Tag: Jesus

Bible Studies

“The Rich Young Ruler” The Gospel of Jesus Christ: the book of Mark 

Loring Schultz

Read: Mark 10:13-31 NLT – Jesus Blesses the Children – One day – Bible Gateway

“Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. ‘There is still one thing you haven’t done,’ he told him. ‘Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’” Mark 10:21 NLT

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Jesus has been making His way to Jerusalem traveling through Judea and the east side of the Jordan River. After another session with the questioning Pharisees, some parents were bringing their children to Jesus so He could touch them and bless them. Jewish parents would bring their children to prominent Rabbis for blessing. Jesus was certainly the most known Rabbi in Israel and many children were brought to Him. The disciples thinking Jesus’ time was too valuable to be given to little children scolded the parents, but Jesus scolded the disciples. “He said to them, ‘Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children.’” (Mk.10:14 nlt)

Jesus never wastes an opportunity to teach His disciples. The disciples thought Jesus would be wasting His time with the children, but Jesus proves no time spent with Him is ever wasted. The little children serve as an illustration of coming to Jesus for salvation. Children have nothing to bring but everything to receive from Jesus. Sinners have nothing to bring and offer for salvation, only to receive His free gift of it by accepting Him. Jesus did it all. “Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.” (Mk.10:16 nlt)

Jesus continues on His journey to Jerusalem and is met by a man who kneels before Him and asks, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mk.10:17 nlt) This man is known as the rich young ruler. Mark does not identify him as such, but gospel writers Matthew and Luke note he was  rich, young, and a ruler in the synagogue. The man was seeking a religious deed or a sacrifice of some kind to ensure him entry into heaven and eternal life. He was accustomed to religious deeds in pleasing God and reasoned there must be one for eternal life. Many people in the 21st century still process their thinking of eternal life with this rich young ruler as something that we must do to achieve it. But Jesus said while holding the little children in His arms, “I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” (Mk.10:15 nlt) Salvation is not merit-based. It is the free gift of God.

The rich man is asked by Jesus, “Why do you call me good? Only God is truly good.” (Mk.10:18 nlt) Jesus was not retreating from His deity but was encouraging the man to recognize Him as the Messiah if he was leaning that way. Jesus wanted him to understand that his only hope for eternal life was in God and not in himself. He went on to say, “But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’” (Mk.10:19 nlt) The rich young ruler claimed he has done all of that. Jesus doesn’t challenge him for He had compassion and love for him. He knew the man was sincere but wrong in his thinking. Jesus sums it up by saying, ‘“There is still one thing you haven’t done,’ he told him. ‘Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’” (Mk.10:21 nlt)

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The man had a major obstacle in his way, his love for his riches. The Bible said the man’s face fell and he went away sad. He couldn’t part with his possessions. They were more valuable to him than eternal life. What obstacles might you have stopping you from accepting the gospel message. Jesus didn’t say his money or possessions were evil, but that he loved them more than anything else, even at the risk of losing eternal life. What do you love more than anything else that is preventing you from accepting Jesus? Jesus exposed the man’s heart. It was too high a price to pay for this rich young ruler, even though Jesus told him there will be guaranteed treasures in heaven.

Jesus amazed His disciples when He told them how hard it is for the rich to enter into the kingdom of God. He did not say a rich person couldn’t enter, but it would be difficult. Jesus then made this statement, “In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” (Mk.10:25 nlt) Riches are a temptation one would rely on in place of God. John MacAthur notes, “Riches breed self-sufficiency and a false sense of security.” The disciples, of course, ask who then could be saved. Jesus answered humanly speaking it is impossible, but nothing is impossible with God. Salvation is totally a work of God. It is by God’s amazing saving grace by faith we put in Christ. Outside of God’s grace, no one can be saved. The rich young ruler asked what he must do to inherit eternal life. He had it all wrong as many others have through the centuries up to our current day. There is nothing we can do, but to forsake all, accept Christ as our savior through His grace and follow Him.

Peter, the spokesman for the group, asked Jesus, “We’ve given up everything to follow you,” (Mk.10:28 nlt) Peter pointed out that they had done what Jesus told the rich young ruler to do. Jesus replied that there are rewards in this life for following Him and eternal rewards in the kingdom. But Jesus also pointed out that following Him will also bring persecution. Jesus ended this conversation with His disciples by saying, “But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.” (Mk.10:31 nlt) This is a warning against pride in this life. All believers will be equally important serving our Lord Jesus in the kingdom.

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Next week we will look at the final leg of Jesus’ journey before His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Jesus teaches His disciples along the way and heals a blind man……..until next week.

Devotionals

God’s Promise of Eternal Life  

Loring Schultz

“This is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life.” 1 John 2:25 NASB

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Do you know the number of promises God has given to us in the Bible? I did not. To me they are countless, but there is an actual number. Whether any human being could count them all and be accurate I’m not sure, but what I do know is that God knows the exact number for they are His promises. Many Biblical scholars put the number at 7,487 promises of God found in Scripture. So, I’ll go with that. God is not a God that He should lie. When God makes a promise, He sees it through. The responsibility now falls on us, do we believe His promises?

Of all the promises God has made, perhaps the greatest is His promise of eternal life. “This is the promise which He Himself made to us: eternal life…..And the testimony is this, that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” (1Jn.2:25, 5:11 nasb) If you believe there is a God, then you should believe He is not a deceiver and would not lie. What He promises will come about, because He Himself is God. He has promised those who believe in His Son, Jesus Christ, will have eternal life.

The only sure thing we can count on in this world is the promises of God as recorded in Scripture. As noted, there are many to read about in His Word and be encouraged, but we need to take first things first. The first promise of God for us to learn is His love for us and His salvation plan through Jesus Christ that guarantees us eternal life. Every one of His promises is true but let us start with the most important one. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (Jn.3:16 nasb)

Bible Studies

“What God Has Joined Together” The Gospel of Jesus Christ: the book of Mark

Loring Schultz

Read: Mark 10:1-12 NLT – Discussion about Divorce and Marriage – Bible Gateway

“But God made them male and female from the beginning of creation. This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. Since they are no longer two but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together.” Mark 10:6-9 NLT

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We are halfway through this year, 2025, and a little more than halfway through our study in the book of Mark, the gospel of Jesus Christ. Going through an entire book forces you to cover every topic within its pages. Some are controversial and subject to debate, especially among Christians, but to skip over these topics would be noticeable and negligent in not presenting all of God’s Word for it is for our benefit. This week we have such a topic, ‘divorce.’ When reading and studying the Bible it is vital to know who the author is. God, the Holy Spirit spoke His Word through men to be recorded for us to know Him, His message of salvation, and how to live our lives. There are many passages in the Bible that are hard to deal with, but they are God’s Words for us live by. As we unpack these difficult passages a clearer understanding will develop with the Spirit’s help. He will guide us into truth and a deeper understanding of God’s love for us. We have learned much over the last six months listening to Jesus teach His disciples in various subjects. Now we will hear Jesus’ teaching on divorce, His Words on the subject.

I realize there are many who are reading this who have gone through the tragedy and heartbreak of a divorce. Living in a broken world, the effects of sin touch each of lives in different ways. Those who know the Lord as savior will find comfort in the God of all Comfort. “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort.” (2Cor.1:3 esv) Be assured God is a merciful, loving God who comforts us in our time of need. Whatever your circumstances, the Lord God has not abandoned you. He is right there, the God of all comfort, especially in a divorce.

We begin with a familiar scene. Jesus is once again surrounded by a crowd of people who have gathered to hear Him teach. And once again, the Pharisees show up with another attempt to discredit Jesus. They ask Jesus a question in hopes of turning the crowd against Him making it easier to accuse Him later in their attempts to have Jesus put to death. They asked Him, “Should a man be allowed to divorce his wife?” (Mk.10:2 nlt) It was the divorce of Herod and his remarriage to Herodias John the Baptist spoke against that put him in jail and eventually lose his life. Jesus was in Herod’s ruling district, so this was a perfect set up to catch Jesus saying a word against an unlawful divorce. The Pharisees would then interject Herod’s name as an example. But, as always, Jesus was not going to play their games.

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Jesus answered them by asking them a question.  “What did Moses say in the law about divorce?” (Mk.10:3 nlt) Jesus’ ground rules were, what does Scripture say? They replied Moses permitted it. A man was allowed to write a certificate of divorce and send his wife away. What the Pharisees failed to include in their answer were the conditions of Moses’ permission. The Old Testament reference for permission of divorce is found in Deuteronomy 24:1-4. It is important to remember, the Mosaic Law did not command but permitted divorce, and the Pharisees knew this. Divorce was a reality, and permission was granted to protect the wife’s reputation, along with securing women’s rights, and to regulate remarriage. A man had to affirm the reason for the divorce. This would free the wife of suspected wrongdoing or immorality if that was not the case. She would then be free to remarry being released from her husband. There were two schools of thought among the Pharisees concerning divorce in Jesus’ day. The liberal wing, those who followed Hillel, favored that a man could divorce his wife for any reason. Shammai said only adultery was sufficient grounds for a divorce. Now we listen to what Jesus has to say.

“But Jesus responded, ‘He (Moses) wrote this commandment only as a concession to your hard hearts. But God made them male and female from the beginning of creation. This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one. Since they are no longer two but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together.’” (Mk.10:5-9 nlt)

Jesus doesn’t answer according to tradition or to the current culture of His days. He answers through the Word of God explaining God’s intentions from the beginning. Jesus first calls out their hard hearts. Moses’ words weren’t a command but a concession because of their spiritual condition. It was never part of God’s original plan to consider divorce. Jesus goes back to the Old Testament book of Genesis and God’s creation order. (In the beginning male and female, distinctive beings, the man and the woman leave their families, are married, and now are one in the eyes of God.) What God has joined together let no one split apart. This is God’s creation order to be maintained. When followed, a lot of trouble and heartache are avoided.

Later, the disciples brought up the subject again as they usually do when they were alone with Him. Jesus answered, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery against her. And if a woman divorces her husband and marries someone else, she commits adultery.” (Mk.10:11-12 nlt) During this time, the Jewish practice of divorce was initiated and settled by the husband, not a court. His written letter of divorce did not release him from God’s law of marriage. So, they were still married, and adultery would ensue for both parties after the fact.

Jesus did note an exception for divorce. Mark did not record it in his book; however, Matthew does in his gospel by quoting Jesus. “I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.” (Mt.19:9 niv) The apostle Paul also notes an exception in writing to the church in Corinth. “(But if the husband or wife who isn’t a believer insists on leaving, let them go. In such cases the Christian husband or wife is no longer bound to the other, for God has called you to live in peace.)” (1Cor.7:15 nlt)

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Divorce is a hard subject to address, even more so for one has gone through it. The Lord God has given us His life principles to live by in this sinful world. We don’t always follow His instructions and at times fall into a bad situation. But our God is an all-forgiving God bestowing mercy and grace to all who come to Him in their time of need. Remember He is the God of all comfort who will see you through whatever your circumstances you are in when you surrender to Him, even in a divorce.

Devotionals

Our Message of Unity

Loring Schultz

“I am in them and you are in me. May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as much as you love me.” John 17:23 NLT

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Have you ever given thought that Jesus has prayed for you? Jesus had a specific petition for all future Christians who would make up His church. Near the end of His “high priestly prayer” recorded in John’s gospel chapter 17, Jesus made His requests known soon before He was to go to the cross. He prayed that we would be with Him in eternity and see His Glory, but His specific request was that we all be one in complete unity. Imagine as Jesus was about to be crucified, His concern for us was for there to be unity. So how are we doing?

Before we answer, perhaps it would good for us to know why Jesus made this request. Jesus reasoned, ‘that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them.’ You made have heard the statement; ‘The only Christ the world will see, is the Christ they see in me.’ That is very true, and Jesus confirms it later in His prayer as He says, ‘O righteous Father, the world doesn’t know you.’ (Jn.17:25 nlt) Indeed, most of the world does not know God. Many have heard of God and have somewhat of a knowledge of Him, but they do not know the true God and Jesus Christ His Son.

As the world looks at the church and individual Christians today, do they see unity? Do they see the love of Christ between us? Are we in a unifying fashion convincing the world that Jesus is God’s Son sent to save us from eternal damnation? Does the world see their spiritual need by observing authentic Christianity in unity, or is it muddled by in-fighting, pride, and disagreements in doctrine not essential to Salvation? There are legitimate differences of opinion in the teaching of scripture in churches today, but they should not be at the expense of alienating those outside of Christ from hearing the message of the Gospel. So how are we doing in displaying our message of unity?

Bible Studies

“True Discipleship” The Gospel of Jesus Christ: the book of Mark 

Loring Schultz

Read: Mark 9:38-50 NLT – Using the Name of Jesus – John said to – Bible Gateway

“If anyone gives you even a cup of water because you belong to the Messiah, I tell you the truth, that person will surely be rewarded.” Mark 9:41 NLT

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Last week in Biblical Insights, Jesus’ disciples were arguing among themselves who will be the greatest in the kingdom. To that Jesus taught them true greatness was with the one who serves. This week Jesus has another lesson to teach His followers, what is ‘true discipleship?’

“John said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, we saw someone using your name to cast out demons, but we told him to stop because he wasn’t in our group.’” (Mk.9:38 nlt) The disciples took it upon themselves to stop the man performing these exorcisms. The man, obviously, wasn’t a fraud or he wouldn’t be able to cast out demons in Jesus’ name. He must have been a believer in Jesus, but the disciples only saw that he wasn’t one of them. Their selfish ambition took over and perhaps some jealousy as they previously failed to cast out a demon. Jesus told them not to stop him. He didn’t care about the details but pointed out that one who was for Him would not be against Him. Once anyone performed a miracle in Jesus’ name they would not speak ill of Him. There’s no middle ground when it comes to Jesus.

The disciples’ reaction to the outsider is all too common within the church today and among certain Christians. Those outside our circle are often looked at as inferior or not as spiritual as us. The disciples thought they had an inside track to Jesus, which they had in their calling, but Jesus’ view of discipleship was more inclusive than His disciples realized. The church today needs to realize just how inclusive God’s kingdom is. But a word of caution in today’s language of ‘inclusive’, ‘inclusion’ ‘all accepting’ etc.. Jesus is the head of His church, and His Word, the Bible is the authority for all we do and how we conduct ourselves. Paul’s charge to the young Pastor Timothy was, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” (2Tim.3:16-17 nlt) The church must continue to abide by Biblical standards. We can do both, be inclusive and maintain Godly principles at the same time. That’s what we have to do. Let’s do it!

Jesus states there is no deed done in Jesus’ name that goes unnoticed. “If anyone gives you even a cup of water because you belong to the Messiah, I tell you the truth, that person will surely be rewarded.” (Mk.9:41 nlt) No service done for Christ is unimportant. Those who do them are in Jesus’ circle as all who do great things for Hs name. They are the examples of ‘true discipleship.’

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A warning is given by Jesus to those who cause a new Christian to stumble. Criticism of a new convert in their understanding and methods may cause them to turn away from Christ. The disciples trying to stop the man casting out demons could have him questioning Jesus later on. Enticing or leading a new believer into sin and/or doing the same to a child will bring about serious judgement from God. Jesus says, “it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.” (Mk.9:42 nlt) Some need to be careful not to lead in this way by example with no intention of harm. Concerning young people, there’s an old saying, ‘more is caught than taught.’ We all lead by example.

Jesus now uses hyperbole to make a point. Drastic measures need to be taken to eradicate sin from our lives. The most drastic step we can take is to come face to face with our sin, acknowledge it, see for what it is, what it is doing to us, and face reality. Jesus uses the examples of cutting off your hand, or foot, and gouge out an eye if any of these are causing you to sin. He says it is better to enter into eternity lame than to be cast whole into hell, “where the maggots never die and the fire never goes out.” (Mk.9:48 nlt) The Wycliffe Bible Commentary notes, “The seat of sin is the soul not any organ of the physical body.” All are born with a sin nature, we can’t dismiss that, nor can we change our nature, but the Holy Spirit can when we put our faith in Christ for salvation. We take on a new nature. “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2Cor.5:17 nlt)

As we close this week it’s important we notice Jesus’ reference to hell. We don’t hear a lot about hell in our churches these days. Some people even doubt Jesus’ references to it. When doubting they need to omit, change, symbolize, or ignore Jesus’ sayings. In todays reading, The Greek word that is used for ‘hell’ is ‘geenna’ It is of Hebrew origin meaning “lamentation” from the Hebrew word ‘hinnōm’. There was a Valley of Hinnom southwest of Jerusalem. This area was very familiar to the Jewish people. It was once the place of worship to the god Moloch. Later, in Jesus’ day it was the city dump with fires burning continually. Worms or maggots were always present as Jesus said, ‘where the maggots never die and the fire never goes out. For everyone will be tested with fire” (Mk.9:48-49 nlt) Jewish thought was the Valley of Hinnom was a symbol of eternal punishment. They knew what Jesus was saying.

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Last, back to ‘true discipleship’ as we close. Jesus uses His analogy of salt once again from His Sermon on the Mount. This time He says, “Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? You must have the qualities of salt among yourselves and live in peace with each other.” (Mk.9:50 nlt) True Discipleship can be recognized by being the salt of the earth. Total commitment to Christ, the gospel, living in agreement with our brothers and sisters in the faith, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ is true discipleship.

A Christian Perspective

A Message to the Christian Church

Loring Schultz

Read: Revelation 2:18-29 NLT – The Message to the Church in Thyatira – Bible Gateway

“Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.” 1 John 4:1 NLT

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Our news feed has on-going stories about the corruption in the world. Corruption, defined as “evil, depraved, taking bribes, extortion, racketeering, etc.” is making the headlines revealing those involved in the corruption and those who are pursuing to end it. Corruption can be found in all walks of life, in business and industry, in governments, in professional sports, in colleges and universities, in medical institutions, in personal relationships, and yes even in the church.

The church in Thyatira is an example of some churches in our day. Jesus’ letter to this church can very well be written today to those who are following the same path as the Thyatira church. False teaching, as in Pergamum, the compromising church, is again being accepted. But unlike the Pergamum church where the faithful were still the majority, the faithful in Thyatira were small in number. Jesus says, “But I have this complaint against you. You are permitting that woman—that Jezebel who calls herself a prophet—to lead my servants astray. She teaches them to commit sexual sin and to eat food offered to idols.” (Rev.2:20 nlt)

Jezebel, probably not her real name, but a Jezebel type as in the Old Testament, was used by Satan to corrupt the church. A false prophetess, who was permitted to teach by spreading the lies of Satan, was corrupting the church of God. Many were led into sin buying into this persuasive and attractive teaching. Many members of churches today are also buying into and following teaching that is contrary to the Word of God, corrupting Christ’s church.

Wherever we attend church, let us follow the apostle John’s teaching to “not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.” (1Jn.4:1 nlt)

Devotionals

Victory

Loring Schultz

“But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15:57 NLT

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Over the past several days champions were crowned in various sports in the United States. Two had the opportunity to share that honor on the same day. The Oklahoma Thunder won the NBA championship over the Indiana Pacers in a seven-game series. The Baseball College World Series had their 2025 champion, LSU, celebrating their victory over Coastal Carolina in a series sweep. Five days earlier the Florida Panthers won their second Stanley Cup in a row beating the Edmonton Oilers in six games. And if you’re a diehard football fan the UFL spring league held its championship game two weeks ago with the D.C. Defenders outscoring the Michigan Panthers 58-34. All these teams will cherish and savor the victory for years to come. They will remember the struggles, the teamwork, the individual achievements, but most of all they will know the championship is theirs through their victory.

The apostle Paul tells us about another victory we can all have with no effort of our own. In fact, this victory requires no work at all. No heavy lifting, training, running sprints, or studying a playbook is involved. Paul states we can have victory over our sin and death through Jesus Christ. None of us can atone for our sin. There is nothing we can do to eradicate our guilt no matter how many good deeds we do, how many stars we get, or how much money we give to charities or the church. It is only through what Christ has done for us on the cross of Calvary by paying the penalty for sins through His death. We are guaranteed eternal life through His resurrection from the grave three days later. Victory! Yes, but it is only by faith in Jesus Christ, confessing and repenting of our sins, and trusting Him for salvation that He gives us the victory.

Don’t feel you need to play a part in achieving this victory. There’s nothing you can do; Jesus did it all. Consider you’re a bench player who never plays for a minute all year, or you’re on the sidelines due to injury. You still got that championship ring. There was nothing you could do. Championships are nice, but victory over sin and death is much better. Make sure you get your ring.

Bible Studies

“Who is the Greatest?” The Gospel of Jesus Christ: the book of Mark

Loring Schultz

Read: Mark 9:30-37 NLT – Jesus Again Predicts His Death – Bible Gateway

“Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.” Mark 9:35 NLT

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In the sports world, ‘who is the Greatest” is debated over social media and between sports commentators and pundits. Each sport has its own debate as ‘who is the Greatest in their sport and the conversation expands to who is the greatest sport athlete of all time. We refer to that individual as the G.O.A.T. (the Greatest of All Time) Although each sport will also have its own G.O.A.T.. The world has its own categories of ‘who is the Greatest’ among presidents, political leaders, war heroes, entrepreneurs, risks takers, inventors, musicians, entertainers, the list goes on. The world debates ‘who is the Greatest and many in the world desire to be the greatest in their field of expertise. Jesus has some thoughts on who is the Greatest in this week’s look into the gospel of Mark in our Biblical Insights.

Jesus is leaving the Caesarea Philippi region for the last time and heading to Jerusalem where in a few months He will suffer and be put to death on a cross. Traveling with His disciples, His ministry in the Galilean region is now over. Jesus makes a planned stop in Carpernaum His home base during His three years of ministry, also for the last time. The ministry to the people may be completed, but Jesus’ ministry in teaching His disciples is continuing and with greater emphasis for His time is short. Jesus wanted to prepare the disciples for the soon-to-be events, but so far they couldn’t understand what Jesus was referring to when He spoke of His death and resurrection. “(Jesus) wanted to spend more time with his disciples and teach them. He said to them, ‘The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into the hands of his enemies. He will be killed, but three days later he will rise from the dead.’  They didn’t understand what he was saying, however, and they were afraid to ask him what he meant.” (Mk.9:31-32 nlt)

When Jesus and His disciples arrived in Capernaum scripture says they settled into a house. Most likely this was Peter’s and Andrew’s home where Jesus stayed most often. The first thing Jesus did, probably after the door was close, was to asked them a question. “Jesus asked his disciples, ‘What were you discussing out on the road?’” (Mk.9:33 nlt) Jesus didn’t need to ask them, He knew, but it required an answer which they failed to give. The verb ‘asked’ is in the perfect tense suggesting a repeating. It probably wasn’t the first time Jesus asked them, but asked continually on the road, but they stifled their conversation and did not answer. Now they’re alone with Jesus, the door closed and still no response. Why didn’t they answer, “because they had been arguing about which of them was the greatest.” (Mk.9:34 nlt) They were embarrassed being concerned about their own status in Jesus’ kingdom than trying to understand what He was teaching them.

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Before we jump on the disciples with criticism, let’s think this through. While we’re thinking of this let’s think about ourselves and the world we live in. Someone’s rank and status in the Jewish culture of the disciples’ day were important roles to achieve. Rank and status in our culture is just as important to those seeking that high position as it was for the disciples. Whatever we may be seeking if it doesn’t line up with Jesus’ mission for us is a selfish reason for wanting to achieve it. Jesus is about to revolutionize our concept of leadership and greatness through teaching the disciples, which they need as well.

The Bible says Jesus sat down and called His disciples to Himself. Whenever Scripture notes that Jesus ‘sat down’ to teach, it is to stress an official time of teaching. Pay attention and listen, the Rabbi, the teacher, is about to speak, and speak Jesus did. “Whoever wants to be first must take last place and be the servant of everyone else.” (Mk.9:35 nlt) This goes against the grain in our day and I’m sure the disciples questioned this statement. Jesus is not condemning leadership but showing how it is to be exercised. Leaders are always needed in any culture. The disciples had the desire to be first, to be on top. Jesus was reversing that line of thinking. In reality, the disciples’ position in leadership was secure and recognized by Jesus when He called them together. Now they needed to know how to act like leaders.

For that Jesus put a little child in front of them. Since this was Peter’s home, it could very well have been Peter’s child, “Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, ‘Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me but also my Father who sent me.” (Mk.9:36-37 nlt) The willingness to humble oneself and serve a little child by putting them in your arms is the mark of true Greatest. When we act in this way, we are serving Christ and God the Father. This is also an example of all Christians who have come to know the Lord by simple faith and humbling themselves like a trusting little child.  

Who is the Greatest among us? Those who humble themselves at the feet of Jesus accepting Him as their personal savior through faith as a child for forgiveness of sin and assurance of salvation and eternal life. It doesn’t end there, then we follow Jesus’ example when He said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others.” (Mk.10:45 nlt) Who is the Greatest, it is those who serve. It could be you!

Bible Studies

“If I Can?” The Gospel of Jesus Christ: the book of Mark

Loring Schultz

Read: Mark 9:9-29 NLT – As they went back down the mountain, he – Bible Gateway

‘“What do you mean, ‘If I can’?’ Jesus asked. ‘Anything is possible if a person believes.’” Mark 9:23 NLT

Last week on Biblical Insights Peter, James, and John had an incredible experience seeing Jesus transfigured in front of them with Moses and Elijah talking with Him. They couldn’t wait to get back and tell everyone, but wait, they couldn’t. Jesus told them they weren’t to tell anyone what they saw until He was raised from the dead, which raised more questions from the inquisitive three. They were asking each other what Jesus meant by raising from the dead. Their minds couldn’t accept a suffering dying Messiah.

They did, however, ask Jesus a question on the way down from the mountain. “Why do the teachers of religious law insist that Elijah must return before the Messiah comes?” (Mk.9:11 nlt) Perhaps seeing Elijah speaking with Jesus prompted this question. Jesus answered that Elijah would indeed come first to set things in order, and in fact Elijah had already come. Jesus confirms that His cousin John the Baptist is the Elijah figure that would come before the Messiah preaching repentance which he paid a price for. Jesus said, “But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they chose to abuse him, just as the Scriptures predicted.” (Mk.9:13 nlt)

When Jesus, Peter, James, and John returned to the rest of the disciples there was a large crowd that gathered to watch the dispute between the disciples and the religious teachers. “When the crowd saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with awe, and they ran to greet him.” (Mk.9:15 nlt) The arguing between the disciples and the teachers stemmed from the fact the disciples couldn’t cast out a demon from a demon possessed boy. Jesus asked what all the arguing was about. A man spoke out, “Teacher, I brought my son so you could heal him. He is possessed by an evil spirit that won’t let him talk.” (Mk.9:17 nlt) Jesus wasn’t there when the man came so he then asked the disciples to do it, but they were not able to cast out the evil spirit. This led to an argument with the religious teachers who were obviously gloating over the fact the disciples failed.

Jesus’ reaction here may seem uncharacteristic for the Son of God, but it is in the very character of God who condemns our lack of faith. “Jesus said to them, ‘You faithless people! How long must I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy to me.’” (Mk.9:19 nlt) Jesus’ criticism was not only against the father and the disciples but also against the religious teachers and unbelieving people in general.

Photo by Alex Shute on Unsplash

“So they brought the boy. But when the evil spirit saw Jesus, it threw the child into a violent convulsion, and he fell to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth.” (Mk.9:20 nlt) Jesus asked the boy’s father how long this was happening to him. The man replied, “Since he was a little boy. The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can.” (Mk.9:21-22 nlt) We may wonder what is meant being thrown into a fire. Open fires were commonplace in first century Palestine. Throwing the boy into water needs no explanation. Notice the evil nature of this demon. This was a violent evil spirit. A violent convulsion can be explained as if tearing the boy apart. The father asked for mercy by healing his son if He can.

The father’s reply to Jesus sparked a serious question from the Lord. “What do you mean, ‘If I can’? Anything is possible if a person believes.” (Mk.9: 23 nlt) The question was not if He could heal his son, Jesus has proven that many times over. The question is: did the father have faith to believe it. This is a question we all need to ask ourselves on occasion. Do we have faith to believe that the Lord will take care of us through all our circumstances. We may be just like the father who then said to Jesus, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!” (Mk.9:24 nlt) Sometimes we are all like this father, we can’t deal with our own unbelief. It’s OK. Ask Him to help you. Belief and unbelief often get mixed at the same time. Jesus emphasized faith here for those who needed an increase of their faith in Him. It is important to remember Jesus healed many people who had shown little or no faith in Him at all. Our healing has nothing to do with our faith, but our faith in God who is able to heal us according to His will.

Jesus rebuked the demon and commanded it to come out of the boy. “Then the spirit screamed and threw the boy into another violent convulsion and left him.” (Mk. 9:26 nlt) Jesus’ power forced the demon to cry out. It knew of His spiritual power against demons in the supernatural world, and it left the scene.

Later that day, the disciples asked Jesus why they couldn’t cast out the evil spirit. Jesus’ reply was, “This kind can be cast out only by prayer.” (Mk.9:29 nlt) Two notable points are here. The first is there are demons and evil spirits that are more violent and dangerous than others. The second and more important one is the disciples’ lack of prayer. It is amazing to think the disciples could not cast out that demon when Jesus gave the power to do so. They failed to remember their power came from Jesus and not from within themselves. The Wycliffe Bible Commentary sums it up this way for the disciples and us, “Unbelief and prayerlessness are sure to result in spiritual impotency.” May we never hear the Lord say to us, ‘If I Can?’

Devotionals

Look for Jesus in the Old Testament

Loring Schultz

Read: Isaiah 53 NIV – Who has believed our message and to – Bible Gateway

“But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5 NIV

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash
 

It has always amazed me how some people, even Christians, dismissed the Old Testament as having no relevance for today. The New Testament has all the ‘Red Letter’ words of Jesus’ teaching the way of salvation and how to love God and others as yourself. The Pauline Epistles teach us how to walk in the spirit, live the Christian life, and the importance of the church body. And who isn’t fascinated with the end times in the book of Revelation if we can understand it. But there is all of that and more in the Old Testament if we only take the time to go through it.

The most important aspect of the Old Testament, in fact the entire Bible, is that it is about Jesus Christ. When keeping that in mind you’ll begin to find new meaning in the stories you have heard and read as far back as when you were child. Simply put; God created the heavens and the earth, He created us, we sinned against Him, we needed a savior to take our punishment and reconcile us back to God, the Old Testament paves the way for the Messiah born in Bethlehem and there are even prophesies of the end times. It’s all in there.

Isaiah 53 speaks of Jesus’ suffering sacrifice by dying for our sins. This chapter accurately describes the events of Jesus’ death written 700 years earlier. “He was despised and rejected by mankind……Like one from whom people hide their faces he was despised……Surely he took up our pain and bore our suffering……But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities……He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open his mouth; he was led like a lamb to the slaughter……He was assigned a grave with the wicked, though he had done no violence, nor was any deceit in his mouth……For he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.” (Is.53 niv)

It’s kind of hard to deny that Isaiah was prophesying about Jesus Christ. It’s not a coincidence, but a factual truth found in the New Testament gospels. Jesus is found all throughout the Old Testament for He is God the Son, the second person of the trinity. The Old Testament proves who Jesus is and what He has done as any portion of Scripture from the New Testament. You can look for Jesus in the Old Testament. He’s there!