has come to him?” He said, “From childhood. Often it has cast him both into the fire and into the water to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us, and help us.” Jesus said to him, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out with tears, “I believe. Help my unbelief!” When Jesus saw that a multitude came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to him, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again!” After crying out and convulsing him greatly, it came out of him. The boy became like one dead, so much that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand, and raised him up; and he arose. When he had come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why couldn’t we cast it out?” He said to them, “This kind can come out by nothing, except by prayer and fasting.””

Mark does not tell us what the argument was about or why the crowd was amazed when they saw Jesus. Perhaps they were amazed because Jesus’ very presence was enough to stop the argument. Whatever the reason, it was obvious that Jesus was in total control of the situation. When Jesus asked what they were arguing about a man in the crowd replied that he had brought his demon-possessed son for healing. Presumably the argument was about demon-possession or about healing. In any case, since Jesus was unavailable, the man asked His disciples to cast out the demon. No doubt the disciples thought they were capable of doing so because, as Mark wrote earlier, casting out demons one of the purposes for which Christ chose them (Mark 3:14-15). Jesus not only gave the disciples the authority to drive out demons, they had actually done so during their preaching tour of Galilee (Mark 6:12-13). Thus they had every expectation that they would be able to drive this demon out as well.

However, having the authority and the resources to accomplish the task was not enough. The disciples were unable to cure the man’s son. Jesus was bitterly disappointed when He learned of the disciples’ failure. He was tired of their lack of spiritual maturity and said that the cause of their failure was a lack of faith.

The disciples’ failure holds a lesson for us, as well. Many years later the Apostle Peter wrote, “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” (2 Peter 1:3 NIV) In light of this, when we experience spiritual failure it is not because Jesus has neglected to provide everything we need but, like the disciples, we have failed to use the resources He has given us.

The boy’s father begged Jesus to do something if He could. At least the man was honest. He may have had doubts about Jesus’ ability to heal his son, but when Jesus told him that everything is possible to those who believe, the man confessed his partial lack of faith. Even more importantly, he asked Jesus to help him overcome his lack of faith.

One of the beautiful things about Jesus is that he doesn’t demand perfection before He is willing to help. He knows our weaknesses and is willing to help us in spite of them as long as we are honest with Him. Scripture says, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15-16 NIV)

The boy appeared dead after Jesus cast the demon out of him. However, appearances can be deceiving. When Jesus heals, He does so completely. Jesus took the boy by the hand and lifted him up. In this account Mark, in a sense, foreshadows a much greater event: That Christ would overcome death for all people and for all time when He rose from the dead.

Afterwards the disciples asked Jesus why they were unable to cast out the demon. Jesus replied that it could only be cast out by prayer. From this we learn that the disciples had neglected prayer which resulted in their unbelief. Perhaps they made the common mistake of thinking that the power to heal was inherent in themselves and had not called on God. Perhaps they forgot the purpose for healing – which was to authenticate the message that Jesus gave them to preach.

Though Jesus was irritated by the disciples’ lack of belief and understanding, He did not give up on them. He still took the time to teach them. In verses 30 through 32 Mark writes, “They went out from there, and passed through Galilee. He didn’t want anyone to know it. For he was teaching his disciples, and said to them, “The Son of Man is being handed over to the hands of men, and they will kill him; and when he is killed, on the third day he will rise again.” But they didn’t understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.”

This was the second time Jesus told the disciples about His coming death. The concept was beyond them.

It is often difficult for us to see reality. Sometimes our preconceived notions of how things ought to be causes us to have a distorted view of the actual facts. Sometimes we don’t know crucial information which would change how we look at things. But, most importantly, we often forget that the physical and material world in which we live is not all there is. There is a spiritual dimension to everything we do. There are spiritual forces at work which we cannot see or perceive with our physical senses.

In the Gospel which bears his name, Mark records how some of Jesus’ disciples had the rare privilege of seeing a glimpse of the reality beyond our physical world. In chapter 9, verses 2 through 8 he writes, “After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James, and John, and brought them up onto a high mountain privately by themselves, and he was changed into another form in front of them. His clothing became glistening, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. Elijah and Moses appeared to them, and they were talking with Jesus. Peter answered Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let’s make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” For he didn’t know what to say, for they were very afraid. A cloud came, overshadowing them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to him.” Suddenly looking around, they saw no one with them any more, except Jesus only.”

Not long before this incident Peter had declared his belief that Jesus was the Christ, that is, the One God chose to fulfill His plan of reconciling mankind to God. Now, Peter, James and John received dramatic proof that Peter’s declaration was true – Jesus truly was God’s Chosen One.

Not only did the appearance of Jesus’ face change, His clothes turned a dazzling white, far beyond the skill of a laundryman. Another account of this same incident says that they shone like lightning (Luke 9:29). What was the significance of this? Earlier Jesus had told His disciples that He would come, “in his Father’s glory” (Mark 8:38). No doubt what Peter and the others saw was a glimpse of that glory. For a moment they were privileged to see Jesus’ true nature, the glory He gave up when He left God’s presence in heaven to come to earth as a man. Many years later, Peter wrote, “We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.” (2 Peter 1:16 NIV)

Jesus’ glory was not the only thing the disciples saw. Moses and Elijah also appeared in glorious splendor and spoke with Jesus. Mark does not tell us what they talked about. However, Luke informs us that they discussed Jesus’ departure which would be accomplished in Jerusalem. Elsewhere the Scriptures use the word which is translated here as ‘departure’ to refer to death. However, this same word is used to describe the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. Just as God led the Israelites through the Red Sea in order to bring them out from slavery, so too, Jesus’ death in Jerusalem would enable all people to escape the slavery of sin.

Why Moses and Elijah? Perhaps it was because Moses was the one through whom God gave the Law to the Israelites. By means of the Law of Moses, God entered into a covenant relationship with the Israelites. If they kept God’s expectations defined by the Law, they would live. Unfortunately, no one could meet God’s standards. The penalty for sin is death, that is, eternal separation from God. Though the Law provided sacrifices for sins, those sacrifices were insufficient. Scripture says, “…it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. Therefore, when Christ came into the world, he said: “Sacrifice and offering you did not desire, but a body you prepared for me; with burnt offerings and sin offerings you were not pleased. Then I said, ‘Here I am—it is written about me in the scroll— I have come to do your will, O God.’”” (Hebrews 10:4-7 NIV)

Many Jews considered Elijah to be the greatest prophet after Moses. His being taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:11) certainly was unusual. Also, the prophet Malachi predicted that Elijah would return (Malachi 4:5-6). In light of these things, perhaps Elijah and Moses encouraged Jesus to complete the task which God gave Him. Even their salvation depended on Him doing so.

Upon viewing all this, the disciples, quite naturally, were frightened. Like many people, Peter started talking in order to cover up his fear. When he suggested building shelters for Jesus, Moses and Elijah perhaps he had in mind the ‘tent of meeting’ outside the Israelite camp where Moses used to meet with God. Whatever he might have been thinking a divine voice from a cloud which enveloped them interrupted. The voice, in essence, told Peter to stop talking and listen. More importantly, Peter and the others were to listen to Jesus, God’s beloved Son. The meaning is clear: Jesus’ message is greater than that of Moses or Elijah. Though both of them were great men and spoke on behalf of God, Jesus is greater still. Is He the One we listen to?

Though God’s endorsement of Jesus could not be more plain, it was not the right time to tell the world what had happened. In verses 9 through 13 Mark writes, “As they were coming down from the mountain, he commanded them that they should tell no one what things they had seen, until after the Son of Man had risen from the dead. They kept this saying to themselves, questioning what the “rising from the dead” meant. They asked him, saying, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” He said to them, “Elijah indeed comes first, and restores all things. How is it written about the Son of Man, that he should suffer many things and be despised? But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they have also done to him whatever they wanted to, even as it is written about him.””

Even though they were witnesses of Jesus’ glory, Peter, James and John still did not understand the purpose for His coming to earth. They did not realize that He had to sacrifice His life to save the lives of sinners. This is why they kept discussing what Jesus meant about rising from the dead. To them it was inconceivable that God’s Messiah would have to suffer and die. In response, Jesus pointed out that His suffering and rejection was a fulfillment of prophecy. Also, they had a misunderstanding about the Messiah’s forerunner. Figuratively speaking, John the Baptist was the Elijah who would come before the Messiah. John not only prepared the way for Christ, his suffering was also an indication that Christ would have to suffer.

Glasses enable those whose eyesight is not clear to see plainly. Without them, objects appear distorted and it is difficult to see things as they really are. It is the same in regard to spiritual things. Without a true understanding of who Jesus is, it is impossible to clearly see spiritual reality. Unless we recognize Jesus, we cannot understand God’s will for our lives or for mankind. To illustrate this truth Mark tells us about a man Jesus healed.

In chapter 8, verses 22 through 26 of the Gospel which bears his name, he writes, He came to Bethsaida. They brought a blind man to him, and begged him to touch him. He took hold of the blind man by the hand, and brought him out of the village. When he had spat on his eyes, and laid his hands on him, he asked him if he saw anything. He looked up, and said, “I see men; for I see them like trees walking.” Then again he laid his hands on his eyes. He looked intently, and was restored, and saw everyone clearly. He sent him away to his house, saying, “Don’t enter into the village, nor tell anyone in the village.””

At first, this miracle seems very strange. Jesus could have healed this man instantly as He did many other people. Instead, Jesus chose to grant him sight in two stages. Why? Although Mark does not tell us the reason, we can learn it by recalling the previous incidents Mark recorded. Remember that Jesus had fed two large groups of people with just a few loaves of bread and a few fish. One of these groups contained about 5,000 men, the other 4,000. Even though the disciples witnessed Jesus’ creative act – making more than enough food from almost nothing – they did not grasp the fact that Jesus was far more than a miracle worker. He was actually God in the flesh, come to live among men. Mark records that hardness of heart prevented the disciples from understanding. It was as if they saw a little of the truth, but only dimly. Their vision was distorted by their own preconceptions and ideas of what God’s Christ must be like.

The disciples were not the only ones who had trouble seeing clearly. The religious leaders kept asking Jesus for a sign from heaven. Because they refused to see the signs Jesus had already given, they remained blind to spiritual reality. Jesus’ true identity remained hidden from them. When Jesus touched the blind man and asked whether he could see, the man replied that he could, but that people looked like trees. It was after he admitted that he could not see clearly that Jesus healed him completely. It is only when we confess our spiritual shortsightedness that Jesus will grant us further insight.

After this incident Jesus metaphorically asked the disciples about their spiritual vision. In verses 27 through 30 Mark writes, “Jesus went out, with his disciples, into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” They told him, “John the Baptizer, and others say Elijah, but others, one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered, “You are the Christ.” He commanded them that they should tell no one about him.”

To their credit, the disciples had a better understanding of who Jesus was than most people. Like many today, many of the people of Jesus’ day were more than willing to acknowledge that He was a prophet. They accepted that Jesus came with a message from God. However, Jesus was much more than that. Peter declared that Jesus was the Christ. For hundreds of years prophets had told the Jewish people that, one day, God would send the Christ to them. Who or what is this Christ? The word ‘Christ’ means ‘The Anointed One’. The Christ would not only be God’s spokesman as a Prophet, He would also act as the High Priest who offered a sacrifice to atone for man’s sin, and God would also give Him supreme authority to rule as King. To put it another way, the Christ would be a person whom God selected for the task of redeeming and judging mankind. Peter recognized Jesus as that person.

Unfortunately, the disciples’ spiritual vision was still not entirely clear, even though they acknowledged that Jesus was the Christ. In verse 31 through chapter 9, verse 1 Mark writes, “He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He spoke to them openly. Peter took him, and began to rebuke him. But he, turning around, and seeing his disciples, rebuked Peter, and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you have in mind not the things of God, but the things of men.” He called the multitude to himself with his disciples, and said to them, “Whoever wants to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it; and whoever will lose his life for my sake and the sake of the Good News will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world, and forfeit his life? For what will a man give in exchange for his life? For whoever will be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man also will be ashamed of him, when he comes in his Father’s glory, with the holy angels.” He said to them, “Most certainly I tell you, there are some standing here who will in no way taste death until they see God’s Kingdom come with power.””

Peter’s idea of the Christ was very different than reality. Like many today, he thought that suffering, humiliation and death was beneath God’s Chosen One. But Peter was thinking in terms of worldly power and wisdom. He did not understand how God works. He did not realize that in order to give us life, it was necessary for the Christ to die. In speaking against the sacrifice which Jesus would make Peter became the mouthpiece of Satan.

Jesus extended the lesson: To seek safety was, in fact, to lose everything. It is possible to gain the whole world and still lose what is most important – your soul. The only way to save one’s life is to give it up for the sake of Christ and the Gospel. The only way to gain heavenly honor is to not be ashamed of Christ in this world. A true disciple must be willing to follow his Master’s example by going to the cross. In other words, he must be willing to sacrifice all for Christ, just as Christ would sacrifice Himself for mankind. Are we willing to give up all, including our life if necessary, in order to save our soul? Jesus began His ministry by proclaiming the Kingdom of God was near. Now He announced that some who were listening to Him would not die before the Kingdom of God came.