Though Mark does not quote the Old Testament as much as the other gospel writers, he begins with a combination (testimonium) of three Old Testament quotations which foretell of a messenger sent by the LORD — who will prepare the way of the LORD. This person will be calling out in the wilderness in order to roll out the red carpet for God Himself — who will save and reign over His people as King.
As one reads Mark, one comes across many people who struggle with the identity of Jesus — the Christ (Messiah), the Son of God. Yet, from the first line, readers know exactly who Jesus is…
Paul frees a slave girl from spiritual bondage only to be thrown into physical bondage. Ironically, this leads to his jailer being set free from his spiritual bondage. Spreading the Gospel can lead to persecution and suffering. Yet, suffering can lead to salvation.
In this angelic rescue, Peter is passive; God is active. Echoing language and themes of Passover, the account emphasizes human recognition of divine rescue. Being a witness for Christ may result in persecution and even death. But God is able to preserve us for His purpose – if He so chooses — Just as He did at the First Passover. Let’s not be surprised if/when He does
If we prepare so much for weddings in this age, how much more should we prepare for the Great Wedding Banquet of Christ and His Bride (the Church) after the LORD consummates His everlasting, end-time reign? Let us prepare ourselves as God prepares us for our Big Day.
As the old saying goes, “looks can be deceiving.” It may seem that many of those living contrary to God’s will have prosperity, happiness, etc. Yet, in the end, living in such a way leads to self-destruction (cf. Psalm 1). Believing in God is not “blind faith,” it is trusting without complete (in)sight. It is trusting that, regardless of what seems right in our minds, the One who gave us life ultimately knows what is best for our lives.
As the ol’ Gospel song goes, “This joy I have the world didn’t give it to me… The world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away.” The foundation of Christian joy is salvation through Christ. Because of our past, present, and future (i.e., final) salvation, our present circumstances do not ultimately deter joy — indescribable joy.
Just as an earthly father lovingly disciplines his child in order to train his child to do what is right, so our Heavenly Father lovingly disciplines His children in order to train us to do what is right(eous). Hardship is not proof of the absence of God’s love…
All that glitters ain’t gold. Things are not always as they seem. When reading the account of Abram and Lot, we find an example of how self-interest can lead to fleeting fool’s gold, while godly selflessness can lead to everlasting abundance.
In this familiar passage, the foretold Anointed Messiah-Servant-King announces the Good News of the inauguration of a New Age — the just and righteous reign of God.
Jesus reads these very words at the inauguration of His ministry, identifying Himself as the the Anointed One who will usher in the Kingdom of God.
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