A Study through the Gospel of Mark Part 3 of 3 - Grace Church

Creed

A Study through the Gospel of Mark

Part 3 of 3

by Jay Klopfenstein, Grace Church, Granger, IN

Artwork by Dayna Novak

Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News

Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.”

Part 3: Chapters 11-16

49. Jesus the Coming King Part 1: The Triumphal Entry (11:1-11)

50. Jesus the Coming King Part 2: A Fig Tree and the Temple (11:12-19)

51. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 1: The Fig Tree (11:20-26)

52. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 2: Jesus’ Authority (11:27-33)

53. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 3: The Parable of the Tenants (12:1-12)

54. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 4: Our Obligation to Human Authority (12:13-17)

55. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 5: Back to the Bible (12:18-27)

56. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 6: The Great Commandment: What We Should All Be About (12:28-37)

57. Jesus Teaches in the Temple Part 7: Beware of the Masquerade (12:38-44)

58. Jesus Teaches Future Things Part 1: The Truth about the Future (13:1-13)

59. Jesus Teaches Future Things Part 2: You Must Be Able to Recognize Counterfeits (13:14-23)

60. Jesus Teaches Future Things Part 3: I Will Be Back! (13:24-31)

61. Jesus Teaches Future Things Part 4: Predicting Times and Dates (13:32-37)

Creed - Gospel of Mark Study: Pastor Jay Klopfenstein 2

62. Jesus Prepares for His Destiny Part 1: Priority Check (14:1-9)

63. Jesus Prepares for His Destiny Part 2: Celebration and Betrayal (14:10-21)

64. Jesus Prepares for His Destiny Part 3: The Lord’s Supper (14:22-25)

65. Jesus Prepares for His Destiny Part 4: A Painful Accusation (14:26-31)

66. Jesus Prepares for His Destiny Part 5: Prayer (14:32-42)

67. Jesus Embraces His Destiny Part 1: Betrayal, Arrest, and a Profound Event (14:43-52)

68. Jesus Embraces His Destiny Part 2: God on Trial (14:53-65)

69. Jesus Embraces His Destiny Part 3: The Weight of Discipleship (14:66-72)

70. Jesus Embraces His Destiny Part 4: Exchanging a Savior (15:1-15)

71. Jesus Embraces His Destiny Part 5: Mocking God (15:16-20)

72. Jesus the Victor! Part 1: The Greatest Irony in History (15:21-32)

73. Jesus the Victor! Part 2: Words of Victory (15:33-41)

74. Jesus the Victor! Part 3: Real Life Comes from Real Death (15:42-47)

75. Jesus the Victor! Part 4: Are You Seeking the Victor? (16:1-8)


For further study and reading....

Commentaries / Study

The Expositor’s Bible CommentaryFrank E. Gaebelein editor, Zondervan / 1984

Mark, NIV Application CommentaryDavid E. Garland

Matthew-Mark, revisedTremper Longman III, David E. GarlandZondervan / 2005 / Hardcover

Bibles

ESV Children's Bible (illustrated hardcover)Crossway Books & Bibles

ESV Illustrated Family BibleCrossway Books & Bibles / 2008

ESV Study Bible, HardcoverCrossway Books & Bibles / 2008

Other

The Gospel According to JesusJohn MacArthur, Zondervan / 2011 / Trade Paperback

King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of JesusTimothy Keller, Penguin Putnam Inc. / 2011 / Hardcover

Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless GodFrancis Chan, David C. Cook / 2008 / Trade Paperback

Seeing and Savoring Jesus ChristJohn Piper, Crossway Books & Bibles / 2004 / Trade Paperback


http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=John%20MacArthur&detailed_search=1&action=Search


http://www.christianbook.com/mark-niv-application-commentary/david-garland/9780310493501/pd/49350?item_code=WW&netp_id=108121&event=HPT&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/mark-niv-application-commentary/david-garland/9780310493501/pd/49350?item_code=WW&netp_id=108121&event=HPT&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=David%20E.%20Garland&detailed_search=1&action=Search


http://www.christianbook.com/matthew-mark-revised-tremper-longman/9780310268925/pd/68923?item_code=WW&netp_id=379451&event=HPT&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/matthew-mark-revised-tremper-longman/9780310268925/pd/68923?item_code=WW&netp_id=379451&event=HPT&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=Tremper%20Longman%20III&detailed_search=1&action=Search

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=Tremper%20Longman%20III&detailed_search=1&action=Search



http://www.christianbook.com/esv-childrens-bible/9781581348927/pd/348927?item_code=WW&netp_id=508785&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/esv-childrens-bible/9781581348927/pd/348927?item_code=WW&netp_id=508785&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/esv-illustrated-family-bible/9781433502255/pd/502255?item_code=WW&netp_id=527626&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/esv-illustrated-family-bible/9781433502255/pd/502255?item_code=WW&netp_id=527626&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/esv-study-bible-hardcover/9781433502415/pd/502415?item_code=WW&netp_id=524958&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/esv-study-bible-hardcover/9781433502415/pd/502415?item_code=WW&netp_id=524958&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/the-gospel-according-to-jesus/john-macarthur/9780310618317/pd/61831X?item_code=WW&netp_id=830200&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/the-gospel-according-to-jesus/john-macarthur/9780310618317/pd/61831X?item_code=WW&netp_id=830200&event=ESRCN&view=details



http://www.christianbook.com/kings-cross-story-world-life-jesus/timothy-keller/9780525952107/pd/952100?item_code=WW&netp_id=841479&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/kings-cross-story-world-life-jesus/timothy-keller/9780525952107/pd/952100?item_code=WW&netp_id=841479&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=Timothy%20Keller&detailed_search=1&action=Search

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=Timothy%20Keller&detailed_search=1&action=Search

http://www.christianbook.com/crazy-love-overwhelmed-by-relentless-god/francis-chan/9781434768513/pd/768513?item_code=WW&netp_id=512962&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/crazy-love-overwhelmed-by-relentless-god/francis-chan/9781434768513/pd/768513?item_code=WW&netp_id=512962&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=Francis%20Chan&detailed_search=1&action=Search

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=Francis%20Chan&detailed_search=1&action=Search

http://www.christianbook.com/seeing-and-savoring-jesus-christ/john-piper/9781581346237/pd/46239?item_code=WW&netp_id=348418&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/seeing-and-savoring-jesus-christ/john-piper/9781581346237/pd/46239?item_code=WW&netp_id=348418&event=ESRCN&view=details

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=John%20Piper&detailed_search=1&action=Search

http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/search?author=John%20Piper&detailed_search=1&action=Search

Now when they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples

2and said to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately as you enter it you will find a colt tied, on which

no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it. 3If anyone says to you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord has need of it and will

send it back here immediately.’” 4And they went away and found a colt tied at a door outside in the street, and they untied it.

5And some of those standing there said to them, “What are you doing, untying the colt?” 6And they told them what Jesus had said,

and they let them go. 7And they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks on it, and he sat on it. 8And many spread their cloaks on the road, and others spread leafy branches that they had cut from the fields. 9And those who went before and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! 10Blessed is the coming kingdom of our

father David! Hosanna in the highest!”11And he entered Jerusalem and went into the temple. And when he had looked

around at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the twelve.


I. Jesus Fulfills Prophecy (1-3)

II. Jesus Uses Our Resources to Fulfill Missions (5-6)

III. People Make Declarations about Jesus (7-9)

IV. Jesus Determines the Legitimacy of the Declarations (11)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd those who went before and those who followed were shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Mark 11:9 ESV)

ExplanationMark transitions to the final phase of Jesus’ ministry. The Triumphal Entry takes place on the Sunday of the week Jesus is to be crucified. The coming King calls for a “colt” or a “donkey.” This is a direct fulfillment of Zechariah 9:9 which says,

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

The disciples immediately obeyed Jesus and people willingly gave up their resources for the King of Kings. They made a saddle out of coats and threw coats on the ground as a runway. They also cut palm fronds and waved them in the air as they made a raucous declaration, “HOSANNA!” which means “God Save!”.

The people were chanting and making a declaration about Jesus that Jesus would soon test. What did they mean by “God save”? Did they understand Jesus as the Messiah, or did they expect a conquering king? We must always be careful when we make declarations about Jesus. Does our declaration match His identity and mission?


Growing Roots

1. What does real worship look like? When you worship, are you worshiping the real Jesus or the Jesus you are hoping for?

2. What declarations can you accurately make about Jesus?

3. Jesus uses our resources for the mission. What resources do you have that you can offer to God?

4. Why do you think Jesus goes to take a look at the temple as His first order of business in Jerusalem?


On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found

nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it. 15And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the

temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 16And he would not allow

anyone to carry anything through the temple. 17And he was teaching them and saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house

shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.” 18And the chief priests and the scribes heard it and were seeking a way to destroy him, for they feared

him, because all the crowd was astonished at his teaching. 19And when evening came they went out of the city.


I. First False Declaration: The Example of a Fig Tree (12-14)

II. Second False Declaration: The Example of a Place of Worship (15-19)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd he was teaching them and saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.” (Mark 11:17 ESV)

ExplanationAt first glance, the fig tree and the temple have no real connection. Jesus entered Jerusalem, took a look at the temple, and then went to Bethany for the evening to rest as it was late. Recall that there were declarations being made about Jesus as He entered Jerusalem.

As He went back to the temple the next day, He passed by a fig tree. Seeing the fig tree with leaves and no fruit, He condemned it. Undoubtedly, the disciples didn’t understand this. He then arrived at the temple and found it not as a place of worship but a place of commerce.

What do both of these have in common? Both the fig tree and the temple were guilty of false advertising. The fig tree had leaves which would have indicated “fruit.” The temple was a place of “worship” and advertised as such. Both advertised one thing but didn’t come through on their promises.


Growing Roots

1. Why is Jesus so angry with what is taking place in the temple (vv. 15–17)?

2. Are there similar activities or attitudes in your church or fellowship which get in the way of God’s purposes? What can you do to help eliminate them?

3. Many people believe they will escape the judgment of God simply because they are religious. How can this passage serve as a warning to them and to us?

4. Read Galatians 5. What kind of fruit characterizes the world? The Christian?


As they passed by in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered away to its roots. 21And Peter remembered and said to him,

“Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered.” 22And Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God. 23Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the

sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. 24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. 25And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if

you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”


I. The Fate of Those Outside of Christ (20-21)

II. God’s Power is Released through Faith (22-24)

III. God’s Power is Released through Forgiveness (25-26)


Bridge

Memory VerseTherefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. (Mark 11:24 ESV)

ExplanationThere are a couple of verses in this passage that can be misunderstood if taken out of context. The context is the fig tree. Jesus has seen it not producing fruit and has condemned it. The lesson is that real followers of Christ produce fruit. The disciples were in need of further explanation so Jesus obliges.

First, He explains the need for faith or “trust.” Jesus displayed the trust they needed by asking God to curse the fig tree. Because this was in God’s will, it happened. By having faith in God and asking according to His will, Christians can experience the amazing power of God.

C.S. Lewis has written, “Prayers are not always granted—in the crude factual sense of the word—“granted.” This is not because prayer is a weaker kind of causality, but because it is a stronger kind. When it “works” at all, it works unlimited by space and time. That is why God has retained a discretionary power of granting or refusing it; except on that condition prayer would destroy us.”

Our lesson here is that God’s power is released in us through faith and forgiveness!


Growing Roots

1. What does Jesus teach us about prayer in verses 23–25?

2. Why is this passage not a “name it, claim it” passage? Why can’t I get whatever I want from God whenever I want it?

3. Why do you think forgiveness is important and how does it relate to prayer?

4. Respond to this passage in prayer, praising the King of peace and asking that His kingdom might be established.


And they came again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him,

28and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” 29Jesus said to them, “I will ask you one question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. 30Was the baptism of John

from heaven or from man? Answer me.” 31And they discussed it with one another, saying, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ 32But shall we say, ‘From

man’?”—they were afraid of the people, for they all held that John really was a prophet. 33So they answered Jesus, “We do not

know.” And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”


I. Man Desperately Tries to Remain in Control (27-28)

II. Man Will Never Beat Jesus in a Power Struggle (29-32)

III. Jesus Answers to No Man (33)


Bridge

Memory VerseSo they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.” (Mark 11:33 ESV)

ExplanationJesus arrived in Jerusalem on Sunday and then went to Bethany. The next day He cleared out the temple. This is now Tuesday. He encounters the levels of authority. The Life Application Commentary writes, “These were representatives of the three groups that made up the seventy-one-member Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council. These three groups were mentioned when Jesus predicted his execution (8:31; 9:31; 10:33). This was an angry official group sent on an official mission to question Jesus regarding his actions.”

They were afraid that their human authority would be challenged and thwarted by Jesus. Because Jesus challenged their authority, they wanted Him silenced and destroyed. They were desperately protecting their own authority. The Life Application further writes, “The religious leaders were lying through their teeth, but they covered their lying with official and scholarly respectability. They were saving face, cloaking their deceit and envy. They were guilty for the murder of John the Baptist because they neither tried to get him released nor spoke up against his murder. They knew the answer to their own question but refused to acknowledge Jesus as an authority. In John 3:19, Jesus summed up this attitude: “but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil” (NIV). People who reject Jesus’ claims have a greater problem than intellectual doubt. They are rebelling against Christ’s control of their lives. Are you trying to cover up your rebellion, or have you made Christ your authority?”


Growing Roots

1. In verse 27, the chief priests, the elders, and the teachers of the law come asking a seemingly straightforward question about Jesus’ authority. What does Jesus’ reply and the subsequent discussion reveal about their motives?

2. In what ways do you like to be in control? Are there areas of your life that you need to surrender to Jesus?

3. Are there times when we shouldn’t answer questioners? Explain.

4. Why do you suppose the world is antagonistic toward Jesus and Christians? How can we respond to a world that, at times, hates us?


And he began to speak to them in parables. “A man planted a vineyard and put a fence around it and dug a pit for the winepress and built a tower, and leased it to tenants and went into another

country. 2When the season came, he sent a servant to the tenants to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. 3And they took him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. 4Again he

sent to them another servant, and they struck him on the head and treated him shamefully. 5And he sent another, and him they killed.

And so with many others: some they beat, and some they killed. 6He had still one other, a beloved son. Finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ 7But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance

will be ours.’ 8And they took him and killed him and threw him out of the vineyard. 9What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants and give the vineyard to others.

10Have you not read this Scripture: “‘The stone that the builders rejected

has become the cornerstone; 11this was the Lord’s doing,

and it is marvelous in our eyes’?”12And they were seeking to arrest him but feared the people, for they perceived that he had told the parable against them. So they

left him and went away.


I. The Parable of the Tenants (1-8)

II. The Obvious Implication of the Parable (9)

III. Jesus Relates the Parable to Himself (10-12)


Bridge

Memory VerseHave you not read this Scripture: “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” (Mark 12:10 ESV)

ExplanationThis parable is directed at the religious leaders and has a not so obvious application. At face value, the story is logical. But when it is applied to the religious leaders, it becomes inflammatory. In so many words, Jesus is saying that throughout history, God has sent messengers to the nation of Israel. In most cases, they were rejected or persecuted. Now, Jesus, the “cornerstone,” a reference to Psalm 118, is being rejected and persecuted. As the cornerstone, He is the very best of any that God has ever sent. Why would they not recognize this and why such persecution?

It is safe to say that the religious leaders were highly influenced by pressure. They had pressure from their own to maintain their position and authority. They also had pressure from the crowds who they feared. As a result, they succumbed to peer pressure and rejected the chief cornerstone, God’s best.

The lesson, though directly aimed at the religious leaders, also points to us.


Growing Roots

1. The parable of the tenants is rich in meaning, especially in light of its allusion to Isaiah’s Song of the Vineyard (Isaiah 5:1–7). If the tenants are Israel and its religious leaders,who are the owners, the servants and the son?

2. How are these religious leaders about to fulfill the scripture Jesus cites in verses 10–11?

3. Read Psalm 118 and take in the prophetic connection to this passage.

4. What worldly pressures do Christians face that cause the to, at times, reject the “Cornerstone”?


And they sent to him some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to trap him in his talk. 14And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances, but

truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?” 15But, knowing

their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a denarius and let me look at it.” 16And they brought one. And

he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar’s.” 17Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar

the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at him.


I. Man Attempts to Discredit Jesus (13-14)

A. Through Flattery

B. Through Conflict

II. Jesus Makes a Clear Statement about Authority (15-17)


Bridge

Memory VerseJesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at him. (Mark 12:17 ESV)

ExplanationHaving been humiliated by Jesus more than once with unanswerable questions, the religious leaders no doubt got their greatest minds together to come up with a question that would stump Jesus. They attempted to use His own weapon on Him.

This time, they attempted to entrap Jesus with a religious/political dilemma. Normally, the Herodians (a political party supportive of Herod’s position) and the Pharisees wouldn’t have had much in common. But now, they have common disdain for Jesus.

It’s interesting that they tried to use flattery on Jesus. They tried to use ego as another tactic. Jesus, though, didn’t struggle with ego the way men do and was unaffected by their attempts.

In the end, Jesus brilliantly uses a coin to make His point and in doing so He affirms human authority. The point is that as long as human authority isn’t mandating something contrary to biblical mandate, then human authority must be recognized.


Growing Roots

1. A common enemy can often draw people together who are not otherwise on good terms. In verses 13–17, we find Herodians (supporters of the puppet monarchy) and the Pharisees (ardent nationalists and opponents of Roman rule) joining forces. How does the question they pose to Jesus reflect their conflicting interests?

2. Jesus not only avoids their trap by His answer, He also succeeds in establishing an important principle. What types of things are rightfully Caesar’s (the governments) and what are God’s?

3. In what ways does your ego interfere with your faith?

4. Are there any principles we can draw out here that help us as we engage or disengage with politics?


And Sadducees came to him, who say that there is no resurrection. And they asked him a question, saying, 19“Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. 20There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no offspring. 21And the second took her, and

died, leaving no offspring. And the third likewise. 22And the seven left no offspring. Last of all the woman also died. 23In the

resurrection, when they rise again, whose wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife.” 24Jesus said to them, “Is this not the

reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in

heaven. 26And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? 27He is not God of the dead, but of the

living. You are quite wrong.”


I. Desperate Attempts to Discredit Jesus (18-23)

II. Jesus Points People Back to Scripture (24-27)


Bridge

Memory VerseJesus said to them, “Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? (Mark 12:24 ESV)

ExplanationClearly, the religious leaders are getting desperate to trap Jesus. They come up with a ridiculous scenario of a woman who marries seven different brothers. The Sadducees, who do not believe in an after-life, ask Jesus who she will be married to in eternity since she really can’t have seven husbands.

The Sadducees knew more about what they didn’t believe than what they did believe. Jesus had to remind them of their own scriptures! There is a heaven. There is no fear in death. The Life Application Bible Commentary writes,

“What life will be like after the resurrection is far beyond our ability to understand or imagine (Isaiah 64:4; 1 Corinthians 2:9). However, we need not dread eternal life because of the unknowns. God is good. We know He loves us and wants the best for us. Instead of wondering what God’s coming kingdom will be like, we should concentrate on our relationship with Christ right now because in the new kingdom we will be with Him. If we learn to love and trust Christ now, we will welcome what He has in store for us then.”


Growing Roots

1. The Sadducees differed from their Jewish contemporaries because they rejected the idea of resurrection. What motives lie behind their question to Jesus? (vv. 18–23 )

2. How do the Sadducees display ignorance of the Scriptures and the power of God?

3. How are you experiencing the truth of the Scriptures and the power of God?

4. How can we get to know the Scriptures and the power of God better?


And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him,

“Which commandment is the most important of all?” 29Jesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God

with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31The second is this: ‘You shall love

your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” 32And the scribe said to him, “You are right, Teacher. You have truly said that he is one, and there is no other

besides him. 33And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor

as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” 34And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he

said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And after that no one dared to ask him any more questions.

35 And as Jesus taught in the temple, he said, “How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? 36David himself, in the

Holy Spirit, declared “‘The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet.’37David himself calls him Lord. So how is he His son?” And the

great throng heard him gladly.


I. The Greatest Commandment + 1 (28-31)

A. Love God

B. Love Others

II. The Futility of Ritualized Worship (32-33)

III. Draw Near to God Through a Relationship with Messiah (34-37)


Bridge

Memory VersesJesus answered, “The most important is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (Mark 12:29-31 ESV)

ExplanationThe religious leaders haven’t had enough. They try again to question Jesus. They ask about the greatest commandment which for them would have been the Shema of the Old Testament.

Jesus, in usual form, answers them. He draws them in by giving the answer they expect. Had He stopped there, the controversy would have been avoided. Instead, Jesus adds to their precious Shema. He says to love God (Deuteronomy 6) AND love others. He attaches Leviticus 19:18 to the Deuteronomy passage. In other words, if one truly loves God, he will love others. These are inseparable.

Interestingly, one of the leaders got it and affirmed what Jesus taught. Jesus responds by saying that this man is close to the kingdom.

Finally, Jesus discusses His true identity. The point? One must know the real Jesus.


Growing Roots

1. Read Mark 12:28-44. Like the chief priests, elders, Pharisees and Sadducees of 11:27-12:27, another teacher of the law comes to Jesus with a pointed question (v. 28). What evidenceis there that he is not out to trap Jesus?

2. Though Jesus is only asked for one commandment (Deut. 6:4-5), in good rabbinic fashion, He responds by adding a

3. second to His reply (Lev 19:18). What relationship does this second commandment bear to the first?

3. The teacher not only endorses Jesus’ answer, he takes it a step further. What are some contemporary examples of burnt offerings and sacrifices?

4. If you were to evaluate your daily activities on the basis of love for God and neighbor, how would you fare? Explain.


And in his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes and like greetings in the marketplaces

39and have the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at feasts, 40who devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”41And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people

putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. 42And a poor widow came and put in two small copper

coins, which make a penny. 43And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in

more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. 44For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”


I. The Masquerade of Religion (38-40)

II. The Masquerade of Good Deeds (41-44)


Bridge

Memory VersesAnd he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. 44For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” (Mark 12:43-44 ESV)

ExplanationJesus uses real life to teach a lesson to the disciples. He makes two observations. The first observation has to do with “religion.” Jesus points out that there are those who masquerade as “religious” and “godly” but lack the necessary heart. The second observation has to do with good deeds, namely giving. He points out that the religious people are giving. They have plenty, so to give is no problem. In contrast is the widow who has very little but sacrifices a great amount of her money. The point? Again it’s the heart.

The Life Application Commentary writes,

“Jesus noticed the self-denying liberality of this vulnerable widow. Her gift and sacrifice stand as an example of the true commitment required of all Jesus’ followers. We may not be asked to give all we have; Jesus was not making that point in this example. But we must have the generous heart attitude of this widow and not the deceitful heart attitude of the Pharisees. Our Lord notices every act of service coming from a sincere heart. “With such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16 NIV). Where is your heart?”


Growing Roots

1. What warning to us is present in Jesus’ cautions about the teachers of the law (vv. 38–40)?

2. In contrast to the teachers of the law and the rich, what motivates the widow’s religious behavior?

3. How does she fulfill the great commandment? What implications does this example have for our giving to the Lord’s work?

4. Read Malachi 3:1-5. In what ways has Jesus been fulfilling this prophecy in chapters 11-12 of Mark’s Gospel?


And as he came out of the temple, one of his disciples said to him, “Look, Teacher, what wonderful stones and what wonderful buildings!” 2And Jesus said to him, “Do you see these great

buildings? There will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.” 3And as he sat on the Mount of Olives opposite

the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, 4“Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the

sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?” 5And Jesus began to say to them, “See that no one leads you astray. 6Many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and they will lead many astray. 7And when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed.

This must take place, but the end is not yet. 8For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be

earthquakes in various places; there will be famines. These are but the beginning of the birth pains. 9“But be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for my sake, to bear

witness before them. 10And the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. 11And when they bring you to trial and deliver you over, do not be anxious beforehand what you are to say, but say whatever is

given you in that hour, for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit. 12And brother will deliver brother over to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death. 13And you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But the

one who endures to the end will be saved.


I. Jesus Makes a Bold Prediction (1-2)

II. Do not be Sidetracked with “Signs” (3-6)

III. Do not be Surprised with the State of the World (7-8)

IV. Be on Guard When Persecuted (9)

V. Preach the Gospel! (10)

VI. Do not be Anxious, be Courageous! (11)

VII. Endure! (12-13)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd the gospel must first be proclaimed to all nations. (Mark 13:10 ESV)

ExplanationI like the Life Application Bible Commentary’s introduction to this passage. It writes,

“Chapter 13 of Mark has a conversation between Jesus and his disciples as they left the temple and Jerusalem, walking back to Bethany where they spent their nights. Jesus took advantage of this “teachable moment.” A casual remark about the magnificent temple by a disciple led Jesus to make a startling prophetic statement about the fate of the temple. The group paused on the Mount of Olives, where they could glance back across the valley toward Jerusalem. Perhaps they watched the sun set behind the ancient city.

Several disciples chose that moment to ask two curious questions: When will these things happen? What will be the sign? With his answers, Jesus prepared his disciples for the difficult years ahead. He warned them about false messiahs, natural disasters, and persecutions. But he also assured them that he would be with them to protect them and make his kingdom known through them. Jesus promised that, in the end, he would return in power and glory to save them. Jesus’ warnings and promises to his disciples also apply to us as we look forward to his return.”


Growing Roots

1. Why do you think so many of us have such a fascination with the future?

2. Why do you think Jesus doesn’t give us a specific time and date as to His return?

3. How would Jesus’ warnings and encouragements (vv. 5–13) have helped the disciples in the early years of the church?

4. How do these same encouragements and warnings apply to us today?


“But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not to be (let the reader understand), then let those who are

in Judea flee to the mountains. 15Let the one who is on the housetop not go down, nor enter his house, to take anything out,

16and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. 17And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! 18Pray that it may not happen in

winter. 19For in those days there will be such tribulation as has not been from the beginning of the creation that God created until now, and never will be. 20And if the Lord had not cut short the days, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect, whom

he chose, he shortened the days. 21And then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘Look, there he is!’ do not believe it. 22False christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23But be on guard; I

have told you all things beforehand.


I. Jesus Answers the Disciples’ Question, “What Will be the Sign?” (14-19)

II. God is Merciful in Tribulation (20)

III. Jesus Talks about False christs (21-23)


Bridge

Memory VersesFalse christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand. (Mark 13:22-23 ESV)

ExplanationThis is a tough passage to wrap one’s brain around. It is dealing specifically with end times and prophetic fulfillment.

The Bible Knowledge Commentary writes, “The word “abomination” denoted pagan idolatry and its detestable practices (Deut. 29:16-18 ; 2 Kings 16:3-4 ; 23:12-14 ; Ezek. 8:9-18 ). The phrase “the abomination of desolation” referred to the presence of an idolatrous person or object so detestable that it caused the temple to be abandoned and left desolate.”

A sign of the end will be this defamation of the temple. This happened as a fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy in 168 B.C. when Antiochus Epiphanes sacrificed a pig to Zeus on the temple altar. The second fulfillment occurred when Jesus’ prediction of the destruction of the temple (13:2) came true. In just a few years (a.d. 70), the Roman army would destroy Jerusalem and desecrate the temple. Some scholars believe there is a third fulfillment of this particular verse yet to come in the person of Antichrist.


Growing Roots

1. What does Jesus say about God’s work in the midst of all this turmoil?

2. How is the distress described in verses 24–27 different from that described in verses 5–23?

3. Six times Jesus warns his disciples to “watch, be on guard” (vv. 5, 9, 23, 33, 35, 37). Why?

4. Many people throughout the ages have tried to make precise predictions about the return of Jesus. How does watching as Jesus urges differ from making such predictions?


“But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, 25and the stars will be falling

from heaven, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with

great power and glory. 27And then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of heaven. 28“From the fig tree learn its lesson: as soon as its branch becomes tender and puts out its leaves, you

know that summer is near. 29So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that he is near, at the very gates. 30Truly,

I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. 31Heaven and earth will pass away, but my

words will not pass away.


I. All Eyes on Jesus (24-26)

II. The Return of the King (27)

III. Learn the Lesson Jesus is Teaching (28-31)


Bridge

Memory VerseHeaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. (Mark 13:31 ESV)

ExplanationThe Life Application Bible Commentary writes, “This section provides Jesus’ true answer to the questions his disciples asked in 13:4. But Jesus went well beyond what he had been asked. The original questions focused on the destruction of the temple and the devastation of the nation. In his answer, Jesus predicted the destruction of Jerusalem and his return in full glory without any of the limitations he took on by becoming human. He was not speaking of his immediate resurrection, but his eventual, glorious return.

In the previous paragraphs, Jesus painted a picture of hardship, confusion, and waiting. But when it seems as though things can’t possibly get any worse, they will. Heaven and earth will be irreversibly changed. There will be a sunset, but no sunup. That completely dark stage will make the arrival of the Son of Man visible to all.”

Jesus concludes this section with a parable of a fig tree. The purpose? We can all learn a lesson from the fig tree on how to exegete the times. In the same way that a fig tree gives evidence of a season, so too will the signs give evidence of the return of Christ.


Growing Roots

1. In what practical ways can we be alert for Jesus’ return?

2. How does the darkness of the sky add more focus to the return of Jesus?

3. Are we given the exact time of Jesus’ return? Are we asked anywhere to try and figure it out? Explain.

4. How can we ready ourselves for the return of Christ?


“But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33Be on guard,

keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. 34It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and

puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake. 35Therefore stay awake—for you do not

know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the cock crows, or in the morning— 36lest

he come suddenly and find you asleep. 37And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.”


I. God has Purposely Withheld the Specific Day and Time of the Return of Jesus (32)

II. We are Instructed to be on Guard (33a)

III. We are Instructed to Stay Awake (33b-37)


Bridge

Memory VerseBe on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come. (Mark 13:33 ESV)

ExplanationWhen Christians are aware of the return of Christ, the obvious question they ask is, “What should we do?” Jesus heads this off by giving a few specific instructions.

The first instruction is to not try and figure out the specific time and day of His return but to be aware of the signs, knowing that time is drawing near.

The second instruction is two-fold. It is a call to be on guard and to stay awake. This has to do with vigilance. It will be easy to forget about the spiritual truth and focus on earthly existence. Jesus is calling all Christians to not get distracted with the physical and tangible and thus forget about what really matters, the spiritual.


Growing Roots

1. What are some practical things you can do to “be on guard” and “stay awake”?

2. Why do you suppose we are not to try to figure out the day and hour of the return of Christ?

3. How does what happened in Mark 14:32-42 relate to what Jesus is teaching here?

4. Read I Thessalonians 4. How are these words encouraging?


It was now two days before the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes were

seeking how to arrest him by stealth and kill him, 2for they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar from the people.”

3 And while he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he was reclining at table, a woman came with an alabaster flask of

ointment of pure nard, very costly, and she broke the flask and poured it over his head. 4There were some who said to themselves

indignantly, “Why was the ointment wasted like that? 5For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii

and given to the poor.” And they scolded her. 6But Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a

beautiful thing to me. 7For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me. 8She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for burial. 9And truly, I say to you, wherever

the gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in memory of her.”


I. True Worship is Costly (3)

II. True Worship is Confounding (4-5)

III. True Worship is all about Jesus (7-8)

IV. True Worship is History-Making (9)


Bridge

Memory VerseBut Jesus said, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. (Mark 14:6 ESV)

ExplanationAt the heart, this passage is about worship and priorities. When priorities are misplaced, genuine worship is at risk.

While in Bethany, a woman comes to worship Jesus. She anoints Him with a flask of expensive ointment. She not only had an expensive ornate flask, but it contained imported ointment from India. This would have been worth an entire year’s wages.

The religious people are appalled. This act baffled them. How could she waste it? Most likely they weren’t thinking in their own hearts that they would have used it for good - they were probably putting on a show. They scold her in their disgust and say at least she could have used it to feed the poor.

Reality check. Jesus does not agree. The point? The worship of Jesus should take priority over everything - no matter how good a thing is. Jesus desires our genuine and extravagant worship!

The ongoing effects of this type of worship echo throughout eternity. Jesus, in a sense, prophesizes. He says this would be a story to last through the ages. We are still talking about it today!


Growing Roots

1. Read Mark 14:1–42 . What different motives are present in the conflict that arises at the home of Simon the Leper?

2. What legitimate concerns do the objectors raise? How might Jesus’ own teaching have prompted their response?

3. The woman’s act is in one sense an act of worship. What light, if any, does this incident shed on the competing claims for beauty in worship and concern for the poor?

4. What are some ways you can adjust your own expression of worship? Read Isaiah 6 and Isaiah 58.


Then Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve, went to the chief priests in order to betray him to them. 11And when they heard it,

they were glad and promised to give him money. And he sought an opportunity to betray him. 12And on the first day of Unleavened

Bread, when they sacrificed the Passover lamb, his disciples said to him, “Where will you have us go and prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 13And he sent two of his disciples and said to them,

“Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him, 14and wherever he enters, say to the master of the

house, ‘The Teacher says, Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’ 15And he will show you a

large upper room furnished and ready; there prepare for us.” 16And the disciples set out and went to the city and found it just as

he had told them, and they prepared the Passover.17And when it was evening, he came with the twelve. 18And as

they were reclining at table and eating, Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.”

19They began to be sorrowful and to say to him one after another, “Is it I?” 20He said to them, “It is one of the twelve, one who is

dipping bread into the dish with me. 21For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not

been born.”


I. The Betrayer Revealed (10-11)

II. Preparation for Celebration (12-16)

III. Worship on the Outside Versus Worship on the Inside (17-21)


Bridge

Memory VerseFor the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.” (Mark 14:21 ESV)

ExplanationThis is a story of contrasts. In the first scene, the betrayer is revealed. Judas makes a secret deal with the religious leaders to hand over Jesus for a set sum of money.

From scene one, we move to the preparation for Passover celebration. The disciples follow Jesus’ orders to go into the city, look for someone carrying a jar of water, follow that person to a home, and ask for use of a room. Just as Jesus told them, the room was made available. They prepare the room for Jesus and the rest of the disciples.

The last scene is of Jesus and the disciples celebrating Passover. Unexpectedly, Jesus reveals the fact that He knows there is a betrayer and that it would have been better for that person never to have been born. What a shocking declaration! What timing!

Jesus is pointing out the fact that on the outside, someone may be worshiping, but on the inside their heart is far from worship. Woe to the one who “plays” at worship!


Growing Roots

1. During the Passover feast Jesus tells the Twelve that one of them will betray Him. What do you think they were feeling as they responded to His announcement (v. 19)?

2. Why do you think Judas didn’t back out of the deal and come clean with Jesus and the other disciples?

3. Read Psalm 40. How does worship in Psalm 40 contrast to what Judas was doing?

4. According to verse 21, how does Jesus feel about those who would worship on the outside but have a heart far from genuine worship?


And as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” 23And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. 24And he said to them, “This is my blood of

the covenant, which is poured out for many. 25Truly, I say to you, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I

drink it new in the kingdom of God.”


I. The Bread (22)

II. The Cup (23-24)

III. The Kingdom (25)


Bridge

Memory VersesAnd as they were eating, he took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to them, and said, “Take; this is my body.” 23And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. 24And he said to them, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many.” (Mark 14:22-24 ESV)

ExplanationClearly, if they were taking a meal together, a lot was said. But the only things Mark mentions here is the contradiction of worship, the bread/body, the cup/blood, and the kingdom. Therefore, we can assume that these are highly important.

The Life Application Commentary writes,

“Jesus’ death for us on the cross sealed a new covenant between God and people. The old covenant involved forgiveness of sins through the blood of an animal sacrifice (Exodus 24:6-8). But instead of a spotless lamb on the altar, Jesus offered himself, the spotless Lamb of God, as a sacrifice that would forgive sin once and for all. Jesus was the final sacrifice for sins, and his blood sealed the new agreement between God and us. Come boldly to God through Jesus, in full confidence that God will hear you and save you from your sins.”


Growing Roots

1. Few words have spawned as much debate regarding their meaning as those Jesus spoke in verses 22–24. Regardless of how literally we take them, what are the bread and cup of the Lord’s Supper to symbolize for us?

2. What is the significance of all eating of the bread and all drinking of the cup?

3. Read I Corinthians 11:23-29. What are the similarities and differences as compared to Mark’s account?

4. What is significant about Jesus giving thanks in verse 23?


And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. 27And Jesus said to them, “You will all fall away, for it is

written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ 28But after I am raised up, I will go before you to

Galilee.” 29Peter said to him, “Even though they all fall away, I will not.” 30And Jesus said to him, “Truly, I tell you, this very night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three

times.” 31But he said emphatically, “If I must die with you, I will not deny you.” And they all said the same.


I. From Singing to Scattering (26-27)

II. A God of Second Chances (28)

III. A Willing Heart Surrounded by Weak Flesh (29-31)


Bridge

Memory VerseBut after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.” (Mark 14:28 ESV)

ExplanationThis had to be a night of surprises. Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper and then reveals that there will be a betrayer. Next they sing a hymn together and Jesus tells them they will all desert Him! It must have been an emotional roller coaster.

The verse we tend to skip over most quickly is verse 28 where Jesus says He will go before them to Galilee. Jesus is saying that He will meet them there and that He will accept them even though they’ve deserted Him. What a verse of compassion and forgiveness!

Naturally, the disciples are defensive. Peter, the spokesman, claims that he will never leave Jesus and the others heartily agree. Jesus, however, knows that even though the heart is willing, the flesh can interfere. He knows that Peter’s flesh and fear will keep him from following through on his promise.

The Life Application Commentary writes, “Although Peter’s ambitions did not match his performance, we should not fault his motives—he wanted to declare his loyalty to Jesus. Peter spoke up when, too often, Jesus’ disciples retreated to silence. Peter’s words would return to sting him, but through him the world would hear the gospel preached.”


Growing Roots

1. In verse 27 Jesus predicts that His disciples will desert Him under pressure. How do you empathize or fail to empathize with Peter’s assertions in verses 29–31?

2. How does verse 28 give us hope?

3. Have you ever wanted to do something for God, maybe even committed to doing something for God, but your flesh interfered and kept you from it? Does God forgive?

4. Take time to pray this week and recommit your life to Jesus. Ask for forgiveness for times of weakness. Ask for strength to overcome the flesh.


And they went to a place called Gethsemane. And he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33And he took with him Peter

and James and John, and began to be greatly distressed and troubled. 34And he said to them, “My soul is very sorrowful, even to death. Remain here and watch.” 35And going a little

farther, he fell on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. 36And he said, “Abba, Father,

all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.” 37And he came and found them

sleeping, and he said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Could you not watch one hour? 38Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

39And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. 40And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy, and they did not know what to answer him. 41And he came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? It is enough; the hour has come.

The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”


I. Prayer is Honest (32-34)

II. Prayer is Watchful (34)

III. Prayer is Asking (35-36)

IV. Prayer is Aligning my Will with God’s (37)

V. Prayer is Communal (38)

VI. Prayer Keeps us from Temptation (38)

VII. Prayer is Persistent (39-42)


Bridge

Memory VerseWatch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Mark 14:38 ESV)

ExplanationThis passage is a glimpse into the humanness of Jesus. It shows us His heart and displays deep emotion. Jesus is anticipating the cross and now goes to His one safe place, communion with His Father. Jesus shows us how to pray in this passage. It is not always about ritual and having the right words. I love the way Osborne puts it,

“Apart from the Cross itself, the moments in Gethsemane were the most intense in Jesus’ life. He experienced the crushing weight of the task he was about to undertake. He witnessed the weakness that his disciples demonstrated by falling asleep. He saw the betrayer coming. And he sensed with anguish that the cup would not pass. He would drink it alone.

This section also portrays the varied purposes of prayer. For Jesus, prayer was not escape, but respite; not a way to avoid difficulty, but a way to endure it. We miss the opportunity of communion and fellowship with God if we treat prayer as merely telling God what we want him to know.”

J.C. Ryle sheds more light for us...

“We ought to see in our Lord's agony in Gethsemane the exceeding sinfulness of sin. It is a subject on which the thoughts of professing Christians are far below what they should be. The careless, light way in which such sins as swearing, Sabbath-breaking, lying, and the like, are often spoken of, is a painful evidence of the low condition of men's moral feelings. Let the recollection of Gethsemane have a sanctifying effect upon us. Whatever others do, let us never "make a mock at sin." -Ryle, J.C. “The Gospel of Mark”


Growing Roots

1. How might this passage help those who struggle with the question of whether Jesus is the only way to God?

2. In verse 34 and again in verse 38, Jesus encourages thedisciples to watch and pray so that they not fall into temptation. What particular temptations were they about to face? How might prayer have changed the outcome?

3. How can these same exhortations make the difference in your own life between resisting or falling into temptation?

4. Have you ever felt like the disciples must have felt in verse 40? Explain. What consolation and encouragement can you draw from the disciples’ experience?


And immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a crowd with swords and clubs, from

the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man. Seize him and lead him away under guard.” 45And when he

came, he went up to him at once and said, “Rabbi!” And he kissed him. 46And they laid hands on him and seized him. 47But one

of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest and cut off his ear. 48And Jesus said to them, “Have

you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to capture me? 49Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize me. But let the Scriptures be fulfilled.” 50And

they all left him and fled. 51And a young man followed him, with nothing but a linen cloth about his body. And they seized him,

52but he left the linen cloth and ran away naked.


I. Outward Acts of Religion Don’t Always Tell us What’s in the Heart (43-45)

II. Jesus’ Arrest is in Reality a Display of His Sovereignty (46-49)

III. Jesus Was Willing to Suffer Humiliation for our Sakes in Contrast to Others Who Were Willing to Suffer Humiliation for Their Own Sakes (50-51)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd they all left him and fled. (Mark 14:50)

ExplanationThis passage teaches us about “fronting.” Judas was fronting, the religious leaders were fronting, and the disciple who fled was fronting. They were all portraying something on the outside that didn’t match their hearts. It would be easy to look at Jesus as a victim who was helplessly taken captive. J.C. Ryle clarifies this,

“Let us rest our souls on the thought, that all around us is ordered and overruled by God's almighty wisdom. The course of this world may often be contrary to our wishes. The position of the Church may often be very unlike what we desire. The wickedness of worldly men, and the inconsistencies of believers, may often afflict our souls. But there is a hand above us, moving the vast machine of this universe, and making all things work together for His glory. The Scriptures are being yearly fulfilled. Not one jot or tittle in them shall ever fail to be accomplished. The kings of the earth may take counsel together, and the rulers of the nations may set themselves against Christ (Psalm. 2:2), but the resurrection morning shall prove that, even at the darkest time, all things were being done according to the will of God.”


Growing Roots

1. What does being loyal to a friend mean to you?

2. Read Mark 14:43–72. Several of the main characters in this passage act with mixed motives. What mixed motives may have inspired Judas’s words and action of betrayal (vv. 43–45)?

3. How does Jesus respond to his betrayal?

4. The unnamed young man seems symbolic of all Jesus’ followers. How does his predicament reflect Jesus’ warnings about the cost of discipleship (8:34–38)?


And they led Jesus to the high priest. And all the chief priests and the elders and the scribes came together. 54And Peter had followed

him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he was sitting with the guards and warming himself at the fire. 55Now the chief priests and the whole Council were seeking

testimony against Jesus to put him to death, but they found none. 56For many bore false witness against him, but their testimony

did not agree. 57And some stood up and bore false witness against him, saying, 58“We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this temple that

is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.’” 59Yet even about this their testimony did not

agree. 60And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, “Have you no answer to make? What is it that these men testify

against you?” 61But he remained silent and made no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” 62And Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” 63And the high priest tore his garments and

said, “What further witnesses do we need? 64You have heard his blasphemy. What is your decision?” And they all condemned him as deserving death. 65And some began to spit on him and to cover

his face and to strike him, saying to him, “Prophesy!” And the guards received him with blows.


I. People Make All Kinds of Claims About God (53-59)

II. What Does God Have to Say? (60-62)

III. How Do People Respond to God? (63-65)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd Jesus said, “I am, and you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” (Mark 14:62 ESV)

ExplanationIt is almost too hard to believe, God on trial! Just the thought of His creation arrogantly putting Him on trial is almost too difficult to fathom. Yet in their sin, they did not see Jesus for who He really was. This is a passage about people and their perceptions of God as well as their response to Him. Because they had already made up their minds about who God was and who Jesus was, their condemnation of Him was set. They were unwilling to see the truth of scripture, the fulfilled prophecies, and the miracles of Jesus. They had made up their minds and were not open to the truth!I love the way the Life Application Bible Commentary puts it. “Given the mind-set of the religious leaders, Jesus’ claims were blasphemous. How could this man have the authority of God? Popular culture and modern thought still view Christ’s claims as blasphemous, and if we express our faith, people will view us as bigoted and intolerant. They will be outraged by our claims to know the truth. Our belief that God controls our life violates their desire to have a human-centered life. Our view of moral law offends their belief that all values are relative to each person and situation. Our conviction about controlling our desires radically disagrees with their pleasure- and experience-oriented outlook. Be ready for the world to be morally outraged at your single-minded belief in Christ and his truth.”


Growing Roots

1. What aspects of Jesus’ trial before the Sanhedrin does Mark emphasize?

2. Up until this point Jesus has regularly disguised His identity, but in verse 62 He openly confesses His identity as the Christ. Why do you think He does this now?

3. On what charge is Jesus finally condemned?

4. How is this charge both justifiable and unjustifiable?


And as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came, 67and seeing Peter warming himself, she

looked at him and said, “You also were with the Nazarene, Jesus.” 68But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what

you mean.” And he went out into the gateway and the rooster crowed. 69And the servant girl saw him and began again to say to the bystanders, “This man is one of them.” 70But again he denied

it. And after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, “Certainly you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.” 71But he began to invoke a curse on himself and to swear, “I do not know this man of whom you speak.” 72And immediately the rooster

crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three

times.” And he broke down and wept.


I. Are You Associated with Jesus? (66-68)

II. Are You a Follower of Jesus? (69-70a)

III. Do You Know Jesus? (70b-72)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd immediately the rooster crowed a second time. And Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny me three times.” And he broke down and wept. (Mark 14:72 ESV)

ExplanationIn this section we find Peter in a state of denial. Jesus predicted that Peter would deny Him but Peter protested. The prophecy now comes true.

There is a progression that happens in Peter’s denial. He moves further and further from Jesus with each accusation. He denies being with Jesus or associating with Him. He denies following Him, and finally, he denies even knowing Jesus.

The further we get from Jesus, the easier it is to deny even knowing Him. Even Christians can struggle with their own level of association with Jesus. This is a sober reminder and a firm warning. It’s one thing to claim Jesus as your Savior when things are going well and no one is attacking you. The real measure of your faith is if you’d be willing to stand firm even in the midst of persecution.


Growing Roots

1. What mix of motives brings Peter into the high priest’s courtyard yet keeps him from acknowledging his relationship to Jesus (vv. 66–72)?

2. How are your motives mixed in following Jesus?

3. How is Judas’s betrayal of Jesus different from Peter’s?

4. In what circumstances are you most tempted to be ashamed of Jesus or to deny Him?


And as soon as it was morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole Council. And they bound

Jesus and led him away and delivered him over to Pilate. 2And Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he

answered him, “You have said so.” 3And the chief priests accused him of many things. 4And Pilate again asked him, “Have you no answer to make? See how many charges they bring against you.” 5But Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed.6Now at the feast he used to release for them one prisoner for whom they asked. 7And among the rebels in prison, who had committed murder in the insurrection, there was a man called

Barabbas. 8And the crowd came up and began to ask Pilate to do as he usually did for them. 9And he answered them, saying, “Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?” 10For he

perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up. 11But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release for them Barabbas instead. 12And Pilate again

said to them, “Then what shall I do with the man you call the King of the Jews?” 13And they cried out again, “Crucify him.” 14And

Pilate said to them, “Why, what evil has he done?” But they shouted all the more, “Crucify him.” 15So Pilate, wishing to

satisfy the crowd, released for them Barabbas, and having scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.


I. God answers to No One! (1-5)

II. Mercy’s Irony (6-15)


Bridge

Memory VerseBut Jesus made no further answer, so that Pilate was amazed. (Mark 15:5 ESV)

ExplanationThis passage resumes the trial of Jesus. Now before the political figures, Jesus stands ready for punishment or freedom. Pilate questions Jesus and ultimately is amazed how Jesus would not seek to defend Himself and offer up His case. Jesus does not answer to man.

This infuriates the religious leaders. Pilate, sensing that Jesus has done nothing wrong, seeks to mete out mercy by calling on the Roman practice of releasing a prisoner every year per request of the people. It is one time they allowed people to have a say. His extension of mercy is assumed upon Jesus. The religious leaders, however, have something else in mind. They stir up the crowd and cry out for the release of Barabbas. Barabbas had taken part in the insurrection against the Roman government. As a Jew, he may actually have been a hero to the mob. Ultimately, the crowd cries out for a great sinner to be released and the One Who would show ultimate mercy to be crucified. What irony!


Growing Roots

1. What kind of man is Pilate (vv. 1–15 )?

2. In what sense is Barabbas a stand-in for every believer?

3. What are some ways Jesus has shown you mercy?

4. How can you show mercy to others?


And the soldiers led him away inside the palace (that is, the governor’s headquarters), and they called together the whole

battalion. 17And they clothed him in a purple cloak, and twisting together a crown of thorns, they put it on him. 18And they

began to salute him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” 19And they were striking his head with a reed and spitting on him and kneeling

down in homage to him. 20And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him.

And they led him out to crucify him.


I. People Mock a Jesus They Don’t Know (16-17)

II. People Mock Jesus for Whom He Represents to Them (18-20)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. And they led him out to crucify him. (Mark 15:20 ESV)

ExplanationThis story represents the hostility people have toward a God they do not know or understand. For all they knew, Jesus was a man who had been condemned, and it was their job to make Him miserable. As results (not knowing Him), they begin to torture and humiliate Him.

Not only did they not know Jesus, but they had a false understanding of whom He really was. They thought Jesus was someone who had come to overthrow the government and assume a throne by force. This false understanding of Jesus led them to continue in their mockery.

Many people today don’t know Jesus or they think they know Jesus, but He’s a Jesus of their misunderstanding. As a result, people come to conclusions and respond wrongly to Him.


Growing Roots

1. Why is it important to know Jesus?

2. What are some ways that Jesus is misrepresented in the world today?

3. Take a look at how Jesus responded. Is it our job to defend Jesus? Why or why not?

4. What does this passage have to say about our representation of Jesus and our teaching about Him?


And they compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to

carry his cross. 22And they brought him to the place called Golgotha (which means Place of a Skull). 23And they offered him

wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. 24And they crucified him and divided his garments among them, casting lots for them, to decide what each should take. 25And it was the third hour when they crucified him. 26And the inscription of the charge against him read, “The King of the Jews.” 27And with him they

crucified two robbers, one on his right and one on his left. 29And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads and saying,

“Aha! You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, 30save yourself, and come down from the cross!” 31So also

the chief priests with the scribes mocked him to one another, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also reviled him.


I. The Irony of Humiliation (21-22)

II. The Irony of Mockery (23-26)

III. The Irony of Crucifixion (27-32)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd they compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross. (Mark 15:21 ESV)

ExplanationThis passage is loaded with irony. It is ironic that the humiliating act of carrying a cross for a condemned man would be leading Him to the place of total victory and spiritual freedom. It is ironic that in mocking Jesus they were actually speaking Truth. It is ironic that in dying and suffering Jesus would be claiming the greatest victory of all time.

J.C. Ryle says, “Let us leave the passage with a deep sense of the enormous debt which all believers owe to Christ. All that they have, and are, and hope for, may be traced up to the doing and dying of the Son of God. Through His condemnation, they have acquittal--through His sufferings, peace--through His shame, glory--through His death, life. Their sins were imputed to Him. His righteousness is imputed to them. No wonder that Paul says, "Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift." (2 Cor. 9:15.)


Growing Roots

1. The wine mixed with myrrh offered to Jesus would have had a narcotic effect. Why does Jesus refuse it? (See 10:38; 14:25, 36.)

2. What ironies are present in the charges and jeers directed toward Jesus on the cross (vv. 25–32 )?

3. Read Colossians 2:6-15. How is Jesus’ apparent defeat actually His greatest victory?

4. Take some time this week and pray, thanking Jesus for His sacrifice!


And when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34And at the ninth hour Jesus cried

with a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 35And some of

the bystanders hearing it said, “Behold, he is calling Elijah.” 36And someone ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a reed and gave it to him to drink, saying, “Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.” 37And Jesus uttered a loud

cry and breathed his last. 38And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. 39And when the centurion, who stood

facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!”

40There were also women looking on from a distance, among whom were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the

younger and of Joses, and Salome. 41When he was in Galilee, they followed him and ministered to him, and there were also many

other women who came up with him to Jerusalem.


I. Jesus Accepts My Separation as His Own (33-37)

II. Jesus Removes the Barrier Between Me and God (38-39)

III. Jesus Loves All People (40-41)


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, “Truly this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39 ESV)

ExplanationJesus’ cry in Aramaic is really a reference to Psalm 22. Psalm 22 is David’s cry of deep and intense emotion. Jesus is not questioning God but declaring that He was feeling the full weight of sin and its separating Him from God. At this moment, Jesus is fully carrying the weight of our sins and feeling the intense pain that sin causes. His declaration is a declaration of victory as He pays for sin!

Another profound image is the tearing of the temple veil. As Jesus removes the barrier of sin, He also removes the barrier to worship. No longer would sacrifice be necessary. No longer would one need to go through a priest. But all men through Jesus would have access directly to God!

Finally, it is no accident that the women are mentioned. In their culture, women were considered second-class citizens and property. They are highly valued as people by Jesus. The point is that Jesus loves all people regardless of race or gender!


Growing Roots

1. In verse 34 Jesus quotes the first verse of Psalm 22. What other aspects of this psalm is Jesus experiencing?

2. In what ways is the centurion’s confession a climax to the whole of Mark’s Gospel? (Compare 15:38–39 with 1:1, 10–11; 8:28–30.)

3. Why do you think it was Joseph and the women who had followed Jesus, and not the eleven, who were present when Jesus died and his body needed a tomb?

4. Are you fully taking advantage of the access to God given to you by Jesus? Explain.


And when evening had come, since it was the day of Preparation, that is, the day before the Sabbath, 43Joseph of Arimathea, a

respected member of the Council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and

asked for the body of Jesus. 44Pilate was surprised to hear that he should have already died. And summoning the centurion, he

asked him whether he was already dead. 45And when he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the corpse to Joseph. 46And Joseph bought a linen shroud, and taking him

down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against

the entrance of the tomb. 47Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid.


Notes:


Bridge

Memory VerseAnd Joseph bought a linen shroud, and taking him down, wrapped him in the linen shroud and laid him in a tomb that had been cut out of the rock. And he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. (Mark 15:46 ESV)

ExplanationThe Life Application Commentary writes, “Although Mark only mentioned Joseph of Arimathea, John mentioned both Joseph and Nicodemus, two secret disciples of Jesus who took action to ensure his burial (John 19:38-42). Their commitment to Jesus forced them out of hiding. Perhaps Mark’s description of Joseph’s “boldness” included a gentle irony regarding a man who may not have felt bold at all, but who carried out a bold plan of action anyway. Christians must often take action when they don’t feel very bold or courageous.

The Gospels carefully note that Jesus was clearly dead. Pilate checked. One soldier made sure (John 19:34). So two men who had followed Jesus from a distance undertook the compassionate task of removing Jesus’ body from the cross and placing it in a tomb, while several women watched.”

J.C. Ryle says, “great matter that concerns us all, is to make sure that we are spiritually buried with Christ, while we are yet alive. We must be joined to Him by faith, and conformed to His image. With Him we must die to sin, and be buried by baptism into His death (Rom. 6:4). With Him we must rise again and be quickened by His Spirit. Except we know these things, Christ's death and burial will profit us nothing at all.”


Growing Roots

1. Why is it important to confirm that Jesus is actually dead?

2. Are there times when you don’t feel bold for Jesus but step out in faith anyway? Explain.

3. Read Romans 6. How does the death of Jesus affect us?

4. What are some ways you need to “die” to self?


When the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Salome bought spices, so that they might go

and anoint him. 2And very early on the first day of the week, when the sun had risen, they went to the tomb. 3And they were saying to

one another, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb?” 4And looking up, they saw that the stone had been rolled back—it was very large. 5And entering the tomb, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, dressed in a white robe, and they were alarmed. 6And he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” 8And they went out

and fled from the tomb, for trembling and astonishment had seized them, and they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.


Notes:


Bridge

Memory VersesAnd he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.” (Mark 16:6-7 ESV)

ExplanationFirst, it’s important to note why the rest of chapter 16 is not included in this study. Very simply, after verse 8, the earliest and best manuscripts do not include what follows. Many commentators agree that this portion of scripture is not a part of the original text.

Of the Resurrection, the Life Application Commentary writes,

“The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the central fact of Christian history. On it, the church is built; without it, there would be no Christian church today. Jesus’ resurrection is unique. Other religions have strong ethical systems, concepts about paradise and afterlife, and various holy scriptures. Only Christianity has a God who became human, literally died for his people, and was raised again in power and glory to rule his church forever.

Why is the Resurrection so important?Because Christ was raised from the dead, we know that the kingdom of heaven has broken into earth’s history. Our world is now headed for redemption, not disaster. God’s mighty power is at work destroying sin, creating new lives, and preparing us for Jesus’ second coming.


Because of the Resurrection, we know that death has been conquered and that we, too, will be raised from the dead to live forever with Christ.

The Resurrection gives authority to the church’s witness in the world. Look at the early evangelistic sermons in the book of Acts: The apostles’ most important message was the proclamation that Jesus Christ had been raised from the dead!

The Resurrection gives meaning to the church’s regular feast, the Lord’s Supper. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we break bread with our risen Lord.

The Resurrection helps us find meaning even in great tragedy. No matter what happens to us as we walk with the Lord, the Resurrection gives us hope for the future.

The Resurrection assures us that Christ is alive and ruling His kingdom. He is not legend; He is alive and real.

God’s power that brought Jesus back from the dead is available to us so that we can live for Him in an evil world.

The power of God that brought Christ’s body back from the dead is available to us to bring our morally and spiritually dead selves back to life so that we can change and grow (1 Corinthians 15:12-19).

Christians can look very different from one another, and they can hold widely varying beliefs about politics, lifestyle, and even theology. But one central belief unites and inspires all true Christians—Jesus Christ rose from the dead!


Growing Roots

1. Why is it significant that Peter is mentioned by name in verse 7?

2. What reassurance can we draw from the Lord’s evident forgiveness of Peter (3:28)?

3. The earliest and best manuscripts of Mark’s Gospel end at verse 8. Nearly all scholars agree that if Mark did not end his work here, we have lost what he wrote (vv. 9–20 were clearly written by someone else). While some still hold that the original ending has been lost, a growing number of scholars believe Mark intended to end with verse 8 as it is. How is verse 8 an appropriate ending to the gospel story?

4. How can this passage reinforce our commitment to sharing the good news of Christ with others?


Bibliography

Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domain, by Johannes P. Louw

A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature, 3rd Edition, by Walter Bauer

The Greek New Testament With Greek-English Dictionary, by B. Aland, K. Aland, J. Karavidopoulos, and B. M. Metzger

Willmington's Guide to the Bible, by Harold L. Willmington

Basic Theology, by Charles Ryrie

Moody Handbook of Theology, by Paul P. Enns, Moody Press

Systematic Theology, by Louis Berkhof

Lectures in Systematic Theology, by Thiessen

Calvin’s Institutes of Religion, by John Calvin

NIV Life Application Commentary, ed. by Philip Comfort

Expositor’s Bible Commentary, by Walter Wessel

Barne’s Notes on the New Testament, by Albert Barnes

Mark: Follow Me Workbook, by James Hoover

The Bible Exposition Commentary, by Warren Wiersbe

Websitewww.enjoyinggodministries.comhttp://www.desiringgod.org/


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http://www.enjoyinggodministries.com

http://www.enjoyinggodministries.com

http://www.desiringgod.org

http://www.desiringgod.org

Documents

A Study through the Gospel of Mark Part 3 of 3 - Grace Church