The End is the Beginning

N.T.#464 "The End is the Beginning"

Jan. 14, 2025 

Summary of Mark

Jesus gave the Olivet Discourse as He prophesied about the future events to come. (chapter 13) 

Mark didn't give us details of Jesus' teachings in the upper room, when He and the disciples celebrated the Passover. Yet 7 times Jesus foretold of His death and resurrection to His disciples. Judas left to collect his blood-money, then the Lord's Supper became a symbol of the New Covenant. Jesus gave His body and blood for us as a sacrificial Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world. We come to Jesus in faith, believing who He is and what He has done for us. Is Jesus your personal Savior?

Peter denied Jesus, which He previously had revealed to him. Jesus went through 6 trials, which we studied in depth. 

And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. (14:62) 

Before suffering on the cross, they beat Jesus. made fun of Him, then drove 3 nails into His body so He would die on the cross at age 33. After He died, the veil of the Temple was torn from top to bottom. This signified that we now have access to our Heavenly Father through Jesus our Intercessor.

The centurion proclaimed that Truly this man was the Son of God. (15:39)

The faithful women encountered an angel who said, Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: He is risen: He is not here: behold the place where they laid Him.  (16:6)

After that Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene and two men on the road to Damascus. Jesus gave the Great Commission, Go ye into the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.  (16:15)

Jesus actually remained with them 40 days. (Acts 1:3) 

Others wrote book and letters, sharing the life of Jesus Christ. They were led of the Holy Spirit to give us instructions as to how we are to obey God and believe in Him and His Word as Truth. Such grace and mercy our Lord is showing us through the Scriptures. We may not understand it all, but faith knows it is Truth.

Thank you for studying the Gospel of Mark. Join us tomorrow as we begin studying The Gospel According to Luke. What a blessing you have been.   

What is to Come

 N.T.#463 "What is to Come"

Jan. 13, 2025

Summary of Mark-Part 4

We are continuing to look at some of the highlights in this book:

• One of the scribes asked Jesus which is the most important of all. And Jesus answer him, The first of all commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord. An thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other but He. (Mark 12:28-31)
• Then in chapter 13, Jesus taught about signs or event to take place in the future Messianic Kingdom: deceivers, wars, earthquakes, famines, and 7-year Tribulation.
• And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. (verse 26)
• Heaven and earth shall pass away: but My Words shall not pass away. (verse 31)

Only the Heavenly Father knows when He will send His Son to get His children to take to heaven. In the meantime, we are told to heed, watch, and pray. We are to be looking up for our redemption draweth nigh. We believe the rapture will come before the Tribulation. Pray for other believers, the church, and ourself to remain faithful to the Redeemer. Also, pray for the lost to come accept Jesus as their Savior. Time seems to be getting shorter.

Are you ready for the rapture and Tribulation?

Where Does Your Loyalty Lie?

N.T.#462  "Where Does Your Loyalty Lie?"

Jan. 10, 2025 

Summary of Mark-Part 3 

Everyone stay safe out there. It is truly a winter wonderland here. We have 6.6 inches of snow. More fell in other parts of my state. Praying for those in California as the fire spreads.

As we continue to look back at what Mark wrote:

• Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Mark 10:14)
• It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. (verses 25-27)
• In speaking about those who rule over the Gentiles exercise authority over them, Jesus said, But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister. And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many. (verses 42-45)
• Have faith in God. (verse 22)
• And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. (verse 25)
• Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. (12:17)
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Jesus taught a lot of things concerning how we are to live-have faith like a child, have faith in God who can do all things according to His will, minister and serve others, forgive others, make God our ultimate authority.

God's authority is the ultimate one we are to surrender to in our life. However, we are to obey the laws of the land if they do not interfere with God's laws. He is the One to whom our loyalty and affection, dependence and faith lie. 

 Are you trusting in Jesus today?

  

Who is Jesus to You?

 N.T.#461 "Who is Jesus to You?"

Jan. 2025 

Summary of Mark-Part 2

We are continuing to look at some verses which are significant to me in this book:

• And He said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. (Mark 7:19) Defileth means profane; pollute; unclean.
• And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well; He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak. (7:37) Jesus didn't heal people for money or fame, but out of love.
• And He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto Him, Thou art the Christ.  (8:29) The Greek Christos comes from the word which means to anoint, the Anointed One, being the Messiah.
• ...Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. (8:34) 
• If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. (9:35) 
• And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in Me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.  (9:42)

Who is Jesus Christ to you? Is He just a teacher mentioned in a good book? Or is Jesus Christ your Savior, Redeemer, and Messiah? Are we surrendered to Him in everything? Do we acknowledge Him, serve Him, and glorify Him?

Faith in Jesus Makes Us Whole

N.T.#460 "Faith in Jesus Makes Us Whole"

Summary of Mark

 As we finish our study of one of the books in the Bible, I like to go back and review it. Even look at some verses which I highlighted. 

John Mark was actually his name, the author of this book. It was to his mother's home in Jerusalem where Peter went when he was released from prison. (Acts 12:12)  John Mark was a cousin of Barnabas and he accompanied Paul and his cousin on Paul's first missionary journey. However, he deserted them long the way in Perga and returned home. Paul refused to take John Mark on his second missionary journey. That friction resulted in Paul and Barnabas' separation. In time, Mark matured and he proved himself even to Paul. In Colossian, Paul was ready to welcome John Mark. In Timothy, Paul told Timothy to bring Mark, for he is useful to his ministry.

Peter seemed to have remained close to Mark. Mark was an interpreter of Peter's and wrote down accurately whatsoever he remembered. Some call the Gospel of Mark is the memoirs of Peter.

Mark and Luke were both companions of Paul; the early church met for a time in the home of Mark's mother. 

It is suggested that Mark wrote his Gospel while in Italy, particularly to the Roman Christians. He presents Jesus as the Servant of the Lord. Mark begins with the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. He omits Jesus' ancestry and birth. 

The Gospel writers were inspired by God and wrote independently of one another, being led by the Holy Spirit. 

[Resource: the MacArthur Bible Commentary]

As a summary of the ministry of Christ Jesus, we read of His baptism and temptation; ministry in Galilee with the calling of His disciples and parables He taught; miracles Jesus did; His ministry beyond Galilee; His teachings beyond Jordan; the concluding ministry of Jesus; Christ's crucifixion and death, as well as the resurrection of Christ. [Liberty Bible Commentary]

What can be the summary of our life? Have we faithfully followed Jesus? 

Did you notice 19 times Mark uses the words straightway and immediately? They mean the same in the Greek language.

What are some teachings of Jesus that are significant to believers?

• The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath. Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. (Mark 2:27-28)
• And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.  ((3:25)
• For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and mother. ((3:35)
• For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.  (4:22)
• What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him? (4:41)
• Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague. (5:34)

Has your faith made you whole, friend? The woman with the issue of blood for 12 years was sick and she believed Jesus could make her well. Jesus has power over the physical and spiritual. Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior and been made whole by faith in Him? Just ask Him today, if not. Rejoice if your have already.

Sharing and Caring

N.T.#459 "Sharing and Caring"

Jan. 7, 2025 

Mark16-Part 2

LET IT GLOW 

Was Mary Magdalene obedient to what the Lord Jesus told her to do? Yes, the first one to witness the resurrected Christ went quickly on the first day of the week. I imagine she and the other women dropped their spices and ran with joy, trembling, fear, and amazement. (verse 8)

Mary M. did as her Lord commanded. How did the disciples react?

• Three times in this passage the disciples resisted in believing Jesus was alive. (verses 10-13)
• The disciples were weeping and grieving when Mary told them Jesus was alive and he had seen Him, but they believed her not. (verse 11)
• Jesus appeared to two walking on the road to Emmaus. (It was Cleopas and another, which could have been his wife Mary.) These went and told the rest of the disciples, except for Thomas, neither believed them. (verse 13)
• After that, Jesus appeared unto the 11 as they sat eating meat. Jesus rebuked them for their stubborn unbelief because they refused to believe those who had seen Him after He had risen from the dead. (verse 14, NLT)

In the meanwhile, the chief priests and elders gave large sums of money to soldiers to say someone stole Jesus' body while they slept. This is a common saying among the Jews today. (Matt. 28:11-15)

Does our faith believe Christ is risen from the dead? Has His Spirit spoken to you? 

LET IT GROW

Mark doesn't give much detail of the visit between Jesus and His disciples in the upper room in Jerusalem. He does record the Great Commission given by Jesus to His believers:

And He said unto them, God ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be damned. (verses 15-16)

Then Jesus spoke of signs that believers were protected in the book of Acts. those things are not for show, but His protection. Jesus remained with the apostles 40 days.(Acts 1:3) Peter and Paul performed many miracles as a confirmation of the reality of their claims. 

Friends, we have the Good News to share with others in our little world and in the big, wide world. Are we being faithful to do so?

LET IT GO

How beautiful are the fee that bring Good News. (Isaiah 52:7)

Use us Lord Jesus to share what You have done in our life, Your grace and mercy.

As we go, may we minister to the needs of others and share Your love with them.

We pray for missionaries around the world and Your protection and encouragement to them, along with blessings. 

A Personal Encounter

N.T.#459 "A Personal Encounter"

Jan. 7, 2025 

Mark16-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW 

Have you had a personal encounter with Jesus? today's lesson informs us a woman who did. Read on, dear one.

Who was the first one to witness the resurrected Jesus Christ? That privilege was given to Mary Magdalene because of her unreserved dedication. Her Lord had delivered Mary from 7 devils. 

We read of the personal encounter she had with the Risen Jesus in John 20:11-18:

• She was weeping, grieved, sorrowful, so much so that Mary doesn't recognize Jesus standing in the tomb with her. 
• Mary stooped down and looked into the empty tomb.
• She wants to know where the Lord's body is lying so she can complete the embalming process. 
• This happened after Peter and John ran to the garden and tomb, then left. 
• This good woman, loving and faithful woman, spoke with the Risen Savior, yet she didn't recognize Him at first. 
• Jesus asked Mary why she was weeping. It was like a rebuke for her as if to question her weeping when she should have been rejoicing. Her tears would be turned to gladness. 
• Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou? Jesus asked Mary Magdalene.
• When Mary recognized Jesus and calls Him Rabboni, Master.

LET IT GROW

In John 20, there are some insights to Jesus and Mary's relationship:

• Like any woman seeing the loved one she thought was dead, Mary must have hugged Jesus.
• The Greek word for Touch Me not  is haptomai,  which means to cling to or to take hold of.
• Christ told Mary to stop clinging to Him, because, by doing so, she kept the Lord there with her. His destination was to go to the Father. 
• Mary recognized Jesus' voice. 
• Jesus gave Mary a mission-go tell the brethren what she had seen and heard, that He ascended into heaven. (Falwell)

Do we cling to Jesus in our time of need? He will not turn us away.

Whom do we seek in our hour of need? Are we seeking Jesus? Seek and ye shall find. Mary's heart was set on finding Christ. Is our heart belonging to Jesus?

Friend, do you have a personal relationship with Jesus?

Mary recognized Jesus' voice. Christ's sheep know His voice. (John 10:4)

The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart. (Ps. 34:18)

Jesus ascended to His Father and our Father, to His God and our God. (verse 17)

As Christ ascended into heaven, so will believers when He calls us home to sit with Him in heavenly places. (Eph. 2:5-6)

Are we telling others that Jesus is risen from the grave?

LET IT GO

The angels and saved souls ae praising our Risen Savior in heaven.

Holy is the Lord! Holy forever!

All creation will one day sing His praises.

Faith or Fear

N.T.#458 

Jan. 6, 2025 

Mark 15-Part14

LET IT GLOW 

This is the last chapter in Mark's gospel. The same women who watched where the men laid the body of Jesus came back to the tomb early in the morning as the sun rose. Obviously, they had agreed earlier to meet there at that time.  It had been three days since the horrible crucifying of Jesus. They would have needed nearly 75 pounds of aromatic resins to neutralize the smell of decay. 

On their way to the tomb, the women discussed, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? 

In the Greek language, sepulchre means a grave; tomb.

Burial caves were designed to keep grave robbers and wild animals out, so the entrance is usually covered with a massive stone wheel weighing as much as a tone or more. To open the tomb, several men would need to use levers to roll it away and then secured with a wedge.

By the time the women got to Jesus' tomb, the stone had been rolled away. This would have been perplexing and great concern. They may have assumed someone else had come to complete the burial ritual. You will recall that in Matthew 27, we read of the chief priests and scribes made a request of Pilate that the sepulchre where Jesus was laid be secure so no one stole it, saying He arose after 3 days. So they put a guard there, sealed the tomb with a stone and set up a watchman. (Matt. 27:65-66) Well, that didn't work well for them because the angel of the Lord rolled back the stone from the door and sat upon it. 

Did you catch their concern? They wanted to make sure the tomb of Jesus was not made empty since He said He would rise on the third day.

  

LET IT GROW 

LET IT GO 

When It Doesn't Make Sense

N.T.#457 "When It Doesn't Make Sense"
Jan. 3, 2025 

Mark 15-Part 13 

LET IT GLOW 

When unexpected things happen quickly, don't you sit and try to make sense of it all? I know I did concerning my brother's death. The doctor gave him 2 months to live because cancer was eating his live. Then five days later he was gone. Similar were the events surrounding Jesus' death. Read on to get the details.

Who is going to bury Jesus? the Sabbath was coming quickly, so it had to be done right away. The women had the spices for preparation. Where were His disciples? Weren't they going to do it? What about the tomb? So many questions unanswered. Deuteronomy 21:22-23 requires their body of an executed person be buried the same day. They better hop to it. Then up steps a man who asked Pilate for Jesus' body. It was Joseph of Arimathea. Where were Jesus' brother and sisters, closest friends, disciples?

Who was Joseph of Arimathea?

• He was from Arimathea, not Jerusalem. Arimathea was located some15-20 miles northwest of Jerusalem. the birthplace of Samuel. 
• He was a prominent member of the Sanhedrin council. 
• He opposed Jesus' condemnation. (Luke 23:51)
• Joseph boldly approached Pilate and asked for His body. (verse 43)
• He and a few others watched the soldiers removed the Lord's corpse from the cross.  
• Joseph, Nicodemus, and others rinsed Jesus' body, anointed it with oil and spiced resins, and then wrapped it in a linen cloth, as was customary in the Jewish traditions. John 19:39) (Swindoll)

Did you notice that Pilate marvelled (to wonder) if Jesus was already dead. Then he asked the centurion about it. The eyelids stiffen from rigor mortis immediately. Death was obvious to those observing. Rigor mortis sets in quickly if the person had been strenuous physically previously. Jesus' outstretched arms would have needed to be massaged since He was on the cross 3 hours. (Swindoll)

What love for the Messiah was demonstrated.

LET IT GROW 

They laid Jesus' body in a sepulchre which was dug out of a rock. (verse 46) Located on a limestone hill with a garden close by is the place. The tomb had never been used. A great stone was rolled in the doorway. (Matt. 27:60) The group was intending to return to complete the burial process after the Sabbath.

Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses were watching this take place. (Matt. 27:61) They wanted to know the location of Jesus' body so they could complete 

After a long, exhausting, traumatic day, the women sat before His tomb, staring, trying to make sense of it all. (That is how Swindoll describes them.)

Our family has often been astounded by the sudden death of our loved ones. My parents and brother went suddenly. It is like you don't get to say good by to them, share your love for them, and are alone.

But Sunday is coming! Jesus had told His followers that would all happen, yet on the third day He would rise. And it was so.

Do your loved ones believe in Jesus as their Savior and hope of eternal life? What about you?

LET IT GO

 Trust Jesus with all your heart that He does things right.

Don't lean on your understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.

We are not alone, for Jesus never leaves us nor forsakes us.

Women are Important

N.T.#456 "Women are Important"

Jan. 2, 2025 

Mark 15-Part 12

LET IT GLOW 

While my husband has been healing from his knee replacement, a wonderful lady in our church has brought us two meals. How appreciative I am, for I, too, was worn out from the drive, waiting, helping to keep him comfortable. Love was shown just when we needed it and a lift up of our spirits. Women can have an active part in ministering to others. Women are important to Jesus. We will see how in today's lesson.. 

In Luke 23, we read of the conversation between Jesus and the thieves on the cross, which Mark leaves out. The earth was dark for three hours, then the veil of the Temple was torn from top to bottom. 

Then with a loud voice Jesus said, Father, into thy hands I commend My Spirit: and having said thus, He gave up the ghost. (Luke 23:46)

Time was of the essence, for the Jewish Sabbath was upon them. It began at 6PM and now it was after 3PM. Jesus' body needed to be taken off the cross and prepared for burial. 

On the darkest day in history, women stood afar off due to the soldiers. They had faithfully followed Jesus through His 3 years of ministry, tending to His and the disciples physical needs out of their own resources.  (Peter off somewhere was weeping; Judas had hung himself; other disciples left for safety sake.) Who were the women mentioned in Scriptures which stood a distance away from the cross, observing the events?

• Mary Magdalene, who was delivered from demon-possession,
• Mary, the mother of James the disciple and Joses,
• Salome,
• the mother of the disciples James and John, (Matt. 27:56)
• Mother of Jesus,, as well as a coworker
• Jesus' aunt,
• Mary, the wife of Clopas. (John 19:25),
• and many other women who came with Jesus to Jerusalem.

Those women continued to support their Master as they had since the early days in Galilee. Women tend to have a tenderness and see the needs of others. They were important or God would not have mentioned them in Scriptures.

LET IT GROW

Ladies, don't underestimate your importance in the Lord's work. We can teach the Word, provide meals for the sick and bereaved, love the unlovely, help those strays, being Jesus hands, feet, and mouth here in our little world. We can be missionaries, wives, mothers, and a friend as well as a coworker. Blessings to those who do such things.

LET IT GO

Use us, Jesus, for kingdom work today.

Fill us with Your love to show love to others.

Help us let go of ourself and tend to others. 

To You be the glory forever and ever. 

Hope in the New Year

 N.T.#455 "Hope in the New Year"

January 1, 2025 

Mark 15-Part  

LET IT GLOW 

Looking back, it has almost been 14 years since I started this blog. I have grown so much through studying the Bible with you. I appreciate your loyalty in joining me as we walk deeper in God's Word. It's my prayer that your walk of faith has become stronger, too. You are such a blessing to me. Last year we studied Matthew and Mark together. Now we are about to wrap up the book of Mark. 

It is always good to look back on the year. The Lord brought us through the valley of the shadow of death twice-my father in law in Jun and my brother in October. What a comfort it is to know they are with the Lord Jesus in heaven.

We were in the Temple as the veil tore from top to bottom, allowing us access to God the Father through Jesus the Son. this happened when Jesus died on the cross. (verses 37-38) The veil was a heavy curtain that separated the Most Holy Place from the rest of the Temple. (Falwell)

Jesus is our intercessor to God in our prayers.  Jesus Himself said, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. (John 14:6)

There is no other way to enter heaven but through faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior. If you want to know the Father and our Creator, we must come to Him through His Son Jesus. Where are you spending eternity, dear one?

LET IT GROW

In verse 39, we read about the centurion's declaration, Truly this man was the Son of God.

Jesus is our hope-in this life and after life. 

Through it all, the centurion had been in charge of Jesus, through His:

• Stripping Jesus naked,
• laid the cross beam on His shoulder,
• hung the title above His head while on the cross,
• prodded Him along the Way of suffering, 
• got Simon to carry His burden,
• supervised the hammering of the nails and erecting the cross,
• witnessed the taunting of Jesus,
• and studied the Lord's response.

This man had seen hundreds die by crucifixion. He recognized what experts of the Law did not. He saw the truth about Jesus before the Resurrection. (Swindoll)

Have you seen the Truth in the Word? Is Jesus your way of life?

LET IT GO

Your love never fails, never gives us, never runs out on me. Such love, Lord Jesus, that You would die for us sinners.

May God be with you through this new year. 

May He fill your heart with love, cheer, and comfort. 

May mHopeany blessings are sent your way.

Happy New Year!

The Mistreated King

N.T.#453 "The Mistreated King"

Dec. 30, 2024 

Mark 15-Part 9 

LET IT GLOW

What happened at the end of this chapter?

• The soldiers offered Jesus wine with myrrh to lessen the torture as He hung on the cross.
• His garments were gambled for by the soldiers, casting lots. (Ps. 22:18 and verse 24)
• Jesus was put on the cross the third hour, 9 AM. (verse 25)
• Pilate wrote a title and put it on the cross: JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. Since Christ had not been found guilty of a crime, Pilate placed a title above the cross. It was written in Aramaic, the language of the Jews; Greek, the language of culture; and Latin, the official language of Rome. (John 19:19) (Falwell)
•  Jesus was crucified between two thieves. (verse 27)
• He was numbered with the transgressors. (Ps. 53:12) Swindoll tells us this verse was not in the original transcripts. a Scribe probable later got it from Luke 22:37 and jotted it down in his margin, so it was place in the writing of Mark later.) 
• Those who passed by kept on blaspheming Christ.
• The people though Jesus referred to the Temple being destroyed and rebuilt in 3 days, but He was referring to Himself. (verse 29)
• Some said for Jesus to save Himself and come down off the cross.(verse 30)
• Priests challenged Jesus that He saved others, Himself He cannot save. (verse 31)
• Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe. (verse 32)

Is it faith if one sees with their physical eyes? 

LET IT GROW

In his commentary of Mark, J. Vernon McGee explains the physical versus the spiritual:

• There was spiritual darkness the first 3 hours Jesus hung on the cross because man did his worst by crucifying Him and reviling Him.
• Jesus' enemies marched around the cross, wagging their heads and ridiculing Him. He was suffering at the hands of man.
• The first 3 hours Jesus was dying because of sin; the last three He was dying for the sin of the world.
• Sin was doing all it could to destroy Jesus the first 3 hours; the last 3 hours Jesus made His soul an offering for sin.
• Jesus Christ was made sin,  for us; He became sin for us. He was forsaken of God and yet, even at that time, God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself. (2 Cor. 5:19)

 We are sinners in need of a Savior, daily. What a sacrifice Jesus made for us. The One who committed no sin became sin so He provided salvation for us through faith in Him. Friend, have you asked Jesus to be your Savior? We have all sinned and come short of the standard God has for entering heaven. Jesus fulfilled that requirement for us-sinless life.

LET IT GO

Jesus, You are my King.

Help me to deny myself, take up my cross, and follow You daily.

We love You Lord Jesus, for Your mercy never fails us.

*We appreciate your prayers as my husband has a knee replacement this afternoon. It had been scheduled 3 weeks earlier, but the surgeon hurt his back. Thanks.

Oh The Pain of It All

 N.T.#452  "Oh The Pain of It All"

Dec. 27, 2024

Mark 15-Part 8

LET IT GLOW

Can you hear the hammering of the nails into Jesus at the base of His hands? Ping, ping. What an excruciating painful sound They would have been like railroad spikes, 5 inches long and 3/8 inch square nail. Jesus' arms would have been stretched across the cross beam, forming a T of the two beams. Both wrists would have been nailed to the cross bar. They bent His knees, placed His feet flat against the stipes, and drove a nail through each foot. Then the soldiers tilted the cross up and guided the base into the hole in the ground. With a sudden jarring thud, the cross dropped into the securing hole. By nine o'clock in the morning, the soldiers finished securing Jesus hanging on the cross of Calvary. [Resource: Swindoll's Living Insights on Mark]

There hung Jesus Christ, King of the Jews, their expected Messiah, Savior to all who believed Him to be the Son of the Living God. He was despised and rejected by His own people; innocent of their charges. The Jews expected their Messiah to deliver them from the rule of Rome. Friend, are you a believer in Jesus? 

He who knew no sin became sin so we might become His righteousness. That is love to the highest degree-dying for sinners.

LET IT GROW

They offered Jesus wine with myrrh added in it, but He refused it. It was to help lessen the torture. Did you think of that? Jesus endured the pain for us so we don't have to pay for our sins. 

J.V. McGee mentions it.  No Gospel writer records the details of the Crucifixion.; they only give us incidents. It is like the Spirit of God says it is too horrible to tell.

According to Jewish time, it was 9:00 in the morning, the third hour, when they crucified Jesus. (verse 25)

There hung THE KING OF THE JEWS. A superscription of His accusation that was written over Jesus. He died in order for everyone who believed in Him could have everlasting life. Such love!!

LET IT GO

Oh, what a Savior! Isn't He wonderful? Sing hallelujah! The godly died for the ungodly, you and me.

Have you asked Jesus to forgive your sins? He is waiting with open arms, stretched out, like on the cross. Is the King biding you to come to Him today?  

Living He loved me, dying He saved me, buried He carried my sins far away, rising He justified freely forever. One day He is coming, o glorious day!

Suffering

N.T.#451 

Dec. 26, 2024 "Suffering"

Mark 15-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW

Mark does not tell us about the fourth and fifth trials which Jesus went through. Luke tells us in chapter 23 about Jesus tried by Herod Antipas, the governor of Galilee. However, Herod made no specific charges against the Messiah although He was questioned at length. Then Herod sent Jesus back to Pilate, which is found in Matthew 27, for His sixth trial. 

Pilate declared Jesus to not be guilty but sentenced Him to be crucified to mollify the angry mob. Simultaneously, a man guilty of murder, treason, and sedition was released. Dying on a cross was meant to keep noncitizens in line. It was common enough that a place outside the walls of Jerusalem was used by the Roman army-the skull. The Way of Suffering leads to hope; Gethsemane and Golgotha lead to glory. (Swindoll) 

Christ claimed to be God, and by Jewish law, He should die. (Lev. 24:16) Pilate had been warned by his wife about Christ (Matt. 27:19), and now he realized that he may be dealing with the Son of God. Yet, Pilate was spiritually blind. Also, if the Jews contacted Caesar, and explained Pilate released a king who threatened Roman authority, Pilate would be guilty of treason against Rome. (Falwell)

It was a catch 22 for Pilate. After the crowd cried, "Crucify him," Pilate said to the Jewish leaders and mob:

And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let him go. (verse 22)

Take him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him. (Luke 19:6)

We have studied about the cruelness of the Roman soldiers-clothing Jesus in a purple robe, placing a crown of thorns on his head, hitting him on the head, spitting upon him, bowing their knees in a mock worship before Jesus. Then they replaced Jesus regular clothes upon him and led the Savior out to be crucified. (verse 20)

LET IT GROW

And they compeled one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and rufus, to bear his cross. (verse 21)

Simon was from the city of Cyrene, which was along the coast of present -day Libya of northern Africa. He was well known to first-century Christians by the time Matthew, Mark, and Luke published their account (Acts 13:1). It is speculated that Simon's wife cared for or mothered the apostle Paul, who lodged with the family while at the church in Antioch. 

After intense suffering in prayer, enduring an all-night trials, and being ruthlessly beaten, Jesus was too weak to carry His cross. Simon carried the cross beam of Jesus's cross along the Via Delorosa, the way of suffering, up the hill called Golgotha, an Aramaic name meaning Place of the Skull. The English word Calvary is derived from the Latin translation, Calvaria. It was a customary place for the executions and it actually looks like a skull (standing below the hill looking up). the vertical part of the cross was waiting for them on the hill called Calvary.

Friend, are we denying ourself, taking up our cross, and following Jesus? 

Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.  (Matt. 16:2)

Is that what we are doing daily as a follower and believer of Jesus?

LET IT GO 

Sweet Jesus,  thank You for all that You endured in order to provide salvation for us sinners!

You are our hope and peace. 

 

 

Injustice

N.T.#350 "Injustice"

Dec. 24, 2024 

Mark 15-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

We read of the brutal guards, the power-hungry governor, and the conniving religious leaders that had the upper hand They didn't know the true power and authority of this man Jesus, who they tortured and condemned to death. Injustice. They aren't so arrogant now, for they know the truth that Jesus is the Messiah/Savior.

The crowd wanted Jesus crucified, the soldiers beat Him, and Pilate was afraid of a riot. A band of soldiers (600 men) took Jesus into the Praetorium to make a spectacle of Him. How did they accomplish this?

• They clothed Jesus in a purple robe, which was the color traditionally worn by royalty. (Jesus is the King of the Jews.)
• They placed a crown of thorns on His head as a mockery of a royal crown. 
• they held a mockery coronation for Jesus as King of the Jews.
• They shouted, Hail, King of the Jews! (verse 18)
• They hit Jesus on the head with a reed (as a royal staff),which drove the thorns deeper into His skull.
• They spat upon Him ,and bowed their knees as if worshipping Jesus. (verse 19)
• .Afterwards, they removed the royal robe, put His own clothes back on Jesus, and led Him out to be crucified. (verse 20)

What a harsh treatment Jesus went through in order to provide our salvation! He was beaten unmercifully, humiliated, and made a spectacle. Yet Jesus did not return evil for evil. He turned the other cheek. He didn't curse His beaters but later forgave them. (The Son of God could have called down legions of angels to rescue Him, but chose not to.) He was obedient to His Father to the end. 

LET IT GROW

It is hard to read through all that my Savior went through because He loves me. Especially it is during the Christmas season, when it is a joyful time of the year. We celebrate the birth of our Savior, sing His praises, give thanks for all He does for us. We know the purpose for His life that God had was fulfilled. It all goes together in the Father's plan.

Such injustice was done to Jesus, the One who knew no sin. He will bring justice, eventually. Yet don't we want mercy for us?

How are we to respond when justice lies beyond our reach?

1. Let go of any expectation of justice. Do not hold onto anger and bitterness, but submit to the will of God, for one day He will judge every soul.
2. Stop trying to be heard. Speak truth in love. Let God decide when, where, and how He will set the record straight.
3. Seek comfort in Christ. Place our hope in Him. [Swindoll's Living Insights on Mark]

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for Your endurance through it all.

Help us to trust You as we go through injustice.

May we show love, grace, and mercy today to those who have wronged us.

To You be the glory forever!

He Took Our Punishment

N.T.#449 "He Took Our Punishment"

Dec. 23, 2024 

Mark 15-Part 5 

LET IT GLOW 

What a time to be studying the end of our Savior's life when the world is celebrating His birth. It puts things in the right perspective, doesn't it? 

What evil had he done, indeed. Nothing warranted Jesus being crucified, yet the crowd desired it. So Pilate delivered Jesus, had Him scourged, to be crucified. He released the murdering Barabbas in His place. Don't you know Pilate saw this as a frame-up? the Jews hated him and the Roman Empire he represented, yet they asked him to convict one of their fellow Jews of treason and give him the death penalty. 

Crucifixion was the Roman penalty for rebellion. Only slaves or those who were not Roman citizens could be crucified. Jesus' death would be the death of a rebel and slave, not of the king He claimed to be. The Jewish leaders wanted to put the blame for killing Jesus on the Romans. Besides, if Pilate didn't carry out their wishes, then they would report Pilate to Caesar. (John 19:12) Such a report accompanied by a riot, could cost him his position and hopes for advancement. (Life Application Study Bible)

How many times do we do something in order to appease another? Maybe it would secure our job if we didn't tell the truth. 

LET IT GROW

According to Luke, Pilate had Jesus scourged in an attempt to punish Him and then release Jesus, hoping it would satisfy the crowd. (Luke 23:16)

Scourged means to whip; lash as a public punishment.

It was a grim art of torture to beat a man within an inch of his life. 

this scourging was conducted with a whip consisting of a wooden handle to which metal-tipped leather thongs were attached. It ripped the flesh down to the bone, causing severe bleeding. Prisoners often died from such a beating. (MacArthur)

An innocent man was going to die. Jesus took my place and your place as punishment for our sins. We are the guilty ones, not Him. Love so amazing!

LET IT GO

He became sin that knew no sin, that we might become His righteousness. He carried the cross. Love so amazing. Jesus Messiah, name above all names-Blessed Redeemer, Beautiful Savior, Emmanual. The.  ransom for sinners, Jesus Messiah, Lord of all.

Is Jesus your Savior today?

Who Would You Have Released?

 N.T.#448 "Who Would You Have Released?"

Dec. 20, 2024 

Mark 15-Part 4 

LET IT GLOW

Until you are sitting on a jury, listening to evidence, it isn't appropriate to pass judgment on one in court. Pilate had a hard time with his court case-Jesus.

Jesus and Pilate had a discussion about Jesus' kingdom and the truth, which is found in John 18. Afterwards, Pilate pronounced that he found no fault in Jesus. It was clear to Pilate that Jesus was innocent of wrong doing. Mark does not give us those details. He jumps forward.

.It was a custom of one man being released from prison during the Passover festival as a goodwill gesture. Normally, it was someone accused of a relatively minor offense. Pilate thought he might dissuade the crowd from demanding the death of Jesus by offering to release a notorious criminal. It was Barabbas who had committed murder. So naturally thinking, Jesus ' accusation was not as bad as that man, so the people would want Him released.

Pilate knew it was because of envy that the Jewish chief priests wanted Jesus killed. After all, Jesus disrupted the extras the priests were getting (money and power). He was teaching contrary to them (loving the poor). He got followers after those miracles He did (healings, food). Repentance of sin and loving others was not their cup of tea. Then Jesus talked about His kingdom to come, which is not political nor of this earth, but a spiritual heavenly kingdom. 

So Pilate asked the crowd if they wanted him to release the popular teacher, the King of the Jews. The chief priests stirred up the crowd so they asked for Barabbas instead. When Pilate asked them what they wanted him to do with Jesus, they demanded that He be crucified. (verses 12-13)

Pilate asked them why, what evil had Jesus done.  (verse 14) To which the replied, crucify him. (verse 14) Pilate wasn't concerned with justice, but wanted to avoid a riot and please the crowd. Pilate released the murderer and handed over the sinless Son of God to be crucified. 

LET IT GROW

Which side would we have been on-the Jews or Pilate? It would be easy to go along with the crowd. 

What about today? Do we go along with the crowd in sin or do we take a stand against sin? Adultery, homosexuality, and abortion is outright sin against God. Where do you stand?

LET IT GO

Help us let go of sins that separate us from You, God.

Fill us with love, joy, peace this time of year.

May we lift up Jesus as our Savior, Redeemer, and Almighty God.

Do You Marvel About Jesus?

 N. T. #447 "Do You Marvel About Jesus?"

Dec. 19, 2024 

Mark 15-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

There are a few things I marvel at-birth of a child, a person being saved, answered prayers, healings. Yet I know the source of all of them. What causes you to marvel? Someone is our reading today marveled, too.

We are reading about Trial #4 as Jesus stood before Pilate, the governor of Judea. John records that the Jewish leaders demanded that Pilate agree to the death sentence they had already pronounced on Jesus. (John 18:30) Pilate refused so the leaders presented their false charges against Jesus, as found in Luke 23:2:

• perverting the nation- Pervert means to distort; misinterpret or corrupt; perverse; turn away.
• forbidding to give tribute to Caesar; Forbidding means supreme in authority; God, Lord, master. Tribute refers to a tax.
• saying that he himself is Christ a King.  

So the charge was Jesus having turning away people form the Roman government, not paying taxes, and setting Himself up as King. Those charges were false, of course, for Jesus encouraged people to render unto Caesar that which was Caesar's. 

That is why Pilate questioned Jesus, to see if He declared Himself to be King of the Jews. (verse 2) Pilate was looking for a definite answer as to if Jesus was the King of the Jews. However, he got none. All Jesus replied was, It is as you say. (Luke 23:2 NAS)

Truly, Jesus is The King of the Jews whether or not they recognize He is. He paid His taxes to Rome. Peter found the gold coin in the mouth of a fish's mouth. (Matt. 17:27) Also, He advocated people obey God rather than man when it comes to a choice, but he did not lead in rioting against the government. 

People back then did not realize Jesus could have snapped His fingers and they could have fallen dead. Yet, He restrained in order to fulfill His Father's plan.

How much will we endure in order to carry out God's plan for us, our church, a ministry?

LET IT GROW

Jesus answered nothing to the accusations in order to fulfill Isaiah 53:7, as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. 

Pilate marvelled.(verse 5) Marvelled means to wonder; to admire. 

Do we marvel, wonder, whenever we read about the birth of Christ? What about the trials and crucifixion of Christ? Does His resurrection cause us to marvel at it? some things we just don't forget when Jesus does a marvelous things for us.

My finite mind can't wrap around to things. Such love Jesus showed for us to leave heaven, live as a man, endure beatings and accusations, perform miracles, die on a cross a painful and embarrassing death. Not only that, His own disciples also deserted Him through it all. (Except John and Peter followed from afar.

Aren't we guilty of doing the same things?

LET IT GO

Oh, what a Savior! How wonderful You are, King Jesus!

Lord, I stand in awe of You, Jesus.

Teach us when to keep our mouth shut and when to speak.

Are You Following From Afar?

N.T. #440  "Are You Following From Afar?"

Dec. 9, 2024 

Mark 14-Part 18

LET IT GLOW 

How close do we want to get to Jesus? Peter followed Him from afar. How about you?

Things were happening that night: Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss and 30 pieces of silver, then hanged himself (Matt. 27:5); soldiers came to take Jesus away to be put away; Peter cut off an ear of the soldier (probably aiming for his head) and Jesus healed the ear; Mark fled naked due to his robe being grabbed;  the disciples disappeared, scattering and fleeing. Hours earlier the disciples vowed never to desert Jesus. (verse 31)

Jesus was taken to the high priest where all the chief priests and elders and scribes were assembled. It was all planned out. The religious leaders issued a warrant for Jesus' arrest. Keep in mind that it was illegal to hold a trial in dark hours, but this was the darkest time in Israel and for those Sanhedrin (70 men who held religious and civil authority in Israel).

Jesus is now brought before Caiaphas, the high priest who was acceptable to Rome. Annas, his father-in -law, was actually the high priest according to the Mosaic Law. Jesus was first brought before Annas, which John records. Some believe that Annas was the real rascal behind the plot to kill Jesus. (J.V. McGee) (verse 53)

These are considered the first and second trials of Jesus. 

We had better watch what kind of plans and schemes we make. Jesus knows everything; even when we plan to retaliate for some mistreatment of ours. 

Jesus has good plans for us, according to Jeremiah 29:11-For I know the plans I have for you,  declares the Lord, plans to to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

Are we seeking the plans Jesus has for us? Are we obedient to those plans? Do we give Him the honor?

LET IT GROW 

Peter, Peter, here you go again. Remember when Jesus warned Peter that he would deny Him 3 times before the rooster crowed. (verse 30)

And Peter followed Him afar off, even into the palace of the high priest: and he sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire. (verse 54)

There was Peter, standing in the courtyard, hiding his identity and warming himself by a fire with a group of servants and soldiers. John was known by the high priest and the woman at the door allowed him entrance. John spoke with her and Peter was allowed into the courtyard, too. (John 18:16)

How close do we want to follow Jesus? Do we tend to follow Jesus afar off? Is Sunday morning enough for us to converse with Jesus? (Sorry is I am speaking to the choir.)

Is our relationship with Jesus as one associated with Him afar off? Is our fire insurance (salvation) enough for us? Or do we hunger and thirst for His Word, HIs righteousness, and His love?

I, for one, want to be following closely in His footsteps.

LET IT GO 

Help us let go of whatever hinders us from fully following You, Sweet Jesus.

Whom Seek Ye?

 N.T.#439 "Whom Seek Ye?"

Dec. 6, 2024 

Mark 14-Part 17

LET IT GLOW 

Jesus was completely aware of Judas' plan. He may have left the garden to meet the crowd as they approached the gate. At some point in time:

• Judas kissed the Master in order to identify Him. 
• Jesus was surrounded by a band (600 soldiers) of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees (according to John 18). This was the first time Judas openly betrayed Jesus before the other disciples. This band of soldiers had lanterns, torches, and weapons. 
• The soldiers took hold of Jesus and arrested Him. 
• Peter drew his sword and cut off the ear of the servant of the high priest, but Jesus healed it with a touch of the Master's hand.  (Luke 22:49; John 18:10))
• Sometime during this Mark attempted to leave the situation, but the linen cloth which was wrapped around him came off his body (like a blanket) when they tried to seize him and Mark fled away naked.(verse 51) That explains why he did not write as much detail of Jesus' arrest as the other disciples did.
• For the first time, Jesus' disciples ran away from Him. (Matthew 26:56)

Whom seek ye? (John 18:4) 

What a question for us to answer within our self. Whom or what are we seeking this Christmas season? Is it the Savior? Is it the sales item someone wants? Is it recognition at the job? 

Isaiah 55:6 tells us to Seek the LORD while He may be found: Call upon Him while He is near. 

LET IT GROW 

Jesus rebuked so people during His arrest:

• Peter so he would put up his sword. (John 18:10)
• The mob for treating Him like a common criminal. (verse 48)

What do we do when Jesus rebukes us, reveals our sin? Do we admit our sin and seek His forgiveness?

LET IT GO

Jesus, keep us near the cross, there a precious fountain, which flows from Calvary's Mountain.. 

Free to all who comes to drink, 

Near the cross, be my glory ever.