part i period of preparation (1:1-20)members.tjc.org/sites/en/sg/training department docume… ·...

Gospel of Mark

A BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE GOSPEL OF MARK

I. Compilation of the New Testament and its Objective

CLASSIFICATION SEQUENCE NO. OF BOOKS OBJECTIVEa. Gospel Books Matthew to

John4 Books To clearly manifestation

that Jesus is Christ (Messiah)

b. Historical Books Acts of the Apostle

1 Book Testify that Jesus is Christ

c. Epistles of Paul Romans to Philemon

13 Books Christ and the Church becomes one

d. Other Epistles Hebrews to Jude

8 Books Important doctrines and life in church

e. Revelation Revelation 1 Book Christ is coming soon

II. The Writing of the Four Gospels

TITLE RECIPIENT AUTHOR DATE VENUE

Gospel of Matthew The Jews Matthew 50 AD Jerusalem

Gospel of Mark The Romans Mark 65 AD Rome

Gospel of Luke The Gentiles Luke 58 AD Caesarea

Gospel of John The Church John 85 AD Ephesus

III. The author of the Book of Mark:

1. Mark (a Roman name) means “hammer”. John (a Jewish name) means “the grace of God”. His mother is Mary (Acts 12:12).

2. He resided in Jerusalem (Acts 12:12). This house was the one used by the Lord for the last Passover feast (Mk 14:12-16).

3. Peter addressed him as his son. Peter loved him and highly esteemed him (1Pet 5:13).

4. He was Barnabas’ cousin (Col 4:10).

5. He once followed Barnabas to preach the word (Acts 12:25). The second time he went on a missionary trip with them, they separated from Paul (Acts 13:5, 13). Nevertheless, he was accepted by Paul later on and became a co-worker of Paul in Rome during his first (Phm 24; Col 4:10) and second imprisonment (2Tim 4:11).

58

Gospel of Mark

IV. Paragraphing

Part I Period of preparation (1:1-20)Part II The work of the Lord in Galilee (1:21 – 7:23)Part III The Lord preached to the gentiles (7:24 – 8:26)Part IV The Lord headed towards the cross (8:27 – 9:50)Part V Jesus in the province of Judea (10:1-52)Part VI The crucifixion of the Lord Jesus (11:1 – 15:47)Part VII The resurrection and ascension of the Lord (16:1-20)

V. Special Characteristics of this book:

1. It emphasizes the service as well as sacrifice of the Lord (10:45).

2. Records of the teachings of the Lord Jesus, but places more emphasis on the work that He carried out.

3. It is vividly written with great details.

4. The sufferings which the Lord experienced during His last week on earth covered about two-fifths of the book.

59

Gospel of Mark

Part I Period of Preparation (1:1-20)

SummaryThe forerunner of the Lord, John the Baptist (1:2-8)The baptism of the Lord Jesus (9-11)The temptation of the Lord (12-13)The Lord begins to preach the gospel (14-15)The Lord chooses the disciples (16-20) Brief Description“The beginning of the gospel” indicates that Mark is beginning to write the gospel about Jesus, declaring at the same time that Jesus is the Christ (Messiah), the Son of God.

I. John the Baptist fore-runner of the Lord

1. The commission of John:To prepare the way for the Lord as was prophesied in the Old Testament (Mal 3:1; Isa 40:3; 31:2-3)

2. Method of preparation: To introduce the Saviour who comes after him, to teach people to repent and receive the baptism of repentance. Baptism “for the forgiveness of sins” does not mean that the baptism of John had the efficacy of the forgiveness of sins. Rather, it was because the candidates had believed in the exhortation of John and received the baptism of repentance, they later accepted Jesus as their Saviour and received His baptism, such that was their sins could be forgiven and they could also received the promised Holy Spirit. For when sins are not forgiven, one cannot receive the Holy Spirit. The believers in Ephesus were living examples (Acts 19:1-7; 2:38).

3. The life of John:He was clothed with camel’s hair and had a leather girdle around his waist, ate locusts and wild honey and stayed in the wilderness (1:6, 3). This shows that he did not seek the pleasures of the world but led a simple, honest and hard life.

4. John’s meekness:He said that he was unworthy to even untie the thongs of the Lord’s sandals and taught the people to receive the Lord. This manifestation of humility was because he knew who the Lord was and he was fully aware of His commission (1:7).

5. Important TeachingsThe emergence of the True Jesus Church today acts as the forerunner for the second coming of Christ. She will lead the people to believe the Lord, to confess their sins and repent, and to receive baptism for the remission of sins, that they may receive the promised Holy Spirit, so as to lead a new life of fearing God and loving men. And to prepare to meet the saviour (Acts 2:38; Tit 3:5; Jn 3:5; Amos 4:12).

60

Gospel of Mark

Every servant of the Lord should have the spirit of John the Baptist - to lead a simple life, to be hardworking, to pray for the power of God to lead others to the Lord and to accomplish the great commission entrusted to us (Mal 4:5-6).

II. The baptism of the Lord Jesus (1:9-11)The Lord specially travelled from Nazareth to the River Jordan to receive baptism. From here, we can see how much emphasis the Lord places on baptism (Jn 1:28). Why does the Lord who is sinless need to receive baptism? He did it in order “to fulfil all righteousness” (Mt 3:15).

In order to save the people of the world, the Lord came into the world in the form of flesh. With regards to the path of salvation, the Lord left many examples (to fulfil all righteousness) for people to follow. When the Lord came up out of the water after baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him like a dove; and there was a voice from Heaven saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” This incident shows that in order to be saved, to become beloved children of God, we must undergo baptism and be sealed by the Holy Spirit (Gal 4:6-7; Rom 8:15-16; Eph 1:13-14; Acts 2:38).

III.The temptation of the Lord Jesus (1:12-13) After the baptism of water and the Holy Spirit, the Lord was tempted by Satan. The temptations the Lord faced were similar to that encountered by the forefathers. They were the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life (Gen 3:6; Mt 3:3-9, 1 Jn 2:16). Since the Lord had come in the form of man, in all things he had to be made like His brethren. He not only received baptism and received the Holy Spirit, He was also tempted by Satan, but in all these, He did not sin (Heb 2:17-18; 4:15).

IV. The Lord Jesus begins to preach the gospel (1:14-15) After the Lord had overcome the temptation of Satan, He was filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. He began to preach the gospel of God starting in Galilee (cf: Lk 4:15). The gospel of God refers to the good tidings of the salvation of God. If we desire to be saved, we must repent and believe in the Lord (cf: Rom 1:16; Mk 16:16; Acts 2:38).

V. The Lord chooses His disciples (1:16-20) The work of saving men needs to be succeeded and continued by men. That was why the Lord chose His disciples right at the start of His ministry, and later trained then for about three years. Two pairs of brothers, namely Simon and Andrew, James and John were the first to be called. The Lord called them to accomplish something more precious and more valuable than fishing, He wanted turn them into “fishers of men”. They immediately left their nets and followed Him.

Important Teachings:

1. Before the Lord began His great work of saving men, He first received the baptism of water, the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the baptism of fire. At the beginning of His ministry, He chose disciples whom He could cultivate. This leaves an important example for us to follow with regards to the great work of salvation.

61

Gospel of Mark

2. Besides the motivation of the Holy Spirit, the four disciples were able to leave everything behind to follow Jesus because they had a strong conviction in the value of the work involved. While having all the fish of the world is no doubt great wealth, this cannot be compared to the value of saving a person’s soul into the kingdom of God (Mt 16:26). May the Spirit of the Lord move us, that those who are involved in the divine work will be able to realise the nobility of doing divine work, to put aside everything willingly and to follow the Lord to all parts of the world to be “fishers of men”.

62

Book of Mark

Part II The Work of the Lord in Galilee (1:21 - 7:23) SummaryI. The Lord preached in Galilee and cast out demons (1:21-45)II. The scribes and Pharisees opposed the Lord (2:1-3:12)III.The Lord’s disciples and his household (3:13-35)IV. The Lord taught with parables (4:1-34)V. The Lord performed signs and wonders (4:35-5:43)VI. The climax of the work of the Lord (6:1-7:23)

Brief Description

I. The Lord preached in Galilee and cast out demons (1:21-45)

1. At the synagogue of Capernaum (1:21-28)a. The Lord taught the people (1:21-22)

i. The Lord kept the Sabbath.ii. The Lord taught the people on Sabbathiii. The people were astonished at the authority of His teachings.

b. The Lord Cast out Demons (1:23-28) i. A man was possessed by unclean spirit.ii. The unclean spirit knew Jesus was the Holy One of God.iii. The Lord rebuked the unclean spirit and commanded it to come out of the

man. iv. Jesus’ authority to cast out demons was spread to all the surrounding regions

of Galilee.


1. The Lord kept the Sabbath:When the Lord arrived at Capernaum, He entered the synagogue on Sabbath day to teach the people. He was not like the Pharisees who observed the Sabbath under the law and tradition. Because of this, He had an argument with them. In fact, the people plotted to kill Him because of the issue of the Sabbath (this will be discussed in greater details in the later portion). Christians today ought to observe the Sabbath like the Lord did, observing it under grace, so as to obtain the blessings of the Lord (Gen 2:1-3).

2. The way the Lord taught the people was different from the scribes: The scribes in those days were the ones most well versed in the scriptures, and yet they spoke with no authority when compared to the sermons delivered by the Lord. The Lord said, “It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life.” (Jn 6:63). When a person speaks without the abidance of the Holy Spirit, the words he speaks will be without authority and life. Therefore, as a speaker, one must rely on the strength of the Holy Spirit rather than on one’s own intelligence or eloquence (1Cor 2:4-5).

63

Book of Mark

3. The Lord cast out the demon in the synagogue:The scribes must have known about the man possessed by the unclean spirit in the synagogue. However, while they were able to teach the bible, they were unable to cast out the demon. Before the multitude realized who Jesus was, the unclean spirit openly declared that Jesus was the Holy One of God. The unclean spirit knew that there was no way it could resist Jesus, so he obeyed the command of the Lord and came out of the man. This miracle led to the name of Jesus being spread far and wide.

When the Lord sent His disciples out to preach the gospel, He gave them authority to overcome the devil (Mk 6:7). Before His ascension into heaven, He also commissioned His disciples to preach the gospel to all parts of the world and promised them that signs and wonders will accompany those who believe. Indeed, later on in the ministry of the disciples, they performed signs and wonders which bore testimony to the gospel preached (Mk 16:16-20). Paul also said that “For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me, in word and deed, to make the Gentiles obedient” (Rom 15:18).

In this unbelieving generation, we need to preach the complete gospel far and wide. We should not say that since science is so advanced today, we do not need to have signs and wonders, when the lack of signs and wonders is because we lack the power from the Holy Spirit. Instead, we should teach that one should not only pray for peace in the physical sense, but more importantly, also for spiritual well being. We should pray humbly before the Lord, in acknowledgement of the fact that we have lost the power, to believe in the promise of the Lord, to ask Him to bestow the power to heal sicknesses and cast out demons, that the gospel can be spread to all part of the world as quickly as possible (cf: Acts 1:8; 4:23-31).

2. The Lord healed the mother-in-law of Simon (1:29-31)a. The Lord entered into the house of Simon and Andrew (29)b. The Lord healed the mother-in-law of Simon (30-31)c. She immediately served the Lord and his disciples after the fever had left her (31)

Important teachings:

1. The Lord went into the house of the disciples:Up till this point in time the Lord had only chosen four disciples. He brought James and John and with Him to the house of Simon and his brother, Andrew. This shows His love and care for His disciples.

2. She served the Lord: Simon’s mother-in-law was down with fever. The Lord heard about this when He arrived at the house of Simon, so He went into the house and took her hand and lifted her up. The fever left her and she immediately served the Lord. Illnesses, be they serious or not, can all lead to death. So when one is alive and healthy, one should give thanks to the Lord and seize the opportunity to serve Him and His church (cf: Lk 8:1-4; Ps 103:1-5)

64

Book of Mark

3. The Lord healed many who were sick and demon-possessed (1:32-34)a. At sunset:

The Jews were very strict in keeping the Sabbath. At that time, they were of the opinion that no work should be performed on the Sabbath. Therefore, before the end of the Sabbath, (which is from the sunset of Friday till the sunset of Saturday), they were not to bring any sick persons to the Lord. (cf: Lev 23:32; Gen 1:31)

b. The sick and the demon-possessed:All sicknesses are great suffering. Those who are demon-possessed are under the control of the devil, and are not sound mentally. Inflicting injuries upon themselves, they are pitiful indeed. They and their families had been at their wits’ ends, thus it was fortunate that they knew how to seek help from Jesus in order to receive peace.

c. The devil was forbidden from speaking:The devil knew Jesus was the Holy One of God. However, the Lord forbade the devil from proclaiming this. During Paul’s ministry, he met a slave-girl who was possessed by the evil spirit. She proclaimed that Paul was the bond-servant of the Most High God who preached the way of salvation. Paul rebuked her (Acts 16:16-18). The Lord does not like even the wicked to proclaim about Him, what more the devil.


1. With regards to keeping the Sabbath:The Jews and the Seventh-Day Adventists do not dare to do any work on the Sabbath. Even if they receive a telegram, they would wait till sunset to open it. These people are observing the Sabbath strictly under the law without realising that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath, and that God established the Sabbath for the benefit of men. As a result, the Jews feel that even healing the sick on the Sabbath is wrong. Despite all this, their spirit of keeping the Sabbath is still worthy of our praise. On the other hand, we are fully aware that the keeping of the Sabbath can be likened to our forefather enjoying the blessings of the Lord in the Garden of Eden (Gen 2:1-3). But how many people fully understand the grace of the Sabbath bestowed by the Lord, and consecrate themselves on this day, fearing Him and serving Him whole-heartedly. Some churches only hold services in the Sabbath afternoon, and as soon as the service is over, some of the believers would return to do their worldly things. To keep the Sabbath in this manner is to make use of the grace of God as opportunities to give way to our desires. How would we then be able to please God?

2. Faith and healing:In the healing of the sick, the Lord would often say, “Your faith has made you well” (Mk 5:34). This shows that no matter what one suffers from, be it illness, demon-possession, lost of the senses (or that of one’s child), the faith of family members is crucial in making him well. Bring him to the Lord, and the Lord will heal him according to their faith. Some brothers remarked that there have been fewer occurrences of signs and wonders recently; does it mean that God is no longer in our midst? The explanation to this is “God is still in our midst”, but we must give the Lord the opportunity to manifest His grace – we must pray with

65

Book of Mark

faith. If we only seek the help of men and not God when we encounter sicknesses and troubles, naturally the occurrence of signs and wonders will diminish.

4. The Lord preached throughout Galilee (1:35-39)a. He went out into the wilderness to pray before dawn

The Lord must have stayed up quite late the previous night healing many who were sick and possessed. Yet He rose up early the next morning and went into the wilderness alone to pray. From here we can see the effort and emphasis that the Lord puts on prayer. The Lord once told His disciples, “This kind can come out nothing by but prayer and fasting” (Mk 9:29). The heavier the workload, the greater the power required to cope with the work. Hence, the busier we are, the more we need to pray.

b. The Lord deemed preaching as the most important:The disciples told the Lord that every one was looking for Him. But He told them He would proceed to the next town so that He might preach there also. For this was why He came into the world. However, the Lord did not refuse the multitude who asked for miracles; for wherever He went, He not only preached the gospel but also cast out demons. Nevertheless, He placed great emphasis on preaching no matter where He went, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God. Healing the sick and casting out the devil, is but one way to lead people to know Him and believe in Him. Thus, one should not put too much emphasis on miracles and neglect the great commission of preaching the gospel. (cf: Mk 16:20; Acts 14:3)


1. Prayer and preaching:We need the power of God to preach His words. We also need the power of God to perform miracles. This power can be obtained through deep prayers, particularly prayers accompanied by fasting (Mt 17:21). The Lord left an example for us to follow. The only way to propagate the complete gospel of the true church with the Holy Spirit and the truth, is to pray unceasingly in one accord. To pray for the Lord to personally take action (Acts 6:4; 1:14; 13:1-3; Zech 4:6).

2. Miracles and preaching:When the Lord was preaching with the disciples, many people believed the Lord upon seeing the miracles (Jn 11:45; Acts 5:12-16). The occurrence of miracles can help strengthen the faith of the believers, and kindle their zeal (Acts 5:11-13; 15:12). So we must pray to the Lord to give us the power to perform miracles. At the same time, we must take heed not to over-emphasize miracles, lest the faith of the believers remain stagnant at the level of physical well being only. Every effort should be made to bring those who believe on the account of miracles to a more spiritual level, that their faith can be rooted in the truth and bear more fruits (cf: Jn 6:24-29, 66-69; Mt 13:20-21; Is 27:6).

66

Book of Mark

5. A Leper was cleansed (1:40-45)a. The afflicted besought the Lord for healing:

A man suffering from leprosy believed that Jesus could heal him. He came reverently before Jesus and knelt down, saying, “If you will, you can make me clean”.

b. The healing of the Lord:The Lord healed the afflicted not for His glory but out of His compassion. He sternly told those who were healed not to tell anybody, but only to show themselves to the priest and to make offerings as instructed by Moses, and to testify to the congregation. But this leper went out and began to witness freely so much so that Jesus could no longer enter a town openly.


1. The correct attitude of one seeking for healing:One must have absolute faith in the Lord. Kneeling down shows one’s godliness and respect of the will of the Lord.

2. The motive of performing miracles:The scripture says, “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Cor 16:14). When we pray for the sick, we must do it out of our compassion. One should not do it with the motive of gaining wealth or fame. Otherwise, the occurrence of miracles will invite the opposition of the devil (Mt 12:22-24). People might also become attracted to Jesus only because of His miracles, thus impeding His work of preaching. So on many occasions, the Lord strictly charged those who were healed not to tell anyone but show themselves to the priest only (Mk 5:43)

3. To offer gifts:The Lord told those who were cleansed to make offerings for their cleansing according to what Moses has commanded (cf: Lev 14: 1-32) as proof to the people and also to give thanks to God. Leprosy is considered an unclean sickness. In the sight of God, everyone is suffering from spiritual leprosy. Ironically, sin is an incurable disease. However, thanks to the salvation of God, a sinner needs only to believe the Lord and be baptised; his sins shall then be cleansed (Acts 22:16; 2:38; Tit 3:5). Therefore these blessed people should offer even more precious gifts to the Lord, to express their gratitude to God (2 Cor 6:1-2; 5:14-15; Rom 12:1).

II. The scribes and the Pharisees opposed the Lord (2:1-3:12)

1. Christ healed the paralytic (2:1-12) a. After having preached to many parts of Galilee, the Lord returned to Capernaum.b. Four men carried a paralytic to Jesus for healing.c. They could not get near Jesus because of the crowd. So they removed the roof

above Jesus and let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay.d. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven

you.”e. When the scribes heard that, they reasoned with their hearts that Jesus was

blaspheming.

67

Book of Mark

f. The Lord wanted them to know the Son of Man has the authority to forgive the sins on earth, so He charged the paralytic to stand up and walk.

g. When the people saw this they were all amazed and glorified God.


1. The reason why the paralytic was able to recover:Apart from the mighty power of the Lord in their midst, the faith of the four men in the Lord was the main reason for his healing. They were full of compassion for the paralytic and were united together to overcome the difficulties to bring the paralytic before the Lord. Another factor was the faith of the paralytic in the Lord and his submissiveness to the suggestions of the four men.

2. Spiritual Teachings:There are many in church who are spiritually paralysed. They are unable to walk; they do not come to church and do not know how to serve the Lord. Those who are spiritually strong should be concerned about the salvation of such spiritually sick members. If one person by himself does not have the strength to guide him, he can contact 2-3 or even 4 other persons to guide him in one accord. To let him understand his faults, to come before the Lord, to receive the forgiveness of God, to be renewed in strength, to serve the Lord in one accord.

3. Removed the roof:The roof of Jewish houses is flat and there are stairs leading up to the roof top. It is easily accessible from the outside of the house (cf: Mt 24:17). Normally people would take repose or meditate on the roof top. The roof top is flat and is made of timber. The timber, if fixed criss-crossing about a meter apart, is reinforced in between with planks and sticky clay. The top layer plastered with clay and mud is quite easy removable.

4. The Lord knows the thoughts of man:The Lord knew the scribes were reasoning within their hearts (2:6-8). God knew Sarah was laughing to herself (Gen 18:12-15). God also discerns our thoughts (Ps 139:2). Hence, we must be cautious over our thoughts so that whatever our thinking may be, they will be found acceptable to God (Ps 19:14).

5. Sinners and the sick:Some people fall sick because of their sins or because of the chastisement of God (Deut 28:15, 27-29). But there are people who fall sick not because of their sins but because God wants to manifest His power through the sick; or God wants to test their faith, so that they might become more spiritual (Jn 9:1-4; Job 23:10). But if one is sick on account of his sin, then he must repent and pray to God for forgiveness of his sins. The Lord will surely forgive his sins, and his sickness will be cured (Jas 5:14-16). Since the Lord said to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven you”, this shows that his sickness must have something to do with his sins. The evidence that his sins are forgiven is that he recovered completely from his sickness. The baptism conducted by our church in the name of Jesus has the power to wash away the sins, as proven by the receiving of the Holy Spirit. To further confirm that baptism has the power to remove sins, there have been cases where baptismal candidates, suffering from terminal diseases, recover completely after their baptism. Some paralytic had to be carried into the river before baptism, but after baptism, they could walk to the river side and change their clothes by

68

Book of Mark

themselves. Such miracles are testimonies to prove that baptism conducted by our church has the power to remove sins (Acts 22:16; 2:38).

2. Levi was called (2:13-17)a. The Lord was teaching the people on the sea shore.b. The Lord called Levi, the tax collector, to follow Him.c. Levi invited the Lord to His house for a meal.d. Many tax-collectors and sinners followed the Lord.e. The scribes criticized the Lord for eating with the tax-collectors and sinners.f. The Lord replied that He came not to call the righteous but the sinners.


1. The tax-collectors were reckoned as sinners:In the Roman Empire there lived many great and wealthy people. These wealthy people acted as agents to the government to collect tax from various states. These agents sometimes appointed sub-agents or sent out the chief tax-collector to collect taxes from the people on behalf of the government. The chief tax-collector and other tax-collectors very often imposed heavy taxes on the people, not for the government, but to supplement their own income. So the Jews despised the tax-collectors, whom they considered traitors and reckoned them to be sinners (Lk 3:13; 19:8)

2. Levi, the tax-collector, was called:Levi, the man deemed as sinner, the man who was despised and hated by the religious Jewish community and the people, was unexpectedly called by the Lord. In gratitude, Levi left everything behind and followed the Lord immediately. The sympathy and the calling of the Lord for Levi had moved many tax-collectors and sinners to believe in the Lord Jesus. The choice the Lord has made was absolutely infallible. For Levi not only followed the Lord in preaching the gospel, he even wrote the gospel of Matthew to testify that Jesus is Christ (Mt 1:1)

3. Friend of sinners:After Levi (Matthew), was chosen by the Lord, he invited the Lord to his house for a meal with him. Among the guests invited, many were tax-collectors and sinners (those who did not keep the commandments of Moses and the law breakers). These people were also seated with Jesus. When the scribes and the Pharisees saw this, they criticized Jesus in front of His disciples. When Jesus heard it, He said to them, “I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” The scribes and Pharisees thought that they were zealous people who have kept the laws of God, but in the eyes of God they were hypocrites. They are self-righteous and despised other people, particularly those who were sinners and tax-collectors. But the Lord said that those who admitted their sins and were remorseful were far more righteous than the scribes and the Pharisees (Mt 23:25-26; Lk 18:9-14). The Bible says that everyone has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. The Jews are no exception (Rom 3:23; Gal 3:21-22). It is not that the scribes and Pharisees were without sins; rather, it was their self-righteousness and their refusal to confess their sins. Hence, they felt that they did not need Jesus. What the Lord wants are those who know that they have fallen short of the glory of God, those who are truly repentant and remorseful of their sins, those who feel that they need

69

Book of Mark

God. These are the people who need Jesus very urgently. The Lord wants to be their best friend, and allow them to be reborn of the water and the Holy Spirit, so that they can be made anew, becoming useful workers of God (Ps 51:16-17; Jn 3:5; Tit 3:5; 1 Tim 1:15; Acts 9:13-16).

3. An argument over fasting (2:18-22)a. The disciples of John and the Pharisees asked the Lord and His disciple why they

did not fast.b. The Lord replied that the disciples would fast after the departure of the

bridegroom.c. The Lord also said that no one would sew a piece of new cloth on an old garment,

nor would anyone put new wine into old wine-skin.

Important Teachings:1. The Lord did not object fasting:

In fact, the Lord fasted for 40 days and nights before He started to preach His work of preaching (Mt 4:1-2). He once told the disciples that they had to fast in order to cast out demons (Mt 17:18-21). But He stressed that fasting should not become ritualized or be sheer formality like for the Pharisees who fasted twice a week (every Monday and Thursday). These Pharisees felt proud about it and wanted others to know so that they might receive praises. However, such fasting is without meaning. They are just acts of hypocrisy (cf: Lk 18:11-12; Mt 6:16-18). The Lord feels that fasting should be carried out according to necessity only and not according to the rules set by man. For example, when the bridegroom was present, they should rejoice over the happy occasion (normally the wedding feast would last for 7 days). It was unnecessary for them to do anything unreasonable or unnatural like fasting, according to the rules of men. But when the need arises, for instance – when the power to preach and to cast out demons is needed (Acts 13:1-3; Mt 17:19-21), or when they need to ask for the protection of God (Ezra 8:21-23; Est 4:16), or to seek for understanding (Dan 10:2-12), or to beseech God for forgiveness of sins – one can fast.

2. To sew new cloth on an old garment:The new cloth refers to unshrunk cloth. The Jewish garments in those days were made of woollen material which was shrinkable. The cloth must be soaked in water to shrink it first then only can it be used. Otherwise, it will tear the old garment and result in an even greater hole! The old garment represents the old rules of Judaism which places great emphasis on traditions and rituals. If only one portion is accepted, and the two religions are mixed together, it would be a religion that is neither here nor there. Such a religion would cause even greater harm.

3. To put new wine into old wineskin:The ancient people would pour new wine into the new wineskin only once. This is because old wineskins are usually hardened. If new wine was poured into the old wineskin, the new wine would ferment and expand, thus causing the wineskin to tear. Both wine and wineskin would then be ruined. Verse 21 refers to superficial formalities and verse 22 refers to the true spirit. The new wine represents the new teachings of Christ which is full of life, beautiful, and spiritual. The old thinking must be discarded and the new must be accepted. This is

70

Book of Mark

because the gospel of the Lord and the regulations of the Jews are two different things altogether. Therefore, the Lord has His own way of doing things. He did not allow the Pharisees to force His disciples to abide by their rules to fast.

4. The Pharisees protested that the disciples of the Lord had breached the law of the Sabbath (2:23-38)a. The disciples were criticized because they plucked the heads of grain on the

Sabbath.b. The Lord retorted by quoting the incident of David who ate the shewbread.c. The Lord said that Sabbath was made for man.

Important Teachings:1. Difference not because of the date:

The Pharisees had a heated argument over the question of the Sabbath. The question was not in the date but rather the manner of keeping the Sabbath. The Pharisees held fast to the regulations and the traditions of the Jews that they should not do any work during Sabbath. But the Lord advocated that one should remember the Sabbath under the grace of God. For the Lord is the Lord of the Sabbath. Therefore, under the principle that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath, one should decide how one ought to observe the Sabbath.

2. Can meals be taken on the Sabbath:The Lord’s disciples plucked some heads of grain to eat on the Sabbath because they were hungry (Mt 12:1). According to Deuteronomy 23:25, it is not a sin to pluck corn and eat it. What the Pharisees protested against was that the disciples plucked and ate the corn on Sabbath. This may appear to mean that even though they were hungry, they were not allowed to take food during Sabbath. However, the Pharisees also took their meals on the Sabbath.

3. David ate the shewbread:When David was escaping from King Saul, he arrived in Nob where Ahimelech the high priest was. David asked the high priest for some bread and since the high priest did not have common bread, he gave David and his companions the shewbread which was removed from before the Lord (The priest was supposed to put fresh shewbread on the Sabbath day: Lev 24:8). David and his companions not only ate the shewbread meant only for the high priest, they also broke the law by walking a long distance during Sabbath (1 Sam 21:1-6; Lev 24:8-9; Mt 12:3-4). David had obviously transgressed against two of the laws, but because they were forced by circumstances, and also because they were hungry, God did not regard it as a sin. For God “desires mercy not sacrifice”. In fact, God is merciful and gracious. Sometimes, believers commit offences because they were forced by circumstances or because one’s life is at stake. God will also forgive them. For example, the Indian brethren’s daily are so little that if they did not work on Sabbath, they would have to starve. So, in the past when they had just believed in the Lord, they would get up before dawn for Sabbath worship. After which they would proceed to work. God would have mercy for what they did. But this does not mean that the Holy Sabbath of the Lord can be lightly regarded, and that we have free reign to do whatever we liked.

71

Book of Mark

4. How to keep the Sabbath:According to the instructions of the Lord, it is alright to perform sacred duties on Sabbath, for examples: offering sacrifice during Old Testament times and the performing of circumcision (Mt 12:5; Jn 7:23; Num 28:9-10); saving people and doing charity work (Mt 12:9-13; Mk 3:4). Therefore, all Christians should rest from secular work on Sabbath to specially remember the grace of God and worship Him; and also do some divine work, to receive blessings from the Lord (Gen 2:3; Is 58:13-14).

5. The Lord healed the sick on the Sabbath (3:1-6)a. The multitude watched the Lord to see if He would heal the sick on the Sabbath.b. The Lord asked them whether it was lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do

harm, to save life or to kill.c. They were silent. Then the Lord asked the man with a withered hand to stretch

out his hand. The man did so and his hand was restored.d. The Pharisees went out and immediately held counsel with the Herodians

discussing how to destroy Jesus.


1. Disagreement over the question of the Sabbath:The Pharisees disagreed with the Lord greatly on the question of the Sabbath. They held that one should not do any form of work during the Sabbath including healing the sick. So on this occasion, they came to spy on the Lord to see if He would heal the sick during the Sabbath. If He did, they would put Him to death on account of His violation of the law of Sabbath. (cf: Ex 31:14)

2. Things that can be done on the Sabbath:The Lord asked the people whether it was lawful to do good or to do harm; to save life or to kill it. In Matthew 12:11, the Lord said to them again, “What man is there among you who has one sheep and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Even though it is stated in the Ten Commandments that one should not do any work on Sabbath (Ex 20:10), the Lord of the Sabbath, based on the principle that the Sabbath was made for man, indicated that it was lawful to do good and to save lives on Sabbath. That was why the Lord had healed the sick on seven occasions:

a. The man possessed by an unclean spirit (Mk 1:23-26)b. Peter’s mother-in-law (Mk 1:30-31)c. A man suffering for thirty-eight years (Jn 5:5-10)d. A man with a withered hand (Mk 3:1-5)e. The man born blind (Jn 9:14)f. The woman with a spirit of infirmity (Lk 13:11-14)g. The man who had dropsy (Lk 14:2-4)

3. The Pharisees held counsel to destroy Jesus:The force that opposed the ministry of the Lord did not come from the politicians but from the religious sects, in particular, the main group in Judaism - the Pharisees. Paul was persecuted during his ministry with regards to the issue of

72

Book of Mark

circumcision (Acts 20:21-36). The Lord on the other hand was greatly opposed by them because He observed the Sabbath in a different manner from them. The Pharisees even held counsel with the Herodians concerning how they would destroy Jesus. The Herodians were a band of politicians who supported the jurisdiction of King Herod, but opposed the Roman governor’s direct rule. Originally, these people were political as well as religious rivals of the Pharisees. But, because both groups wanted to kill Jesus, they united behind one front to oppose the Lord. The Lord once said to His disciples, “They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming when whoever kills you will think that he offers God service.” (Jn 16:2). These words were first fulfilled by the Pharisees. They thought that by killing Jesus, they would be upholding the truth of Sabbath (Ex 31:14). They did not realize that they had been made use of by Satan to reject the truth and to oppose God. Therefore, we must beseech God to give us the insight so that we will not be prejudiced towards the truth and that we will be able to rightly discern the words of the truth, lest we attack the faithful workers of God who abide in the truth (2 Tim 2:15).

6. The Lord healed the crowd (3:7-12)a. A great multitude flocked to Jesus from Idumea in the south and Tyre and Sidon

in the north after hearing what Jesus did. b. The Lord had healed many who were sick and restored peace to those who were

possessed.c. The Lord told them again and again not to reveal who He was.


1. Hearing what the Lord did:The mighty miracles the Lord had performed were the cleansing of the lepers, the healing of the paralytic and the man with a withered hand and the casting out of demons. Because they wanted to be healed, people came from as far south as Idumea (south of Judea. They were Edomites in the olden times); as well as from Tyre and Sidon in the north. These afflicted people came with high hopes of getting well. From here we can see that signs and wonders can attract many people. So it is a common practice of evangelists today to use “healing from the Lord” to attract people. However, the Lord told those whose sickness were healed not to spread His name for He had not come to this world to heal the sick but to preach the gospel to the people so that they might receive the everlasting blessing of the Kingdom of Heaven. Even so, the Lord knew how to make use of these opportunities to preach the gospel to those who sought after him for healing, that they might believe in the Lord. In this unbelieving world, we need the presence of the Lord and His mighty works of miracles so as to draw more people to the True Church; so that we can make use of these opportunities to preach the gospel to them and lead them to get to know God so that they too may enjoy His Grace which is far more blessed than to enjoy only physical healthiness.

2. The healing of the Lord:Whenever the Lord heals the sick, He does not ask the patients what kind of sickness they were suffering from. Unlike all the great physicians, He uses no

73

Tjenchew Lee, 01/03/-1,

Check the original text…. There was no “persecution”, the Pharisees in the church believed that circumcision was necessary though, and that was recorded in Acts 15.


Sounds a little odd to me… Slogan is definitely not the right word to use…. I think the sentence makes more sense if you say “… common practice for evangelists today to use “healing from the Lord” to attract the sick.

Book of Mark

medication, no surgery and He heals them immediately and completely. This was very different from the physicians in the world.

III.The Lord’s Disciples and His Household (3:13-35)

1. The Lord appointed twelve disciples (3:13-19)a. The reason the Lord chose the twelve disciples was that He wanted them to be

with Him all the time, so that He could send them out to preach the gospel and to give them the power to cast out demons.

b. There were four fishermen amongst the disciples. There were two “extraordinary” persons, one of them was Levi a tax-collector, who was despised by people. The other was Simon, the Zealot.


1. He prayed about the matter of choosing the apostles:It is recorded in Luke 6:12 that the Lord prayed all night before He chose the apostles. This did not mean that the Lord did not know who was suitable for the apostleship, for the Lord knows the mind of everyone. Indeed, He does not need anyone to bear witness for man (Jn 2:24-25). What he did was to leave an example for us to follow. For example, in selecting an elder, a deacon or preacher; we must pray to God to give us the spiritual insight to select the right candidates according to the will of God. We should not be affected by human ties or factors, but choose the one appointed by the Holy Spirit (Acts 20:28). If the wrong leaders were chosen to run the church, not only would the church be unedified, she would be destroyed. Hence this is a matter that we really need to cautious about!

2. The Lord workers for the important work:In the early part of His ministry, the Lord chose five apostles, namely Simon, Andrew and James, John and Matthew the tax-collector. Later on, the number was increased to twelve. The mighty work of salvation of mankind cannot be completed by the Lord alone. There must be other people to succeed His work. That was why, when the Lord started His ministry, He systematically chose the disciples to follow Him, to learn from Him. He also sent them out to work so that they could gain some practical experience. After the Lord ascends into heaven, the Holy Spirit would be able to proclaim the salvation of the Lord, establish churches and save many people through them. Similarly today, in order to propagate the gospel, the church must also emulate the Lord, to train more people who are willing to sacrifice themselves to the Lord. For it is only when the church leaders are strong, that they would be able to nurture loyal ministers and believers who love the Lord. We should also take note of the method adopted and the amount of time used by the Lord in the training of the disciples.

3. The talents the Lord had chosen:The twelve apostles the Lord had chosen were from Galilee except Judas Iscariot (he was a Jew cf: Jos 15:25). Bartholomew is generally believed to be Nathanael (Jn 1:45-47). The most learned was probably Matthew, the tax-collector. The rest were uneducated, common men as commented by the scribes (Acts 4:13). They had not received much education, they had neither status nor wealth, and they

74

Book of Mark

were despised by the people. However, the Lord does not look at one’s outward appearance; He chose the foolish, the weak, the lowly and the despised of the world. So that the Holy Spirit can manifest great power through them, and men may see the mighty power of God and give glory to His Holy name (1Cor 1:26-31; 2 Cor 4:7; 1Sam 16:7). The Lord chose Simon the Zealot not because He approved of the Zealots opposition of the Romans in their fight for independence. Rather, it could be that the Lord saw a strong patriotism which the He felt could be re-channeled into establishing the kingdom of God.

4. The apostles:In the gospel according to Luke, it is clearly stated that the Lord chose twelve persons whom He called apostles (Lk 6:13). After the Lord had ascended into heaven, Matthias was chosen to substitute the position left open by Judas (Acts 1:15-26). Later Paul and Barnabas (Acts 14:14); Silvanus and Timothy (1 Thess 1:1; 2:6 - in this verse the pronoun “we” refers to Paul, Silvanus and Timothy); Andronicus and Junia (Rom 16:7); and Apollos (1 Cor 4:9; note the word “us”) were also called apostles. The Lord wants the church to be built on the foundation of the apostles (Eph 2:20). The words preached by them must become the absolute truth of the church, and there should be no other foundation (Gal 1:6-9; 1Cor 3:10). The apostles have a special authority in the church. If there were any differences of opinion with regards to the truth, they would assemble to discuss the matter and the decision derived would be final and the whole congregation must follow what had been decided (Acts 15:1-2; 22-28; 16:4-5). All of them devoted their full attention to the preaching of the gospel and the setting up of churches (Mk 3:14-15; Acts 1:8; Rom 15:22-23). To qualify for the apostleship, apart from having the gifts, one must have seen the Lord and have been with Him (Acts 1:21-22); or they must have been directly called by the Lord (Gal 1:1-2; Rom 1:1). The Lord also gave them the authority to perform all kinds of miracles (2 Cor 12:11-12; Mk 3:15).

2. The scribes blasphemed against the Holy Spirit (3:20-30)a. The Lord’s family thought that He was mad because He was so busy that He had

no time to eat.b. The scribes blasphemed against the Lord and said that He was possessed by

Beelzebub and by the prince of demons, and that He cast out the demons by the ruler of the demons.

c. The Lord told them if a kingdom was divided against itself, then that kingdom could not stand.

d. The Lord said no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods unless he first binds up the strong man, then only may he plunder his house.

e. Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will be guilty of mortal sin.

Important Teachings: 1. Even his own relatives did not understand Him:

By right, relatives should have a special kind of affection and care for one another. They should also be better able to empathize with one another. However, because the relatives of the Lord failed to know Him as the Saviour, the sight of Him becoming so busy in preaching, healing the sick and casting out the demons that He had no time to eat His meals, led them to believe that He was insane and they wanted to seize Him, to bring Him home. Even though it was out of their good

75

Book of Mark

intentions that they wanted to bring the Lord home, the deep misunderstanding that they had about the Lord must have caused Him great hurt!

2. The blasphemy of the scribes:Because the scribes and the Pharisees were jealous of the Lord, they spied on him no matter where He went, in an attempt to find fault with Him and charge Him in court. They blasphemed Him saying that He was possessed by Beelzebub and that by the prince of demon He cast out the demons. Beelzebub was originally the name given to the fly god of the Philistines (2 Kgs 1:2-3, 6, 16). This was why the Israelites gave this name to the king of Satan. The Lord told them that if Satan had risen up against himself he could not stand, similarly a kingdom or a house, if divided, would perish. This was to point out their mistake. The Lord went on to say that if someone wanted to plunder a strong man’s house, the strong man must be bound up first. This shows that since He could cast out demons, and set free those who were possessed, He had overcome Satan. The Lord also told them strictly that those who blasphemed against Him deliberately had been possessed by the devil. And for those who blaspheme against the Holy Spirit, their sins would never be forgiven.

Now the last days are drawing nearer, the promised latter rain of the Holy Spirit has descended in the True Church. The Holy Spirit through the True Church has healed the sick, cast out demons; preached the truth; and led the people to accept the Saviour and to believe in the True God. Quite a number of believers from other denominations, who upon witnessing the mighty works of God performed in the True Church, left their church to join the True Church. This resulted in the jealousy and hatred of their pastors. Some of these pastors boldly accused the Holy Spirit as being evil spirit. They also said that the miracles performed in the True Church are not from God. We advise readers against passing judgment over the matter concerning the mysterious spiritual realm, lest one blasphemes against the Holy Spirit and receives eternal punishment.

3. All believers are relatives (3:31-35)a. The Lord’s mother and brothers came to look for Him, and they sent someone to

call Him.b. The Lord said, “Whoever does the will of God is my brother, sister and mother.”


1. The Lord has always been filial towards His mother:When He was twelve years old, He was busy discussing with the teachers the Words of God in the Temple. But when He saw His mother came to look for Him, He obeyed them and returned home with them (Lk 2:46-51). When Jesus was suffering in pain on the cross, He was still concerned about His mother. He then entrusted the care of His mother to His beloved disciples, John (Jn 19:25-27).

2. The love was extended beyond His household:When Jesus replied, “Who is my mother, or my brothers?”, this does not mean that the Lord did not acknowledge His mother and brothers. What He meant was that love for His mother and brothers must be extended to the elderly and the young brethren who follows the will of God. As the ancient saying goes, “Love the young and the elderly at home as well as those out of the home.” These words

76

Book of Mark

truly manifest the kind of spirit that the Lord had. And it is only when believers extend their love for family members to the brethren in church that they are practicing the new commandment of the Lord. “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.” (Jn 13:34)

IV. The Lord taught with parables (4:1-34)

1. The parable of the sower and its interpretation (4:1-20)a. The Lord sat in a boat and taught the people with parables.b. Some seed fell on the path and birds came and devoured it. The seed is the Word

while the birds refer to Satan who takes away the Word which has been sown in the hearts of men.

c. Other seed fell on rocky ground where there was not much soil. It withered away because it had no root: Since their faith has no foundation, so when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the Word, they fall away immediately.

d. Other seeds fell among thorns which choked the seed and the seed yielded no grain; thorns refer to the cares of the world, the delight of riches and the desire for other things. Since they came in and choked the Word, it proved to be unfruitful.

e. And other seeds fell onto good soil bringing forth grain, some yielded thirty fold, some sixty fold and some one hundred fold; those that are sown upon the good soil are the ones who hears the Word, accept it, and bear fruits (cf: Lk 8:15).

Important Teachings:1. Why did the Lord use parables (4:10-12):

According to the Lord’s reply, the mystery of the Kingdom of God was only to be revealed to the disciples and not to the people outside. It is apparent that the parables were not mere teachings, but also include the mystery of the Kingdom of God. If no explanation was given, it would have been difficult to understand (Mk 4:10-13, 33-34).

2. Speak the Word according to the standard of the multitude (4:33): The purpose of delivering a sermon is to edify the multitude and not to show off one’s knowledge (1 Cor 14:4). So a sermon must be prepared according to the standard of the listeners; and when a sermon is delivered, use words that the listeners can understand easily, only then would the sermon be effective. One should not speak with the intention of receiving praises from the congregation. On the contrary, one should be humble when delivering, speaking out of love, with grace and with the help of the Holy Spirit. (Col 4:6; 1 Cor 2:1-5).

3. The seeds that fell on the way side: The first parable the Lord spoke was the parable of the sower. The seeds refer to the Word of God (Mt 13:18-19; Mk 4:14). The sower refers to the Lord (Mt 13:37) and His disciples (Mk 4:14). The field refers to the world (Mt 13:38). The four different types of field refer to the four different types of hearts of men. The soil by the way side is hard, thus representing hard-hearted people, just like many of the Jews in those days (Mt 11:20-24). Since they refused to accept the faith, Satan will come and snatch away the Word that has been sowed in their hearts, thus they would not believe and would lose their salvation. So one should have the meekness of heart to accept the implanted Word. (Jas 1:21).

77

Book of Mark

4. The seeds that fell on the rocky ground where there was not much soil: The rocky ground is usually covered by a thin layer of soil. Because it is warm, when the seeds fall on it, they will germinate very quickly; but when the scorching sun shines upon it, since they have no roots, they will wither away. Like many Galileans who did not know the Lord well enough, their faith did not take root; they left the Lord on hearing that they should pursue after the Spiritual truth (Jn 6:24-27, 60-66). If they were to experience tribulations and sufferings for the sake of the Lord, they would not be able to stand firm.

5. The seeds that fell among the thorns: The Lord referred to the thorns as the worries of the world, the temptations of money and all sorts of lusts. The soil which can grow thorns can be considered as moderate ground. But because it is overgrown with thorns, the seeds are choked bearing forth no fruits. This type of believer forms the largest group in the church by a huge margin. They continue to remain in church, but are not zealous, and are unable to bear fruits. However, the thorns must be removed; or else they will take up space and fall short of the grace of the Lord. Cast all our anxieties to the Lord who cares for us (1 Pet 5:7; Phil 4:6-7). We should not be greedy for money but be contented with what we have and entrust all things to the true God who is the giver of all things for us to enjoy (Heb 13:5; 1Tim 6:7-10, 17-19). We must also put to death evil desires through the Holy Spirit (Jas 1:14-15; Rom 8:13).

6. The seeds that fell on good soil: The Lord referred to the good soil as those people with pure and sincere hearts. They are like Nathaniel or Lydia, who having received the truth, bore forth fruits of love and joy to glorify God with the help of the Holy Spirit (Jn 1:45-51; Acts 16:13-15; Gal 5:22-23). The number of fruits each one bears may be different; but so long as one has done his best, he shall receive praises from the Lord. The Lord gave praises to the two servants when one made five talents while the other made two talents (Mt 25:14-23).

2. Putting teachings into practice (4:21-25)a. Place the lamp on the lampstand.b. Nothing can be hiddenc. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you.


1. Place the lamp on the lampstand:This passage was spoken by the Lord after the parable of the sower (4:21a). The lamp refers to the light. The Lord is the true Light. The disciples are the light of the world (Jn 1:9; Mt 5:14). Thus, Christians must manifest good works so as to shine for the Lord. Christians must also proclaim the Lord so that people of the world would draw near to the Lord on seeing the true light.

2. Nothing can be hidden:As a Christian, nothing can be hidden, as sooner or later it will be made known. So it is better to acknowledge the Lord courageously before men (Mt 10:32; Mk 8:38). The mystery of the kingdom of God will be hidden for the time being but it will be made known soon after. The Word of the Lord is bright and righteous. It

78

Book of Mark

has no secrets and there is no need to hide. On the contrary, it must be proclaimed to all parts of the world (cf: Mt 10:26-33; Jn 18:19-21).

3. What you give to others you shall receive much more:The Lord said, “Take heed what you hear…”; it indicates the passage that follows is an important one. He said, “With the measure you use, it will be measured to you, and to you who hear, more will be given.” Let us refer to Luke 6:37-38. This is actually teaching us how we ought to conduct ourselves in our relationships with other people. If you are forgiving toward others, others will also be forgiving towards you. If you love others, you will be given love, much more love than you have given out. The Lord said, “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (Mt 7:12). Because this was an important teaching, the Lord told the disciples to pay more attention to it. With regard to the passage, “For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.” Please refer to Proverbs 11:24 and 19:17. It is stated, “There is one who scatters, yet increases more; And there is one who withholds more than is right, but it leads to poverty.” It means that if you love God and your fellow men, God will bless you more; otherwise the grace you have received will also be taken back (Mt 25:28-29)

3. The natural development of the Kingdom of God (4:6-29)a. The Kingdom of God is like the seeds scattered on the ground by man. The seeds

germinate by themselves.b. The growing process of vegetation: First the blade, then the head, after that the

full grain in the head. When the grain is ripe, it is harvested and stored.


1. God gives the growth:The Kingdom of God refers to the Church. The growth of the Church begins from the scattering of seeds – evangelism. As long as the seeds fall on the good soil – the Word of God will germinate and grow in their hearts. So what is required of man is to scatter the seed, water it, weed out the grass, and kill the insects. As for whether the plant grows or not, it is not within the control of men. Therefore Paul in his epistle to the Corinthians said, “I planted, Apollos watered but God gave the increase.” (1 Cor 3:6). Therefore, as servants of God, we need only to preach to the world and shepherd them. There is no need to be unduly worried over the result. As Paul puts it. “To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed he will be made to stand, for God is able to make him stand” (Rom 14:4). So we should just sow and not be concerned about the result, and rely in the Lord to do more work!

2. There is a sequence in growing:The Lord said, “For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head.” There is a sequence, as long as the seeds take root and can absorb water from the soil; they will naturally grow and bear forth fruits for the sowers. This process of growth teaches us that we must not be hasty when we do God’s work; but we must be steady, to do things gradually and unceasingly, and God will bring it to pass. Where the work of God is concerned, the speed is not so important. What is most important is the determination. Even

79

Book of Mark

Rome was not built in a day. As long as we do the work of God faithfully and step by step, God will surely help us to fulfil the task (Acts 20:32; Phil 2:13; Is 40:11; 2 Thess 2:17; 2 Tim 4:1-5).

4. Parable of the mustard seed (4:30-32)a. Using the mustard seed to represent the Kingdom of God.b. The mustard seed is smaller than all the seeds on earth but when it grows up it

becomes the greatest of all shrubs.c. It is so big that the birds of the air can make nests in its shades.


1. The life of the mustard seed:The Lord used the mustard seed which is the smallest of all the seeds to denote the Kingdom of God – the Church. Though at the beginning, it is insignificant, yet because of the abundant life in her, she can develop into a great organization. The early church started with only twelve apostles, but during the downpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, 3000 people were baptized into the Lord. The church continued to grow to become a large group (Acts 2:1-42; 5:12-16). Now we need only to have the faith of a mustard seed – a faith of life, a faith filled with the Holy Spirit – the Lord will do mighty works through us (Mt 17:20; Phil 4:13).

2. The birds make nests in it:Church expansion is a beautiful thing. After the apostolic church, the Catholic Church became the predominant church. More and more nations joined forces to become Catholics. The number of believers increased so greatly that it was as if it had become a huge tree (Mt 13:32). But what we should take note is that birds came to make nests in it. So do these birds refer to the good believers of the Church or to the evil ones? Since the parable of the sower and the parable and the parable of the mustard seed were related by the Lord at the same time and same place, and the birds of the air in the parable of the sower were interpreted as the evils ones by the Lord (Mk 4:15); it is only logical that the birds in the mustard shrub should also be interpreted as the evil ones.

It is a historical fact that the Church was attacked by heresy and wickedness over the course of her development. The Church which used to have the Holy Spirit, later became the dwelling place of Satan – a haunt of every foul spirit, a haunt of every foul and hateful birds. This kind of Church is not worthy to be called the Church of Christ. Her development also did not contribute to the divine work of salvation.

Now, as servants of God, in praying for the development of the church ought to always examine ourselves to see if our teachings are in accordance with the Bible. We must be alert at all times; abide by the bible, and hold firmly onto the pure gospel preached by the apostles. We should not deviate from the correct way, leaving a foothold for Satan (Rev 18:2-3; 2 Tim 1:13-14; Jude 3-4; Gal 1:6-9).

80

Book of Mark

V. The Lord performed signs and wonders (4:35-5:43)

1. The wind and the sea were made quieta. The Lord and the disciples went on a boat heading for Gerasene.b. Suddenly, there was a great storm and the waves beat into the boat.c. The disciples woke up the Lord and asked Him to save their lives.d. The Lord rebuked the wind and sea, and the wind ceased and the sea calmed.e. The Lord asked them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no

faith?”f. The disciples said to one another, “Who can this be that even the wind and the sea

obey Him!”


1. From Capernaum to Gerasene:The Lord went in the boat from the western shore of Gerasene to the eastern shores of Galilee (5:1). A great rainstorm arose along the way. The Sea of Galilee is about 680 feet lower than the Mediterranean Sea. Because the Sea of Galilee is situated in the low lying area, storms are frequent. This time, the Lord and His disciples met with a great storm; the waves beat into the boat; and the boat was filled with water. The situation was so dangerous that even the disciples who used to be fishermen became very frightened. So they woke up the Lord saying, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?”

2. The Lord calmed the wind and the sea:Along the way, the Lord was probably so tired that He fell into a deep sleep. His disciples woke Him up saying that He did not care about their lives. If the Lord remained asleep even as the waves beat against the boat, even when the boat was filled with water, and even when everyone on board were wet, the disciples cannot say that He did not care about them. However if the Lord had already awoken but still pretended to be asleep, was it because He wanted to test the disciples as to how well they knew Him; how much they trusted Him?

After the Lord had calmed the wind, He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” And they were filled with awe, saying to one another, “Who can this be that even the wind and the sea obey Him!” It is apparent that although they had followed the Lord for some time and had seen the Lord performing miracles; yet the eyes of their hearts remained shut, and they did not know who the Lord was. The wind ceased at the command of the Lord. From this, we can tell that Jesus is the Lord of Heaven and earth because He can perform wondrous works in the world wrought by the Creator; as it is written in the Bible, “..He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed.” (Ps 107:23-32).

3. The world is like a great ocean. It is uncertain as to when its tempests will toss: Windstorm refers to sufferings, danger or wars, but since we have the omnipotent Lord in the same boat with us (1 Jn 3:24); we can rest assured, entrust everything to the Lord, and not fear about anything. As the Psalmist said,

“God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Therefore we should not fear,

81

Book of Mark

And though the earth be removed,And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though its waters roar and be troubled, Though the mountains shake with its swelling.” (Ps 46:1-3)

2. The unclean spirits entered into a herd of swine (5:1-20)a. The moment the Lord stepped out upon reaching Gerasene, a man who was

possessed approached Him.b. This man lived among the tombs. Neither chains nor fetters could bind him. He

cried day and night and bruised himself with stones.c. This man with the unclean spirits knew that Jesus is the Son of the Most High

God, so he entreated the Lord not to torment him.d. The name of the unclean spirits is Legion. It begged the Lord to allow it to enter

the swine.e. The unclean spirits left the man and entered the swine. The herd, numbered about

two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned.f. The people saw how the man was healed, yet they refused to accept Jesus.g. The Lord told the man to go home to his friends and to tell them how much the

Lord had done for him and how the Lord had shown mercy to him.


1. The Lord arrived in Gerasene:On this occasion, it was the Lord who suggested going across the sea to the eastern shore of Gerasene (4:35). There He delivered a man possessed by the unclean spirit. This man had a home but he could not return home, he injured himself repeatedly, and often cried out day and night in the mountains and in the tombs. His healing brought much consolation and happiness to his friends and relatives (5:19). The Lord is omniscient. He knows what is happening at each particular place and time (Mk 11:1-6). The Lord had risked His life in the rough seas by going to Gerasene with the sole purpose of delivering the hopeless family of this possessed man. After the demoniac was made well, the Lord crossed again in the boat to the other side – Capernaum (5:18-21). We should pray to the Lord daily to direct us to those who need the grace of salvation. At the same time, we must pray to the Lord to give us power so that we may be able to help those who are afflicted. The journey may be long, the course perilous, but we should press forward even for the sake of saving one single soul! (Acts 8:26-39; Lk 15:3-7)

2. When one is possessed:When a person is possessed by an evil spirit, he would be over-powered by the evil spirit. The person would not be able to control himself; he would hurt himself; and his strength would surpass that of an ordinary man. With such manifestations, his demon-possessed state would be easily recognizable by others. He would need help from others to get rid of the control of Satan. But there is another type of people who are unaware that they are possessed. As Paul said, “And you He made alive, who were dead in trespasses and sins, in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,” (Eph 2:1-2). It is apparent that those who are not baptised (Gal 3:27) all have the evil spirit in them for they are unable to think and

82

Book of Mark

act freely but are under the grip of Satan. They are made slaves of the evil spirits. They sin wilfully and their spiritual well-being is affected. They are naked with no righteousness to brag of (Rom 7:15-24). The Lord came not only to cast out the evil spirits that had possessed the people but also to deliver those who are slaves to sin and tormented by the devil; whereby upon death they would go to the place of fire prepared for demons and their agents (Jn 8:34-36; Mt 25:41).

3. A man and two thousand swine:The Legion begged the Lord to allow them to enter into the herd of swine. Pandemonium followed moments after the unclean spirits had entered the swine. The swine numbering about two thousand rushed down the steep bank into the sea and were drowned. Upon seeing this, the people entreated the Lord to leave their neighbourhood; probably out of fear that such an incident might happen again. Two thousand swine could have fetched a large sum of money. But for the sake of delivering one from the control of Satan and obtaining eternal life at the same time; a sacrifice even greater than this would still be worthwhile. For the Lord had said that the salvation of a single soul is far more valuable than gaining the whole world (Mt 16:26).

4. The Witness of the Lord:As the Lord was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged that he might go with Him. But the Lord refused and told him to go home to his friends and relatives and tell them how much the Lord had done for him and how the Lord had shown mercy on him. Jesus is the saviour, and those who have been saved by the Lord would have had experiences both in the physical and spiritual sense. That they would be able to express from the bottom of their hearts that Jesus is their Saviour. The Lord saved us so that we can testify about His grace to the rest of the world. The work of preaching the gospel is not confined to the preaching from the pulpit only. The most basic form of witnessing should come from every individual who is blessed with the grace of the Lord. We should recognize that we are people who have received the grace of God, and we must take up the commission to organize ourselves to bear personal testimony of this most beautiful message to the people. In this way, all those who are possessed, and bound by sin, shall be set free by the Lord; and thus they can enjoy peace in this life and eternal life after death (Acts 4:20; Lk 4:17-21; Rom 10:12-15)

3. A woman suffered a flow of blood for twelve years was healed (5:25-34)a. A woman suffered a flow of blood for twelve years. b. She had spent all that she had but her condition did not improve, instead it became

worse.c. She heard about Jesus and she believed that the Lord could heal her.d. She touched the garments of the Lord and immediately her flow of blood ceased. e. Jesus perceived that power had gone forth from Him, so He asked who had

touched His garments.f. The woman came and told Him the whole truth.g. The Lord said to the woman, “Daughter, your faith had made you well. Go in

peace…”

83

Book of Mark


1. The end of man is the beginning of God:This woman had suffered from a flow of blood for twelve years and had sought many physicians, spending all her money for treatment. Her sickness did not improve, but rather it grew worse. In her state of hopelessness, she came to know about Jesus and began to have faith in him. She believed that her sickness would be cured if only she could touch His garments. She was so anxious to get well that she had violated the Law of Moses (that an unclean woman like herself should not touch others - Lev 15:25-27, 11-12). So she moved amongst the crowd and touched the garments of Jesus and immediately her flow of blood ceased. She was cured. Jesus turned back and asked who touched my garments. Then the woman came trembling, fell down before Jesus, and told Him the whole truth. Then the Lord told the woman to go in peace for her faith had made her well. From this miracle, we can see that even when a person is in a state of hopelessness, as long as he can have absolute faith in the Lord, to allow the Lord a chance to work on him, he would surely receive peace and blessings.

2. Faith comes from what is heard:This woman knew how to trust in the Lord because of what she had heard about the Lord. As Paul puts it, “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Today, the reason why many people do not come to pray to Jesus, to receive peace in this life and enjoy blessings in the life to come is because they have never heard about Jesus. The Bible states that “For whoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher?” Therefore, it is vital to preach the gospel always, regardless of whether it is in season or out of season (Rom 10:17, 13-15; 2 Tim 4:1-5).

3. Your faith has made you well:This woman was healed because of her faith in the Lord. She believed that as long as she could touch the garment of the Lord she could be made well. This does not mean that there is any power in the Lord’s garments; rather, it is because of her faith that the power of the Lord came upon her. Just as when Peter was preaching, the people believed that the sick could be cured just by passing through the shadow of Peter (Acts 5:15). Paul was another example. During his ministry, when his handkerchiefs or aprons were put on the bodies of the sick, diseases left them and evil spirits came out of them (Acts 19:12). The Lord often said to the sick, “Your faith has made you well”, or “Let it be to your desire” (Mt 15:28). Nevertheless, your faith must truly be manifested before the Lord, must come in contact with the Lord; and must actually touch the Lord. Then only can you obtain His power to fulfil your wish.

4. Jairus’ daughter was brought back to life again (5:21-24, 35-43)a. The ruler of the synagogue named Jairus came to Jesus and begged Him to heal

his sick daughter.

84

Book of Mark

b. Someone from the ruler’s house announced that since his daughter was dead, he should not trouble the Teacher anymore.

c. The Lord told the ruler of the synagogue not to be afraid but to believe.d. The Lord told the people that the child was not dead but was sleeping. And they

laughed at Him.e. The Lord went in where the child was. He took her by her hand and told her to

rise up.f. The people were amazed but the Lord charged them not to tell anyone about it.

The Lord told them to give her something to eat.


1. Jairus besought the Lord for his daughter:The Lord returned once again to Capernaum where many people had gathered by His side. Among them was a ruler of the synagogue called Jairus who begged Jesus to save his daughter. The ruler of the synagogue in those days was the one in charge of the administrative affairs of the synagogue. He was also the head of the council of elders, highly respected by all. The Lord once healed the son of an official in Capernaum (Jn 4:46-53). It was also here that he also delivered an important servant of the centurion (Lk 7:1-10). At that time, the centurion had sent some of the Jewish elders to beseech Jesus to heal his servant. The Jewish elders told Jesus that the centurion was a good man for he loved the people and built synagogues for them. It was highly probable that Jairus was one of the elders sent by the centurion to see Jesus. His faith in Jesus might have something to do with witnessing the two signs performed by the Lord earlier. The Pharisees during that time opposed the Lord in many ways. In the beginning, Jairus did not know the Lord very well, or did not dare to go near the Lord openly. But when he saw that the life of her daughter was at stake, he no longer cared about his standing or the attitude of others towards the Lord. He earnestly fell before the Lord and besought Him to save his daughter quickly. Jairus had made the right choice in spite of his high status; and as a result of his faith and open trust, his daughter was made well.

2. Someone came to announce the death of the young girl:While Jesus was still speaking, someone from the ruler’s house came to tell the ruler that since her daughter was dead, he should not trouble the Teacher. When the Lord heard this, He told the ruler not to be afraid but to believe! When the Lord entered the ruler’s house, He saw some people weeping and wailing. He told them that the child was not dead but sleeping. And they laughed at Him. But the Lord put them all outside; took the girl by her hand; and said. “Talitha, cumi” (Aramaic: Talitha – little girl; Cumi – get up). Immediately, the girl got up and walked. The Lord charged them strictly not to let anyone know about it. He also told them to give her something to eat.

At times, when one is praying to the Lord with hope, there might be sudden thoughts of hopelessness – ‘already dead’. At this juncture, most would give up hope. Nevertheless, this is the crucial time when one’s faith is put to test. One ought to believe in the omnipotence of the Lord, and not be afraid, and then he will surely see the glory of the Lord. In the case of Jairus’ daughter, it was true that she was dead but the Lord said that she was sleeping. For believers who are

85

Book of Mark

saved, the bible describes their death as only sleeping. Jesus, the Lord of life is not only able to bring the little girl back to life, but is also able to resurrect those who have been regenerated through the water and the Holy Spirit, and transform them with glorious spiritual bodies like His own on the last day. In this way, we would never die (1 Thess 4:13-18; Phil 3:20-21).

3. The Lord told them to give her something to eat:Although the little girl was brought back to life, she might still have been weak physically. So the Lord told them to give her something to eat. For the sake of her health, the parents were obligated to fulfil such responsibilities. From the spiritual perspective, we too have been brought back to life (spiritually) for we have been baptized to the Lord; and our sins are already removed (Acts 2:38; Col 2:11-12). Hence, we must long for the pure spiritual milk, so that we may grow up to salvation (1 Pet 2:1-2). As the Church is the mother of all the believers, she has the responsibility to provide spiritual food for her believers so as to build up their faith and character, such that they may grow into their full stature, with the ability to take up duties in the house of God (Gal 4:26, 19; 2 Tim 2:1-3)

VI. The climax of the Work of the Lord (6:1-7:23)

1. The Lord was not accepted in His own country (6:1-6)a. He taught in Nazareth during Sabbath.b. The people marvelled at His teaching, but they took offence at Him.c. The Lord said that a prophet was not without honour except in his own country.d. Because the people did not believe in Him, He went about teaching in villages.


1. The people were fully aware of His wisdom and power, yet they did not want to believe in Him:When the people heard the teachings of Jesus, they all marvelled at His wisdom, and were all amazed at His mighty works. By right, they should know that such perfect gifts should have come from above (Jas 1:17). Yet they refused to acknowledge this. Instead, they said, “Where did this man get these things?” They went on further and said, “Is this not the carpenter?” The Lord had been living with them since His childhood. He had not received any special education and He worked as a carpenter. Before He started preaching, nothing extraordinary had happened to Him. In their minds, the Lord was just an ordinary man. Moreover, they refused to acknowledge that His power was given by God, so naturally they did not respect Him. Furthermore, they were jealous of Him, and thus rejected Him. Likewise today, God often reveals His truth and perform mighty works through the less-educated and insignificant people. But the theologians and pastors look down upon such people. They despise them because they had not gone through theological training and do not hold any high positions. As a result, they refuse to acknowledge the workings of God, and refuse to humble themselves to accept the truth preached by them. In short, they have committed the same mistake the Nazarenes did; that is, judging a person by his outward appearance (1 Sam 16:7; Jn 7:14-17)

2. The Lord went to the villages to teach the people:

86

Book of Mark

The Lord started His ministry from the villages in Galilee and not from the city of Jerusalem. There is a common saying in the West that God builds villages, but Satan builds cities. This saying may not be absolutely true, but generally the people living in villages are more simple, honest and humble. They can accept the gospel of Christ more readily as compared to the people living in the cities. Just as in military strategy, it would be better and more advisable to attack and conquer the places which are more vulnerable first. However, this does not mean that we should give up the ministry in the big cities. But since the country folks are more receptive towards the salvation of God, so it is only right to concentrate the work in these areas first, and to establish more churches (Mt 4:12-16; 21:15-16; 1 Cor 1:26-29).

3. The prophets are respected by people:Although prophets are not accepted and even despised by their own people, the Lord said that they would be respected outside their country. For example, the Prophet Elisha was not only highly respected by the people, even the king esteemed him. The King Joash addressed him, “O my father, my father, the chariots of Israel and their horse men!” (2 Kgs 4:8-11; 13:14). Presently, the brethren in church, including the elders and deacons, respect and care for the full-time preachers in church. But preachers should be prepared to undergo and endure sufferings, and not expect or demand the respect of people. They should be humble and serve men with a heart of willingness. If they served the Lord faithfully, love the church, and are diligent in divine work day and night, deeming the matters of the church as more important than their own family matters, who would not show them respect? (Gal 4:13-14; 1 Cor 9:19; Acts 20:31; Lk 14:26).

4. The Lord’s brothers and sisters:In order to portray Mary as a divine being, the Roman Catholics insist that after Mary had given birth to Jesus she remained a virgin. They do not recognize James, Simon and Judas as the offspring of Mary (6:3). But according to the Bible, after Mary had given birth to Jesus, Joseph took Mary as his wife (Mt 1:25, 20). From the following verses, we can see that the siblings of Jesus were the children of Mary, and they were often together (Jn 2:12; Mt 12:46; Lk 8:19; Mt 13:55; Mk 3:31)

2. The Lord sent the disciples to preach the Word (6:7-13, 30-32)a. Two by two the Lord sent out His disciples to preach the Word.b. He gave them power to heal the sick and cast out demons (6:13)c. He charged them to take nothing for their journey except a staff.d. He also charged them to stay in the house which they had entered until they leave

the place. e. If the people did not believe the gospel; then when they leave the place, they must

shake off the dust on their feet.f. The disciples went out to preach the word, heal the sick and cast out many

demons.


1. The disciples were sent out in teams of two to preach:

87

Book of Mark

The Lord chose twelve disciples who followed Him to learn about the Word and about the work of preaching. During their training, the Lord also sent them out to work so that they could practise what they had learned. Practical training is a necessary component in the training of preachers. The Lord divided them into 6 teams, and sent them out in teams of two. This was so that they would have someone to discuss matters with, and someone to lend them a helping hand, and if one of them should make a mistake, the other would correct him. Moreover, the power of prayers of two people is greater than one. As it is written in the Bible, “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” (Ecc 4:9-12). As such, it is even more necessary to send out workers two at a time to the newly established areas. However, the two workers sent out must be of one mind, otherwise they would not be able to walk in one accord and the Lord would not be in their midst then. So it is important to consider whether the preachers sent out together can be of one mind (Amos 3:3; Mt 18:19; Acts 15:36-39).

2. Pray to the Lord for power:To do the divine work of God, we require the power of God. Since the Lord wanted to sent out His disciples to work, He gave them power. Likewise today, those who are engaged in the divine service must have a clear notion of their calling. If indeed the Lord wants to use them, then they must ask the Lord to bestow upon them the power of healing and casting out of demons and also the gifts of the Holy Spirit. For the Kingdom of God does not consist of talk but power (1 Cor 4:20; 12:7-10)

3. Not to bring food nor money:When the disciples were sent out to preach, the Lord charged them not to take food or money, but only their staffs. That was the situation during those days. What the Lord meant was that He wanted the disciples to live on the gospel. As Paul puts it, “Who ever goes to war at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruits? Or who tends a flock and does not drink of the milk of the flock?” He also said, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain.” (1 Cor 9:7-14). The scripture also teaches, “Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches.” (Gal 6:6). For these workers were sent out for His name’s sake, and had taken nothing from the Gentiles (3 Jn 7-8).

On the other hand, the Lord wanted His disciples to lead a simple life (6:9) and not be greedy for fleshy enjoyments, and all the more not offer themselves for the sake of monetary gain, like a hireling who cares only for the increase in wages and the reduction in working hours. As a worker of God, one should not worry about one’s life, but trust that the Lord He will provide what is necessary in life; and thus serve the Lord whole-heartedly (Mt 6:24-34; Jn 10:11-13). With regards to the staff, it is for self-defence. In the spiritual sense, it refers to power and authority, like the staff of Moses (Ex 4:17, 20). As servants of the Lord, the most important thing is to bring along the authority of the Lord. As Peter said, “Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk” (Acts 3:6).

4. In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place:

88

Book of Mark

This was the instruction given by the Lord the first time He sent the disciples out to preach. Preachers today must also pay attention to this and accept this. The Lord said, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart that place.” This instruction is recorded in greater detail in the book of Matthew, “Now whatever town or village you enter, inquire who in it is worthy, and stay there till you go out.” (Mt 10:11) In another instance, when the Lord was sending out the seventy disciples, He told them, “And remain in the same house, eating and drinking such things as they give, for the labourer is worthy of his wages. Do not go from house to house. Whatever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you.” (Lk 10:7-8). To sum up the instructions of the Lord, He wanted the disciples to find out who were trustworthy, and stay in their homes. Since this first household is willing to receive you, even if other households were to invite you to their homes subsequently, do not accept it, lest you cause the first household to be upset. Remain in the house and make use of this opportunity to discuss more about the truth, and to lead them to the Lord. Do not move to a second place just because the reception in the first is not very good. As a preacher, one should be thankful as long as there is someone to receive him. Even if the food or lodging is not too good, one should continue to stay on. Especially where food is concerned, one should make too many comments, but receive with thanks. Just like what the Lord said, “eat such things as are set before you” until you depart from the place.

3. John the Baptist was beheaded (6:14-29):a. Herod heard the fame of Jesus and thought it was John who had resurrected.b. Herod had sent John to the prison on account of Herodias.c. Because John once rebuked Herod saying that it was unlawful for him to have

taken the wife of his brother, Herodias.d. Herodias hated John and wanted to kill him, but she did not dare to.e. Herod knew that John was a righteous person and a holy man, so he protected

John and respected him. f. Because Herod was so pleased with his daughter’s dance at his birthday banquet,

he promised to give her whatever she requested for.g. It was the idea of her mother, Herodias, to ask for the head of John the Baptist.h. The king then ordered his guard to bring the head of John to his daughter.


1. The death of John the Baptist:The chief commission of John the Baptist was to be the forerunner of the Messiah, admonishing the people to repent and accept the Saviour, the Lord Jesus who was to come after him (Jn 1:4-34). But after he had completed his work, he was put into the prison for rebuking Herod who had unlawfully married Herodias, the wife of his brother and was eventually killed (6:17-28). John detested wickedness. To those who wanted to come for baptism, he rebuked them harshly saying, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance...” (Mt 3:7-8)

Herodias was the wife of Herod’s brother, Philip. Herod had committed a grave sin by marrying his brother’s wife (Lev 18:16-17). Herod Antipas was a tetrarch of Galilee and Perea appointed by the Roman Emperor. He was a Jew and, being

89

Book of Mark

a Jew, he was bound by the Law of God (Drusila, who was married to Felix was the grand-daughter of Alithpula. Refer to the genealogy of King Herod). A prophet is the spokesman of God, and a watchman of the house of Israel. He is obligated to give warnings to those who commit sins, regardless of whether they are nobility or commoners (Ezek 3:16-21; Mic 3:8). For example, the prophet Elijah gave warning and pronounced God’s curse on King Ahab for his conspiracy with his wife against Naboth’s vineyard, and also for leaving God to worship idols (1 Kgs 21:17-29). Herod had gone against the Law of God and had committed many wicked deeds (Lk 3:19). If John had remained silent and pretended not to have seen anything, he would have failed his duty as a prophet. Although by doing this he would then have been unharmed, he would have become a dumb dog, just as described by the prophet Isaiah (Is 56:10). John was not interfering beyond his commission; rather, he did it within his duty, in order to uphold the truth. As a truthful servant of God, he did care about his own life (Acts 20:23-24)

Today there are many churches who claim to be the Church of God. But they have deviated from the truth and even preach heresies. Even leaders of a Christian state and the leaders of the church have transgressed against the truth. True prophets of God have the responsibility to warn them with love, to point out their mistakes, to contend for the truth, to convey the message of God, and to lead them to obey the will of God (Jude 3-4; Gal 1:6-9; Acts 26:1-29)

2. Herod:According to the gospel of Matthew, it was Herod who decided to put John in prison. He wanted to kill John but was afraid of the people (Mt 14:3-5). Once Herod had also wanted to kill Jesus. The Lord had called Herod a fox (Lk 13:31-32). Obviously, Herod was not righteous before God. Although he stopped Herodias from killing John, because he saw that John as a righteous man and a holy person, and he respected him, but when Herodias bade her daughter to ask him for John’s head, Herod did not dare to stand up for justice, but sent people to behead John. He could have changed his vow made to his daughter. When vows are in contradiction to the commandments of God, one should obey the commandments of God. It is clearly stated in the Ten Commandments that one must not kill (Ex 20:13). He killed John for the sake of ‘saving his face’ before the people who had dined with him. The fact that he gave in to Herodias’ cruel request shows that he was not a righteous person who truly fear God, nor was he one who upheld the truth. The Scripture says, “For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth” (2 Cor 13:8). Even if our lives were threatened, we should never succumb to evil people or to wickedness, or commit deeds against our conscience and against the truth (Dan 3:16-18; Ps 1:1).

4. The Miracle of Five Loaves And Two Fishes (6:30-45)a. The apostles returned to Jesus and told Him all that they had done and taught.b. The Lord intended to take them into the wilderness for repose.c. Many people from different towns came to the Lord.d. The Lord had compassion on them and taught them many things.e. At dusk, the Lord used five loaves and two fishes to feed five thousand people

(not including women and children)


90

Book of Mark

1. The miracle of five loaves and two fishes:It was a miracle which was deeply impressed in the disciples’ minds and is recorded in all four gospels (Mk 6:37-44; Mt 14:13-21; Lk 9:10-17; Jn 6:1-14).

2. To have a repose in the wilderness:When the apostles returned from preaching, they came to the Lord to give a report about all that have taken place. Then the Lord wanted to take them into the wilderness to rest for a while for they had been so busy that they had not even had time to eat their meals. It is necessary to work very hard, but we need strength to do work, and the only way to receive strength is to draw near to God. Therefore, we should not only emphasize on physical rest, but also renew our spiritual strength and increase our spiritual knowledge. We need to retreat into the wilderness for repose in the midst of our business. After a hard day’s work, preachers should emulate the Lord to retreat into the wilderness for spiritual nurture. The church must allow the preachers and other divine workers such opportunities and venues to retreat to, either individually or in groups. In this way, they can once again renew their strength (Mk 1:35; Gal 1:17; Acts 1:13-14; 13:1-3).

3. Sheep without a shepherd:It was the intention of the Lord to get away from the crowd by boat. But little did they realize that before the boat in which the Lord and His disciples were travelling on had arrived at the destination, the crowd had reached there first. The Lord could not rest. However, the Lord was not angry, instead, He had compassion on them. For they were like sheep without a shepherd, not knowing what to do. They were like lost sheep. So, the Lord taught them many things.

Presently, there are many people who do not know the correct path of life. They do not know where they come from, what their purpose in life is, and where they would go after their death. Much less do they know what they need to do in order to be saved (Acts 16:30; 1 Pet 2:25). If they should die without listening to the full gospel, before receiving the grace of salvation from the Lord, then they will not have had the opportunity to be saved. Let us pray that the Spirit of the Lord would move us so that we may have the compassionate heart of the Lord, while there is still time, to lead them back to the Great Shepherd of souls to enjoy everlasting rest.

4. The Lord cared for their physical needs:The Lord taught them till late in the evening, the disciples became anxious. They told the Lord to send the crowd away so that they might go to some nearby villages to buy food for themselves. But the Lord told them to provide something for them to eat. The disciples hoped that these people could solve their own problems, but the Lord wanted them to solve their problem for them. The disciples were totally helpless in this situation. But a child who had brought with him five loaves and two fishes was willing to give them to the Lord. So the Lord blessed them and gave them to the disciples to be distributed to the crowd. And those who ate the loaves were five thousand men (not including women and children). The leftovers which they have collected filled twelve baskets.

Since the people had come to listen to the teachings of the Lord, the Lord did not want them to go away with an empty stomach for He cared for their physical needs too. The disciples had tried to solve the problem by human wisdom. If as

91

Book of Mark

what they said, they were to buy two hundred denarii worth of bread, it would also not have been of much help (Two hundred denarii was two hundred days worth of wages during those times: Mt 20:1-2). The Lord told them to offer up what they had. Five loaves and two fishes were actually insufficient to solve the problem, but after the blessings of the Lord, amazing things happened. Similarly today, if we are willing to offer up what we have to the Lord for the sake of others; it might be very little or it might be useless, but when it goes through the hands of the Lord, great wonders can be performed for the benefit of men, and for the glory of God (2 Cor 4:7; Phil 4:13).

5. Miracle of a little turning into plenty:In the Old Testament, God brought forth things from nothing (Rom 4:17). For the widow of Zarephath who received Prophet Elijah, God enabled her jar of flour and jar of oil to flow on without ceasing (1 Kgs 17:8-16). Through the prophet Elisha, He also allowed the jar of oil which belonged to the widow of the son of a prophet to fill up many empty vessels (2 Kgs 4:1-7). With twenty loaves of barley, He fed one hundred people (2 Kgs 4:42-44). If we know the Almighty God and also know that the Lord Jesus is God manifested as a man; that He is God Himself, then we would not have doubts over the great miracle of the five loaves of bread and the two fishes which had fed five thousand men (Jn 1:1-3, 14; 10:30, 37-38).

5. Jesus walked on the sea (6:45-52)a. The Lord told the disciples to go on board the boat and set for Bethsaida while He

dismissed the crowd. b. After the Lord had left the crowd, He went up to the mountain to pray.c. The boat was out on the sea. The Lord saw the disciples were making little

headway because of the rough sea.d. About the fourth watch of the night, the Lord walked on the sea and the disciples

thought that He was a ghost.e. He immediately spoke to them saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be

afraid.”f. The wind ceased as soon as the Lord stepped into the boat. The disciples were

utterly astonished for they still did not understand the miracle of the loaves.


1. The concern of the Lord for the listeners:Several thousand people had had their fill, but it would take them some time for them to disperse. The Lord told the disciples to get on the boat and leave for Bethsaida first (The Lord has already decided not to go in the same boat as them, which was why He asked them not to wait for Him). The Lord himself wanted to see the crowd return to their respective homes as it was getting dark. This shows the concern of the Lord for the people. Similarly, as a servant of the Lord, one should always be responsible for the final packing up, and one should not leave before the congregation does. For instance, after each service, he must wait till the congregation has left, the gates closed, and ensure that all things are in proper order before he leaves (1 Cor 4:1-2; Lk 16:10; 17:10)

2. The Lord went up to the mountain to pray:

92

Book of Mark

After the Lord had left the multitude, He went up to the mountain to pray. He prayed till about the fourth watch of the night (in those days, the Jews divided the night into four watches: from six o’clock in the evening to six o’clock the next morning. The first watch is from six to nine; the second watch is from nine to twelve; the third watch is from twelve to three; and the fourth watch is from three to six). The miracle of the five loaves and two fishes represents the peak of the miracles performed by the Lord. According to the gospel of John, after the multitude saw the miracle, they believed that He was the prophet who was to come (Messiah). So they wanted to force Jesus to be their King (Jn 6:14-15). This was a great test for Him. In order to bring glory to God and to avoid temptation, and to pray for the strength of God, He withdrew Himself to the mountain for long prayers. Some workers of God complain that they are so busy that they do not have time to pray. No doubt, the Lord was busy even to the extent that He had not time for meals or sleep, yet He took time from sleeping and eating to pray. The Lord considers prayers as more important than sleep. The prayerful life of Jesus has revealed to us the manner in which we ought to lead a life of prayer (Mk 1:35; 9:28-29; 14:32-38; Acts 6:4)

3. The disciples’ boat in the sea:Because the sea was rough, the boat in which the disciples were travelling rocked badly. Perhaps the disciples were thinking that if the Lord was with them, the Lord would help them calm the sea like in the previous journey so that they need not suffer so much. Or, perhaps they were wondering as to where the Lord was, and whether He was aware of their mishap. The Bible recorded that the Lord saw the disciples making their way with difficulty. However, He did not go to them immediately. About the fourth watch, the Lord walked on the sea towards the disciples’ boat. They saw Him coming and thought that He was a ghost. The Lord told them not to be afraid for it was Him. As soon as the Lord stepped into the boat, the wind ceased. The disciples were greatly astonished because they still did not really know who the Lord was. As we are living in this bitter sea of life, we often meet with hardships and sufferings. Sometimes we feel so helpless, as though the Lord has left us, and that He does not care for us anymore. However, we must not forget that the eyes of the Lord will not turn away from us for a moment. Sometimes, He does not to attend to your problems right away. But while you are waiting for His coming, you must be alert. The moment He appears, you must recognize that He is the Lord, and not let Him pass by, but pray to Him asking Him to come into the boat. And then everything will be fine. (1 Pet 5:7; Is 49:14-15; Ps 107:23-31)

6. The Lord returned to Gennesaret (6:53-56)a. The Lord moored His boat at the shores of Gennesaret.b. The multitude recognized Jesus and they ran about bringing the sick to the Lord.c. They besought the Lord to allow the sick to touch even the fringe of His garment

for many who had touched it were made well.


1. Gennesaret:After the Lord had arrived in Gennesaret, He passed through many more villages and cities; and eventually reached Capernaum (Jn 6:24-25).

93

Book of Mark

2. The multitude were seeking Jesus:At that time, wherever the Lord went, it became a place of gathering for the sick. When they hear that the Lord was there, the people went about informing the sick to go to Jesus. They believed that just by touching the fringe of the Lord’s garment their sickness could be cured. The Lord did not reject the sick that had come to Him. Because it is recorded in the bible that, “He Himself took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses.” (Mt 8:17) According to their faith, it was done to them.

3. The fringe of the garment:The Lord instructed Moses to speak to the people of Israel to make tassels on the corners of their garments, and to put on upon the tassel of each corner, a cord of blue; so that by looking at the fringes, they would be reminded of all the commandments of the Lord and obey them. They were not to give way to their hearts and eyes, and commit deeds of immorality, but submit to the true God (Num 15:37-41). The Pharisees in those days made the fringes of their garments much longer, so as to attract the attention of the people (Mt 23:5). The Israelites were told to make for themselves tassels on the four corners of their cloak (Deut 22:12). The cloak could be a rectangular piece of cloth covering the shoulders with fringes and hanging on four corners. The fringes which they had besought Jesus to allow them to touch were such fringes.

7. Discussion on washing hands before meals (7:1-23)a. The scribes asked the Lord how it was that His disciples took their meals without

first washing their hands.b. The Lord rebuked them saying that they were teaching the precepts of men as

doctrines. c. The Lord also reproached them for rejecting the commandments of God in order

to keep their tradition, for example with regard to filial piety.d. The Lord said that there is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile

him, but the things which come out of him.e. The Lord explained to the disciples that the food taken in would not defile man

but the wickedness that comes out from the hearts of men would.


1. The traditions of men and the commandments of God:Judaism in the days of the Lord had added many ordinances upon the laws of God. They had added precepts of men as doctrines of God for others to observe. When the scribes saw that among the disciples some took their food without washing their hands, they questioned the Lord why the disciples did not observe the traditions of washing hands before taking their meals. The Lord then quoted the words of Isaiah saying, “This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me; and in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines, the commandments of men”. The Lord also rebuked them for abolishing the commandment of God where filial piety is concerned, and for committing the great mistake of teaching men to observe traditions. The Scripture says that every word of God proves true… “Do not add to His words…” (Prov 30:5-6). God told the people through Moses, “You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it; that you may keep the commandments of the Lord your God

94

Book of Mark

which I command you.” (Deut 4:2; 12:32). The history of the church covers a period of approximately 2,000 years. The tenets of the old and new church are inter-mixed with the tradition of men. For example, the alteration of the Sabbath worship to Sunday worship; and the alteration of full immersion in baptism to the sprinkling of water. They also added things to the Bible such as the celebration of Christmas. The church must reject the traditions of men, firmly uphold the teachings of the bible; and establish the foundation upon the apostles and the prophets, having Jesus Christ as the corner stone. Never accept the precepts of famous people or prominent theologians in place of the truth (Eph 2:20; Gal 1:6-9).

2. Whatever that goes into a man and whatever that comes out of a man:The Lord said, “Whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him… What comes out of a man, that defiles a man.” ‘Whatever enters a man’ refers to food. Since food will not enter into the hearts of men, they will not defile men. Even though not washing one’s hands before eating may be considered unhygienic, but it will not defile people around him. The Pharisees in those days were very particular about their outward cleanliness. They thought that by doing so, they would be regarded as holy before God. However, they had neglected the sins that could truly defile the hearts of men. For example, sins like fornication, theft, murder, adultery, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride and foolishness. God looks at the hearts and not at the outward appearance. Whether one is godly depends not on what he wears outwardly; whether one has love depends not on what he says; cleanliness depends not on whether the cups and plates have been washed clean, but rather, godliness from the heart, the actual actions of love, and preserving oneself from being defiled (Mt 23:25, 28; Jas 1:26-27). Paul said: “But know this, that in the last days… men will be… having a form of godliness but denying its power.” (2 Tim 3:1-5) Thus, we must be alert lest we worship our Lord God in a ritualistic manner, lest our life becomes just the keeping of laws. The important thing is to keep our hearts pure before God so that our faith will be edified by what we speak (Ps 19:14; Eph 4:29; 5:1-5).

95

Book of Mark

The Genealogy of King Herod

1. Herod the great was installed as king of Judea by the Roman Emperor in the year 40 BC. He died in the year 4 AD. (Note: there is some error in the calendar year according to the birth of the Lord).

2. After the death of Herod the great his kingdom was divided and ruled by his three sons as follows:-i. Archelaus was tetrarch of Judea , Samaria and Idumea (Mt 2:22)

ii. Antipas was tetrarch of Galilee and Perea (Mk 6:21; Mt 14:1)iii. Philip was tetrarch of Ituraea and Trachonites (Lk 3:1)

Herod the Great (Mt 2:1-22; Lk 1:5; Died in 4 AD)

AlithpulaDied in AD 7

Herod Philip (Mt 14:3; Mk 6:17; Lk 3:19)

He was not made a kingWife: Herodias

Herod Antipas (Mt 14:1-7; Mk 6:14-22; Lk 3:1-19,

8:3, 9:7, 9; 13:31; 23:7-15)Wife: Herodias

Archelaus (Mt 2:22)

Philip (Lk 3:1)Wife: SalomeDied in AD 34

Daughter: Salome

Herodias(Mt 14:3)

Agrippa I(Acts 12:1, 20-23)

Became King in AD 41Died in AD 44

Drusila, Wife of Felix(Acts 24:24, 23:26)

Bernice I(Acts 25:13, 23; 26:30)

(Same Mother)

Agrippa II(The last king of the empire of

King Herod)Died in 100 AD

(Acts 25:13, 22; 26:1, 28, 32)

96

Book of Mark

3. After their deaths (Archelaus, Antipas and Philip), most of the land became the property of King Agrippa.

97

Book of Mark

Part IIIThe Lord Preached to the Gentiles (7:24 - 8:26)

1. Healing of the daughter of a Syro-Phoenician woman (7:24-30)a. The Lord departed from Capernaum and headed for Tyre and Sidon.b. The Lord healed the daughter of a Syro-Phoenician woman.


1. Tyre:Located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, 64 kilometres north-west of Capernaum. Sidon is situated about 40 kilometres north-west of Tyre. The people of Tyre were famous sailors in the ancient days (Isa 23:6-8). Their carpenters and sculptors were also renowned. They were the ones who helped King David built his palace (2 Sam 5:11)

2. Healed the daughter of a Gentile woman:Tyre and Sidon are gentile lands. When the Lord departed from Galilee to the gentile lands, it was with the purpose of hiding. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know about it; yet He was could not hide (7:24). A woman who was a Greek, Syro-Phoenician by birth, begged the Lord to cast the demon out of her daughter. But the Lord replied, “Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.” There words implied that salvation should be preached to the Jews first (the children of God) and it is not time to preach to the Gentiles (likened to little dogs). The woman was not angry but admitted that she was a filthy dog in the sight of God, saying, “Yes Lord, yet even the little dogs under the table eat from the children’s crumbs”. Because of these words, the Lord Jesus said, “For this saying, go your way; the demon has gone out of your daughter.” From the words of this woman, we can see how she humbly confessed of her sins, and also the faith that she has. The manifestation of this woman is a good example to Gentiles who seek the grace of God. The Gentiles actually have no part in the Lord Jesus; they are alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and are strangers to the covenants of promise (Eph 2:12). But presently, we just need to believe the Lord Jesus as our Saviour, confess our sins humbly and be willing to repent, seeking the grace of God. The Lord will surely show mercy (Gal 3:7-9; Acts 13:46).

2. Healing of a deaf man who had an impediment in his Speech (7:31-37)a. The Lord once again departed from Tyre, passing through Sidon to arrive at the

Sea of Galilee.b. The Lord healed a deaf man who had an impediment in his speech.c. The Lord instructed them not to tell anyone.


1. Decapolis:The man who was once possessed by a legion of demons was healed by the Lord. He spread news about the great deed the Lord Jesus had performed on him in Decapolis (5:18-20). The Lord departed from the region of Tyre, went through the region of Decapolis, and through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee. ‘Decapolis’

98

Book of Mark

means ‘Ten Cities’. In B.C. 60, after the Romans had defeated Syria, they rebuilt ten cities at Bashan and Gilead. These cities were connected to each other and one city, situated at the west of River Jordan, was called Bashan (1 Sam 31:10). In these cities, resided many Gentiles and Jews. When the Lord Jesus came to Decapolis, the multitude received Him (7:31, 37).

2. The dumb was healed by the Lord:This miracle took place in the region of Decapolis, near the Sea of Galilee. This man, who was dumb, was also deaf had an impediment in his speech. When the people brought him to the Lord, they beseeched the Lord to lay hands on his head. But the Lord took him aside and put His fingers into his ears, spat, and touched his tongue, saying, “Eph-phatha” (in Aramaic), that is, “Be opened!” Immediately his ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he was able to speak clearly. When the Lord healed a sick person, He sometimes spoke a few words; and at times He laid hands on them. This time the Lord used a different method. However, the healing of the Lord does not depend on the method used; but rather, on His power and on the faith and submissiveness of the sick man. For example, the Lord healed a blind man by putting clay onto his eyes and then instructed him to wash them in the pool of Siloam. He was thus healed (Jn 9:1-8)

Today when we receive the grace of God we might not be physically deaf or dumb. But spiritually speaking, we are actually deaf and have an impediment in our speech. Our ears are so ‘deaf’ that we cannot understand the truth of God. Some have an impediment in their speech or are dumb; thus they are not able to witness for God. When Moses was chosen by the Lord, he realized the great responsibility that was going to entrusted upon him; hence he kept telling the Lord, “I am not eloquent… but I am slow of speech and slow of tongue”. But the Lord told him, “Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, or deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the Lord? Now therefore, go, and I will be with your mouth and teach you what shall say.” (Ex 4:10-12) We should bring more people who are deaf to the Lord, to ask the Lord to open their ears, to understand the truth, so as to receive salvation. We should also pray that the Lord gives everyone who is saved eloquence and courage, to bravely proclaim the saving grace of the Lord (1 Tim 2:1-5; 2 Tim 4:1-5)

3. Miracle of the seven loaves of bread feeding 4,000 people (8:1-10)a. The multitude was with the Lord Jesus for three days at the Sea of Galilee. The

Lord did not wish the multitude home in hunger.b. The disciples gave the remaining seven loaves and a few fishes to the Lord.c. After the Lord had blessed the food, about 4,000 people were thus fed and there

were seven baskets of broken pieces left.d. The Lord immediately got into a boat with His disciples and came to the region of

Dalmanutha.


1. The mercy of the Lord:Perhaps the multitude had heard about the miracles performed by the Lord or they wanted to hear the teachings of the Lord. Whatever the case, a great multitude of more than 4,000 people from near and far gathered in the wilderness. They were

99

Book of Mark

with the Lord for three days and the food they brought along were consumed. The Lord did not wish to send them home hungry lest they faint along the way, as there were some who had come from afar. The disciples said that it was not possible to find food in the wilderness. So they handed all the seven loaves and a few fishes to the Lord. After the blessing of the Lord, this little amount of food was not only enough to feed 4,000 people, the leftover fragments filled seven baskets. From this incident, we can see the great love and care of the Lord for the people. For those who had come sincerely to seek Him, the Lord not only granted their requests, He also does not wish that they go hungry because of their desire to draw near to Him. This is because He is the Lord of great mercy (Mt 6:33).

2. Spiritual thirst and hunger:The Bible says, “Behold the days are coming… that I will send a famine on the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst of water, but of hearing the words of the Lord.” (Amos 8:11). Today, few people go hungry because of the lack of food. In developed countries, people live luxuriously where clothing, food, accommodation and transport is concerned. However, their souls are just like the poor in the underdeveloped countries – under-nourished, dry and empty – Why is it that knowledge, wealth, power or entertainment cannot satisfy the hearts of man? (Eccl 1:2; 2:10-11). The main reason is that men after have left God, they do not obey Him, and hence they cannot receive His spirit.

When the Lord was preaching, He had great compassion on such multitude. He even cried loudly to them saying, “If any one thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive (Jn 7:37-39). The thirst of the soul is due to a lack of water (Holy Spirit). Today, in order to quench the thirst of the soul, it is vital that one receives the promised Holy Spirit. For only with the Holy Spirit, can understand the truth. Having the truth and the Holy Spirit can be likened to receiving bread and water. Such a person will find delight in his soul and be filled (Is 55:1-2; Jn 14:16-20; Jn 16:13, 22).

In these last days, the Lord has compassion on people. He has poured down the Holy Spirit of the latter rain on His holy mountain (The Church). This mountain of the Lord’s house shall be established on top of mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills, out of it shall go forth the Law and all nations shall flow to it to enjoy the grand feast and hunger no more (Is 2:1-3; Phil 4:11-13).

4. Beware of the leaven of Herod and the Pharisees (8:11-21)a. The Pharisees wanted to tempt the Lord by asking Him for a sign but they were

rejected.b. While the disciples were on the ship, the Lord warned them of the leaven of

Pharisees and Herod.c. The disciples were rebuked because they did not understand the Lord’s message.


1. The Pharisees’ request for a sign was rejected:The Pharisees were then enemies with the Lord, so they often tried to attack Him. They questioned the Lord and asked Him for a sign form heaven, with the

100

Book of Mark

intention of tempting Him. The Lord had performed miracles, healed illnesses, cast out demons and performed a miracle with the loaves of bread. But all this He had done out of a compassionate heart and not to glorify Himself. To those who seek for a sign with the intention of testing Him, the Lord would surely not accede to their requests. These dishonest and unbelieving people will not believe even if they witness the resurrection of the dead (Lk 16:31). The Lord once promised that miracles will be with those who believe; but not to those who do not believe. Those who want to tempt God will never have their requests fulfilled (16:17-20).

2. Beware of leaven:The Lord wanted His disciples to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Herod. In the Bible, ‘leaven’ refers to the heresies, wickedness and wrong teachings (1 Cor 5:6-8). “The leaven of the Pharisees” refers to their perverse teachings and doings (Mt 16:6, 12). For example, rejecting the commandments of God and following the traditions of men (Mt 15:1-8); hypocrisy (Lk 12:1); ritualism; legalism; fighting against the truth; persecuting the prophets; and killing the righteous etc (Mt 23:13-36). “The leaven of Herod” refers to the wrong type of thinking, to ideas and activities which are against the truth. For instance, the killing of a righteous man, John (Mt 14:5; Mk 6:14-28); the plot to murder Jesus; going against the truth (Lk 13:31-32; Acts 4:26-27); pride; adultery; immorality; and fox-like cunning, etc.

In Mt 13:33, the “leaven” mentioned by the Lord, is a prophecy of “heresies”, false teachings and all sorts of wickedness” which would enter the church and thus leaven the whole lump. Many churches today, have two horns like a lamb; but they speak like a dragon (Rev 13:11). They use the wisdom of men as a standard. They teach a theology which does not believe in the supernatural power of God and salvation, as substitution for the truth. Heresies, evil words, adultery, malice, strife, dissension, covetousness, jealousy, pride, etc fill the church. The church should guard against such leaven.

3. The disciples did not understand:The disciples were slow in understanding the teachings and miracles of the Lord causing the Lord to be upset about it. It is like having ears which cannot hear and eyes which cannot see. This is not surprising because it is through the spirit of God that one can understand the things of God (1 Cor 2:11). The Lord once said, “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth.” (Jn 16:12-13). The Church started to preach heresies and go astray from the truth because they had lost the revelation and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, the Church today must understand the truth, and walk on the correct path. Without the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the teachings of the anointed One, one would not have any power at all (1 Jn 2:27; Acts 1:5, 8; 2:1-4; 19:1-7; 1 Cor 2:11-13; Jn 14:25-26; Zech 4:6).

5. Healing of a blind man at Bethsaida (8:22-26)a. At Bethsaida, a blind man was brought before Jesus for healing.b. The first time the Lord laid hands on him, the blind man saw men like trees

walking.

101

Book of Mark

c. When the Lord laid His hands on the blind man for the second time, he could see everything clearly.

d. The Lord sent him away to his house saying, “Do not even enter the village.”


1. Bethsaida:Situated at the east of the river Jordan. This city was rebuilt by King Philip, the Tetrarch. It was named Julia after the son of Caesar of Augustus. The Lord was heading northwards, intending to go to the village of Caesar Philippi.

2. The blind man was healed gradually by the Lord Jesus:This was the only time where the sick was healed gradually. This does not mean that the Lord lacked power; rather it was to teach that the sick should trust totally, regardless of whether they are healed immediately or gradually. The Lord is fully capable of healing a person. In the spiritual sense, those who do not know Christ are actually blind for they cannot see the glory of the gospel of light (2 Cor 4:4). We should pray to God for such people that they will be bestowed with the spirit of revelation and wisdom so as to become enlightened; that they may know the Lord and the hope of His calling (Eph 1:15-23). However, it takes time to understand the truth. For example, during the days of the apostles, though they had the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, they were still unsure about the issue of circumcision. It was only after the council at Jerusalem that the Holy Spirit opened the hearts of the apostles and the elders so that they were able to be like Paul seeing things clearly, and they came to the conclusion that Christians need not be circumcised (Acts 15:1-2, 13-21, 28-29). We should acknowledge that we suffer for want of true knowledge. We should buy eye-salve from the Lord, to anoint our eyes so that we can see the correct path of salvation clearly, and walk on the right path (Rev 3:17-18; Mt 15:14).

102

Book of Mark

Part IVThe Lord Headed Towards the Cross (8:27 - 9:50)

I. The forewarning of suffering (8:27 – 9:32)

1. Peter recognised the Lord Jesus as Christ (8:27-30):a. On the way to Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do men say that

I am?”b. They answered, “John the Baptist; but some say, Elijah and others, one of the

prophets.”c. The Lord asked them, “But who do you say that I am?”d. Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ.”e. The Lord charged them not to tell any man.


1. Caesarea Philippi: The city was situated north of Canaan at the foot of Mount Hermon. Philip, the tetrarch rebuilt this city and named it Caesarea. This was to glorify the Emperor of Rome, Tiberius (Lk 3:1). In order to avoid confusion with another city called Caesarea near the Mediterranean Sea, people later added “Philippi” to the name (Acts 10:1). In the olden days, this Caesarea Philippi was the center of Baal worship. There were many caves in the mountain. Among them, there was a spring which flowed into the river Jordan. Philip used white marble to build a majestic temple on the mountain for the Roman Emperor, Caesar, who was regarded as “holy”.

2. “Who do men say that I am?”:On the way the Lord asked His disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” The disciples told the Lord of what they had heard; some said that He was John the Baptist, some said Elijah, while others said He was one of the prophets. In those days, apart from the antagonistic scribes and Pharisees, the Lord was respected by all. Especially when they saw the miracles performed by the Lord; some felt that He was a great prophet, but little did they realize that He was the Messiah. People in this era are even more confused as to who Jesus is, and have many differing views. The educated classify Him, together with Confucius and Siddhartha Gautama, as one of the three holy men in the world. Indeed, many people do not know who the Lord is.

3. “But who do you say that I am?”:It may be a trivial matter for others to have a wrong understanding of Him, but the Lord really wanted to know what they understood of him, for they were going to succeed Him in the work of salvation. At that time, Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ.” The Lord said that he was blessed for it was His Father in heaven who had revealed it to him (Mt 16:16-17). He said also, “on this rock I will build My church…” That is, the church would be established on those who have the right faith in the Lord and who believe that Jesus is the promised Messiah bestowed upon man by God, and that He is the only Saviour.

The so-called Christians today are found almost everywhere on earth. However, how well do they know the Lord Jesus? According to the Bible, the Lord Jesus is

103

Book of Mark

not only the Saviour (Acts 4:12; Jn 14:6), but also the true God who came in the form of man to save mankind. Jesus is God as well as man (1 Tim 3:16; Jn 1:1-3, 14; Is 9:6; Rom 9:5). He is the Creator of all things. He is the God who judges mankind. He is the First and the Last. He and the Father are one, and He is the image of the invisible God. He is God Himself (Col 1:15-16; Rev 22:13; 1:7; Jn 10:30; Acts 20:28). Dear brethren, today the Lord asks you the same question, “But who do you say that I am?” How would you answer Him? Only a person with the correct knowledge and faith in God is qualified to execute the great responsibility of building the true church, and exercise the authority of saving the souls in this world (Mt 16:16-19). We should put aside our prejudices and kneel down before God making supplications in the Holy Spirit to guide us to truly understanding who the Lord is (Lk 10:21-24; I Cor 2:11).

2. The first forewarning of suffering (8:31 – 9:1):a. After Peter has recognized Jesus as the Christ, the Lord started to teach them what

would happen to Him.b. The Lord said that He would be rejected by the elders, chief priests and scribes;

and would be killed. After three days, He would rise again.c. Peter was admonished by the Lord because he submitted to the desires of men.d. The Lord told the people and the disciples to take up the cross and follow Him,e. The Lord said, “Whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.”f. “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul?”g. “For whoever is be ashamed of Me and My words… of him the Son of man also

will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.”h. Some of the disciples would be able to see the Kingdom of God before their death.


1. The Lord revealed to His disciples what would happen to Him:From the time the disciples followed the Lord, they had witnessed countless miracles performed by the Lord. For example, the Lord charged the wind and waves to be calm; He brought Jairus’ daughter back to life; the Lord performed the miracles of using five loaves and two fishes to feed five thousand people, etc. Yet, they did not know who their rabbi was. Peter’s recognition that Jesus was the Christ (Messiah in Greek) represented a great improvement in their faith. Therefore, the Lord felt that He should rectify their concepts of the ‘Messiah’. The Jews at that time thought that the promised Messiah is someone who would be their king, someone who would establish a strong and glorious kingdom (Jn 6:15; Mt 20:20-21). So the Lord told the disciples the sufferings that He would have to undergo and the victory He would be given. That is, after arriving at Jerusalem, the Lord would be rejected and killed by the elders, scribes and chief priests. (During that time, the Roman government had given the authority to the ‘Sanhedrin’ to judge the Jews. This Sanhedrin comprised of these three categories of people.) And after three days He would resurrect. The journey of the cross was the path that the Lord had to tread through in order to save mankind. But Peter did not understand the will of God and so he said to the Lord, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!” But Peter was rebuked by the Lord instead. For the Lord knew that such words came from Satan. So the Lord cast out Satan from Peter. More often than not, human emotions are in

104

Book of Mark

contradiction to the will of God. In fact, Satan always uses human feelings to hinder the work of God.

2. The realisation that one should have in following the Lord:The Lord seized the opportunity to tell the people and the disciples: “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him take up his cross, and follow Me.”

The main crux of self-denial is to do away with one’s opinions, and to submit to the will of God completely. Only people who have been sentenced to death would take up the cross. This does not imply physical suffering, but is an indication that a person is about to die. Only when one has faith such that he is unafraid of death, would he be able to accomplish the will of God (Acts 20:22-24). So, the Lord pointed out that whoever wants to save his life (physical) will lose it (spiritual life). But whoever loses his life (physical) for the sake of the Lord and the gospel would save it (spiritual life). He continued to say, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world but loses his soul?” The ‘life’ here refers particularly to eternal life. This means that if a man has no salvation, he cannot enjoy eternal life, and what good is it even if he gains the whole world, wealth and power. To parents, the physical life of their child is more precious than all the treasures of the world. So to strive for eternal life, we should not be ashamed of the word of God. Instead, we should take it as our glory. From the very beginning when one follows the Lord, he should be prepared to suffer and have the determination to die for the Lord. Only in this way, will he be victorious (Rev 12:11).

3. The Kingdom of God will prosper:“There are some standing here” refers to the people who were listening to the teaching of the Lord at that time. They will see the Kingdom of God come with great power. Some explain that the coming of the Kingdom of God refers to the second coming of Jesus, or perhaps, the transfiguration of the Lord on the mountain. This foreshadows of the Kingdom of God. However, the Lord once said, “But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you.” (Mt 12:28). Clearly, it shows that the Lord would resurrect, and after He ascended to heaven, He would pour down the promised Holy Spirit. The Lord said, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) Truly, ten days after the Lord’s ascension, on the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit poured down mightily on the disciples. There about three thousand people who repented, who were baptised and from then on, the Kingdom of God was established and spread widely, fulfilling the words of God (Acts 2). Though the Lord suffered greatly both physically and spiritually for us (Heb 2:9-10, 14-15); His purpose is to use death to defeat the power of death, that is, the devil. After his ascension, He poured down the Holy Spirit to establish the glorious Kingdom of God. Had Peter known all these beforehand, he would not have submitted to His fleshly desires and opposed the Lord.

3. The Transfiguration of the Lord on the mountain (9:2-8) a. After six days, the Lord brought three disciples to a mountain. b. The Lord was transfigured; His clothes became shining and exceedingly white.c. Elijah and Moses appeared and spoke with the Lord.d. Peter said, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles:”

105


Missing words… Check original text

Book of Mark

e. A voice came from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son. Hear Him!”f. The disciples looked around and saw that only Jesus was with them.


1. After six days:This was calculated from the time Peter recognised Jesus as the Christ. The Book of Luke recorded approximately eight days. That calculation probably included the day before and the day after (Lk 9:28).

2. After ascending the mountain:Some scholars think that this was Mount Tabor. But Mount Tabor is situated south of Galilee. At that time, Jesus and his disciples were at Caesarea Philippi, the northern region. Furthermore, Mount Tabor was only 330 metres high. There are also scholars who think that the mountain was Mount Hermon on the north-western side of the Sea of Galilee, near Caesarea Philippi. This mountain is about 2,850 metres high.

3. The purpose of the Lord’s ascent on the mountain:In the Book of Luke, it is recorded that He went there to pray. Before the Lord entered Jerusalem to suffer, He needed a deep and earnest prayer. The duration of the prayer could have been quite long as the three disciples all dozed off. While praying, the Lord transfigured. We can see that His prayer is manifested with glory (Lk 9:28-32).

4. The main purpose is for the disciples:During the transfiguration of the Lord on the mount, Moses and Elijah appeared to talk to Him and the voice of the Father came out of the clouds. All these were done for the sake of the disciples. For instance, on one occasion when Jesus was praying, a voice from heaven, saying “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again.” Therefore the people who stood by and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to Him.” Jesus answered and said, “This voice did not come because of Me, but for your sake.” (Jn 12:28-30)

Although Peter recognized Jesus as the Christ, they were still unclear about God’s plan concerning Jesus’ suffering, death and resurrection. The Lord felt that it was very necessary for them to have a correct understanding, lest when these things happened, they would begin to doubt and lose hope in the eternal Kingdom. So this occurrence on the mountain was to strengthen their understanding of the Lord.

Firstly, the transfiguration of the Lord showed that He is not an ordinary person but the glorious Lord.

Secondly, Moses and Elijah appeared in glory to reveal what was to happen after the Lord’s death (Lk 9:31). Elijah signified the Prophets and Moses, the Law. The Lord Jesus said, “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfil.” (Mt 5:17) Their conversation showed the fulfilling of the Law and the prophecies of the Prophets. Just like after the Lord Jesus had resurrected, He told the disciples “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” (Lk 24:44). Their appearance and conversation with the Lord was to strengthen the disciples’ understanding that the death of the Lord was to fulfil the words of the bible.

106


My bible’s map shows northeast and not northwest

Book of Mark

Thirdly, a voice came out from the cloud saying, “This is my beloved Son. Hear Him!” (9:7) This also strengthened the belief of the disciples that the Lord is the Messiah, and that all that was to happen to Him would be the fulfilment of the prophecy of God, that they should believe all that Jesus had said.

Fourthly, the glorious light of the Lord shone upon Peter; and Peter experienced joy beyond words. Then Peter said, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” That meant that he wished to be with the Lord there forever. The experience of Peter led him to understand the glorious Kingdom of heaven. To come to the deep realisation that it is worthwhile to forsake everything, as long as the glory of Heaven is attained. In Peter’s letters, he once mentioned the incident at the mountain. He associated this incident with the glorious coming of Jesus and the glorious truth. From the glory manifested upon Jesus and the voice he had heard from heaven, Peter deeply believed that Jesus is the Christ, that He will come again during the last days, and that the saved ones will enter into His glory (2 Pet 1:16-18).

The incident at the mount was personally seen, heard and experienced by some of the disciples; Peter, James and John. They were able to experience the joy of being with the Lord. In this way, their understanding of the Lord grew greatly and this was significant in their future work for the Lord when they served faithfully and sacrificed much. That is why we say that the transfiguration of the Lord is for the sake of the disciples.

4. Elijah has come (9:9-13)a. The Lord charged them not to tell any one the things they had seen till the Son of

man had risen from the dead.b. The disciples were still ignorant of what it meant to be resurrected from the dead. c. They asked the Lord, “Why do the scribes say that Elijah must come first?”d. The Lord answered that Elijah came first to restore all things.e. It is recorded in the scriptures that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be

treated with contempt.f. “They did to Him whatsoever they wished, as it is written of him.”


1. The Lord charged them to tell no one:When they were descending from the Mount of Transfiguration, the Lord charged the disciples not to tell anyone of what they had seen until the Son of man had risen from the dead. The Lord took Peter and two other disciples on to the mountain, and allowed them to see what the other disciples had not the chance to see. This is to strengthen their faith as witnesses for the Lord. But the Lord charged them not to tell anyone before his resurrection had taken place, as the time was not ripe yet. If they were to tell the rest about it, not only would the disciples misunderstand, it might have lead to further disputes and speculations which would be of no benefit. For the Bible says, “To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven… a time to keep silence, a time to speak.” (Eccl 3:1, 7), which means, to say the right thing at the right time (Prov 15:23; 25:11).

107

Book of Mark

2. Elijah had come:The disciples asked the Lord, “Why did the scribes say that Elijah must come first?” The Lord replied, “Indeed, Elijah is coming first” (referring to John the Baptist) “and restores all things.” by asking people to repent and turn back to God and prepare a new heart to receive the one after him, the Messiah.” (Lk 1:16-17; Mk 1:2-3; Jn 1:15-16, 19-35). However this Messiah was not welcomed but was despised by men and would eventually undergo much suffering. Even John, the fore-runner of Christ, was badly treated by them. For instance, when John rebuked King Herod according to God’s righteousness and the Law (for Herod had married the wife of his brother, Philip) and was put into prison. Later on, because Herod acceded to the request made by his daughter, who had been instructed by her mother, Herodias, John was beheaded.

3. Elijah of the last days has also come:The Bible says, “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the land with a curse.” (Mal 4:5-6). This does not mean that the Lord is going to send Elijah who had already ascended to heaven to the earth again. Neither does it mean that the soul of Elijah will incarnate and return to the earth again. This means that the fore-runner of the Lord, John, will have the determination and strength like that of Elijah, to go before the Lord, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the children of disobedience to the wisdom of the just; and to prepare the people for the coming of the Lord (Lk 1:13-17). John the Baptist, indeed took up the role as the Lord’s fore-runner. He went before Him to open the way and brought many souls back to the Lord.

4. Elijah of the last days:In Malachi 4:5, the “great and terrible day” of the Lord refers to Jesus’ second coming and His judgment on mankind. In order to prevent the world from being cursed on judgment day, the Lord will once again send a fore-runner with the spirit and determination of Elijah and the power of an angel to the world before He comes – this refers to the Church of the last days. The Church would preach the complete gospel to lead others to salvation before the Lord comes again with His host of angels. This messenger is the True Church established by the Holy Spirit of the Latter Rain. It has already emerged. It will have great power, just like Elijah, and it will bring many souls to the Heavenly Father. It will also lead many lost Israelites and Gentiles back to God. The work of the Holy Spirit of the Latter Rain in unlike that of the Early Rain, because during the Early Rain in the Church, the Church had disobeyed God and so the Holy Spirit was withdrawn. However, the Holy Spirit of the Latter Rain will be with the church until the second coming of Christ. And the faithful servants and those who are saved will be like Elijah who did not see death, but was transformed and taken up to Heaven (Rev 7:2-3; Joel 2:23-24; 1 Cor 15:50-52)

5. The Lord healed the epileptic boy (9:14-29):a. A father with a child who had a mute spirit came to the Lord to plead for healing.b. The disciples were unable to cast out the spirit.c. He came to plead for mercy and help from the Lord.d. The Lord said, “All things are possible to him who believes”

108

Book of Mark

e. The Lord rebuked the deaf and dumb spirit, and the child was healed.f. The Lord taught His disciples that in order to cast out such kind of demons,

prayers are needed.


1. Demons can cause great harm to people:The Bible says, “The whole world lies under the sway of the evil one” (1 Jn 5:19). Since the time Adam sinned, sinners belong to Satan and suffer both physically and spiritually in his clutches. According to his father, this boy who was possessed had been cast into fire and water by the evil spirit in an attempt to destroy him. Wherever the evil spirit took him, he would throw the boy down, the boy would foam, gnash his teeth, and would turn rigid. Though the father loved his son, there was nothing he could do but to feel sorrow and worry. Today, physically and spiritually, many people are still under the control of Satan, they harm themselves as well as other people.

2. The disciples were unable to cast out the demon:Though the father had approached the disciples for help, they were unable to cast out the demon. When Jesus arrived, the boy’s father pleaded for mercy and help from the Lord. The Lord said, “If you can believe, all things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father cried out and said, “Lord, I believe, help my unbelief!” So the Lord rebuked the foul spirit commanding it to come out, and never to enter into the boy again. And the child was healed. When they entered the house, the disciples asked the Lord, “Why could we not cast it out?” The Lord said, “This kind can come out by nothing but prayers.” Other ancient scrolls added “and fasting”. It seems that to have victory over Satan, besides those who seek help having unshakable faith, those who intercede also need to have deep and earnest prayer with fasting, so as to obtain power from God (Mt 17:20-21; Mk 5:30).

6. The Lord once again prophesied about His suffering (9:30-32)a. After passing through Galilee, He headed towards Jerusalem (10:1)b. This was the second time the Lord told the disciples that the Son of Man would be

arrested, killed and resurrect after three days.c. The disciples still did not understand what He said but were afraid to ask Him.


1. The Lord needed to let the disciples know in advance what would happen to Him:At that point in time, the disciples still thought that Jesus was the Messiah who had come to establish the Kingdom on earth (10:35-45). The Lord was afraid that the disciples with such wrong concepts might lose heart if they were to witness His arrest and death. Therefore, He taught His disciples again that He would have to suffer unto death, and on the third day, He would rise again. However, the disciples still did not understand what He meant but were afraid to ask Him.

2. The only way to understand the truth is to rely on the Holy Spirit:Paul said, “For what man knows the things of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so no one knows the things of God except the Spirit of God.” (1 Cor 2:11). The Lord also said, “I still have many things so to say to you,

109

Book of Mark

but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth has come, He will guide you into all the truth...” (Jn 16:12-13). If we are without the guidance and revelation of the Holy Spirit, it is impossible for us to comprehend things pertaining to spirituality. Hence, it is impossible for us to understand the meaning of the bible and the will of God just by relying on our own rationale, wisdom, knowledge and experiences (Is 29:10-11). We need to come humbly before the Lord, to ask for the indwelling and revelation of the Holy Spirit. Only in this way would we be able to understand what the Lord wants us to know about the truth and the things that we should do. And it is only when the Holy Spirit fills us fully that we can be like Peter fulfilling what he had resolved for the Lord (Mk 14:27-31; Acts 4:19-20).

In this world exploding with knowledge, many people who are highly educated often face the danger of putting too much emphasis on their own logical thinking when they are dealing with church matters or when doing divine work. What Solomon said is really true, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” (Prov 3:5-6). The true God also instructed us personally, “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit.” (Zech 4:6). We should once again renew our understanding of this truth.

II. Teachings for the people of the Kingdom of God (9:33-50)

1. Whoever wishes to be the greatest Should be the servant of all (9:33-37): a. When the Lord arrived at Capernaum, He asked His disciples what they were

disputing about.b. The disciples were silent because their dispute was over who would be the

greatest.c. The Lord told them, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and the

servant of all.” d. The Lord said, “Whoever receives one of these little children My name, receives

Me.”


1. The disciples disputed amongst themselves over who would be the greatest:In order to save mankind, the Lord was going to suffer in Jerusalem. He was worried that the disciples might fall if they did not understand the will of God, that was why he reiterated once again teachings about His capture and His death. But the disciples did not understand what the Lord would be going through, hence along the way, they argued amongst themselves over who would be the greatest. Such ignorant faith of the flesh. Such naive faith must have grieved the Lord very much. Even in the church today, there are people who love vain glory. They provoke and envy one another. How would such people be able to understand the will of God, be of one heart with the Lord and pleasing to Him? (Gal 5:26).

2. Desire to be first:The Lord told the disciples, “If anyone desires to be first, he shall be last of all and the servant of all.” In chapter 10, it records of the incident where James and John asked the Lord for high positions when the Kingdom is established. The other ten

110

Book of Mark

disciples were indignant when they heard of this. If we were to compare the teachings of the Lord in that incident and what is recorded here, we would get a much clearer picture of the teaching of the Lord. The Lord made a comparison between the one who holds authority in the earthly kingdom and that in the heavenly Kingdom. The kings and ministers in this world exercise much power to rule over man. But in the Kingdom of God (the church), it is different. Those who desire to be great would have to minister to all. Those who desire to be the leader would have to be a servant to all. The greatest is not to be served, but to serve others (10:41-45)

3. Receive the children:After the Lord Jesus taught the lesson on humility, he brought a small child into their midst, saying, “Whoever receives one of these little children in My name, receives Me.” The Lord talked about receiving children after His teaching on humility. He meant that children are ignorant and without strength, neglected and often despised by people for being weaklings. Hence, if one is able to receive even a child such as this in the name of the Lord, to truly respect and receive him, then that would be a truly humble person. Because of pride, most people would place emphasis on outward appearance, respect people who are wealthy, of high position or highly educated. They would not want to receive the poor, those of low status or the uneducated (Jas 2:1-5). If they are able to show respect to weak people like that of a child and count others as better than themselves; naturally they would not strive with others to be the greatest anymore (Phil 2:3).

2. Those who are not against us are for us (9:38-40)a. John forbade those who did not follow the Lord to use the name of Jesus to cast

out demons.b. Jesus asked him not to forbid them.c. The Lord said, “For he who is not against us is on our side.”


1. John’s act of forbidding:John told the Lord, “Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.” However, the Lord said, “Do not forbid him, for who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me.” Because John respected the Lord, he felt that those who did not follow the Lord together with them did not belong to the Lord. Hence, he forbade them to perform miracles in the name of the Lord. But the Lord asked him not to do this, for He felt that people who performed miracles in His name were people who respected Him and believed in Him. And such people would not do anything which would cause harm to His name or go against Him. Perhaps, one day they may come to follow the Lord and become co-workers of the disciples.

Paul said, “one Lord, one faith, one baptism” (Eph 4:5). From here, we can see that the faith of the church during the apostolic times was as one. But today, even though believers of the Lord serve the same Lord, they cannot be as one because of differing doctrines, faith and baptism. In this kind of situation, if they truly believe Jesus as the only saviour, although there might still be differences in other

111

Book of Mark

doctrines, we should not go against them like enemies. Instead, they should treat one another with mutual respect and accept the fact that there are some who are first and others last. So we need to exhort one another in love and hope that one day all would be of one Lord, one faith and one baptism (Eph 4:11-13).

2. Those who are not against us is for us:Today, many churches preach different doctrines. Because they want to defend the doctrines taught in their churches, confrontation and criticism often arise, causing them to drift further apart. It also gives the Gentiles the impression that there is disunity and strife in the church, and hinders their search for the truth. Even if some people are unable to accept what is preached, there is no need to be against them and treat them like enemies. Because the Lord has said, “For he who is not against us is on our side.” We should seize opportunities to discuss with one another, pray for one another and ask the Lord for guidance so that very soon we can receive the same spirit, believe in the same doctrines, and be united in one accord.

3. Spiritual nurture is essential for the receiving of eternal life (9:41-50)a. For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to

Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.b. But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it

would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown in to the sea.

c. If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off.d. If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off.e. If your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out.f. Everyone will be seasoned with fire.g. Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.


1. One cup of water:The Lord says, “For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.” This is to teach us the blessing of receiving others, especially when we do it for the sake of Christ. For when we receive the people of God, it is equivalent to receiving the Lord and we will receive great rewards (Mt 25:34-40). A cup of water does have much value, but a thirsty man will be grateful for that cup of water. The Bible records that the widow of Zarephath had only enough food for one meal for her child and her own self. Nevertheless, because she gave her food to Elijah first, she was greatly blessed (1 Kgs 17:8-16). When the Lord comes again, those on His right hand side will be able to enter the Kingdom of God for they had received the least among the brothers (Mt 25:40). Therefore, we should seize the opportunity to show hospitality with love (Heb 13:2).

2. Causing others to fall:The Lord says, “But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to stumble, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown in to the sea.” The millstone might either refer to the huge millstone which the donkey pushes or the smaller millstones which people push

112

Book of Mark

(Lk 17:35). To cause a saved person to fall is equivalent to killing a soul. It is a great sin which would lead to a severe punishment. If a person cannot edify believers and instead cause others to fall, then it would be better for such a person to die early. We should be extremely cautious and not let our speech, behaviour or bad conduct, cause our brother to fall. We should be resolved like Paul, “Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.” (1 Cor 8:9-13).

3. To cause oneself to fall:The Lord says that if one of your hands, feet or eyes causes you to fall, you should cut if off or pluck it out. It is better to receive eternal life maimed than to remain whole but go to hell. In hell, the worms do not die, and the fire is not quenched. Hell – Gehenna, this word has Hebrew origins and it means “The valley of the son of Himnom”. Later it was called Topheth (Josh 15:8; 2 Chron 28:3; Jer 7:31-32; Is 30:33), which was located south-west of Jerusalem. This used to be the place where the Jews sacrificed their children to the Molech god. King Josiah defiled it with the bones of the dead. This was also where the Jews would gather all the defiled things of the holy city – the dead animals and the bodies of the transgressors to burn. There, there would always be worms eating the corpses and fire burning the defiled things. Hence, there is a saying that the worms there do not die and the fire is not quenched. The Jews regarded ‘the valley’ as a representation of hell (2 Kgs 23:10-14; Is 66:24; Mk 9:48).

“To enter hell” is likened to be “in a heap of worms which do not die”. It is also likened to being “in an unquenchable fire”. No one can ever leave that place. It is an extremely terrifying thing. Hence, in order to avoid entering hell, if your hand, leg or eye causes you to sin, then cut it off or pluck it out. Once, a non-believer actually cut off his fingers because he likes to gamble, hoping to kick this habit in this way, but it did not work. The teaching of the Lord does not mean literally that we have to cut off our hands or to pluck out our eyes. Rather, He teaches us to pommel our bodies by relying on the Holy Spirit to put to death our fleshly desires, to have nothing to do with wickedness, to keep our body from sinning pure lest we fall (Heb 12:1-5; 1 Cor 9:27; 1 Pet 4:1-3).

4. Everyone should be seasoned with fire:Salt is used for preservation and for seasoning. In the olden days, when the people offered cereal offerings, it had to be seasoned with salt (Lev 2:13). Using salt to season meat can prevent them from decaying. Seasoning the food with salt also makes it taste better. Paul said, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt.” (Col 4:6). The Lord said, “Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.” (Mk 9:50). The Lord told His disciples, “You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has loses its flavour, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men.” (Mt 5:13). The Lord not only wanted the disciples to keep themselves free from sin but He also wanted them to develop the ability to prevent others from sinning (decaying). He also wanted them to be at peace with others and at the same time He wanted them to be peacemakers too (Mt 5:9). Some salt comes from the sea and some from the rock, but all comes from the creation of God. The inner self of a man has lost its saltiness after Adam had sinned against God. Just as Paul had said, “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells..” (Rom 7:18). A Christian is able to play the role of salt because he has the Spirit of Christ in him. The Spirit of the Lord can sanctify all filthiness of men, renew a

113

Book of Mark

man, and enable a man to turn over a new leaf (Ezek 36:26-27; 2 Thess 2:13; 1 Pet 3:1).

The Lord said, “Everyone will be seasoned with fire.” This means replacing salt with fire. This fire refers to the fire of the Holy Spirit. Truly if a Christian is not filled with the Holy Spirit, he will not be able to keep himself pure, nor will he be able to influence others. The Scripture says that the Lord will use the spirit of judgment and of burning to wash away the filth of the daughters of Zion. (Is 4:3-4). The Lord promised the disciples the gift of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit came upon them, they received power (Acts 1:4, 8; Jn 15:5). Christians today should pray for the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and also pray to be seasoned by the Spirit of fire. Otherwise, even if we cut off the defiling part of our body, we are still unable to destroy the nature of sin. Only when one is fully filled with the Holy Spirit, can he put to death fleshly desires. And only then, would he able to have the efficacy of salt (Rom 8:13; 7:24; Phil 4:13).

114

Book of Mark

Part V Jesus in the Province of Judea (10:1-52)

1. Concerning divorce (10:1-12)a. Jesus moved on from Galilee and to the districts of Judea. He crossed the river

Jordan to the land of Perea on the east of Jordan.b. The Pharisees raised the question of divorce.c. The Lord said that man must not separate what God has put together because the

husband and wife are joined as one in the Lord. d. He who divorces his wife and marries another is committing adultery against his

wife.e. If a wife divorces her husband to marry another, she also commits adultery.


1. Divorce is not permitted:After leaving Galilee, Jesus arrived at the province of Judea on the far side of the Jordan (the land of Perea on the east of River Jordan). A group of Pharisees came to Him with a question to test Him. “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?”, they asked. Perhaps they had in mind the case of Herod who divorced his wife to marry Herodias, the wife of his brother. In reply, Jesus first stated the teachings of the bible without consideration about who the person might be. He said that Moses allowed a man to draw a deed of divorce because their hearts were hardened. But God made man and woman, who are to leave their parents and unite as one body. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. He also said that if a man divorces his wife and remarries, he is guilty of adultery and has let his wife down. Similarly if a wife divorces her husband and remarries, she commits adultery. Based on Jesus’ reply, the rebuke of John the Baptist on Herod was correct because he had committed adultery. Herodias had also committed the same sin (6:24-29).

2. Divorce is permitted only on one ground:Of late, there have been cases of so-called Christians who disregard the teachings of the Bible on matters pertaining to marriage. They marry and divorce whenever they feel like it. But the Bible teaches us that the husband and wife are joined as one body. Since they have been joined as one body, divorce is not permitted regardless of the reason. The only exception is if the wife has committed adultery. Jesus said, “whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery...” (Mt 19:9). This is because if the wife has committed adultery, the one body has been destroyed, and thus the husband is permitted to remarry. If a woman has been divorced for reason other than adultery, and if she accepts the proposal of another man, then she would have destroyed the unity of one body. In this way, not only would that person who marries her have committed adultery, she would also have committed adultery.

3. The instructions of Paul:He said, “Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife.” (1 Cor 7:10-11). To those whose husband or wife are unbelievers, Paul said, “But if the

115

Book of Mark

unbeliever departs, let him depart; a brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases. But God has called us to peace. For how do you know, O wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, O husband, whether you will save your wife?” (1 Cor 7:15-16). Paul did not mean that in a marriage between a believer and a non-believer, divorce can be performed simply. Rather, what he meant was that if divorce is inevitable, the believer should adhere to the instruction that if he/she does separate, he/she must remain unmarried. The believing partner is not to remarry without regard for his or her spouse simply because she or he is an unbeliever and is spiritually dead.

2. Jesus’ Blessing for the Children (10:13-16)a. The disciples rebuked those who brought children to Jesus.b. When Jesus saw what the disciples were doing, He was greatly displeased. He

said, “Let the little children come to Me.”c. Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means

enter it.d. Jesus took the children in His arms, placed His hands on each of them and blessed

them.


1. The rebuke of the disciples:Some people brought little children to Jesus for Him to bless them, but they were rebuked by the disciples. Perhaps the disciples felt that Jesus was busy enough, and thus they should not have brought these children to trouble Him further. But the Lord disapproved of what the disciples had done. He knew how much the parents loved their children. The Lord Himself had great love and regard for the little children. Thus He said to His disciples, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them for such is the Kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” Then He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on each of them, and blessed them. According to the Bible, the following are some few good points of children:

a. Humility (Mt 19:14)b. Pure and upright (Prov 20:11)c. Do no know evil (1 Cor 14:20)

These are points for our emulation.

2. Let the children come to me:Jesus once said to His disciples, “Take heed that you do not despise on of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven.” (Mt 18:10). Jesus had much regard for the little children. The church today should remember what Jesus had said and give special attention and care to little children. To cultivate and nurture them when they are still young. For only when there are good children, would there be good youths. And only when there are good youths, would there be good workers of the church. If there are many youths in church of good character, who love God and man, the church will have a promising future. Hence, the church must strengthen the work of religious education, not only to educate the youths and children in the church,

116

Book of Mark

but to bring more children to the Lord through Religious Education classes (2 Tim 1:5; Deut 6:6-7; Gal 4:2-6; Prov 22:6).

3. The Rich Young Ruler seeks the advice of the Lord (10:17-22)a. A man came and asked Jesus, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”b. Jesus said, “You know the Ten Commandments” and the man said, “All these

things I have kept from my youth.”c. Jesus said, “One thing is you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give

to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

d. But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

e. Jesus said, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.”

f. The disciples asked, “Who then can be saved?” And Jesus replied, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”


1. What must I do to inherit eternal life?”According to the record of the gospels of Matthew and Luke, the man who came to enquire about eternal life was a rich young ruler (Mt 19:20, 22; Lk 18:18). It is indeed unusual for a young man with not only wealth but also status to come respectfully to enquire of Jesus about eternal life. It is recorded in Mark that the moment Jesus set His eyes upon him, Jesus loved him. Unfortunately, although he was sincere in searching the Way, he was unable to practice what Jesus had instructed him. The Lord said to him, “If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” (Mt 19:17). He asked “which commandments”, because sometimes general teachings were also referred to as “commandments”. That was why Jesus listed a few commandments to indicate that He was referring to the Ten Commandments. The young man said, “All these I have kept from my youth.” But the Lord told him, “One thing is you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

This instruction of Jesus can be divided into two aspects. Firstly, to obey the commandments; and secondly, to offer all that one has to follow the Lord. In the Old Testament, it is recorded that those who keep the commandments shall live by them (Gal 3:12). The Lord did not deny this, but one still has to give up all to follow Him (Lk 14:27, 33). The important thing is to follow Him. It is not sufficient to just keep the commandments.

According to Paul, “No But that no one is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident…” (Gal 3:11). They are justified “…by His blood, through faith...” (Rom 3:24-25). So, those who wish to be justified before God and to obtain eternal life must follow the Lord; that is, to believe Him and to obey His teachings. On the other hand, to believe the Lord means we have to keep the commandments. As Paul had said, “Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.” (Rom 3:31). The Lord had also instructed His disciples, “You have heard that it was said to those of old,

117

Book of Mark

‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Mt 5:27, 28). The Lord not only told His disciples to keep the commandments; but more importantly, he told them to rely on the Holy Spirit. They were to keep the commandments not only outwardly but also from within their hearts so that their observance of the commandments would be even more complete than the observance during the Old Testament times. If it is not by grace that we are saved, we would not need to keep the commandments. Since we need to keep the commandments, the observance of the Sabbath (the Fourth Commandment) is also necessary. The bible does not say that we need to observe only nine of the commandments and that we can leave out the fourth commandment. James said, “For whoever shall keep the whole law (the Ten Commandments), and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all. For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law.” (Jas 2:10-11). The final conclusion with regard to the way of salvation, according to the Lord, is to follow Him and to obey the commandments.

2. It is difficult for a rich man to enter God’s Kingdom:When the young man heard the Lord’s instructions, he left sadly because he possessed great wealth. The Lord said, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God! ... It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God.” (Mk 10:23, 25). Some explain that the “eye of the needle” refers to the small entrance to Jerusalem when the main city gates are locked before dawn and after dark. But in actual fact, this is a common Jewish saying, which means that it is impossible. However, whatever is impossible to man is possible to God. As examples, we have Zacchaeus (Lk 19:1-10) and Joseph were from the Jewish town of Arimathea (Lk 23:50-53; Mt 27:57-60). Both of them were wealthy men who believed and loved the Lord. The Lord does not reject rich men who come to Him. Regardless of whether one is rich or poor, if the Holy Spirit had not moved them, they would not have come to know and believe in the Lord (1 Cor 12:3). It is of course great joy when the poor believe in the Lord. But when a rich man believe in the Lord, and truly understand the love of the Lord and know how to repay God’s grace, their contribution to the divine work would be great.

4. The Reward of Following Jesus (10:28-31)a. Peter said to the Lord, “See, we have left all and followed You.”b. The Lord said those who left everything for His sake and for the gospel’s, and

those who were persecuted, would receive a hundred fold in this world; and in the age to come, eternal life.

c. Many that are first will be last, and the last first.


1. Receive a hundred fold in the present time:The Lord replied the disciples, saying, “There is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time.” This means that we would not lose any material things, on the contrary, we would gain

118

Book of Mark

even more. This does not mean that that those who offer themselves will prosper in wealth, but that the Lord will become their inheritance and trust. They would have a limitless amount of wealth, and the Lord would give unto them whenever the need arises (Ps 23:1; 1 Tim 6:17; Heb 13:5-6; Mt 6:33). Just like Paul had said, “as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing everything.” (2 Cor 6:10). Where family relationships are concerned, the Lord said, “For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.” (3:35) For a worker of the church, the younger church members would love him like an elder brother or sister. The elderly members would love him as a son. He would also be able to love those younger as his own children, such that he would be able to enjoy family warmth no matter where he goes. In fact, the amount they receive is not just one hundred fold, it is more than a hundred fold (1 Tim 5:1-2; Phil 2:22).

2. To be persecuted:It is a grace to be persecuted for the sake of the Lord and the gospel as there will be a reward. As the Lord had said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Mt 5:10-12). That is why, to Paul, to suffer more hardships and persecutions for the sake of the Lord is something joyous and glorious (2 Cor 11:23-33).

3. Eternal life after death:The Lord has promised us eternal life (1 Jn 2:25). “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mt 16:26). But to receive eternal life, we must give up everything to follow the Lord, just as what the Lord had told the rich young man. We must sacrifice all we have for the love of mankind and offer ourselves to follow the Lord. Our love for the Lord must be over and above our love for our families, fame, wealth and the pleasures of this world. Have we achieved this? The Lord also said, “Many who are first will be last, and the last first.” These words were probably meant to warn the disciples not to be complacent, thinking that since they were the first to follow the Lord, they would be ahead of others. If they were not alert and did not strive for perfection, they might not be able to keep up with those who embrace the faith later (Phil 3:12-16).

5. Prophecies of His sufferings on three occasions (10:32-45)a. During a journey to Jerusalem, Jesus walked ahead of the others.b. Summoning the twelve disciples, the Lord told them what He was going to go

through.c. He would be delivered to the priests and elders, condemned to death, mocked, spit

upon, beaten, killed and resurrected on the third day.d. James and John asked the Lord for high positions in the kingdom.e. The other disciples were angry over this matter and the Lord taught them the

lesson about humility.

119

Book of Mark


1. The spirit of courage:On this journey to Jerusalem, the Lord knew of the sufferings He will face, yet He boldly stepped onward, ahead of others, as though He was hurrying towards a great event which was about to take place. This amazed His disciples and those who followed Him grew afraid. To give Himself as a ransom for mankind (10:45), the Lord had to drink the bitter cup of the cross on Mount Golgotha. First, He was to be delivered to the chief priests and the scribes and they would condemn Him to death. Then, He was to be delivered into the hands of the Gentiles. They would mock at Him, spit on Him, beat Him and kill Him. But the Lord Jesus would not retreat just because of the hardship He was going to face before Him. Rather, he surged forward urgently like an anxious father about to save a drowning son, to spread the gospel of salvation to those souls who are without hope. If you know that the place you are going to is an undeveloped country, where food and accommodation may pose problems, where the security is not very good, where bad people are everywhere and where you might encounter danger at anytime. Can you be like Jesus, relying on the Almighty God to complete the course the Lord has entrusted and march fearlessly forward? May the Lord help us and add to our strength and courage (Acts 20:22-24)

2. The ignorant disciples:Jesus wanted to let the disciples know in advance that He would suffer death in Jerusalem, lest the flock gets scattered when the time came for the Shepherd to be taken away and be beaten. Hence, for the third time, He told them of the hardships He was about to face, giving even clearer details this time. But the disciples still did not understand the meaning of His words. James and John even came forward to ask for high positions when the Lord established His Kingdom. The other ten disciples were also unable to understand the Lord’s feelings and so they rebuked the other two. This show of ignorance added to the Lord’s sorrow and loneliness, for even the twelve disciples whom He had personally chosen could not understand His intentions. This incident, once again, reminds us that unless the Holy Spirit opens up our minds, it is very difficult for us to understand things of the spirit.

6. Healing of the blind man, Bartimaeus (10:46-52)a. The blind man in Jericho pleaded to Jesus to heal him.b. Many warned him to be silent but he cried out all the more.c. So the Lord instructed him to come over and asked him what he wanted. He

replied that he wanted to receive his sight.d. Then Jesus answered, “Your faith has made you well.” And the blind man

immediately received His sight.


1. The rebuke of the crowd:In chapter 10, verse 13, it is recorded how the disciples rebuked those who brought children to Jesus. Here is a record of how a large number of the followers of Jesus rebuked a blind man, telling him to be silent. But the Lord did not agree with this act of theirs, for the Lord’s heart is filled with mercy and kindness. No

120

Book of Mark

matter how important the tasks He might have awaiting Him, He would not refuse the pitiful who sought His help. That is why the Lord stood still and bade him to come forward. This loving and kind voice which beckoned him filled the blind Bartimaeus with gratitude and hope. We often commit the same mistake as the disciples, rebuking those who require our compassion. May the Lord’s spirit dwell in our hearts that we may have the compassion to observe, help and comfort those who are weak, sorrowful, and those who have no one to turn to (Mt 5:7; Job 31:13-21).

2. The blind man’s faith:Blind Bartimaeus was a beggar. He had probably heard about Jesus and believed that Jesus was the Saviour promised by God, the descendant of David. When he knew that Jesus was about to pass by, he seized hold of the opportunity and raised his voice to plead for help. Although many people rebuked him and tried to silence him, he raised his voice even louder. When the Lord beckoned him and asked what he wanted, he said that he wanted to receive his sight. We can see how great his faith is! That is why the Lord said to him, “Your faith has made you well.” Immediately, he regained his sight. The Lord often said to those who sought to be healed, “As you have believed, so let it be done for you.” (Mt 8:13). The Lord is an omnipotent God. Not only in healing but also in other problems which require God’s help, if we pray with faith and according to God’s will, God will answer our prayers according to our faith. May the Lord increase our faith (1 Jn 5:14-15; Mk 9:23-24).

121

Book of Mark

Part VI The Crucifixion of the Lord Jesus(11:1 - 15:47)

I. The Lord in Jerusalem (11:1 – 12:44)

1. The Lord entered Jerusalem on a mule (11:1-11): a. At Mount of Olives, the Lord sent His disciples to fetch a mule.b. The multitude thronged around Jesus to welcome Him into the cityc. After entering the Temple and viewing everything, the Lord left the city with His

disciples and went to Bethany.

Important Teachings:1. The week of the Lord’s crucifixion:

The Gospel of Mark is especially detailed in the recordings of the last week of Jesus on earth. It takes up about two-fifth of the book. This is because of the strong emphasis it placed on this event. According to the synoptic gospel, the events are as listed below: -

1st Day: Sunday (the tenth day of the month of Nissan) – (Mk 11:1-11)2nd Day: Monday (the eleventh day) – (Mk 11:12-14, 15-19)3rd Day: Tuesday (the twelfth day) – (Mk11:20-13:37)4th Day: Wednesday (the thirteenth day) – (Mk 14:1-11)5th Day: Thursday (the fourteenth day) – (Mk 14:12-16)6th Day: Friday (the fifteenth day) – (Mk 14:17-15:47)7th Day: Saturday (the sixteenth day) 8th Day: Sunday (the seventeenth day) – (Mk 16:1-8)

2. The Lord rode a mule into Jerusalem:As the Lord drew near Jerusalem, to Bethphage (east of Mt Olive) and Bethany (west of the Mount of Olives), at the Mount of Olives (situated 2 miles east of Jerusalem with a height of 900 metres); He sent two disciples to a nearby village to bring Him a mule, saying, “If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’” say, “The Lord has need of it,” and the immediately he will send it here. The disciples did as the Lord had said and brought the mule to Him. They threw their garments over the mule and Jesus mounted it. Many people spread their garments on the road and others spread leafy branches. The thronging crowd cried out “Hosanna!” (this is a word of praise). He that comes in the name of the Lord deserves praise. This is a welcome worthy of the God-promised Messiah. God’s Spirit moved them to do all these (Zech 9:9; Ps 118:24-26). When the Lord entered Jerusalem and went into the Temple to view everything, it was dark and the Lord left the city for Bethany with His twelve disciples. Among the events of that day, was the incident of the mule. When the owner of the mule heard that the Lord had need of it, he immediately allowed the disciples to lead it away. This teaches us that we are also like the mule, though people might have ridden on us before, but if the Lord does not mind, we should immediately offer it for the Lord’s use. For all things belong to the Lord, and if we can be greatly used by the Lord on this earth, sharing in His glory (to walk over the road covered with the garments of the multitude), then this is indeed the greatest blessing (Is 6:8).

122

Book of Mark

2. The Lord purged the Temple (11:12-19)a. On the way to Jerusalem, the Lord cursed a fruitless fig tree.b. He entered the Temple and drove out the traders, money-changers and the sellers

of pigeons.c. The Lord said, “You have turned the house of prayer into a den of robbers.”

Important Teachings:1. The fruitless fig tree:

The fig trees usually grow leaves in March and bear fruits in May or June. When the Lord arrived at Jerusalem, it was in the middle of April, not during the fig harvest. However, the trees should have leaves and some early ripened fruits. This particular tree was cursed because it did not have even a single fruit.

The Lord once used fig trees to represent the people of God. They were planted in the vineyard and were given special care, with the hope that they would bear fruits. But the Jews had disappointed the Lord. They would be cursed like the fig tree (Is 5:3-7; Mt 23:37-38). In the New Testament Times, the people of God will be planted by the two sides of the river of life, where they will be able to absorb large amount of water. Hence they should bear fruits every month so that no matter when the Lord comes there will be fruits for Him to gather (Rev 22:1-2; Gal 5:22-23; Jn 15:16).

2. The Lord purged the Temple:When the Lord entered the Temple on the first day, He saw the condition of the Temple. On the second day, when He entered the Temple, He drove out those who traded in the Temple. He overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. He would not allow anyone to carry anything through the Temple because it is written in the Scriptures, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations.” (Is 56:7). It is to be set apart and holy, but they had turned it into a robbers’ den. That is why the Lord felt very anxious for the Temple of God (Ps 69:9).

The Jews who were dispersed to many nations gathered in Jerusalem every year for the observance of the feasts. The money-changers were there for the convenience of the Jews who had returned from foreign lands and who wished to make offerings. The pigeon sellers were also there for the convenience of those wishing to offer sacrifices (Deut 16:16-17; Lev 1:14, 12:8). But at that time, the original intention had been lost. The people who had ties with the Temple, like the relatives of the high priest, misused their authority and turned the Temple into a trading place to charge unreasonable prices and profit from it. Their actions did not differ much from robbery, thus turning the Temple into a robbers’ den.

Today, the believers who have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit are the temples of God (1 Cor 3:16-17; Eph 1:23, 2:20-22). Every believer should examine himself to see whether he has preserved the purity of his inner self or whether he has been overcome by greed, theft, evil thoughts, envy, covetousness, fornication and pride (all of which can defile a man) (7:21-22). Has the congregation made use of the church as a means of gain for its own convenience? Have the preachers worked for the church with ulterior motives of gaining something for themselves (2 Cor 2:17; 2 Pet 2:3, 15).

123


Anxious seems to be a bit mild…. Check original text again.

Book of Mark

3. The power of faith (11:20-26):a. The disciples saw that the cursed fig tree had withered.b. The Lord said he who “believes that those things he says will be done, he will

have whatever he says.”c. Believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.d. When praying, forgive others if they have offended you.

Important Teachings:1. The disciples were amazed at the Lord’s power:

In the morning, the disciples saw that the fig tree which had been cursed by the Lord had withered away to its roots, and they were amazed at the Lord’s authority. The Lord told them that if they did not doubt, they could even move mountains and cast them into the sea. He further said, “If you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.” From this, we can see that for a prayer to be effective, besides having complete faith, one must be forgiving and be at peace with others, for if hatred exists, it will be an obstacle in our prayers. As the Lord had pointed out before, “Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your give there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” (Mt 5:23-24; 1 Pet 3:7)

4. Questioning the authority of Jesus (11:27-33):a. The high priest, the scribes and the elders asked the Lord in the Temple, “By what

authority are You doing these things?”b. The Lord questioned them instead, “The baptism of John --- was it from heaven or

from men?”c. They replied, “We do not know.” And the Lord said, “Neither will I tell you.”

Important Teachings: 1. The high priest questioned Jesus:

When Jesus was walking about in the Temple premises, the chief priests, scribes and elders approached Him and asked Him concerning two matters:

a. “By what authority are You doing those things?”b. “Who gave You this authority to these things?

These people who questioned Him were probably representatives of the Jewish council. “These things” refers to the purging of the Temple. Actually, they did not know who Jesus was. They only knew that He was uneducated and that He was a person of lowly status from Nazareth. So they were extremely displeased by the Jesus purging of the Temple. This was why they asked Him by what authority He had performed those things. Little did they realize that the Lord Jesus is the God whom these people had come to the Temple to worship. Neither did they know that He came to the world in the flesh to save mankind (Jn 3:16, 1:1-3, 14; 1 Tim 3:16).

The Lord raised a question in answer to their questions. If they were able to reply the Lord’s question, then their reply would at the same time answer their own questions. The Lord asked them, “The baptism of John --- was it from heaven or from men?” If they had admitted that John’s baptism came from God, then they

124

Book of Mark

would also have to acknowledge His witnessing. John once testified to the priests and Levites sent from Jerusalem that Jesus is the Christ (Jn 1:19-28, 29-34; 3:25-30). If they had admitted to the truth of John’s testimony and known that Jesus is the Messiah, then they would have raised no objections to what the Lord had done in the Temple. Since they had hardened their hearts and avoided answering the question, the Lord did not wish to tell them by what authority He performed these matters. From the Lord’s answer, not only have we learnt of the Lord’s wisdom, but we have also learnt of how we should handle those who come forth to question us with an ill intention to testing us.

5. The Lord Relates the Parable of the Evil Tenants (12:1-12):a. The Lord said, “A man planted a vineyard… and he leased it to vinedressers...”b. When the time came, he sent a servant to collect the fruits but the servant was

beaten by tenants and sent back, empty-handed.c. Again he sent another servant. They wounded him in the head and treated him

shamefully. d. Then he sent another servant and they killed him.e. And so he sent many others, some they beat up and some they killed. f. Finally, he sent his beloved son. They killed him and threw him out of the

vineyard.g. Hence, the landlord will come and destroy the vinedressers, and give the vineyard

to others.h. The Pharisees could see that this parable referred to them, so they wanted to lay

hands on Him.

Important Teachings:1. The disappointed landlord:

In this parable, the landlord refers to God. The vineyard refers to the nation of Israel. The tenants refer to the leaders of the Israelite nation. The servants refer to the prophets. The beloved Son refers to Jesus. Because God wanted to reap some fruit from the chosen Israelites, He gave them special care, He protected them like the hedge set around the vineyard (Is 5:3-7). In the vineyard, He dug a pit for the wine press, built a tower and let out to the vinedressers. (The Jewish winepress pit comprises of two levels. The grapes are put on the upper level and trodden with the feet until the juice flowed into the lower level (Is 16:10; Jer 25:30). The tower probably served as a watch-tower to keep a look-out for thieves. Such a well-equipped vineyard reflected the expectations of the landlord of the vineyard.

But the vinedressers caused the landlord to be very disappointed. They not only refused to surrender the fruit to the landlord but also murdered one servant after another. Still, the landlord overlooked the matter and sent his son to negotiate with them. However, not only did they not repent of their past sins, they killed the landlord’s son, and cast his body out of the vineyard. Just as the Lord had said, “Therefore, indeed, I send you prophets, wise men, and scribes: some of them you will kill and crucify… O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!” (Mt 23:34-37; 2 Chron 36:15-21; 2 Kgs 17:13-23).

125

Book of Mark

Since this is the case, the Israelites deserved to be neglected. The Lord said, “See! Your house is left to you desolate…” (Mt 23:38). They have to personally bear the sins of nailing Jesus to the cross. “His blood be on us and on our children!” (Mt 27:24-25). Since 70 AD, when Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans, tol this very day, the plight of the Israelites who do not believe in Jesus testify to the great sins they have to bear for shedding Jesus’ blood (Lk 19:41-44; Mt 23:38-39). Ever since the Israelites rejected the Saviour, salvation has come upon the Gentiles. It is hoped that we, the new vinedressers, will offer good fruits as required of us to the merciful landlord (Jn 15:16; Lk 13:6-9).

6. In Answer to the Question of Paying Taxes to Caesar (12:13-17): a. The chief priests, scribes and elders (11:27) sent people to inquire Jesus if it was

lawful to pay taxes to Caesar.b. Jesus told them to bring Him a coin, then He asked them, “Whose image and

inscription is this?”c. They replied, “Caesar’s.” Jesus said, “Render to Caesar the things that are

Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

Important Teachings:1. Render to Caesar the thing that are Caesar’s:

After the chief priests, scribes and elders heard the parable of the wicked vinedressers, they realized that the parable was referring to them. They wanted to lay hands on Jesus but were afraid of the multitude. Later, they sent some Pharisees and Herodias to test Jesus. After pretending to praise Jesus, they asked the Lord, “Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” The Lord saw through their false pretences and knew that they were trying to test Him, but He did not evade their question. He told them to bring Him a coin, and then asked them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They replied, “Caesar’s.” So the Lord told them to render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God, the things that are God’s.

At that time, Judah was under Roman rule. The Roman governors did not exercise strict control over the religions of its conquered provinces (Acts 15:18-20). As long as the people were law-abiding, and paid their taxes promptly, the Roman governor would not interfere much. There were three types of taxes at that time – land tax, inland tax and poll tax (Mt 17:24). The Lord not only instructed the people to pay taxes, He Himself had also paid taxes before (Mt 17:24-27). According to the instruction of the Lord, Paul taught the Roman believers, saying, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to

126


Umm…what does this mean? Mt 17:24 mentions Temple tax…. Does land tax refer to property tax or tax at the imperial level and inland tax refer to tax at the provincial

Book of Mark

them taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honour to whom honour.” (Rom 13:1-7).

2. Render to God the things that are God’s:The believers of today must also be submissive to every human institution be it to the emperor or the governors sent by the emperor to punish those who do wrong and to reward those who do right (1 Pet 2:13-17). At the same time, we must not forget to render to God the things that are God’s. In actual fact, all things are from God, but for the divine work of the Lord, He has instructed His people to offer tithes (Num 18:24; Lev 27:30; Mal 3:8-12). The Lord had also pointed out that the paying of the tithes is compulsory (Mt 23:23). But believers under grace, are not bound by the Law. Rather, they should follow the example of Abraham, the father of faith, to offer out of a heart of thanksgiving for God’s grace (Gen 14:19-20; Heb 7:1-10). To offer tithes as a manifestation of the remembrance and thanksgiving for what the Lord has given us, is but the first step towards giving thanks. The Lord told the rich young man, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (Mt 19:20-21; Acts 4:36-37). This should be our goal in our love for the Lord.

7. The Sadducees Asked about Resurrection (12:18-27)a. The Sadducees gave the example of a woman who married seven brothers

successively.” After the resurrection, whose wife is she?” they asked. b. The Lord said, “When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in

marriage, but are like angels in heaven.”c. God is not a God of the dead but of the living.

Important Teachings:1. Sadducees:

There were not many members in the sect of Sadducees but there were several members of noble birth, such as the royalty, the wealthy and the priests (Acts 4:1-2, 5:17). They had high regard for the Pentateuch of Moses, and the rewards or punishment in this life. But they uphold that there are no angels and devils and do not believe in resurrection (Acts 23:7-8). They asked, if a woman had married seven brothers, whose wife would she be after resurrection. This question was posed, based on their belief that there is no resurrection. Hence, the Lord said, “Are you not therefore mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God? For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry or are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven.” Angels do not have physical bodies, desires and love like men. After resurrection, there is only divine love. He referred to the Bible and said, “God spoke to him (Moses), ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ God is not a God of the dead, but the God of the living.” Most probably Jesus wanted to let them know that although the three people mentioned were already dead physically, their souls still existed and they were still alive. That is why we say that God is a God of the living (Jn 8:56).

2. Resurrection is the greatest hope of Christians:

127

Book of Mark

Paul said, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ (and if there is no hope of resurrection), we are of all men the most pitiable.” (1 Cor 15:16-19). This shows that Christ’s resurrection was the main theme in the preaching of the apostles (Acts 2:32, 3:15, 10:40, 23:6, 26:6-8). According to the Bible, the resurrection of Christians will take place on the last day when Christ comes again (Jn 6:39-40, 44-54; 1 Cor 15:52; 1 Thess 4:16-17). The good and the evil will resurrect at the same time (Jn 5:28-29; Acts 24:15). At that time, the Lord, by the power which enables Him even to subject all things to Himself, will transform the bodies of those who are asleep as well as those who are alive, to have a glorious body liken to Himself. And they will then enter the Heavenly Kingdom to be with the Lord to enjoy the imperishable and the eternal glory (Phil 3:20-21; 1 Thess 4:13-17; 1 Cor 15:50-52; Rom 8:23).

8. The Greatest Commandment (12:28-34)a. A scribe asked the Lord, “What is the first commandment of all?”b. The Lord said, “The first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord

our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’… And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’”

c. The scribe thought highly of this answer of the Lord’s. The Lord said, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”

Important Teachings:1. The greatest commandment:

The duty of a scribe is to explain and to teach the laws. During that time, they had divided the laws into 248 orders (the things that one should do) and 365 restrictions (the things that one should not do), a total of 613 articles. They were also searching for the conclusion of the commandments. Jesus’ answer to their question was based on the quotation from Deut 6:4-5 and Lev 19:18. These two commandments can be considered as the summary of the Ten Commandments. The first to the fourth commandments can be condensed into “Love God with all your heart”. The fifth to tenth commandment, “To love your neighbour as yourself”. This is the essence of the Ten Commandments, and the whole duty of man towards God and man. This is the reason why God allows us to live in this world. (Rom 13:8-10; Eccl 12:13).

2. It is our duty to obey:When the scribe heard the answer of the Lord, he esteemed it and agreed that abiding by these two commandments is much more important than offering all kinds of offerings. Today, it is not that we do not know how we ought to treat God and man. Many Christians are practicing these teachings of loving God and man. The problem is that the degree of love is not high enough. It has not reached the stage of “with all” and “as thyself”. But these commandments are not merely ideals which are unattainable. In the Old Testament times, the father of faith, Abraham had already observed these. He not only left the false gods and to follow the true God, but also continually upheld God’s words and obeyed His commandments. Even when God commanded him to offer his only beloved son, Isaac, he obeyed. He was truly a believer who loved God with all his heart, with all his soul, with all his mind, and with all his strength (Gen 22:15-18). He also

128

Book of Mark

loved man as himself. He treated his brother’s son, Lot, like his own son. He gave him a portion of his wealth and allowed him to claim the best piece of land. When Lot and his family were taken captives by the four kings, Abraham personally lead 318 strong men, risking his own life to save them. Abraham was not resentful of Lot’s ungrateful attitude, though Lot had taken away the best piece of land from Abraham. Indeed, Abraham had fulfilled the great commandment of loving man as himself (as his own children), (Gen 13:5-11, 14:13-16). Paul also said, “For he who loves another has fulfilled the law: For the commandments… are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” This commandment of love requires us to rely on the help of the Holy Spirit to practise it (Rom 13:8-10; Gal 5:22-23).

9. Why did David address the Christ as Lord? (12:35-37)a. Jesus asked them, “How is it that the scribes say that the Christ is the Son of

David?”b. Why did David address Christ as Lord?c. If David called Him Lord, then how can He be David’s son?

Important Teachings:1. Christ is the descendant of David:

Christ is the descendant of Abraham, of the tribe of Judah and the offspring of David. This was an accepted saying among the Jews during that time (Gen 22:17-18, 49:8-10; Jer 23:5-6; Mt 1:1-2, 6, 16). Paul said, “concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness…” (Rom 1:3-4). Furthermore, Paul also said, “of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen.” (Rom 9:5) He is the root and the offspring of David, so David called Him Lord (Rev 22:16). To know Jesus, we cannot rely on outward appearance. Although He is the descendent of Abraham, he said, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” (Jn 8:58). He further said, “I and My Father are one.” (Jn 10:30). He is God manifested in the flesh. He is the true God Himself (1 Tim 3:16; Acts 20:28).

10. Beware of the scribes (12:38-40)a. The Lord instructed the disciples to be careful of the scribes.b. They liked to parade around in their long robes.c. They loved the chief seats in the synagogues and the places of honour at feasts.d. They devoured widow’s houses and pretended to make long prayers.

Important Teachings:1. Beware of the scribes:

The scribes were, at that time, the teachers of the Law. They were also members of the council. They were the leaders of the Jewish religion. But not only had they lost their faith and loyalty in God, they were also unable to accurately pass on the truth of God. They had become hypocritical religious teachers. They wanted people to respect them, loved high positions and made use of godliness as a means to acquire wealth. This type of preachers will be subjected to more severe

129

Book of Mark

punishment. That is why the Lord warned them to beware of the scribes, and not to emulate them in their pride, hypocrisy and greed.

11. The Lord Praised the Poor Widow (12:41-44):a. The Lord sat down opposite the treasury and watched the multitude putting money

into the treasury.b. A poor widow came and put in two copper coins.c. The Lord told His disciples that this poor widow had put in more than all the

others.

Important Teachings:1. The Lord is watching our offerings:

In the synagogues of those days, 13 contribution chutes were fitted in the inner wall of the second hall. Money contributed would slide down these chutes into the treasury chamber. Jesus sat opposite the treasury to observe how the people contributed their money. Now, our offerings, whether as thanksgiving to God for His grace; as a contribution to expenses in the divine work; or even as welfare funds for the needy; they are all offered before God. They are to be received by the very hands that were nailed to the cross. He is very clear as to the amount and the circumstances under which we contribute. When you offer, remember, “the Lord is watching you.”

2. The Lord praised the poor widow:The amount that the poor widow offered was only two copper coins which made a penny. (A copper coin is the smallest monetary unit in circulation. A penny is equivalent to 2 ½% of the average daily wage.) But the Lord said, “This poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.” She was praised by the Lord not because she contributed much; but because, though she was in such an impoverished condition, she still offered all that she needed for her livelihood. She was one who realized the greatest commandment – to love God with all your heart, all your mind, all your soul and all your strength.

3. The Lord’s way of calculating:The Lord said, “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” (Lk 12:48). All things are entrusted to us by God. We are merely His stewards. Whenever the Master has need of it, He will order the steward to take out all the wealth that had been entrusted to him. At times like this, the Master is not concerned with how much is being taken out, but whether he has brought forward all that had been entrusted him. If you have been entrusted with $100 and you take out $50 and another entrusted with $10 took out $10, then in the eyes of the Lord, you have merely produced half of the amount entrusted to you whereas the other person has handed over all that has been entrusted to him. So, his $10 is proportionately twice as much as your $50. Today, whether we are offering money or contributing to God’s work, let us not compare with one another how much we have done. As long as we try our level best to offer and in doing God’s work, be it the one who earns 2 talents or the one who earns 5 talents, we will similarly receive the Lord’s praise and blessings (Mt 25:19-23).

130

Book of Mark

II. The prophecy of the destruction of the Holy City and the signs of the Last Days (13:1-37).

The origin:The Lord spoke the words recorded in this chapter because the disciples invited Him to view the Temple. He then told them that in the future there would not be left even one stone unturned. This left the disciples amazed. When they arrived at the Mount of Olives, the disciples asked the Lord when these things would happen. The Lord’s reply was very important, and recorded in detail in both Matthew 24 and Luke 1. His answer concerned not only the destruction of Jerusalem, but also the signs of the Lord’s second coming. Authors differ in their views over eschatological issuesm hence there are great differences in their ways of explanation. Here, the texts will divide chapter 13 into a few sections and brief explanations will be given.

1. Not one stone upon another will not be thrown down (13:1-4):a. A disciple said to the Lord, “See what manner of stones and what buildings are

here!”b. The Lord said, “Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown

down.”c. The disciples asked, “When will these things be? And what will be the sign when

all these things will be fulfilled?”


1. The questions concerned two issues:According to the Gospel of Mark, the questions were, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?” This matter concerns the destruction of the Holy Temple so the question raised is rather specific. But the scope of the Lord’s answer far exceeded what they had asked, for He also mentioned about the Lord’s second coming. There is a clearer record of the question asked in the Gospel of Matthew, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Mt 24:3). In addition to ‘these things’ is ‘what will be the sign of Your coming and of the end of the age?’ The Lord will come again at the end of the world (Jn 12:48, 6:44, 54; Mt 25:31-46). The ‘end of the age’ refers to the period of time just before the end of the world. Hence, ‘the sign of the Lord’s coming in the last days’, and ‘the sign of the end of the age’ may be considered as the same matter. So the disciples’ question may be summed up in two parts:

a. Destruction of Jerusalem;b. Second coming of Christ.

What are some of the signs which can be observed before these two events take place? Let’s divide the Lord’s answer into 6 parts, some concern both events and some only one.

2. Not one stone shall be left upon another:The Temple at the time of the Lord Jesus was built by King Herod. Up till the time of Jesus, it had already been 46 years since construction began and it was still not completed. It was not until 63 AD that the construction of the Temple was fully competed (Jn 2:20). According to historian, Flavius Josephus, some of the

131

Book of Mark

stone blocks measured 25 cubits in length, 12 cubits in width and 8 inches in thickness. He also mentioned that the main pillars in the Temple measured 25 cubits in height, and were carved out of whole blocks of white marble. The walls of the Temple’s outer hall were made of blocks of stones, part of which are still left standing to this day. The Jews often go to these walls to wail.

The Lord said that this solid and magnificent Temple would be annihilated and completely flattened such that not a single stone would be left unturned. No wonder the disciples pressed for an answer. The Lord’s answer is as follows:

2. The Beginning of Calamities (13:5-8):a. Many will come in my name, saying, “I am He (the Christ)!”b. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.c. There will be earthquakes and famines, and this is but the beginning of the

calamities.


1. I am the Christ:In the original text, the word “Christ” is not found. But what the Lord meant was that many will come, disguised in His name, proclaiming themselves to be Christ. The Lord’s name is ‘Jesus’ (Mt 1:21). During the apostolic times, there was a Jew named Bar-Jesus. He was a magician and false prophet. He was against the proconsul who sought to hear the word from Paul (Acts 13:6-8). Although the Lord had risen to heaven, there were, among the Jews, some who claimed to be the Christ. But they did not come to impersonate Jesus. This prophecy reveals that in the last days, there will be ‘believers’ of Jesus who claim to be Jesus himself, and using this so-called manifestation of Jesus to lead many astray, for instance, the Korea’s Moonies. Another implication is that those who claim to be the church of Jesus and the true body of the Saviour will deceive many to believe in them. In actual fact, they are the church of the false Christ. Outwardly, they appear to be the Lamb (Christ), but what they preach is the word of the devil (Rev 13:11). Therefore, believers in the last days must be especially alert and be able to distinguish the truth from falsehood to avoid being deceived.

2. War, earthquake and famine:The destruction of Jerusalem was in 70AD. The above three signs will take place after the destruction, before the last day. Kingdom will rise against kingdom (civil war) and nation against nation (international wars, localized). These two occurrences are even more clearly manifested after World War II in 1945. The number of earthquakes and famines continue to rise sharply and they become more and more severe. These are the signs of the last days and the beginning of great tribulations.

3. Persecutions (13:9-13)a. They will deliver you up to councils; and you will be beaten in synagogues.b. You will stand before governors and kings for My sake.c. The gospel must first be preached to all nations.d. When they bring you to trial and deliver you up, the Holy Spirit will put words in

your mouth.

132

Book of Mark

e. Those who persecute you will include your family members.f. You will be hated by all for My name’s sake.g. He who endures to the end will be saved.


1. Delivered up to the councils:You will be delivered up to councils (Acts 4:3-10, 17-21, 5:17-18, 27-42). You will be beaten up in synagogues (Acts 22:19, 26:11; 2 Cor 11:24). You will stand before governors and kings (Acts 24:10-22, 25:1-11, 26:1-32). These prophecies came about within three months after the Lord’s ascension. The apostles were captured and the church was persecuted. Later, Paul was brought to be judged before the governors and kings. But these persecutions served as good opportunities to witness for the Lord. The Holy Spirit also gave them courage and eloquence at all times (Acts 4:5-21).

2. The gospel must first be preached to all nations:The prophecy that the gospel must be preached to all nations was partially realized before the destruction of Jerusalem. Paul said that this gospel would be preached to every creature under heaven, and it would bear fruit and grow (Col 1:6, 23). This meant that the gospel had been preached to all the Roman states. ‘Every creature’ refers to all mankind. The Lord will use His might and wondrous work to accomplish this great commission. After the Apostolic Church, within a period of 600-700 years, the Catholic Church spread the gospel of Jesus to North Africa, Europe and various Asian countries. There were some who spread the gospel (although it was somewhat changed) to the Far East. In India, China and Japan, many believed. Later, the church gradually weakened and went through a dark period until the 16th century when there was a reformation in Europe. Thereafter which, the church gradually revived. But the worldwide spread of the gospel was initiated by the European and American churches only over the last century.

Today, we can say that the gospel has been preached to the whole world. Unfortunately, the preached gospel has been distorted in many ways (Gal 1:6-9). However, they have put in worthy effort for the Lord. For instance, they taught the people to remove superstitions and idols, to believe in Jesus as the Saviour, and translated the bible into various languages. They are like John the Baptist who had preached to all nations for the gospel of the heavenly kingdom (the gospel of salvation: the full gospel – Mt 24:14; Phil 1:13-14; Col 1:25). They have paved a good path for the gospel so that the true church established in the last days by the Holy Spirit of Latter Rain will bring in the harvest of the labour of others (Jn 4:35-38). With the modern facilities of the present age: developed transportation, widespread education, printing technology, the availability of radio and TV stations, and the development in computer technology; these are of great help in the spreading of the gospel of salvation to the whole world. The work of the old and new churches as well as the progress of science may be likened to the work of ancient Judaism and the advance of the Roman civilization, which were prepared by God for evangelism. Today, if all believers realize their commission, offer their talents and wealth with all their hearts, and their minds and strength, and couple it with prayers for the infilling of the Holy Spirit, the gift of eloquence and the manifestations of miracles and wonders, it will not be long before the gospel is spread to the whole world (Acts 1:8; Rev 7:2-3, 10:10-11, 11:3-7).

133

Book of Mark

3. Persecution and endurance:“They will deliver you up to councils… Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake.” This kind of persecution had also been partially fulfilled before and after the destruction of Jerusalem. What is more significant is that, before the second coming of the Lord, the church will face great tribulations. Before the Last Day, the Beast with seven heads and ten horns will appear. This is the great instrument of the Satan in the last days. He will utter haughty and blasphemous words to God and make war with the saints. The second beast will make an image of the first beast. Those who do not worship the image will be slain. Eventually, only those who rely on the Holy Spirit and endure to the end and those who love the Lord more than their own lives will be saved (Rev 13:1-15; 12:11).

4. The desolating sacrilege (13:14-20)a. The coming desolating sacrilege.b. Those in Judea flee to the mountains.c. Those on the housetops should not enter to get anything.d. Those in the field should not return for their mantles.e. Woe to those who are pregnant and nursing children.f. Pray that it may not happen in winter.g. For in those days there will be such tribulations as has not been from the

beginning of the creation.h. If those days are not shortened, no human being will be saved.i. For the sake of God’s elect, He shortened the days.


1. The desolating sacrilege:In the Gospel of Matthew, it was clearly stated that the desolating sacrilege had been spoken of by the prophet Daniel (Mt 24:15). According to history, the prophecy of Daniel concerning the desolating sacrilege referred to Northern Syrian King Antiochus Epiphanes – 175 BC to 164 BC (Dan 11:21-35). He attacked Jerusalem and set up idols in the holy Temple, used swine for sacrifices, and deliberately blasphemed against the true God. He forced the Israelites to embrace the Syrian religion and ordered them to worship the Greek god. Those who violated his order were put to death. He abolished the proper sacrifice, forbade circumcision, raped women and killed infants. When Antiochus Epiphanes occupied the holy city and blasphemed the holy Temple, the priest, Mattathias, rose to lead the people to rebel against him. The son of Mattathias, Judas Maccabaeus was appointed leader to lead the soldiers in war against Antiochus Epiphanes. Although many died a martyr’s death, victory was theirs and the Temple was finally purified.

The Roman soldiers repeated what Antiochus Epiphanes had done, that is, they attacked and captured the holy city. According to the historian, Josephus, in 70 AD when the Roman general, Titus attacked and destroyed Jerusalem, more than one million people were killed. When the Lord spoke about the desolating sacrilege in the holy land, He meant the coming of the Roman soldiers to attack

134

Book of Mark

Jerusalem. At that time, those who believed the words of the Lord ran into the mountains and escaped death. This prophecy is not only fulfilled in the actions of the Roman soldiers, but more importantly, it will be fulfilled again in the last days. When the desolating sacrilege appears, He will bring about such tribulations as had not happened before. The prophecy of the second coming of the Lord Jesus (Mk 13:18, 27) was not fulfilled after the Roman soldiers destroyed Jerusalem.

2. How to escape from calamities:As the Lord had instructed, when the Roman soldiers laid siege to the city of Jerusalem, the people could follow His instruction literally, that is to escape to the hills and not be greedy after all the things of the world. Woe to those who are pregnant and with nursing children. This is because they would face greater difficulties in escaping during war and commotion. Pray that the calamities will not come in winter because it is very cold, thus adding hardship upon hardship.

Although the calamity that befell Jerusalem was great, it was not the end of everything. So the desolating sacrilege in the last days has yet to occur. During that time, God’s people should pay heed to His instructions, and recognise the spiritual teachings. The desolating sacrilege in the last days refers to the opposing force against God, and the persecutor of the church (Dan 11:36-37; Rev 13:5-7). He is also the conqueror of the world (Rev 13:7 onwards; Dan 8:24). He will persecute the church in every possible way before the second coming of the Lord (Rev 20:7-10). This person’s persecution and the tribulations that had not happened before (the great war) are closely linked to one another. If this great war is prolonged (because of the destructive nature of the modern weapon), not even one person in the flesh will survive. But for the sake of the elect, the days of great tribulations will be shortened (Mt 24:21-22; Joel 2:1-3; Is 13:11-12, 33:11). After the great tribulations, the Lord Jesus will come in the clouds, descend to execute judgment, and gather the elect bringing them into the Heavenly Kingdom (Mk 13:19-27, Mt 25:31-46). Now the enemy, who opposes the true God and persecute the church, has appeared. He is expanding his domain. Satan will use him to wage the greatest war and to give the most severe persecution before the end of the world (Rev 6:3-4, 13:7).

The desolating sacrilege of the last days has already taken place. God’s chosen people should flee quickly to the mountain – the spiritual Mount Zion, God’s true church (Is 2:2-3; Heb 12:22-24). Do not love the world (Mk 13:15-16; 1 Tim 6:6-10). Do not conceive desire (Jas 1:15; Rom 8:13). We must grow into maturity (Eph 4:14; Heb 5:12-13; Gal 4:9). Be aglow with the Spirit and serve the Lord (Rom 12:11; Rev 3:15-16).

5. False christs and false prophets shall arise (13:21-23):a. If anyone says to you, “Look, here is the Christ!” or “Look, He is there!”, do not

believe it.b. False christs and false prophets will arise and show signs and wonders to lead

astray even the elect.

135

Book of Mark


1. The appearance of false christs and false prophets:This prophecy will come about before the second coming of the Lord. Before the Lord’s coming, there will be great confusion worldwide and the church will be persecuted by Satan and be totally devastated. The elect will wait anxiously, day and night, for the second coming of the Lord. At that time, Satan will make use of false christs and false prophets to perform various wonders and miracles as well as all kinds of deceptive and strange occurrences. They can even summon fire to descend from heaven (2 Thess 2:9; Rev 13:11-14). If the believers are not cautious, and fail to recognise the false christs, then even the elect will be deceived. The coming of the Lord is like lightning from the East flashing to the West. All eyes will be able to see Him. Every race upon the face of the earth will wail because of Him. His coming is announced and not done in secret, like appearing here and there, or in the wilderness, or in the inner rooms (Mt 24:24-27; Rev 1:7). So, be it the present or the future, if anyone claims to be the christ, or preach a gospel which is not in accordance with the Bible, whether they be false prophets or false churches, and irrespective of how great a miracle they can perform, do not be deceived (Gal 1:6-9; 2 Thess 2:4; 2 Cor 11:4).

6. When changes take place in the heavens, the Lord will come again (13:24-27):a. In those days, after the tribulation, the sun will be darkened, the moon will not

give its light, the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers in heaven will be shaken.

b. Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.

c. He will send His angels, and gather His elect from the four winds of the earth.


1. Christ’s second coming:Before the Lord’s coming, the church will be persecuted and the world will experience great calamities. These calamities will turn the world into wasteland (Rev 18:8, 10, 17, 19) so that mankind will be rarer that fine gold (Is 13:12). After these tribulations, the sun will be darkened, the moon will not shine, the stars will fall from the heavens and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. At the time when great changes take place in the heavens, the Lord will come in great glory. The sun, the moon and the stars will change accordingly. In Rev 6:12 onwards, it is recorded that there will be a great earthquake, the sun becomes black as sackcloth, the full moon becomes like blood and the stars of the sky fall to the earth… the sky vanishes like a scroll that is rolled up. In Rev 20:11, it is recorded that the Lord will come to judge all nations; and from His presence, the earth and the heaven will flee away and no place will be found for them. The changes of the sun, the moon and the stars are preliminary signs of the destruction of the earth and sky. That is why the Lord said, “At the time, (changes in the sun, moon and stars) they will see the Son of man descending in the clouds.” When the Lord comes again, the earth and the heaven will flee away. New heavens and

136

Book of Mark

a new earth will appear (2 Pet 3:10-13). In this manner, the material world will come to an end. We will enter another world (Mk 13:30-31; Heb 2:5).

7. Be alert and watchful for the coming of the Lord (13:28-37):a. When these signs take place, the Lord’s coming is near.b. Heaven and earth will pass away but the Lord’s words will not pass away.c. No one knows when the Lord will come.d. We need to be alert, vigilant and pray.e. Be faithful in God’s work and wait for His coming.


1. When these take place, the Lord’s coming is near:This chapter records the Lord’s answer to the query of the disciples concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the signs of His second coming. Having answered all the questions, the Lord said, “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it is near – at the doors!” The fig tree’s branch becoming tender and growing new leaves is an analogy. It is not to be interpreted as a hint about the revival of the Israelite nation. The sign suggesting the coming of the Lord is even closer when the desolating sacrilege appears. He has already appeared so we should know that the coming of the Lord is near, He is already at the gates. As to which day and when it will come, even the Lord Himself does not knows. This does not mean that the Lord Jesus does not know when He Himself will descend. Paul said that Jesus, though was in the form of God, did not count equality with God – a thing to be grasped – but He emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of man, and being found in the human form. He humbled Himself and became obedient unto death (Phil 2:6-8). When the Lord said this, He was in the flesh, in the form of man. Hence He viewed Himself as the Son of Man and did not count Himself equal with God. That was why He said that the Son does not know, only the Father did. But when He was crucified for us on the cross, and resurrected, just before His ascension, He said to His disciples, “All authority has been given to me in heaven and on earth.” (Mt 28:18). After His ascension, He said, “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” (Rev 22:12). He and the Father are one. He is the Father Himself and the Father knows the time and the day (Jn 10:30; Is 9:6; I Tim 2:16; Rom 9:5).

2. Be watchful and pray; be a faithful servant:The Lord repeatedly said to His disciples, “You do not know when the time is.” (Mk 13:33, 35). So we must be alert, watchful, pray and be faithful in our work; awaiting the return of our Master. Be vigilant and pray for strength from the Lord that we may not be deceived by wealth, various desires and worries over our livelihood (Mk 14:38, 4:19; Lk 21:34). The Lord also said, “It is like a man going on to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work” (Mk 13:34). Today, the Lord has put us in charge of God’s household (the church). Paul said, “It is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (1 Cor 4:1-2). So, every one of us must do according to what the Lord has entrusted us by fulfilling our duties. In this way, when the Lord comes again, He will praise us saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful

137

Book of Mark

over a few things, I will make you rule over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.” (Mt 25:19-23).

III.Prior to the sufferings of the Lord (14:1-42)

1. Mary who loved the Lord (14:1-9):a. Two days before the Feast of the Passover, the chief priests and scribes plotted to

kill Jesus.b. When Jesus was in the house of Simon at Bethany, a woman broke an alabaster

flask of spikenard and poured it on His head.c. There were some who were indignant among themselves and said, “Why was this

fragrant oil wasted?”d. Jesus said, “Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for Me.”e. “She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for

burial.”f. Wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done

will also be told as a memorial to her.


1. Two days before the Passover, the chief priests and the scribes plotted to arrest and kill Jesus. Where time is concerned, the suffering of Christ was at hand. It was at this time that a woman believer did a beautiful thing to the Lord which pleased the Lord. According to the Gospel of John, this woman was Mary, the sister of Lazarus (Jn 12:1-8). This Mary is different from the sinful woman who anointed the Lord with ointment as recorded in Lk 7:36-50.

When the Lord was at Bethany in the house of Simon, Mary took the opportunity to bring an expensive flask of ointment of spikenard, broke the alabaster flask and poured it over Jesus’ head. It was a Jewish custom to sprinkle a few drops of ointment on guests who come to their homes to sit down to dine with them.

Spikenard ointment is an expensive plant product from India. The alabaster flask is stoneware made out of either porcelain or carved out of precious stone. It is a container for ointment. The price of this flask of ointment was about 30 pieces of silver, which is equivalent to one year’s wage at that time (a daily wage is about 1 denarius – Mt 20:1-2).

A few disciples were indignant when they saw what Mary did and they reproached her. The traitor, Judas Iscariot said, “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for 300 denarii and given to the poor?” (Jn 12:4). But the Lord said, “Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for Me. She has done what she could. She has anointed My body beforehand for burial. Wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will be told as a memorial to her.”

It is very rare for the Lord to openly praise anyone. But on this occasion, He instructed His disciples to preach what Mary had done together with the gospel wherever they go so that those who receive the gospel would emulate her to remember the Lord’s grace, and do one’s best, cherishing opportunities to repay the Lord’s grace; lest they lose the opportunity like some of the other woman

138

Book of Mark

believers who had prepared spices and ointment to anoint Jesus, but when they wanted to do so, He had already resurrected (Lk 23:56-24:2).

2. The Lord established the Holy Communion during the Passover Feast (14:10-26):a. Judas had settled the price of betraying Jesus with the chief priests (Mt 26:14-16).b. The Lord sent two of His disciples into the city to prepare the Feast of the

Passover in a large upper room.c. During the feast, the Lord pointed out that Judas would betray Him. d. During the feast, the Lord took bread, blessed and broke it and gave it to them,

saying, “Take, eat; this is My body.” And He took a cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them and they all drank of it. Jesus said, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many.”


1. The Lord’s Holy Communion:The Holy Communion was instituted by the Lord during the Feast of the Passover. The elements used were the unleavened bread used for the Passover Feast (Ex 12:8) and grape juice (Mk 14:25). But when we consider what the Lord said after the blessings, its significance differs from that of partaking in the Passover feast. The following is a summary of the teachings of the Holy Communion:

The Holy Communion is instituted by the Lord Himself. He instructed His disciples to do likewise (Lk 22:19-20; I Cor 11:23-25). Partaking in the Holy Communion is to eat the Lord’s flesh and drink His blood. Those who eat the Lord’s flesh and drink of His blood will live forever and resurrect on the Last Day (I Cor 11:15, 29; Jn 6:53-54). To partake in the Holy Communion is to eat at the Lord’s table, and look forward to the coming of the Lord, when we will be received and enter into the Heavenly Kingdom to attend the great feast (I Cor 10:21; 11:26; Rev 19:7-9). When we partake of the Holy Communion, we must remember the Lord’s death, give thanks for His love and be resolved to live for the Lord (I Cor 11:26; Is 53:4-6; II Cor 5:14-15). During the Holy Communion, only one unleavened bread and one pitcher of grape juice can be used (I Cor 10:17; Mt 26:27-29). One must have received the correct mode of baptism, to have his sins forgiven, in order to enter into Christ before he can partake of the Holy Communion (Acts 2:38; Gal 3:27-29; Ex 12:43-45; Ezra 2:62-63).

3. The Lord’s Prayer at Gethsemane (14:27-42):a. It was prophesied that on that very night Peter would deny the Lord three times

before the cock crowed twice. b. The Lord arrived at Gethsemane with His disciples and specially took Peter,

James and John to pray.c. The Lord said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death.”d. The Lord prayed and said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take

this cup away from Me, nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” Three times, He prayed, saying the same words (14:36-41; Mt 26:44).

e. The three disciples were unable to be watchful and pray with the Lord because their spirits were willing but their flesh was weak.

f. The Lord said, “Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”

139

Book of Mark


1. The Garden of Gethsemane:It is a small garden at the foot of the Mount of Olives, situated to the east of Jerusalem. In the original text, it means “oil mill” because there was indeed an oil mill there. The Lord often assembled there with his disciples (Jn 18:1-2). After partaking in the Holy Communion together, the Lord and His disciples came to Gethsemane (Mk 14:26, 32). The Lord’s sufferings began here: He was sorrowful, He prayed, and was captured. Then He was tortured, nailed to the cross, buried and resurrected and finally he ascended into heaven. This is an epoch-making event in library, such as had never or will never happen again.

2. The Lord was sorrowful, even to death:In Gethsemane, the Lord said to His disciples, “Sit here, while I pray.” And He took with Him Peter, James and John deeper into the garden to pray. The Lord was about to carry the sins of the whole world upon His shoulder, and to be nailed on the cross to bear the physical and spiritual punishment of mankind. Because of this great suffering, which is something very fearful, the Lord who was still in the flesh was frightened and in great distress. So He told His three disciples, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death.” At that time, the Lord needed to pray fervently, so He told His disciples, “Wait here and be watchful.” and He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw away and prayed (Lk 22:41).

3. The Lord prayed three times:The Lord knelt down and prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me, nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” After His prayer, the Lord returned to see His disciples, and then He went to pray again. Altogether, He prayed three times saying the same things (Mt 26:44). This cup refers to the bitter cup of the cross. To the Heavenly Father, all things are possible. Indeed, under the Law, almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins (Heb 9:22). To redeem mankind from the punishment of sins, the Lord who is sinless, had to die in our place (1 Cor 13:3-4; Heb 2:9). Since it is so, the Lord did not dare go against the will of God and willingly offered Himself for us.

The prayer in Gethsemane is a prayer of obedience. Since the Lord was in the form of a man, He humbled Himself and was obedient unto death, even death on the cross (Phil 2:8). This was a sorrowful and tearful prayer. The Lord cried out loudly and prayed in tears to Him who was able to save Him from death. He was heard for His godly fear (Heb 5:7). In Luke, it is recorded that Jesus, being in agony, prayed more earnestly, and His sweat became like great drops of blood falling down upon the ground (Lk 22:43-44). Because of His earnest prayers, the angels came to strengthen Him, so that He was able to bear the pain upon the cross, and resurrect from death. He had thus accomplished the great work of salvation.

4. Be vigilant and pray:When the Lord wanted to pray in solitude, so He told His disciples to wait for Him and be watchful, but when He returned He found them asleep. He then said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Jesus went to pray a second time. Upon returning, He found them asleep

140

Book of Mark

again, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to answer Him. And He came a third time, and still found them sleeping. It was at this time that the betrayer arrived. The Lord said to them, “Rise, let us be going.” The Lord did not mean to escape but to surrender Himself. To redeem mankind, He was willing to surrender Himself (Rom 4:25). The Lord’s strength came from earnest prayers. But because Peter and the others were not watchful in prayers as the Lord did, they were dispersed when the shepherd was arrested. Peter who thought that he was very strong he too lost his strength, and three times he denied the Lord. In these last days when there are many calamities, we must remember the Lord’s instructions, to be watchful and pray lest we enter into temptation and be overcome by the evil one (14:37-38).

IV. The Lord’s Sufferings and Burial (14:43-15:47)

1. The betrayal and the capture (14:43-52) a. After the Lord’s prayer in Gethsemane, Judas brought the chief priests to arrest

the Lord.b. Judas plotted with them, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One.”c. A man took out his sword and struck the servant of the high priest.d. The Lord said to them, “Have you come out, as against a robber; with swords and

clubs to take Me?”e. The disciples left the Lord to escape their ways.f. A young man who followed Jesus left the linen cloth about his body and ran away

naked when they seized him.


1. Judas betrayed the Lord:For 30 pieces of silver, he led the chief priests, scribes and elders, and a troop of soldiers (according to the military division, one troop consisted of 600 soldiers but it is not clear whether this troop was of this number) to Gethsemane. As a sign to them, he kissed the Lord. The Lord was thus betrayed (Lk 22:52; Jn 18:12-13). This ungrateful Judas, who betrayed the Lord out of greed for money would meet with a horrible end. Later on, when he saw that Jesus was condemned to death. He felt remorse, and he threw away the 30 pieces of silver in the Temple and went to hang himself (Mt 27:3-5). His stomach burst open and his bowels gushed out (Acts 1:18). Moreover, the Lord had said, “Woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had never been born.” It means that after his death, he would receive severe punishment (Mk 14:21). The love of money is the root of all evil. Today, do we treat godliness as a means of gains or have we sought after the wealth to the extent of betraying the Lord? (1 Tim 6:5-10).

2. Peter drew out the sword:When the Lord pointed out that Judas would betray Him, Judas still did not repent and so Satan entered into him, he left and went out (Jn 13:21-30). After that the Lord spoke to the 11 disciples about some important teachings as recorded in John 13:31 to 16:33, and prayed for them (Jn 17). Subsequently, He took Peter, James and John to Gethsemane to pray (Mk 14:32-33). In the garden of Gethsemane

141

Book of Mark

when the Lord was arrested, a man (Peter: Jn 18:10-11) slashed the servant of the chief priest and cut off one of his ears! The Lord touched the slave’s ear and he was healed (Lk 21:50-51). The Lord disapproved of what Peter had done and said to him, “Shall I not drink the cup which My Father has given Me?” (Jn 18:11); and further said, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. Or do you think that I cannot now pray to My Father; and He will provide Me with more than twelve legions of angels? (According to the Roman military division, one legion consisted of ten troops and one troop consisted of six hundred soldiers. Therefore, twelve legions will add up to seventy-two thousand soldiers). How then could the Scriptures be fulfilled, that it must happen thus? (Mt 26:52-54).

During that point in time, if the Lord had not been willing, there was no way they could have laid their hands on the Lord Jesus. When the Lord answered them, saying “I am He”, they retreated and fell to the ground (Jn 18:3-6). The Lord once said, “I am the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep. No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.” (Jn 10:11, 18). In order to save mankind, it is inevitable that there should be a sacrifice of life on the cross. For this, the Lord willingly laid down His life. Under the will of God, the only way is to obey and accept suffering, and not to escape or resist. That is why the Lord disapproved of Peter drawing out his sword. Today, for the sake of salvation of others or our own growth, there are times when we are called upon to endure suffering as well as to make sacrifices. If it is God’s will, we should imitate the Lord’s obedience to drink of the bitter cup and complete God’s beautiful plan of salvation (Col 1:24; 1 Pet 4:12-16; Heb 12:1-4).

2. Jesus before the council (14:53-65)a. They led Jesus to the high priest.b. Peter followed at a distance.c. The chief priests and the whole council sought testimony against Jesus but they

found none. d. Many bore false witness against Him but their witnesses did not agree.e. The high priest asked Jesus, “What is it these men testify against you?” Jesus

remained silent and did not answer.f. The high priest asked Him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” Jesus

said, “I am.”g. The high priest said, “You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?”h. They all condemned Him to be deserving of death. Some began to spit on Him,

and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him. And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.


1. He was first brought to Annas:The soldiers seized Him, tied Him up and brought Him before Annas first(Jn 18:12-13). It is recorded in the Gospel of John that when Jesus was arrested, He was first brought to Annas and then to Caiaphas (Jn 18:12-24). Annas was the former high priest and the father-in-law of Caiaphas (Lk 3:2; Jn 18:13). Although

142

Book of Mark

he was an ex-high priest, he still had great authority (Acts 4:6). His office was probably in Caiaphas’ residence. The reason why they first brought Jesus to Annas was probably so that they could interrogate Jesus to find a fault to charge Him with before the arrival of the other members of the council.

2. The council sentenced Jesus to death:Annas sent Jesus to the high priest, Caiaphas, the chief priests and the council members. They tried to find witnesses against Jesus in order to sentence Him to death, but they could not find any fault in Him. The high priest stood up and asked Jesus, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” At this point in time, to defend the truth, the Lord replied, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” The high priest assumed that the Lord had uttered blasphemy and asked the opinion of the other members of the council. They all condemned Him to death.

Peter said that the Lord had committed no sin and no guile was found on His lips. When He was reviled, He did not revile in return, and when He suffered, He did not threaten, but trusted in Him who judges fairly (1 Pet 2:22-23). Sometimes, in the family, in the church or in our social life, we are misunderstood, criticised, falsely accused and even defamed by others. If the matter concerned is of a personal nature, as long as our conscience is clear before the Lord, we should imitate the Lord and not try to defend ourselves with unnecessary arguments. On the contrary, we should be thankful to the Lord that we have not committed the sins that others have accused us of and be more watchful. However, if there are criticisms or attacks concerning the truth, we should then defend the truth courageously. Jesus’ confession that He is the Christ was to the high priest, words of blasphemy. In fact, Jesus is God. He and the Father are one. He became man in order to save mankind. It is the chief priest who had made the wrong judgment, and not Jesus who had blasphemed (Jn 10:30; 1:1-3, 14; 1 Tim 3:16; Is 9:6; Rom 9:5). The attitude of the Lord when He was interrogated by the high priest and the council was that, if it was a personal matter, He would not argue, but if it was the truth, He would not hesitate to defend it. This serves as a good example for Christians to follow.

3. Jesus was mocked and whipped:The high priest blindly judged that Jesus had spoken blasphemy. The council and the others agreed with him and sentenced Jesus to death. Some spat in His face. This was a great insult (Num 12:14; Deut 25:9; Job 30:10). They further blindfolded Him and struck Him with their fists, saying, “Prophesy!” Meaning that if He was the prophet, then, he would be able to tell who had struck Him (Mt 26:68). The guards too received Him with blows. Peter, who personally witnessed how the Lord suffered, wrote in his letters, “For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps.” (1 Pet 2:19-21) This exhortation is a good antidote to those Christians who have been ill-treated by others.

143

Book of Mark

3. Peter denied the Lord three times (14:66-72):a. One of the maids of the high priest saw Peter warming himself and said, “You als

were with Jesus of Nazareth.” But Peter denied it.b. Peter went out into the front court and the cock crowed. And the maid saw him,

said again, “This is one of them.” But Peter denied it for the second time.c. After a little while again, those who stood by said to Peter, “Surely you are one of

them.” But Peter began to curse and swear, “I do not know this Man of whom you speak.” And immediately the cock crowed a second time.

d. Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him that “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And he broke down and wept.


1. I can will what is right:Peter was a man who truly loved the Lord. When the Lord prophesied that when He was struck, the sheep would be scattered, he said to the Lord, “Even if all are made to stumble, yet I will not be.” And the Lord said to him, “Even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” But Peter replied more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!” (Mk 14:27-31). He was indeed faithful to the Lord, willing to suffer together with the Lord, and was determined not to deny the Lord. But even with his determination, the reality was that he did indeed deny the Lord three times, even cursing and swearing while doing so. Just as Paul had said, “For to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.” (Rom 7:18). Hence we ought to be humble and not speak arrogantly.

2. Peter wept:He “wept bitterly” (Lk 22:62). Why did he weep? Perhaps he blamed himself for being “letting the Lord down”. His bitter weeping manifested his remorsefulness, and this let him renew his determination to be faithful to the Lord. This also made him aware of his weakness. He was ready to repent because the Lord had prayed for him earlier. The Lord had said to him, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.” (Lk 22:31-32) The Lord will have mercy on those who weep and repent after having realized their mistakes. They will be renewed in strength and will be greatly used by the Lord. Satan not only demanded of Peter, he also wants to get us today. Therefore we ought to be cautious and vigilant, and pray, at the same time, not ceasing in making supplications for others (Ps 51:17; Eph 6:18; I Sam 12:23).

3. Peter after the day of Pentecost:Peter denied the Lord for three times in the courtyard of the high priest. It was not due to the persecutions of the officials, but merely the words of a servant girl and another person of no significance. They said, “Surely, you are one of the them (followers of Jesus).” It was only an enquiry, but Peter was so afraid that he swore to deny it. The weak and cowardly Peter was bestowed with Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. He was strengthened after being filled with the Holy Spirit and was no longer afraid of persecutions of the officials. He bravely preached Christ and was not afraid to make sacrifices for the Lord (Acts 4:5-21; 35:17-42).

144

Book of Mark

The Lord said, “For without Me you can do nothing.” (Jn 15:5). Therefore, we must pray for the infilling of the Holy Spirit, so that we will be able to resist the enemy and not fall (Eph 6:10-13; Jn 14:15-16; Acts 1:8).

4. The Lord’s trial before Pilate (15:1-15):a. As soon as it was morning, the chief priests with the elders, scribes and the whole

council bound Jesus and led Him away, delivering Him to Pilate.b. Pilate asked Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” Jesus answered, “It is as you

say.”c. The chief priests accused Him of many things. And Pilate again asked Him, “Do

You answer nothing? See how many things they testify against you!”d. But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marvelled.e. During the day of festival, the governor was accustomed to releasing one prisoner

whom the Jews requested. f. The Jews asked for the release of the murderer, Barabbas.g. Pilate said to them, “What then do you want me to do with Him you call the King

of the Jews?”h. They cried out, “Crucify Him!.”i. So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas to them; and he

delivered Jesus, after he had scourged Him, to be crucified.


1. He was put to trial twice before Pilate:After Jesus was arrested; they first led Him to Annas for trial (Jn 18:12-24), and then He was sent to Caiaphas, the high priest (Mk 14:53-65). At daybreak, He was officially sentenced to death before the council (Lk 22:66-71; Mk 15:1). After that, He was sent to trial before Pilate (Lk 23:1-5); then Pilate sent Him to Herod (Lk 23:6-12). He was again sent back to Pilate and was finally sentenced to death (Lk 23:13-25).

2. Pilate and Herod both declared Jesus innocent:Pilate perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered Him up (Mk 15:10). After having questioned the Lord, three times he declared to the Jews that he found in Jesus no serious crime deserving death (Lk 23:4, 14, 22). Likewise, Herod failed to find any fault in Jesus (Lk 23:15). While Pilate the governor was sitting on the judgment seat, his wife sent word to him, “Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things today in a dream because of Him.” (Mt 27:19).

3. The injustice of Pilate:The Jewish Council had no authority to put anybody to death (Jn 18:31), because the Roman authority did not permit the Jews to carry out the executions of convicts, thus they could only do so with permission from the governor. Therefore, the Jews handed Jesus to Pilate and wanted him to execute Jesus as had been decided by the council. He knew very well that Jesus was innocent. His wife also received revelation in her dream and sent word to him saying that Jesus was a just man. But in order to placate the Jews, he gave in to the request of the Jews to release the criminal and handed the just man to the people to crucify. Even though he washed his hands before the crowd and said, “I am innocent of

145

Book of Mark

blood of this just Person. You see to it.” Yet he will not thus be discharged from the guilt of killing Jesus, for he was given authority to judge, and he executed the just man even as he himself pronounced Him guiltless (Mt 27:24; Jn 19:10).

4. When the Lord was on trial:When the Lord was on trial before the high priest, He remained silent as far as personal attacks and accusations were concerned, but when the Truth was involved, though He knew the risks of answering, He stated the facts without fear. When Pilate asked Him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” The Lord answered, “It is as you say.” But towards the accusations of the Jews, such as: perverting the nation, forbidding the people from giving tribute to Caesar, declaring that He Himself was Christ and King, He did not say a word in defence. Similarly, He remained silent before Herod when the latter questioned Him at length (Lk 23:9).

5. They mocked Jesus (15:16-20):a. The soldiers led Him away inside the hall called Praetorium, and they clothed Him

in a purple cloak and put on Him a crown of thorns.b. They saluted Him as the King of the Jews, struck His head with a reed, spat upon

Him, and they knelt down in homage to Him.c. When they had mocked Him, they stripped Him of the purple cloak, and put His

own clothes on Him. Then, they led Him out to crucify Him.


1. Jesus was scourged:According to the regulations at that time, one would be scourged before nailed to the cross so as to reduce the pain on the cross. The Roman’s scourging was terrifying. Firstly, the back of the convict was bent and bound up, so that the skin at the back would be tightened, so that as the whip was laid upon the body, the skin would split easily. The whip was a long, leather strip and its length was fitted with sharp broken pieces of lead or bones. Once this whip struck the body, the skin would break or some pieces may even be hooked out. Some convicts could not withstand it and died under the scourging. Some went mad. Very few could remain in a right state of mind after scourging. The scourging of the Lord Jesus was of this kind. The back of the Lord was just was prophesied in the Bible which stated that because of the scourging, it had turned into a furrow (Ps 129:3). We must bear this in mind that the afflictions He suffered were all because of our trespasses. As it is written in the Bible, “Surely he has borne our grief and carried our sorrows; …He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.” (Is 53:4-5).

2. They mocked at Jesus: Normally the convicts would be handed over to the people for crucifixion right after being scourged. But the Lord was led into the Praetorium, to be mocked and ill-treated by the soldiers. In order to mock Jesus as the King of the Jews, they clothed Him with a purple cloak (the robe of a noble king). The Gospel of Matthew recorded a “scarlet robe” (Mt 27:28), perhaps it referred to the scarlet military uniform of the Roman officers. And plaiting a crown of thorns, they put it on His head and mocked at Him, saying, “Hail, King of the Jews!” They took a

146

Book of Mark

reed and struck Him on the head; they spat upon Him; and they knelt down in homage to Him. The soldiers did this to humiliate and ill-treat the Lord. Adding insult to injury, a thorny crown was placed upon His head which resulted in bleeding. They took a reed and struck Him on the head (this reed was similar to a bamboo), intending to drive the thorns deeper into the scalp, worsening the pain of the Lord. The soldiers did not know who Jesus was, hence they dared to humiliate and mock at Him to such an extent. But little did they realize that they had worshipped the Lord when kneeling down in homage to Him. The Lord had told the disciples earlier that He would be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, and they would condemn Him to death, delivering Him to the Gentile (Pilate). They would mock at Him, spit at Him and scourge Him. And eventually they would kill Him (Mk 10:33-34). What the Lord went through was in exact accordance to His prophesy. He endured all these so as to save us. He was led as a lamb to the slaughter and like a sheep before its shearers is silent. (Is 53:7).

6. The crucifixion of the Lord (15:21-32):a. Simon of Cyrene was compelled by the soldiers to carry the cross of Jesus.b. At Golgotha, they offered Jesus wine mingled with myrrh; but He did not take it.c. They crucified the Lord on the cross and divided His garments amongst them.d. It was the third hour when they crucified Him. Above, the inscription of the

charge against Him read, “THE KING OF THE JEWS.”e. Two robbers were crucified with Him, one on His right and one on His left.f. Those who passed by derided Him, saying, “Save yourself, and come down from

the Cross!”g. So also the chief priests mocked Him to one another with the scribes, saying, “He

saved others; Himself He cannot save.” Those who were crucified with Him also reviled Him.


1. Simon of Cyrene:Cyrene was a capital city of Libya situated in North Africa. It was a big harbour, with many Jewish migrants dwelling in the city. Perhaps Simon had come back from that city to observe the festival (Acts 2:5-11). The Roman soldiers forced him to carry the cross of Jesus, a painful task. In so doing, he had actually shared in the Lord’s suffering, for this the Lord would not forget him (1 Cor 15:58; Mt 10:42). Rufus, mentioned in Rom 16:13 was generally considered to be the son of Simon (Mk 15:21).

2. Golgotha:Situated outside the North gate of Jerusalem, the land was slightly elevated, and nearby was a highway leading to Damascus. The Hebrew named this place ‘Golgotha’ meaning ‘the place of a skull’. Perhaps it was because the shape of the place was like that of a human skull.

3. The Lord did not take the wine which mingled with myrrh:The Gospel of Matthew records “wine mingled with gall” (Mt 27:34). The convicts would normally be given this drink prior to the execution. For after taking it, one would become drowsy or semi-conscious. This is to reduce the pain a convict would have to suffer on the cross. The Lord refused to drink it as He

147

Book of Mark

wanted to undergo the sufferings in full consciousness and to bear the punishment on our behalf (1 Pet 3:18; Is 53:5, 8).

4. He was nailed on the cross:The cross was an instrument of the Romans to execute the non-Roman citizens. Two pieces of wood were used to form the shape of “T” or “t” or “x”; then the convicts were tied and nailed on it. No matter what the shape of the cross was, the term “crucifixion” was used. The cross of the Lord was probably of the “t” shape as the inscription of the charge written by Pilate was placed over His head (Mk 15:26; Jn 19:19). The hands and feet of the Lord were nailed to the cross (Lk 24:39-40; Ps 22:16). He struggled in pain on the cross, His bones were out of joint, His heart melted like wax because of the terrible suffering, and His strength was dried up like potsherd (Ps 22:14-15). He had suffered the greatest agony on account of our transgressions as was written in the Bible. “…and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” (Is 53:6).

The execution on the cross was abolished after Constantine, the Emperor of Rome, (AD 272-337) came to believe the Lord. He did this as a show of respect for Christ who was crucified on the cross and to show mercy to mankind. Henceforth, executions of such a kind were gradually abolished in other nations.

5. The charge against the Lord:The charge was to indicate the offence of the executed. Pilate recorded the charge against Jesus as “THE KING OF THE JEWS.” His motive was perhaps to ridicule the Jews; or to provide a proper excuse for crucifying Jesus, in case the Roman Emperor wanted to inquire about the crucifixion. The inscription was written in Hebrew (Aramaic), Latin (the Roman language) and Greek. The chief priests of the Jews then said to Pilate, “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews’” but, “He said, ‘I am King of the Jews.’” Pilate answered, “What I have written I have written.” (Jn 19:20-22). The inscription on the cross was in three languages, this not only indicated that He was sinless, but also to let the people of different nations know that Jesus was the King of the Jews, the Messiah. The Messiah was not only to be the King of the Jews, but also the Saviour of all mankind (Lk 2:8-11; Acts 2:36; 4:12).

6. Come down from the Cross:The division of the garment of Jesus by the Roman soldiers; and the crucifixion of the two robbers by the two sides of the Lord were to fulfil the prophecy concerning the Messiah (Ps 22:18; Is 53:12). The Lord had suffered great agony on the cross physically. But now the passers-by, the chief priests, the scribes, the elders and even the two robbers crucified together with him derided Him, mocking at Him, and adding insult to injury which made the Lord grievous in His heart. Those who passed by and the chief priests asked Him to come down from the Cross, to prove that He was the Christ, the Son of God (Mt 27:40). What a great temptation this was! The situation He now faced was similar to the time before He began His ministry while He was still fasting. Satan sat Him on the pinnacle of the Temple, and said to Him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down.” (Mt 4:5-7). Indeed, the Lord was able to come down from the Cross. If the angels sent by the Lord could cause the chains on Peter’s hands to fall off, could not He have come down from the Cross? (Acts 12:6-10). But for the sake of bearing our sins, He had to endure on the cross, be mocked at and

148

Book of Mark

humiliated by the people so as to accomplish the great task of saving mankind (I Pet 2:23-24).

7. The scenario of the Lord’s death (15:33-41):a. There was darkness over the whole land from the sixth hour (12 noon) to the ninth

hour (3 o’ clock in the afternoon).b. At the ninth hour, Jesus cried a loud voice, “My God! My God! Why have You

forsaken Me?”c. One person ran and filled a sponge full of vinegar. He gave it to Him to drink.d. Jesus uttered a loud cry, and breathed His last. And the curtain of the Temple was

torn in two, from the top to bottom.e. When the centurion saw that He cried out and breathed His last, he said, “Truly

this Man was the Son of God!”f. There were some women looking on from afar when the Lord died.


1. Darkness was over the whole land:By the time the Lord was crucified, it was already third hour (9 o’clock) of the day. From the sixth hour (12 noon) to the ninth hour (3 p.m.), there was darkness over the whole land. The whole land could have referred to the land of Israel, and the darkness lasted for about three hours. The Gospel of Luke records “the sun was darkened”. This darkness was not caused by an ordinary eclipse of the sun, because an eclipse of the sun would not have lasted that long, and it would not have been so dark if it had been an eclipse. It happened on the 15th of the month in the Jewish calendar, which was approximately the 16th or 17th in the lunar calendar at a time when the moon was round. It was impossible for an eclipse to take place then. When the sun was darkened, darkness was over all the land; this should be viewed as a miracle performed by God. During the exodus, God caused thick darkness to cover the land of Egypt for three days, the darkness was so thick that man could not see one another (Ex 10:21-24). When Pharaoh saw this miracle, he knew that this was God’s doing. So he sent for Moses and permitted the people to depart from Egypt. For three hours, before the Lord breathed His last on the cross, there was darkness over the whole land. As He breathed His last, He cried out with a loud voice, “My God! My God! Why have You forsaken Me?” It is evident that during this period of time, the Spirit of the Lord was forsaken by God because of our sins. It was great agony indeed. At three o’clock in the afternoon, the pain was so great that the Lord cried out aloud. The darkening of the sun seemed to suggest that God’s creation could not bear to see the suffering of the Lord. On the other hand, it was to make clear to the Israelites that the Jesus whom they crucified was the Mighty One of God. God showed the sign in heaven to make them know that the death of Jesus was an event of great significance.

2. My God! My God! Why have You forsaken Me?For the punishment of the people, besides physical suffering, the Spirit of the Lord should be abandoned to the Hades eternally, that is, the eternal destruction and separation from the presence of God and the glory of His power (2 Thess 1:9-10; Acts 2:31). Just as the Lord had said, “Depart from me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” (Mt 25:41). Why was the

149

Book of Mark

Lord Jesus forsaken by God? There is only one correct answer to this question. It was because of our sins. In order to redeem us all, He willingly tasted death for everyone; not only in the flesh, but also in the spirit (Heb 2:9). His spirit was cast into the Hades for us, and He tasted the pain of eternal death. Since He was punished on our behalf to clear us of our debts of sin, He thus fulfilled the great task of redemption on the cross; therefore He said, “Father, into Your hands I commit my spirit!” (Lk 23:46) This is because God will never abandon the spirit and soul of the Lord to the Hades (Acts 2:27).

3. The curtain of the Temple was torn in two:There was a curtain to separate the holy place from the Holy of Holies (Ex 26:31-35). Once a year, the high priest would enter into the Holy of Holies with some blood to make atonement for the sins of the people. But the blood of bulls and goats cannot remove the sins of man (Lev 16:11-14; Heb 10:1-4). The curtain of the Temple was torn in two when Jesus died, indicating that His death had opened a way for us allowing us to come into the Holy of Holies before God. The Bible says, “Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh.” (Heb 10:19-20).

Thanks be unto the Lord who had endured all the sufferings on the cross on our behalf, and finally gave His life for our sake. By His death, He opened for us a way that leads to heaven. Today, as long as we accept Him to be our Saviour; and receive the baptism of His precious blood, our sins will be forgiven freely. We can confidently come before the Heavenly Father to receive His mercy and grace (Eph 1:7-10; Acts 2:38; Heb 4:14-16; Jn 14:6; Acts 4:12).

4. Some women were looking from afar:These women included those who followed Jesus in Galilee, those who ministered to Jesus, those who accompanied Jesus to Jerusalem to observe the festival, and also the daughters of Jerusalem (Lk 23:28). Those who remained beneath the cross were mostly women. Most of them had received the grace of the Lord, such as Mary Magdalene. Because of their deep love for the Lord, they did not forsake Him, and were anxious for the Lord’s burial. May the brothers of today excel in their love for the Lord.

8. The Burial of the Lord (15:42-47): a. Joseph took courage to ask Pilate for the body of Jesus.b. Pilate granted the body of Jesus to Joseph.c. Joseph took Jesus down, wrapped Him in a linen shroud, and laid Him in a tomb

which had been hewn out of the rock.d. Mary Magdalene and Mary who was the mother of Jesus, saw where He was laid.


1. Joseph, a respected member of the council:The Lord breathed His last breath on the cross on Friday afternoon at about 3 o’clock. It was the day of Preparation, that is, a day before the Sabbath day. The sunset of Friday marks the beginning of the Sabbath, therefore, the Bible says, “The Sabbath was dawning.” (Lk 23:54-56). In order to prevent the body from remaining on the cross on the Sabbath, the Jews asked Pilate that their (the

150

Book of Mark

crucified men) legs might be broken so that they might be taken away for burial (Jn 19:31). Perhaps the Jews intended to dump the bodies of Jesus and the two robbers together in the valley of Hinnom and cover them with dirty soil, or bury them in the tomb specially allocated to the criminals. During this crucial moment, when no one was bold enough to ask for the body of Jesus, Joseph courageously came to Pilate and asked for the body of the Lord. Pilate granted him (It means without having to pay). Joseph bought a linen shroud, took down the body, wrapped the body in the linen shroud, and laid it in his own new tomb which he had hewn in the rock (Mt 27:59-60). He had truly done a beautiful thing for the Lord. The Lord would surely remember him and bestow upon him much grace.

According to the Bible, Joseph was a man from Arimathea. Most commentators believed the city to be Ramah which was situated north-west of Jerusalem in the region of Ephraim. He was a respected member of the council. He was rich, righteous and had a good reputation. He had no part in what the people did. He was hoping for the Kingdom of God, and later became a disciple of Jesus (Mk 15:43; Mt 27:57; Lk 23:50-51).

2. Mary Magdalene:After Joseph had laid down the body of the Lord, he rolled a great stone to the door of the tomb. This stone was circular in shape, similar to the millstone. It was about 5 to 6 inches thick and 3 or 4 feet high, weighing more than 300 kg. It was placed in the cavity hewn at the tomb entrance and required 2 to 3 persons to remove it. To roll the stone from the entrance of the tomb would require much effort. Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus, departed after seeing the place where the Lord was laid. We can see that their concern for the Lord was much greater than that of the eleven apostles. Where were the rest of the apostles at this point in time?

151

Book of Mark

Part VII The Resurrection & Ascension of the Lord (16:1-21)

1. The Lord’s resurrection and manifestation (16:1-14)a. When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene and some other women brought

spices to anoint the body of Jesus.b. Upon their arrival, they saw that the tomb stone had been removed.c. When they entered the tomb, they were amazed to see a young man dressed in a

white robe sitting on the right side of the tomb.d. The young man said that the Lord had risen. He told them to tell Peter that the

Lord would go before them to Galilee. e. They fled from the tomb without telling anyone for they were afraid.f. The Lord appeared first to Mary Magdalene in the early morning on the first day

of the week.g. The followers of the Lord heard that the Lord had risen, but they did not believe it.h. The Lord appeared to the two disciples walking into the country. When these two

disciples told the rest of the disciples, they too did not believe it.i. Later, the Lord appeared to the eleven disciples and rebuked their unbelief.


1. Prepared spices to anoint Jesus:The Jewish do not put their dead in coffins. Instead, the dead body is wrapped up in a piece of cloth and then put in the tomb (Acts 5:6, 9-10; Jn 11:44). At the point of Jesus’ death, a man called Nicodemus brought about 100 pounds of a mixture of myrrh and aloes, to anoint Him (some theologians believe the “pound” was Roman catty which is equivalent to about three quarters of a pound). After having wrapped the Lord’s body, they carried it away for burial (Jn 19:39-42). Early on the first day of the week, before daybreak, some women brought along with them some spices intending to anoint the body of Jesus. But they did not have the opportunity to do so, for the Lord had already resurrected. Although Mary had managed to pour an alabaster flask of anointment over the head of the Lord even while He was still alive. The Lord praised her saying that she knew how to grab hold of the opportunity to anoint His body prior to His burial.

2. Resurrection of the Lord:Some commented that the Lord did not resurrect at the dawn of the first day of the week. Rather, it was only on the first day of the week, that the disciples themselves discovered that the Lord had resurrected. When Magdalene went to the tomb, there was suddenly a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven. The angel rolled back the stone, sat upon it and the guards trembled in fright and became like dead men (Mt 28:1-4). The stone was already rolled back when Mary Magdalene approached, and hence it was at that time that the Lord resurrected and came out of the tomb.

3. The first one to see the resurrected Lord:The first person to discover the resurrection of the Lord and the first one to see the Lord appearing was Mary Magdalene, not the eleven apostles. Mary had received abundant grace from the Lord and she loved the Lord deeply. The Lord had once cast out seven demons from her body (Mk 16:9). To repay the Lord, she served the Lord with time and money (Lk 8:1-3; Mt 27:55-56). She followed the Lord to

152

Book of Mark

the foot of the Cross (Mt 27:50, 55-56). She saw where the Lord was buried before she left (Mk 15:47). She went to the tomb with spices before dawn intending to anoint Jesus (Mk 16:1). She was more concerned about the Lord than the rest and sought the Lord. Thus, the Lord appeared to her first (Mk 16:9). Her love for the Lord is worthy of our emulation.

4. The Lord’s resurrection and appearance:The resurrection of the Lord was absolutely true. After His resurrection, He appeared to many people. It was witnessed by Mary Magdalene (Mt 28:1-10; Jn 20:1-2); Peter (Jn 20:3-8; Acts 2:24-32); the angel (Mt 28:5-7; Lk 24:5-8); the guards (Mt 28:4, 11-15, 27, 62-66) and Paul (2 Tim 2:8; 1 Cor 15:3-8). Now if we pray with faith, we will receive the promised Holy Spirit of the Lord, which further confirms that the Lord had resurrected and been taken up into heaven (Acts 2:33; 1:5; 1 Pet 2:22).

2. The great commission and the ascension (16:15-20):a. “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.”b. “He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will

be condemned.”c. “And these signs will follow those who believe…”d. After the Lord had spoken to the disciples, He was taken up into heaven and sat at

the right hand of God.e. The disciples went out and preached everywhere while the Lord worked with

them and confirmed the message with the signs that followed.


1. Go into the world and preach the gospel:The Lord Jesus has fulfilled the grace of salvation on the cross. The resurrection testifies that He has overcome death and that He wants to deliver all who believes in Him, so that they will not be condemned but have eternal life (1 Cor 15:54-55, 22; 2 Tim 1:10; Rom 1:16; Jn 3:16). Therefore, before the Lord was taken up to heaven, He told the disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. This great commission is entrusted not only to the disciples in those days, but also to us. The basic content of the gospel should include - Jesus is the promised Messiah. As is recorded in the scriptures, Jesus was conceived through the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary and He began his ministry at the age of thirty. According to the Bible, He later died for of our sins and was buried. On the third day, He was resurrected and He ascended into heaven forty days after His resurrection. Now that He is in heaven, He wants to save all who believe in Him. He will come again during the last days to judge the world, so that those who are righteous will receive eternal life and those who are wicked will receive eternal punishment (Mt 1:18-23; Lk 3:23; 1 Cor 15:1-4; Acts 1:3, 9; 1 Pet 3:22; Acts 17:31, Mt 25:31-34, 41, 46).

2. He who believes and is baptized will be saved:To be saved is to be delivered from the bondage of sin now, and in the future, to be taken up into the Heavenly Kingdom (Mt 1:21; 2 Tim 4:18). For this reason, we need to believe Jesus as the only Saviour (Acts 16:30, 31; Acts 4:12; Jn 14:6). Apart from this, we must receive baptism, because through baptism, the Lord can

153

Book of Mark

wash away our sins (Acts 2:38, 22:16). In this way, we can be reborn (Tit 3:5; Jn 3:5) and can come under Christ, to be the children of God and to inherit the Heavenly Kingdom (Gal 3:27-29; 4:4-5). Furthermore, God will send down His Spirit to testify that we are His children (Gal 4:6; Rom 8:15-16; Eph 1:13-14). The correct mode of baptism is to baptise the candidate in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 2:38, 10:48, 19:5), with the head bowed (Rom 6:5-8; Jn 19:30; Lk 18:13), in living water with full immersion (Zech 13:1; Acts 8:38; Jn 3:23; Col 2:12; Is 51:10).

3. Speak in new tongues:The Lord promised that those who believe would be accompanied by signs and wonders and one of the signs is the speaking of tongues. This means the receiving of the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit, promised by the Lord, fills a person, the Holy Spirit can move him to speak a language called “the new tongue” which he has never spoken before. Speaking in this new tongue is the evidence of receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4, 10:44-46, 19:2-7). Through this new experience, we can be assured that the Holy Spirit is dwelling within us (1 Jn 3:24). When a person is speaking in the new tongue, he is speaking to God and normally, men would be unable to understand. But when it is necessary, God will enable someone to interpret it into a known language (1 Cor 14:2, 13, 37, 28). The Holy Spirit gives us eternal life (Ez 37:14; Rev 22:17), makes us a part of Christ (Rom 8:9; 2 Tim 2:19), testifies that we are the children of God (Rom 8:15-16; Gal 4:6-7; Mt 3:16-17) and is the guarantee of our heavenly inheritance (Eph 1:14; 2 Cor 1:21-22). He will also bestow upon us all kinds of gifts so that we will be able to bear forth the spiritual fruits and preach the gospel to all parts of the world (1 Cor 12:7-11; Gal 5:22-23; Acts 1:8). Now is the period of the downpour of the latter rain. Those who believe and pray shall be filled by the Holy Spirit. For our own salvation and for the fulfilment of the great commission entrusted to us by the Lord, we must pray for the infilling of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:23; Zech 10:1; Acts 1:4-5; 5:32; Lk 11:5-13).

4. Signs will accompany those who believe:Signs are clear indications of the abidance of God. Apart from the Holy Spirit that moves one to speak the new tongue, signs are manifested in other ways like healing the sick, casting out demons, resurrecting the dead, and performing other mighty works. Other recorded signs include picking up serpents with one’s hands (Acts 28:3-6), and being unharmed after one has drunk poison (accidentally). The hearts of men are hardened, so it will not be easy for them to believe without miracles. When the Lord was ministering on earth, He also met with such hard-hearted people (Jn 4:48). The main purpose of believing the Lord is not physical health, but personal experiences in miracles can help people know the Saviour better, and help them believe in His words (Rom 15:18; Acts 5:12-16). The words preached will be more convincing through the manifestations of miracles (Mk 16:20; Acts 14:3; Heb 2:3-4). So, in order to preach the gospel, let us pray for the accompaniment of signs (Acts 4:29-30). However, we should never forget to give all glory and praise to the Lord Jesus, as all mighty power comes from God and not from ourselves (Acts 3:12; 14:11-15; Mt 7:22-23; Lk 10:20).

5. The Lord was taken up into heaven:After the Lord had spoken to the disciples, He was taken up into heaven where He sat at the right hand of God. This is His glorious return. But the Lord promised

154

Book of Mark

His disciples saying, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also” (Jn 14:3). Therefore, we must rely on the mighty power of the Lord, putting in extra effort to preach the gospel to all parts of the world, and establishing the glorious church, just as the bride adorns for her husband to receive the Saviour on His second coming, and to enter the glorious Kingdom of Heaven to be with the Lord forever, Amen! (Mt 24:14; Eph 5:26-27; Rev 21:2; 19:7-8; 22:20).

155

Book of Mark

Chronological Record of the Event of the Lord’s Suffering Time Event

About 1:00 a.m. The Lord prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mt 26:36-46). Jesus was arrested (Jn 18:1-11). He was brought before Annas (Jn 18:12-13).

About 2:00 a.m. He was tried before Annas (Jn 18:13-24).

About 3:00 a.m. He was tried before Caiaphas, the high priest (Mk 14:53-65)

About 4:00 a.m.

He was condemned to death by the council (Mk 15:1; Mt 27:1; Lk 22:66-71). He was tried before Pilate for the first time (Lk 23:1-3; Jn 18:28-38)

About 5:00 a.m.

He was tried before Herod (Lk 23:4-12). He was brought before Pilate for the second time to be tried (Lk 23:13-25); He was scourged (Mt 27:26), He was mocked at by the soldiers (Mt 27:27-30; Jn 19:1-3).

After 6:00 a.m. He was condemned by Pilate (Jn 19:4-16).

About 9:00 a.m. He was crucified (Mk 15:21-27).

Noon The Lord entrusted His mother into the care of John (Jn 19:25-27).

Noon to 3:00 p.m.There was darkness all over the earth (Mt 27:45; Mk 15:33; Lk 23:44).

3:00 p.m. The Lord bowed His head and gave up His spirit (Jn 19:30).

156

Book of Mark

Chart of Crucifixion and Resurrection of the Lord

Month of Nissan 14th Day 15th Day 16th Day 17th Day(Based on the Synoptic Gospels)Jewish Calendar –Sunset to Sunset

The Passover Feast Jesus partook in the Passover Feast

The Lord was crucified

Day of Holy Convocation and Day of Preparation

The Lord was buried

Sabbath Day, the Seventh Day

The Lord resurrected

(Based on the Gospel of John)Jewish Calendar –Sunset to Sunset

The Lord partook of the supper

The Lord was crucified

Preparation Day for the Feast of Passover

The Lord was buried

Sabbath Day, the Seventh Day

The Lord resurrected

Ordinary Calendar – Midnight to Midnight Thursday

Friday(1st day of the Feast of

Unleavened Bread)Saturday Sunday

Note: The Jews also refer to the 15th day as the 1st day of the Feast of Passover.

157

part i period of preparation (1:1-20)members.tjc.org/sites/en/sg/training department docume… ·...

Documents