The title I originally wanted for my book, Idol Lies, was The Stonecutter,
based on this verse from Ezekiel:
I believe this act of God turning our heart of stone into a heart of flesh
is both an event, beginning at salvation,
and a process, which continues until we see Him face to face.
Our idols are like stones, as dangerous as cancerous tumors.
Here is how I put it in the promotional for Idol Lies:
Keller does not cover Mark 6 in King’s Cross, but we will. I see two kinds of stones in this chapter: stones of unbelief and stones of idolatry, which exacerbate one another.
The illustrations given in this chapter shed light on how these stones are formed, work together, and bring us harm. I believe this could be a pivotal chapter in our growth.
Congratulations to you who are still in this journey, two months in, for it shows you are hungering and thirsting after righteousness, and Jesus says it is those who will be satisfied. There is something wonderful about experiencing the presence of the Spirit and a new tenderness in our hearts — nothing can satisfy like that.
Our symbol for the week is a heart of stone being turned into a heart of flesh
Our Highlight Of Last Week
Honoring our own dear Mary this week, who, unless God brings a miracle, is very close to going to be with Him. Last week we all discussed how vital it is to trust Jesus when He delays. Mary has certainly been exempliary in this in her long hard battle with cancer. She also has been exempliary in one who has, truly, developed “a heart of flesh.” Lizzy and Mary have become fast friends. Here she is with Lizzy and Philip.
Lizzy says: These words she sent almost a year ago really capture Mary’s heart.
The sooner you can give thanks for something that God has allowed into your life the sooner you arrive at His grace. I can’t tell you, Lizzy what a truly miraculous affect that piece of advice has had on my live over the past 25 years. There are many, many times that I can’t get my heart into it. So then I just say, “I don’t feel like I can thank you for this right now, Lord, because, honestly I’m mad at You right now for allowing this. Please help me to get to the point where I CAN thank You for this.” And then the Holy Spirit does His mysterious work on me. Soon I can think of nothing else, it eats and eats at me. Finally I slightly reluctantly acknowledge God’s sovereignty over all things, good and bad. I’m able to say, “I know You tell me in Your Word that You WILL work everything together for my good and for your Glory.” So, thank you for this (diverticulitis, broken tooth, frozen shoulder, cancer…) for however You are going to use if for good in my life and for Your glory. Be glorified in this, Father. Show Yourself mighty on my behalf in this.
I am helpless to help myself. I’m confused and upset and sometimes mad at You, but I don’t want to be because I KNOW that You are LOVE. I know that Your heart breaks when Your child’s heart is breaking. So, thank You for this.” And by the end I’m no longer choking on those words to get them out. I mean it. I know He is good. I can look out
my window and know that. And I know He is all about putting His glory on display in the lives of His children. Most of the time I never see how he gets any glory from my life and situations and that is okay. I am believing that He is, because He is trustworthy. If He says something, He means it.
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
Monday: The Stone of Unbelief
Jesus was a puzzle to people, not at all what they expected in the coming Messiah. In his hometown of Nazareth, they scoffed that someone as humble as the “son of a carpenter” could possibly be the Messiah. Luke tells us they demanded Him to repeat the miracles He had done elsewhere. (Luke 4:23) Their stones of unbelief kept even Jesus from being able to perform miracles!
3. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain:
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus?
B. What perplexed them?
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say?
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief?
C. How is His power limited? Reflections?
Unbelief and idolatry are intertwined. As our own Rebecca put it in her video testimony in Idol Lies, when she faced the choice of giving up her habit of eating pie in front of the news each night, she asked, “Will God meet me — or will He just let me sit in my pain?” If you haven’t seen her testimony, it is on the page on my website with the Idol Lies videos.
5. Is there a sinful habit (anxiety, gluttony, sexual sin, laziness…) you
fall into because of a lack of faith? If so, “mourn your sin.” As we learned in studying the Beatitudes, it is good to confess by telling God how this hurts you, others, and Him. Then ask Him for the faith to trust that He will meet you. You may do this privately or publicily before your sisters here.
6. Read Mark 6:6-12
A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think?
B. How was the experience of the disciples different from that of Jesus in Nazareth? Why, do you think?
Tuesday: Herod & Herodias – The Stone of Irreverance
A pattern in Scripture is that those who respond in repentance when confronted with their sin are softened and blessed whereas those who resist repentance are hardened and suffer. Asking God to make us quick and good repenters is a wise prayer.
7. Read Mark 6:14-16
A. Who were people saying Jesus was?
B. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think?
C. How did Herod’s sin, which he thought would help him,
backfire? Compare this to your heart idols.
He (Herod) feared John while he lived, and now, when he thought he had got clear of him, fears him ten times worse when he is dead.
(Matthew Henry)
8. Read Mark 6:17-20
A. How had John the Baptist shown bravery?
B. How did John initially suffer and yet is eternally exalted?
C. Why did Herodias “nurse a grudge?”
D. Have you ever done this? What does it look like?
E. Why was Herodias not able to have John killed?
F. What conflicting emotions did Herod have in listening to John?
There is a flashy joy, which a hypocrite may have in hearing the word; Ezekiel was to his hearers as a lovely song (Ezek. 33:32) and the stony ground received the word with joy. (Luke 8:13)
(Matthew Henry)
9. Why should we reverence the Lord, according to Matthew 10:28?
10. How could you use what you’ve learned in the Word today as a springboard for prayer?
Wednesday: The Stone of Idolatry
11. Read Mark 6:21-29
A. Summarize in a few sentences what happened.
B. Matthew Henry believes both Herodias and Herod were
looking for an “opportune time to do away with John the Baptist.” Henry believes that Herod knew what the daughter of Herodias would ask for and to protect his reputation made an oath, so that keeping his vow would look like integrity. Do you agree or disagree and why?
C. Meditating on verse 26, what heart idol do you think was
operating in Herod?
Thursday: How To Handle Our Doubts
When the people in His hometown expressed doubt and scoffed among themselves about Him, Jesus was amazed. But when John the Baptist is imprisoned and sends a message to Jesus about his doubt, Jesus responds with compassion and praise. A pattern we see in Scripture, with Job, with David, and with John the Baptist is it is not wrong to lament and ask God questions. God wants us to come directly to Him with our questions and doubts, because He wants intimacy with us, and you cannot be intimate with someone who is dishonest with you. It is confusing when God allows good men to suffer and bad men to escape earthly punishment, but as Asaph realized in Psalm 73, it is important to consider the destiny of each.
12. How quickly, according to Mark 1:14, was John put in prison?
13. Read Matthew 11:1-18
A. What question did John the Baptist send to Jesus and why do
you think he was having doubts?
B. How does Jesus answer John? Why do you think He responds
with compassion to John’s doubts?
C. How does Jesus praise John?
14. Read the following one page commentary on the above.
Comment.
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/john-the-baptists-doubt
15. Where do you have doubt? Go to the Lord about it in prayer.
Friday: They Had Not Understood — Their Hearts Were Hardened
16. Read Mark 6:30-44
A. Summarize what happened and anything that strikes you.
B. What should this have told the disciples concerning the identity
of Jesus?
17. Read Mark 6:45-56
A. Summarize what happened and anything that strikes you.
B. Meditate particularly on verses 51-52. What had they not
understood that led to a hardness of heart?
18. Give praise to the Lord for specific ways the Spirit has revealed to
you that Jesus is the Christ.
Saturday: Reflections
19. What do you think you will remember about this week and why?
136 comments
1. What stands out to you and why?
Mary stands out. I found this blog about six years ago and Mary was an active participant in my early years here. Her beautiful gratitude always came through even as she wrestled with a very difficult prognosis. She often inspired me when she probably didn’t even know that she was. She has often helped the rest of us here in our own wrestlings. Thank you, Mary. Your choosing gratitude has helped us to do the same. It is infectious.
Many of us here have only met Mary on these pages. There will be a sweet and actual meeting in “that better country” ~
This song is dedicated to Mary. Sara Groves describes the tie that we surprisingly find right here on this blog. Thank you, Dee.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcYFtihSg_8
……We share each others’ woes,
Our common burdens bare
And often for each other,
A sympathizing tear.
Bless be the tie, that binds our hearts
In Christian love ……..
Perfect song for us with Mary, Nila.
Thank you!
Sunday – Mary stands out as she continues to serve in the midst of her trial.
So many are going through so much. So is God still good when He doesn’t take away the infirmity, the illness, the diagnosis? We have to be so very careful in believing that He is only good when our prayers are answered the way we want them to be answered. He is good all of the time through the no, not right now, not ever.
Beautiful expression of gratitude for Mary, Nila. The little that I know of her warms my heart towards her and towards our Savior who has remained faithful in His presence with her these days of waiting.
oh Nila, this brought tears. thank you for your words for her.
1. Dee, I posted a response to # 1 but it is not showing. (Maybe because I included a link to a song?)
2. If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
Yes, I have been impacted by the study on idols of the heart. Thank you Dee for helping me understand, for helping me identify heart idols and for helping me apply the gospel to the sin in my life. One idol that has been large in my life is the idol of control. As you say, Dee, “….this is a process that we are in until we see Him face to face.” And sometimes it is a bloody process because its hard to see and admit the ugly in myself. But it is only in that process that I get to experience Him being the only true lover of my soul. So grateful that I stumbled on to this blog almost six years ago.
Yes, I think it was the link. But it is always a mystery!
What stood out to me was dear Mary. I remember meeting her in Ohio and she has such a warm, friendly way about her. She openly shares her struggles and gives such a real testimony of the grace of God in the midst of it all.
I have studied Idol Lies twice and it was one of the most impactful studies that I have done. It specifically has helped me when I am feeling out of sorts, jealous, hurt or angry, by focusing my thoughts on why I am feeling this way. What idol am I clinging to instead of God? It really has redirected my focus and has allowed me to give it to Him.
Dawn, me, too. Idol Lies was so impactful to me. I am in it for the third time!
Thank you, Dawn. So glad you are okay. Frightening, I’m sure.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Mary’s testimony. Her honest confession of her struggles- “I am helpless to help myself. I’m confused and upset and sometimes mad at You, but I don’t want to be because I KNOW that You are LOVE. I know that Your heart breaks when Your child’s heart is breaking. So, thank You for this.” And by the end I’m no longer choking on those words to get them out. I mean it. I know He is good. I can look outmy window and know that. And I know He is all about putting His glory on display in the lives of His children. Most of the time I never see how he gets any glory from my life and situations and that is okay. I am believing that He is, because He is trustworthy. If He says something, He means it.”
When times of doubt come to me, I will remember testimonies like Mary to keep me grounded in the faithful love of God for me.
2. If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
From the study on Idols, I have identified my predominant idol as that of approval. The awareness of this idol made me more in tune with the motives of my heart and I have noticed a slow chiseling of them from the Stonecutter. Some days I seem to be able to take it well, other times, I would cry out to God not to make it too painful. Like Eustace, I want to do things my way. Lately, the Spirit has enabled me to seek God’s approval alone and not man’s. Like what Mary said, “And then the Holy Spirit does His mysterious work on me.” And from Dee: “Our hearts cannot tolerate a void-we are meant to worship. Idols can not be removed; it can only be replaced.”
Love your vulnerability, Bing.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? A short phrase in the video… “ these idols are not a passing phase…” brings to mind a child intent on silliness but as adults we cannot expect our stone hearts to naturally give up idols and settle on Christ. It is a battle. I must pray, repent, humble myself at Christ’s feet for the Holy Spirit to work, remind myself to look to Jesus, to rest in His arms and not another’s. Hardest of all to depend on zhIS power and not my own because ironically my idol wants nothing more for me to succeed on my own.
2. If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be. Idol Lies and Tim Keller’s various works have impacted me greatly. Specifically…. the Lord would have me be His. My biggest idol is approval (which then leads me to desire control as well and also leads into an idol of comfort). To be His is to rest in His Gospel approval. I am loved, have been, and will be, not because of what I have/have not done but because He just loves me.
Last week the Lord gave me a great victory in this, which is fruit after many years of journeying. I said something silly and was mocked by co-workers (not nasty but still it wounded my idol deeply as any criticism does). I stewed about it feeling very “less-than” but then the Lord brought to mind the story of Dee telling her granddaughter about Keller’s practice of looking the congregation in the eye and silently saying, “you are not my life, Christ is my life.” So the next day I looked at the individual (who was busy doing something else) and told them (silently), “you are not my life/approval, Christ is my life/approval.” I felt an immediate disconnect from my idol and an overwhelming freedom in the approval of Christ. I was giddy. He still has much stone to cut but as each piece falls away I am deeply grateful, awed, and more free.
Great testimony, Jill!
Jill,
Loved this:
To be His is to rest in His Gospel approval. I am loved, have been, and will be, not because of what I have/have not done but because He just loves me.
Thanks for putting this into words so well. I have similar idols and was encouraged by what you wrote.
Thank you for sharing. I check in regularly but rarely post. My idol of approval/people pleasing has been digging its ugly claws in my back. The revealing of its presence gives me hope that the Lord is working at breaking the cycle. I am also an emotional eater and find myself binging even when I know it’s wrong but can’t put down the chocolate ice cream. I am amazed by the Lord’s mercy and sickened by my abuse of his grace. He is very patient. My desires are so strong.
Tiffany — so glad to “see” you here!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Oh Mary, sweet Mary, your words that are posted are so YOU. I miss your comments on our blog; they were so poignant. I’m so happy that Mary and Lizzie connected and have each other. That is something I have pondered over the past few years… where some of our bloggers who regularly participated ended up after awhile. You get to feel “close” to some, and then they are gone, for a variety of reasons I’m sure. But I find it funny that I have felt so “close” to some of you! Weird. I hope they are ok…that is my first thought. I think of our dear sweet Deanna. So, this has promoted me to pray.
Dear Lord, Thank You for this place. Thank You for Dee and the people who are silent bloggers that we don’t even know. Lord, thank you for the people who regularly post here and for those who have in the past but for reasons unknown to us are now gone. We pray they are safe; either with You or here with their families. Help them and their families handle whatever challenges they are going through right now. We especially lift Mary and Lizzie at this time. Lord please let Mary pass quietly. Our sister has been through so much. Bless our entire blog community. We love You Lord. In Your Holy Name. Amen.
Laura–beautiful prayer <3
Laura thank you for the prayer. What a blessing you are to us here.
Laura, thank you for your lovely prayer.
Mary asked me to share this with you all here too–her current favorite song, Jesus Draw Me Ever Nearer, by the Getty’s : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLr5Y_vW3wA
“Jesus draw me ever nearer
As I labour through the storm.
You have called me to this passage,
and I’ll follow, though I’m worn.
May this journey bring a blessing,
May I rise on wings of faith;
And at the end of my heart’s testing,
With Your likeness let me wake.
Jesus guide me through the tempest;
Keep my spirit staid and sure.
When the midnight meets the morning,
Let me love You even more.
Let the treasures of the trial
Form within me as I go –
And at the end of this long passage,
Let me leave them at Your throne.”
Why a song. Tell Mary we are so thankful she shared it!
Beautiful! Mary is still ministering to all of us even now! 😢
Thank you for sharing this song ~
Oh my, the words are so fitting for Mary. Lord, please let Mary feel your comforting arms around her and as she waits, give her the words that someone still needs to hear from her. She is such a blessing to all she meets. Thank you Lord for using Mary as you have in my life and others.
Lizzy Please thank Mary for this song and for the beautiful testimony she is. I have been following silently yet not every week during this series and I am so glad I came on this week to see this news on Mary’s status. So glad you two have become such good friends. I came on this blog about 6 years ago and the memories of Marys strength in the midst of her challenges were powerful examples of the Amazing Grace God gives.
Mary the glimpses of hearing of your journey has brought me a blessing and thru this testing His likeness is ever shining thru. Praying for all the Grace that He will provide for this time and if at all possible A Miracle. I know all things are possible.
Liz–so good to see you here. Mary will be so touched by your care words.
Liz! So good to see you here! Hope you are well? I love what you say about miracles; you are correct. Jesus can do anything. Love you sister ♥️.
Thank you for sharing Mary’s song with us, Lizzy. I can “see” in Mary, the “treasures of the trial form within me as I go”….treasures have been formed in Mary during her long, hard battle with this cancer.
“Trusting Jesus when he delays”: The story of Mary and her closeness to Jesus and being thankful in all circumstances is a wonderful example to all of us. And her friendship and prayers for Lizzy’s adoption are very special. These stand out, but so does the heart of stone being replaced with the heart of flesh.
I was definitely impacted by the study of Idol Lies. During a blessed ladies conference in Massachusetts I heard Dee’s story and at that time I picked up the book.
While I was in the period of my life caring for my mother with dementia and physical health decline I studied the book by myself. I was struggling through several difficult issues and sorting out just how to proceed. I learned that control and codependency were keeping me from God’s best for my life. Letting go of the control problem and drawing into dependency on God alone, I survived and grew. The journey continues just as Dee describes: turning my heart of stone into a heart of flesh is a process that continues until I will meet my Savior face to face.
So glad to be on this journey together. Thanks, Dee, Mary, Lizzy and each of you.
Ohhh — thank you, Shirley!
Shirley–beautiful testimony
2. If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
Definitely Dee’s book Idol Lies…never knew about idols before the book. Dee helped me understand and begin to try to make amends and change. I was helped several ways… control idol especially.
3. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain:
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus?
They were amazed that He had such wisdom and power to perform miracles.
B. What perplexed them?
They were perplexed because He was just the son of a carpenter, had Mary as His mother, and was brother of their friends (His brothers, James, Joseph, etc).
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say?
He says that the hometown people are hardest to convince.
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief?
He heals some people.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections?
He can’t do much because of their unbelief. Faith was most important to the miracles being performed; remember the bleeding woman?
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
How Mary IS glorifying God and as she stated she can’t see it but trusts that He is because He says He is and she trusts that He means what He says 100%. Brought tears to my eyes! Also, the testimony of Mary and Lizzy’s friendship really stands out as she and Lizzy help each other and pray for one another. Sweet fellowship in Him whether in good or dark times is such a gift from God for that is a huge way He counsels and loves on us.
This post was a sweet kiss from God to wake up to!
2. If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
For me, from our study, it has been thirsting and looking for human love to satisfy above God’s love. I honestly didn’t think I had that issue because I have grown in assurance of His love and faithfulness despite my unfaithfulness (which drives me to faithfulness 🙂 ). I didn’t realize it until it was ripped away. For yes I am confident in His love for me; I thought His love was supreme over any other love, but when human love is ripped away either by death, a deep friend, or a spouse it can loosen a broken piece of rock still on your heart revealing a relational idol that only Jesus can remove. Jesus is removing mine and it is painful and there is more pain to come as he slowly removes it, but it is good! I have never felt freer and this is only just the beginning. 🙂
Beautiful from Laura:
I thought His love was supreme over any other love, but when human love is ripped away either by death, a deep friend, or a spouse it can loosen a broken piece of rock still on your heart revealing a relational idol that only Jesus can remove. Jesus is removing mine and it is painful and there is more pain to come as he slowly removes it, but it is good! I have never felt freer and this is only just the beginning. 🙂
Rebecca,
As I read your post for #2 through the tears, I was reminded of this song by Ellie Holcomb ~ You Love Me Best. Have you listened to it before? (I think I posted it on the blog many weeks ago, possibly.)
A few lyrics:
And there may come a day
When all other loves have gone away
When darkness hems me in<
You'll be right where You have always been ~
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVjZYT8qtLQ
Nila, Isn’t it so like Him to encourage me like this, right here on the blog! I really like Ellie Holcomb and I love this song. He will never leave or forsake us..how i needed to be reminded again of this this morning-well daily for the evil one doesn’t stop! It is crucial for me not to forget as the day presses on.
I am finding the wonderful part in all of this is that I haven’t had a moment where I have felt alone for He is living in me. Even the moments I have been down and even angry..Even when the days I was desperate and clung to an idol to ease my pain I never truly felt the coldness of being alone for He knocked on my door and left myrhh on the doornob! 🙂 (That scene has stuck with me-deep it seems!!) YES. He is faithful..right there where He has always been, I just need to run into his arms, and I did nothing to earn it! Oh how that humbles me right now. Through this I have been abundantly blessed by His presence for God has given me the most wonderful counselors and prayer warriors to walk through it with me. Even in pain, even in the hard valleys He is good. It helps to reflect on His goodness and how He comes to me in my pain.
NILA, you have made my morning. Thank you my sweet kindred musician sister! 🙂
I’m staying caught up behind the scenes as I have the the flu. Please know I’m praying for y’all, enjoying your posts and will jump back in soon.
Awww Sharon — prayers!
Prayers for full recovery, Sharon
Sharon–so sorry. Praying for quick recovery
Lord I lift up Sharon to you and as we are reading in this study you healed many. I know Sharon has faith and trust in you so Lord I ask that you cleanse her body from any and all flu symptoms and let her feel 100% better in the morning. You are our great Physician and we believe that healing will come to Sharon’s body. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen!
Sharon, let us know how you are doing. The flu isn’t anything to mess around with. I am hoping you are getting better and are getting plenty of rest and healing. Praying for you sweet friend.
3. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus? They were amazed at His teachings and His mighty works….but more accurately they were amazed that such amazing things could come from an unamazing person that they knew Him as… they were stuck in religion. That you could only climb the ladder to greatness, it could not come from humility.
B. What perplexed them? How someone they knew with ‘insignificant ‘ beginnings could do something significant.
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say?”A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household.”
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief? He does not rebuke them as he did the Pharisees … but instead plants seeds with those that do believe (the few that were healed). He also kept teaching in surrounding villages.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections? He could do no mighty work …. this is VERY convicting … how I long for my faith to be a vessel for his mighty work … but how often do I instead presume that I am not worthy nor credible for a mighty work to happen… does my unbelief (that God loves me ‘enough’ or that I understand his will or that he IS intricately involved in my life) inhibit his mighty work?!
5. Is there a sinful habit you fall into because of a lack of faith? If so, “mourn your sin.” As we learned in studying the Beatitudes, it is good to confess by telling God how this hurts you, others and him. Then ask for the faith to trust that He will meet you. You may do this privately or publicly before your sisters here. I would like to ponder this more and come back it…but if I don’t write something down now as the Spirit is revealing to me I will fail to see what He has for me to see. My sinful habit is timidity…. I worry about what people will think and so I don’t do/say that thing that pops in my head… I presume I am wrong about an act of intended kindness… I will sound foolish in that bold statement……people will loose respect for me…..
God, showed me HIS way yesterday…. that He will determine the result of my obedience. I wear a star necklace often … but not usually when I work because jewelry is frowned on in the OR (I work ICU and OR). Yesterday I wore it … the wife of a patient noticed it and asked, “do you wear a star because it means something to you?” And I answered honestly, “Yes, it does mean something to me. There is a Psalm in the Bible that says that a God has named all the stars and it helps me to remember that a I am in the hands of a big God.” That was the end of that part of our conversation BUT in obedience I felt only peace not concern for how she reacted to a Truth….
if I have faith that He is in control I will obey and not be timid (sensitive is different than timid). God, I know I limit your mighty works by sinfully prioritizing my non-offensive reputation over obedience, lying to myself that you would work great things despite me if you really wanted to…this blame shifting hurts you, others, and me, God, forgive me, turn my heart to you in those moments, give me peace and faith! Amen
6. Read Mark 6:6-12
A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think? Christ told them to go two-by-two (so they wouldn’t be alone) and to take nothing extra (to trust him and be a testimony…also to be humble and grateful being able to boast in nothing…perhaps, too asking for help would soften people to their message and facilitate time and opportunity to hear the message. What was the message? Christ does not tell them what to preach but instead the text only says that Jesus gave them authority over unclean spirits.
B. How was the experience of the disciples different from that of Jesus in Nazareth? Why, do you think? It doesn’t say here but they probably had mixed experience…some receptive and thirsty as Christ had and some offended because they cannot see life without rules and religion.
Jill loved your answer in #5, thank you for being obedient and writing it out as you were led to do.
Love that conversation with your patient about your star necklace! I wonder where she is spiritually!
3. The Nazarenes were amazed at the wisdom and mighty works of Jesus. They knew Jesus’ mother and sisters and took offense at Jesus, because of their unbelief. They were perplexed because of his mighty works, wondering how he could do them.
4. Jesus said, “A prophet is not without honor except in his hometown and among his relatives.”
He showed kindness by healing a few sick people. His power was limited because of their unbelief. This is showing that faith is an important component of healing, physically and spiritually.
5 Sinful habits have a way of continuing to haunt me even when I think I am moving past them. Anxiety is one of my weak areas, along with approval. I have concentrated on the scriptures that teach about anxiety, “Cast all your cares on Him, for he cares for you.” “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything let your requests be made known unto God, and the peace that passes all understanding will guard your heart.”
Father, I believe your word. Forgive me when I slip into this mode of thinking and begin the worry and foolish thoughts that what others think matters. For I know that only Your approval is worthy. My desire is to honor you and to serve you only. Break these rocky pieces in my heart and soften it. Grow my faith and may I listen to your still small voice speaking to me.
6. Jesus called the twelve and charged them to go out two by two and to take authority over unclean spirits. Take nothing for the journey and stay in the house unless they do not receive you and listen to you, then shake the dust off your feet
They did as Jesus told them and asked people to repent. they cast out demons and healed the sick!
Shirley–I was so moved by your prayer in #5, praying along with you
Sunday:
What stands out to you from the above and why? – “I believe this act of God turning our heart of stone into a heart of flesh is both an event, beginning at salvation, and a process, which continues until we see Him face to face. Our idols are like stones, as dangerous as cancerous tumors.” This is so good and such an eye opener for me. A great reminder, that though I have been told mulitple times I have a cold heart, I can find hope and trust in the Lord that I am a work in progress and that he will chisel away at the stone around my heart as I keep asking Him to help me. Dee I love the Idol Lies book and have shared it with my friends and they have also loved it and are amazed at just what idols really are. Lizzy, I continue to pray for Mary and for you and your family as Mary waits for her time to be with the Lord. I can imagine how hard this is on you, since you and Mary have become like sisters. I pray for peace, comfort and strength for all of you at this time.
If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be. – I’ve read Idol Lies and love it. It really opened my eyes to what idols truly are. Idols aren’t just an image of something or someone, they are deep down feelings that I am holding on to because I think I am a better person with them. I’ve found by Dee’s book, that is not the case. And as she says in the video clip, we have to replace them with something as our spirit will not handle an empty spot. But what I fill that void with has to be pleasing to the Lord. It can’t be another bad emotion, or feeling. It has to be what the Lord has given me to put in that spot.
I believe this act of God turning our heart of stone into a heart of flesh is both an event, beginning at salvation, and a process, which continues until we see Him face to face. Our idols are like stones, as dangerous as cancerous tumors. Here is how I put it in the promotional for Idol Lies:
Interesting thought about a “bad emotion” being an idol –hadn’t thought of that, but yes. Nursing a grudge, for example.
Julie–this is good ” they are deep down feelings that I am holding on to because I think I am a better person with them”
Monday: The Stone of Unbelief
3. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain:
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus? – His ability to teach and the knowledge he had when he taught.
B. What perplexed them? – That a lowly carpenter’s son had so much wisdom when he taught and the miracles he performed made them so amazed of him.
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say? – that “only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor.”
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief? – he healed a few sick people that came to him and continued to teach in the villages.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections? – It’s limited because of the lack of faith the people had. They were so set in finding fault with Jesus and what he was able to do, that they had blinders on and could not, or maybe would not see the miracles that he could have been performing on everyone around him. I don’t think they would have ever seen the good that Jesus had the power to do because they were so faithless. Kind of like our society today, I think.
Unbelief and idolatry are intertwined. As our own Rebecca put it in her video testimony in Idol Lies, when she faced the choice of giving up her habit of eating pie in front of the news each night, she asked, “Will God meet me — or will He just let me sit in my pain?” If you haven’t seen her testimony, it is on the page on my website with the Idol Lies videos.
5. Is there a sinful habit (anxiety, gluttony, sexual sin, laziness…) you fall into because of a lack of faith? If so, “mourn your sin.” As we learned in studying the Beatitudes, it is good to confess by telling God how this hurts you, others, and Him. Then ask Him for the faith to trust that He will meet you. You may do this privately or publicly before your sisters here. – Lord I think it is good to be open to my sins, because if I do, Satan can’t say I’m hiding anything, even though you know everything, but you spoke so many things in the Bible I feel I need to speak to you and give my sin of lack of communication to you. I don’t like confrontation and probably afraid of what might come back at me that I just stay quiet and then mumble and grumble which is another idol I need to work on replacing. Lord help me to speak what needs to be said in a loving way, and to know how to respond back without anger in my voice. I don’t want to walk around mumbling because I’m afraid to speak what I feel I need to say. Help me to speak like you helped Moses and give me the words that you gave Aaron Lord. I need to be eloquent in my speech so I only say what you want me to say. Remove these sins from me Lord so I can feel those spots up with love and compassion and understanding.
6. Read Mark 6:6-12
A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think? – he sent out all twelve disciples together in groups of two and gave them authority over evil spirits. He told them to not take anything with them except a staff and only one tunic and one pair of sandals. They were to stay at the same house until they left that village and if no one welcomed them they were to turn around and leave. I think Jesus gave them these instructions so the people in the towns could see that it was the power of Jesus on them allowing them to drive out evil spirits and heal the sick. With having nothing but a staff with them, the people couldn’t focus on those items. Jesus was giving them everything they needed to survive the journey he put them on.
B. How was the experience of the disciples different from that of Jesus in Nazareth? Why, do you think? – Were they welcomed more in the towns then Jesus was. Since they weren’t Jesus, could the people have been more open to them? I think just because Jesus was who he was, they didn’t like him and would not even give him a chance to show the power and authority that he had and the reason he was born and put on the earth. They missed out on so much be rejecting him just because he was Jesus.
Praying with you, Julie, that the Lord would give you the words to say and be able to speak to the pain, to resist from mumbling .
“Remove these sins from me , Lord, so I can fill those spots up with love and compassion and understanding.”
3A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus?
He was performing miracles, and had great wisdom. They were offended. The ‘ol lobsters in the bucket ideology. No lid needed as they will pull a lobster down if he is trying to get out.
3B. What perplexed them?
Why him? What makes him so special? Isn’t he just like us?
4A. What does Jesus say?
Their own do not know them. They don’t want to see the exceptions. Makes them look bad.
4B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief?
He layed his hands on a few sick people and healed them.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections?
No miracles. They would not have convinced regardless. No faith, no works.
5. Is there a sinful habit (anxiety, gluttony, sexual sin, laziness…)
Yes! And I wonder how He is using it for my good as things are so different since I have set myself apart. I pray He is making me into a new creation to leave the old behind.6. Read Mark 6:6-12
6A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think?
To go out two by two giving them authority over evil spirits, and to preach repentance. To send them out as disciples of Christ and be a witness
to all in His Name.
6B. How was the experience of the disciples different from that of Jesus in Nazareth? Why, do you think?
They were to lift up Jesus not themselves, and by His Name known.
Hey Steph — my life is getting back to normal the end of the week — let’s talk about your jail ministry then.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
What stands out is the photo of dear Lizzy and Mary. Mary’s testimony of praising in the midst of her suffering is so powerful. I am so glad that they have become such close friends, but knowing Mary is close to death must be so hard for Lizzy. It is so counter-intuitive to praise God for the hard things, yet we know that God sees the big picture that we do not. Your words under the picture of Mary and Lizzy are so powerful, Dee.
“Be glorified in this, Father. Show Yourself mighty on my behalf in this.
I am helpless to help myself. I’m confused and upset and sometimes mad at You, but I don’t want to be because I KNOW that You are LOVE. I know that Your heart breaks when Your child’s heart is breaking. So, thank You for this.”
2. If you have been impacted by any study on idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
I have been a Christ follower since childhood, honestly wanting to serve my Lord, but I didn’t realize until studying with Dee and with the help of Tim Keller’s sermons that idols are not just physical images of wood or metal that were/are worshipped in places like India or Africa but idols are anything that becomes more important than God in our lives – whether it is our family, or desire for approval or our desire to control things and people. Dee has taught us that there are basically 3 types of idols: approval, control and comfort. I know that at times I have all three. Knowing this, helps me examine myself when I become upset and turn more quickly back to God in repentance, knowing only he can change my heart. My heart is naturally a stony heart and only he can make it a soft heart toward him and others.
Seems we all have all three, Diane! Love your heart.
Diane–I so love it when you are able to post, and I love this : My heart is naturally a stony heart and only he can make it a soft heart toward him and others.
7. Read Mark 6:14-16
A. Who were people saying Jesus was?
They believed He was John the Baptist, raised from the dead.
B. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think?
Herod also thought He was John the Baptist. I’m guessing he thought he was wrong to behead him and the “gods” were punishing him? Maybe he was sent to haunt him?
C. How did Herod’s sin, which he thought would help him backfire? Compare this to your heart idols.
I’m not really sure how he was affected by the beheading? The beheading was the sin but what came of it to him? Just reading these few verses doesn’t help me understand. As I read further I get the back story, but it still doesn’t help me with Herod’s “punishment?” He did feel bad, but acted helpless.
My heart idols are selfish. They feed me but I am never satisfied.
I think the fact that Herod thought Jesus was John the Baptist raised from the dead indicates a tormented conscience. What do you think, Laura?
I can see that. I was also thinking after I posted, that kings were probably control freaks and that was his idol, or at least one of them. Because he couldn’t control the situation he felt bad. It says later in the text that he enjoyed talking to John because he was an intelligent person. So he respected John’s intelligence and I think he felt out of control that it all went down that way.
However I have read accounts that Herod was a nasty man too. Not making him into a “kind” person here.
3. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain:
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus? Where did He get such wisdom and what are the remarkable miracles he is performing?
B. What perplexed them? He is just a mere man for they lived with and knew his family. How could He be doing such things so they were offended by Him.
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say? A prophet is without honor in his own hometown and among his own relatives. He was amazed at their lack of faith.
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief? He healed a few sick people among them.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections? I don’t know but it is good to ponder!
I do think He is the only one who can limit His own power, we can’t control that by what we do or don’t do. Jesus holds back with those who lack faith perhaps because maybe those who lack faith lack trust in Who He is, well and trust is the essential part of Love. I don’t think Jesus was about doing miracles to make their lives comfortable-He wants them and He wants them to want Him as He reveals who He is. If they don’t believe He is God they won’t press into Him rather they will back off .
This might be way off-but it reminds me of the Shulamite Maiden who stays in bed as Jesus knocks on her door. Why did she stay in bed? in that moment she didn’t want him because she forgot to see Him as He is. In that moment He wasn’t more beautiful or powerful than Her idols were and she believed her idol’s lie that His love isn’t better than what they can give her. He didn’t stay, he left. He limited His power for He backed away because she backed away from Him. Okay, enough rambling. 🙂
Not rambling — a great picture!
7.
A. Who were people saying Jesus was? John the Baptist, risen from the dead, Elijiah, a prophet.
B. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think? John. He knew him to be righteous and holy man.
C. How did Herod’s sin, which he thought would help him backfire? Compare this to your heart idols.
He (Herod) feared John while he lived, and now, when he thought he had got clear of him, fears him ten times worse when he is dead. (Matthew Henry)
How we want to control! Without a deliberate giving it to Jesus we look for ways to hide, escape, injure, kill, medicate…and then it comes back to haunt us. We fail. We are in slavery. We become desperate at times. Yet in surrendering to the Sovereign God we can relinquish our need to control, and learn to rest in His arms for the answer. The true test is when we don’t get what we ask for, and we can be at peace with His direction.
8.
A. How had John the Baptist shown bravery? He spoke truth in spite of the consequences.
B. How did John initially suffer and yet is eternally exalted? Arrested, bound,and put in prison. John is known as“the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 21:20-24).
C. Why did Herodias “nurse a grudge?” John told him, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”
D. Have you ever done this? What does it look like? We so want to have our way, and not be called out for our sin.I remember flat out lying when a secret sin was discovered prior to giving my life as a Christian. So much easier to be transparent, and be set free from condemnation – by self, and then others.
E. Why was Herodias not able to have John killed? He feared John and protected him.
F. What conflicting emotions did Herod have in listening to John? His own guilt, the truth, and knowing John was a holy servant of the Lord.
9. Why should we reverence the Lord, according to Matthew 10:28? He holds the key to the power of eternity.
10. How could you use what you’ve learned in the Word today as a springboard for prayer? When I become fearful I need to remember who I am in Christ, what he has done for me in love, and that it does not matter what anyone or anything can do to me in my life on earth. Eternity and my steadfastness in faith in Jesus is what matters. Oh, help me to be strong in adversity, Lord!
Love this Stephanie:
How we want to control! Without a deliberate giving it to Jesus we look for ways to hide, escape, injure, kill, medicate…and then it comes back to haunt us. We fail. We are in slavery. We become desperate at times. Yet in surrendering to the Sovereign God we can relinquish our need to control, and learn to rest in His arms for the answer. The true test is when we don’t get what we ask for, and we can be at peace with His direction.
7. People were saying that Jesus was John the Baptist, or Elijah or a prophet.
Herod said, John the Baptist has been raised! Herod had him beheaded because he was probably feeling a guilt from John’s words.
8. John the Baptist showed bravery because he spoke the truth about Herod. “It is not lawful for you to take your brother’s wife.”
John suffered because he was bound and put in prison. He is eternally exalted because he announced the Messiah and called for people to repent of their sins. Herodias nursed a grudge because of John’s accusation of her adulterous life. She was not able to have him killed because Herod knew he was a righteous man. Herod feared john and kept him safe. “He was greatly perplexed, and heard John gladly.”
Have you ever nursed a grudge? Well, yes, when I have been falsely accused, I continued to allow my thoughts to harass me…It has just been hard to let it go because the accuser and family continued their questioning.
9.Matthew 10:28 warns, Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Yes, only the Lord has this power, and we must reverence the Lord. Others seek to destroy but have only limited power to hurt- ( body or emotions, but not the soul).
10. Father God, I pray as David’s psalm states, Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Help me to forgive those who have attempted to cause me problems by continuing to question my actions in many petty ways, Father. May you guide me and teach me and restore to me the joy of your salvation. May I show kindness and not retaliation to these people, I pray in the name of Jesus.
7. Read Mark 6:14-16
A. Who were people saying Jesus was? – some thought he was John the Baptist raised from the dead, some thought he was Elijah and others thought he was a prophet.
B. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think? – Herod thought he was John the Baptist. I think he probably knew he was wrong in beheading John and now he was coming back to haunt him, to make his life miserable for what he did to him. I’m not sure about this, but I know I would be worried about it if I did what Herod did.
C. How did Herod’s sin, which he thought would help him, backfire? Compare this to your heart idols. – I think he knew he was wrong in beheading John and thought that he had control of the situation by do what he did, but now he thinks he has been raised from the dead and will constantly be living a life in fear because he will wonder if John will get back at him for what he did to him. When I hold on to idols, I am not living a Godly life. I have this burden, a chain around my neck that I carry around, hoping no one finds out what lies in my inner being. I live a life of constant worry that just grows deeper and doesn’t allow me to get out of the pit I dug for myself.
He (Herod) feared John while he lived, and now, when he thought he had got clear of him, fears him ten times worse when he is dead. – (Matthew Henry)
8. Read Mark 6:17-20
A. How had John the Baptist shown bravery? – John showed bravery by not being afraid to speak the truth about what Herod was doing. He spoke what the law at the time was and knew that God would be with him even if it meant harm would come to him.
B. How did John initially suffer and yet is eternally exalted? – His initail suffering was being bound and arrested and put in prison and later was beheaded. But as a follower of Jesus, he was exalted because of the work he did. People knew who John was even after he was beheaded.
C. Why did Herodias “nurse a grudge?” – her grudge against John was because he was speaking what the law was that Herod should not have his brother’s wife Herodias, but she wanted what she couldn’t have so she would have liked to get John out of the picture so she could freely live her life as she chose with no one pointing out their sin.
D. Have you ever done this? What does it look like? – Sadly yes. Mine was not wanting to forgive my stepson and daughter-in-law when they lied about me and my husband. They moved on from it and seemed to get to the point that nothing happened, but I didn’t want to get to that point because they had not apologised to me for the hurt they had done to us.
E. Why was Herodias not able to have John killed? – Because Herod feared John and protected him because Herod knew John was a righteous and holy man.
F. What conflicting emotions did Herod have in listening to John? – He was puzzled by what he spoke but liked to listen to him. I feel that this says that Herod had the insite to know what it meant to be a follower of Jesus, but wasn’t firmly planted in the Word to withstand the comments thrown at him that pulled him away for the truth of God’s Word.
There is a flashy joy, which a hypocrite may have in hearing the word; Ezekiel was to his hearers as a lovely song (Ezek. 33:32) and the stony ground received the word with joy. (Luke 8:13) – (Matthew Henry)
9. Why should we reverence the Lord, according to Matthew 10:28? – Because we will live a life in eternity with Jesus. He is the one that can save our soul from being put death spirtually.
10. How could you use what you’ve learned in the Word today as a springboard for prayer? – Lord these stories in your Word are not just fairy tales, but they are in the Word to help us see the truth. Help me Lord to be bold in what I believe as long as it lines up with your Word. Help me to not be afraid to walk away for the one who is trying to destroy my soul and always walk toward the One that can save me. Help me Lord feel your conviction in my life where I need to work on being strong in my faith. Help me to feel your presence in my life as I chip away from the hardened shell that I try to hold on to thinking that it alone with protect me when in fact it just keeps me farther from you. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
powerful prayer
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
The beauty of Mary, her journey and testimony, and her and Lizzy’s friendship. I believe Mary was, and is, the perfect sister-friend for Lizzy, and the Lord knew this when He brought them together. I know that Mary never married nor had her own children, and so she has been able to devote much of her time to becoming like family to Lizzy and her children…getting to know them, praying for them, going through the adoption process with Lizzy. The mutual love they have for one another really shines, and proves that those ties that bind, like in the song Nila shared, don’t necessarily have to be blood-ties…they have been knitted together because they are in Jesus’ family.
Mary’s testimony is amazing, how she is giving thanks in all things. Her honesty with God, that she can tell Him when she’s mad at Him or confused, is real and reminds me of many of the psalmists as they lament honestly to God, not hiding their true feelings. So I say to Mary, please know for real and for sure, that your life is impacting everyone around you more than you may ever know, and that we love you.
2. If you have been impacted on any study of idols of the heart, share specifically a way it has helped you become more of what the Lord would have you be.
I remember when we first began to study idols here on this blog, and it took me a long time to “get it”. Once you get it, though, you see your idols hiding everywhere. One way knowing about idols has helped me is I understand now to look for the hidden idol beneath my sin; my sin is only the bad fruit of something much deeper, under the surface. I feel for Jill, for her post above about a coworker’s response to something she said. At my job, there are a couple of doctor’s that I absolutely dread having to talk to, because they can be nice one time and not so nice the next. Sometimes, the way they act makes me feel small and stupid. I know this is an approval idol.
How I love Susan, in her beautiful way, gives this tribute to Mary:
The beauty of Mary, her journey and testimony, and her and Lizzy’s friendship. I believe Mary was, and is, the perfect sister-friend for Lizzy, and the Lord knew this when He brought them together. I know that Mary never married nor had her own children, and so she has been able to devote much of her time to becoming like family to Lizzy and her children…getting to know them, praying for them, going through the adoption process with Lizzy. The mutual love they have for one another really shines, and proves that those ties that bind, like in the song Nila shared, don’t necessarily have to be blood-ties…they have been knitted together because they are in Jesus’ family.
Mary’s testimony is amazing, how she is giving thanks in all things. Her honesty with God, that she can tell Him when she’s mad at Him or confused, is real and reminds me of many of the psalmists as they lament honestly to God, not hiding their true feelings. So I say to Mary, please know for real and for sure, that your life is impacting everyone around you more than you may ever know, and that we love you.
oh Susan–your words reflect the beauty of your heart. you are one of the most genuinely compassionate people I know. thank you for this.
Susan, such sweet words for Mary. She is a special, godly woman of faith and is definitely being used here on earth.
8. Read Mark 6:17-20
A. How had John the Baptist shown bravery?
He had told Herod the truth about the law.
B. How did John initially suffer and yet is eternally exalted?
He suffered imprisonment and then beheading. He is exalted in God’s Word; just being there.
C. Why did Herodias “nurse a grudge?”
She was mad and wanted pay back because John kept telling Herod that taking someone else’s wife was not acceptable behavior. John was speaking the truth about the situation.
D. Have you ever done this? What does it look like?
You mean get involved in someone’s personal business? Or do you mean just giving unsolicited advice? Probably yes, the latter. I am struggling with a situation right note that I’m trying to figure out so I can “help” two friends see what’s wrong with their actions. Ugh.
E. Why was Herodias not able to have John killed?
She needed Herod to ok it; give permission.
F. What conflicting emotions did Herod have in listening to John?
He knew he was an intelligent man even though he was different from Herod. Herod appreciated his good conversations. He also knew he was a Holy man.
This brought tears. Susan, so true and beautiful. (This should go under Susan’s comment above.)
9. Why should we reverence the Lord, according to Matthew 10:28?
We should only fear the Lord. He can save or condemn our souls; no one else.
10. How could you use what you’ve learned in the Word today as a springboard for prayer?
I suppose that to be careful unwanted advice? Also to attach myself to God in all ways and He will take care of my soul.
11. Read Mark 6:21-29
A. Summarize in a few sentences what happened.
Herodias was waiting for just the right time to do away with John. Finally, at Herod‘s birthday party the time came. Their daughter performed a dance for the party and Herod offered her anything she wanted. She ran to her mother and asked what she should request. Herodias said to ask for John’s head on a platter. The daughter went back and asked Herod. Herod had the act performed and John’s head arrived on a platter.
7. Read Mark 6:14-16
A. Who were people saying Jesus was? John the Baptist, Elijah or a prophet.
B. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think? John the Baptist. We know Herod feared John would be more powerful and more admired than he so he agreed to have him beheaded. I think Herod thirsted after his idols and I think anything that threatened what they gave him (power over people and to be feared by people) would send him spinning so if John raised from the dead that would certainly cause him to go in a tailspin!
C. How did Herod’s sin, which he thought would help him, backfire? Compare this to your heart idols.
Beheading John should have gotten rid of what was threatening his power hungry heart but it only made things worse for him because if John didn’t stay dead then he couldn’t kill him again..there was literally nothing he could do about it and so already his power was crumbling and he was being torn apart from his idol.
This is SO us. I know there are more complex examples but a simple example is if I am in pain and try to soothe it with food or a Netflix binge, or something else. Temporarily it is soothed but it comes back full force with gained weight which means buying new clothes, depression, and possibly bad health issues, or a diet of binging too many Netflix seasonal shows can bring missed opportunities to binge in God’s word which will soothe the pain and bring true healing. (I am not saying we can’t enjoy God’s gifts-but using them to soothe is what I am talking more about. 🙂 )
From Rebecca:
I am not saying we can’t enjoy God’s gifts-but using them to soothe is what I am talking more about. 🙂
REPLY
6. Read Mark 6:6-12
A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think?
He was training them. He tells them to go without bread, bag or money – only a staff and sandals. He told them to stay at one house unless it rejects them and then to shake the dust off their feet as a testimony against them. He told them to preach repentance, cast out demons and heal.
I really have never understood this passage. On the surface it does not seem to fit with how the immature, cowardly disciples flee when Jesus was arrested. They were not ready to lead at this point. Yet Jesus gives them authority. Perhaps that is just like us. We are called to lead in Christian work, even though; from a human standpoint we are not ready. This has been my experience.
I am seeing something entirely new and mind boggling to me here now. My ESV Study Bible, which I love because it has such great helps, says, “The travel instructions are unique and specific for the disciples. These unique instructions serve as signs to Jewish people of peace, defenselessness, trust in God and urgency. … The provisions (food, money, clothing) are to come from people who repent upon hearing the disciples’ message.
Interestingly, I think the travel instructions here apply to those in Christian leadership. They are to go in peace, putting themselves at risk because they are physically defenceless, if met with persecution. Christian leaders are to trust in God and not on the reliability of money or material success. They are also to go with a sense of urgency, trusting God and other believers to provide for their physical needs. This is the basis of full-time pastoral leadership in our denomination; the church pays the pastor’s salary (a living full-time wage) so that he can serve the Lord full-time and not have to supplement his income with other work.
This has been my life experience. It felt pretty risky at times, spending money on education without any guarantee of a well-paying job; feeling called to go overseas with three small children; being asked to leave some jobs without any job prospects; moving many times. In all this, we had to trust God and others to provide our needs. I must admit that my trust in God and others was not always what it should have been. Yet, God has always provided.
Being a pastor’s wife and a pastor’s daughter, we are grateful with how well we were supported over the years (we always had enough) and even provision has been made through the foresight of the denomination for a decent retirement income. I realize that many pastors’ experiences are not the same.
That is an interesting note from the ESV study Bible. I gave mine away when I got so offended by how they interpreted The Song of Songs (they thought the “safest” way was to see it primarily applying to marriage) but I no doubt threw the baby out with the bathwater! I think the lesson is that all commentaries will have errors in them but some are still so much better than others, and I’m quite sure that one is!
Yes. All commentaries and study Bibles have errors, but I have found my ESV Study Bible is full of helpful perspectives and information. In my opinion, it is one of the best. Why don’t you give it another try!
I may!
1. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain:
People at Jesus’ hometown were amazed at what He can do and was skeptical about it and took offense at His miracles and asked Him to do a repeat.
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus?
He was of their own and “just” a carpenter’s son. Just ordinary.
B. What perplexed them?
His teachings-a carpenter’s son doing miracles and teaching with authority? Naah!
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say?
“A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.”
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief?
He healed some sick people by laying His hands on them.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections?
By people’s unbelief. This is a mystery to me. In Mark 9, the father of a boy possessed by a demon asked God to heal his boy, “if Jesus can”. And then when Jesus replied, “If I can? Anything is possible with faith.” Then the man said, “I believe; help my unbelief.”
It seems like this man is asking for more resolve to believe compared to the people of His hometown. Nobody was interested to pray for faith except perhaps, the people whom He has healed.
Naaman’s healing; the centurion’s little girl-they had faith though imperfect to keep seeking God for their healing. Even the woman with an issue of bleeding had the faith of a mustard seed. God honors true faith in Him how little it may be.
Unbelief and idolatry are intertwined. As our own Rebecca put it in her video testimony in Idol Lies, when she faced the choice of giving up her habit of eating pie in front of the news each night, she asked, “Will God meet me — or will He just let me sit in my pain?” If you haven’t seen her testimony, it is on the page on my website with the Idol Lies videos.
2. Is there a sinful habit (anxiety, gluttony, sexual sin, laziness…) you fall into because of a lack of faith? If so, “mourn your sin.” As we learned in studying the Beatitudes, it is good to confess by telling God how this hurts you, others, and Him. Then ask Him for the faith to trust that He will meet you. You may do this privately or publicly before your sisters here.
I think for me, it is worry. I need to be reminded again and again that God is faithful and that He is in full control.
5. Read Mark 6:6-12
A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think?
To go out two by two and He gave them authority over impure spirits. They are not to bring anything with them. Two by two so one can be a witness to the other. No resources so they can only depend on God.
B. How was the experience of the disciples different from that of Jesus in Nazareth? Why, do you think? They healed many people and drove out many demons. People believed!
I laughed at your “carpenter’s son doing miracles? Naaah!”
7. Read Mark 6:14-16
A. Who were people saying Jesus was?
John the Baptist risen from the dead. A prophet of old. Elijah.
A. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think?
John the Baptist risen from the dead. Guilty conscience?
C. How did Herod’s sin, which he thought would help him, backfire? Compare this to your heart idols. Not sure how to answer this.
He (Herod) feared John while he lived, and now, when he thought he had got clear of him, fears him ten times worse when he is dead.
(Matthew Henry)
8. Read Mark 6:17-20
A. How had John the Baptist shown bravery?
He confronted Herod about marrying Herodias who is his brother’s wife.
B. How did John initially suffer and yet is eternally exalted?
He was beheaded. He is in Heaven and Jesus spoke well of him.
C. Why did Herodias “nurse a grudge?”
Because John identified her and Herod’s sin and she does not see it as such.
D. Have you ever done this? What does it look like?
Yes. Justifying my sin and allowing Satan to harden my heart to where I fail to see the wretchedness of my sin.
E. Why was Herodias not able to have John killed?
Because Herod was afraid of John and considered him a holy man.
F. What conflicting emotions did Herod have in listening to John?
He was puzzled by what John had to say yet liked listening to John.
There is a flashy joy, which a hypocrite may have in hearing the word; Ezekiel was to his hearers as a lovely song (Ezek. 33:32) and the stony ground received the word with joy. (Luke 8:13)
(Matthew Henry)
9. Why should we reverence the Lord, according to Matthew 10:28?
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
10. How could you use what you’ve learned in the Word today as a springboard for prayer?
Lord, may I be a quick and a good repenter. Let not the enemy cloud my senses and my soul and heart by his ploys. Help me to seek you first and foremost and may I be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting. Help me listen to godly people’s advice when you are using them to help me make righteous decisions. May I reverence you as the one who has saved me from the penalty of sin and its power. And has kept me from hell and that I might enjoy you and bring honor to you with my life.
11. Read Mark 6:21-29
A. Summarize in a few sentences what happened.
Herod had a banquet. Herodias’ daughter danced for the attendees and she pleased them. Herod asked what she wanted as a reward and Herodias told her daughter to ask for John the Baptist head in a platter. Although the king was greatly distressed, he had John beheaded and put in a platter and gave it to Herodias daughter who in turn gave it to Herodias. So despicable!
B. Matthew Henry believes both Herodias and Herod were looking for an “opportune time to do away with John the Baptist.” Henry believes that Herod knew what the daughter of Herodias would ask for and to protect his reputation made an oath so that keeping his vow would look like integrity. Do you agree or disagree and why?
Not sure. Unless Herod was just acting that he was greatly distressed, He probably was unconsciously being guilty laden. And an opportune time was shrouded as “integrity”. But I also believed that Herod and Herodias knew each others’ thoughts without saying them out loud even to each other. They are accomplices to the death of John the Baptist and probably did not care one iota.
A. Meditating on verse 26, what heart idol do you think was operating in Herod?
Pride.
11. In this ridiculous scenario Herod is having a banquet where Herodias’ daughter dances and pleases Herod. In his promise to gift her he asks her to tell him whatever she wants and it will be granted. On conferring with her mother, she asks for the head of John the Baptist. Scripture says he was exceedingly sorry but granted her wish and had John beheaded, bring the platter out to her.
Matthew Henry believed that Herod wanted to do away with John and knew this would be her request. I am surprised at this assumption and my inclination would be to disagree, but that is only because the scripture states he was sorry.
My thought is that Herod has several idols apparent here: power, control and lust. His relationship to Herodias is lustful as well as to the probable erotic dancing of the daughter. And power and control were strongly at play here. Yet he seemed to be intimidated by John who boldly spoke to his sinfulness.
I love it when you all feel free to disagree. Makes us ponder.
11. Read Mark 6:21-29
A. Summarize in a few sentences what happened. – It was Herod’s birthday and he was having party with the high officials. Herodias’ daughter came out and danced and that pleased Herod so he promised her anything she wanted, up to half of his kingdom. Her mother told her to ask for the head of John the Baptist on a platter and so he wouldn’t be embarrassed in front of his friends he ordered that John the Baptist be beheaded. He was distressed over this but had his high officials with him so he felt he had to do it. John’s head was brought out and John’s disciples came and took his body and buried it in a tomb after they heard what had happened.
B. Matthew Henry believes both Herodias and Herod were looking for an “opportune time to do away with John the Baptist.” Henry believes that Herod knew what the daughter of Herodias would ask for and to protect his reputation made an oath, so that keeping his vow would look like integrity. Do you agree or disagree and why? – I don’t know, if Herod had an idea of what the daughter was going to ask for, then he could have made that part of the stipulation that it would not be allowed as part of his promise to her. I have a hard time when people know what the rules/laws are but think it’s ok to ignore just because of their reputation. I think a bigger person to me would be one that want against what she was asking for and make a point to give her a lesson in selfishness and greed. I would have respected him more if he told her know in front of everyone.
C. Meditating on verse 26, what heart idol do you think was operating in Herod? – Control, greed, pride, contempt. Even though he was interested in what John taught, he wanted to keep control of the situation and because of his friends being there he didn’t want to lose their respect so his pride got in the way and I think to some extent he had contempt against John because of the knowledge he portrayed and others listened to him.
7. Read Mark 6:14-16
A. Who were people saying Jesus was? They speculated at who he was back from the dead. They assumed his power was not his own but of a past prophet… maybe because God hadn’t really officially spoken for 400 years…maybe because the prophesies spoke of a new Elijah? (Don’t have time to fact check me in this…)
B. Who did Herod think he was and why, do you think? The text says he thought he was John the Baptist come back … probably because his guilt haunted him…
C. How did Herod’s sin which he thought would help him, backfire? Compare this to your heart idols. We all (humans) tend to think if we can get rid of the threat of consequence that the act, too, will become justified … be put on the “see? Nothing happened. It’s fine.” Side of the moral scale… but wrong is wrong … sin is sin … self worship is never worship of the almighty God and everything that is done oitside of worshipping God rubs us endlessly because we are created to worship him (tho I think there is a process of a hardening of the conscience … like Pharoah .. where self-worship becomes the desperate status quo …
my idols – yes, always seem to convince me that I NEED ____ that it wouldn’t be good if I did ____. And then it backfires … haunts me … unsettles me … because the only place my heart is at rest is in my Father’s will.
8. Read Mark 6:17-20
A. How had John the Baptist shown bravery? He had approached Herod and confronted him with his sin.
B. How did John initially suffer and yet is eternally exalted? He was locked up and bound … the text does not say for how long … but the implication is awhile … he is eternally exalted because he glorified God, he did what was right and was able to please The Father.
C. Why did Herodias “nurse a grudge?” The text doesn’t say but it’s kind of implied that she was guilty by association… John was telling Herod and she is the object of his sin. Maybe she liked her new situation and didn’t like it threatened. Maybe she was someone who thought her own moral compass was the moral compass and got angry when people challenged that … revenge is usually sought when we think we can make things even.
D. Have you ever done this? What does it look like? O dear … yes. In my life it usually is not a seeking revenge or wishing ill-will but a subtle jealousy or a slamming of a door. Meaning someone has wronged me or told me that they don’t like me or something I am doing and so I just shut the door… (trying to articulate my feelings here) … essentially by eliminating them (not maliciously) I eliminate the risk of hurt and pain.
E. Why was Herodias not able to have John killed? Because Herod knew John was righteous and holy Herod also liked to listen to John speak.
F. What conflicting emotions did Herod have in listening to John? He was greatly perplexed and yet heard him with gladness… this reminds me of a seeker …
9. Why should we reverence the Lord, according to Matthew 10:28? Because God has power of our soul.
12. How quickly, according to Mark 1:14, was John put in prison?
He was put into prison after he baptized Jesus and Jesus was in the wilderness.
13. Read Matthew 11:1-18
A. What question did John the Baptist send to Jesus and why do you think he was having doubts?
John asked Jesus if was truly the Messiah. I think he didn’t understand why he was being “punished” for doing what he was supposed to do. He must have been thinking, “why am I in jail? Shouldn’t I be able to be with the Messiah too?”
B. How does Jesus answer John? Why do you think He responds with compassion to John’s doubts?
He tells the disciples (Johns) to witness to John about what they have seen. He says to tell him that God will bless him.
C. How does Jesus praise John?
He begins edifying John to the crowd. He reminds them of John’s work prior to being put in jail. He says he was strong and fulfilled the scriptures. John challenged the status quo (he was brave).
14. Read the following one page commentary on the above. Comment.
The author of this article, Jon Bloom, helped me to slow down and really consider the humanity of John ~ to picture John in a dark prison with dark, discouraging thoughts. To understand what he was likely experiencing under the assault of the enemy of our soul, for in painful, doubting moments the enemy would mock our memory of God’s faithfulness. The author also helped my heart to understand our Lord’s deep compassion for John and for each of us who wrestle with potentially debilitating doubt.
Many months ago, Dee, you led us to a book by Rankin Wilbourne titled Union with Christ. In the beginning chapters, Rankin helped me understand my God-given imagination and helped me to not be afraid to use it. I have grown to appreciate and value this aspect of our humanity.
In the past two months I have gone to two workshops called Word by Heart where we memorize fairly large portions of scripture by picturing what the scene might have looked like, smelled like, sounded like. In the end, it is simply helping me to slow down and think through what I’m reading. (One of my 13 year old guitar students memorized the entire book of Luke last summer using this beautiful method.)
This stood out from Jon Bloom’s article:
When Jesus had sent John’s disciples away, he said something stunning about John: no one born of women had ever been greater. This, right after John questioned who Jesus was. ……..
In this age, even the greatest, strongest saints experience deep darkness. None of us are spared sorrow or satanic oppression…..
The Savior does not break the bruised reed. He hears our pleas for help and is patient with our doubts. He does not condemn us. He has paid completely for any sin that is exposed in our pain.
Isaiah 42:3 says “A bruised reed He will not break, And a dimly burning wick He will not extinguish; He will faithfully bring forth justice.”
Nila, I love all of this post! Love your memorizing large portions of scripture in this method of practicing what the scene was like.
Me too, Nila — what an interesting way to memorize!
3. Read Mark 6:1-3 and explain:
A. What amazed the Nazarenes about Jesus?
The way He was teaching in their synagogue, with so much insight, knowledge, and wisdom. And that Jesus was able to perform miracles.
B. What perplexed them?
I think that He wasn’t some mysterious miracle worker from somewhere else. It perplexed them that Jesus was simply one of their hometown young men; a carpenter, Mary’s son, and whose brothers and sisters they all knew, and He was from an ordinary family. How did He get so smart? How did He get this power to work miracles? They were offended by Him, as in “who does he think he is?”
4. Read Mark 6:4-6
A. What does Jesus say? Jesus said to the people that it is only in his own hometown and among his own relatives that a prophet is not honored.
B. What does He do that shows kindness despite their unbelief?
He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them.
C. How is His power limited? Reflections?
It says that Jesus could not do any miracles there because of their lack of faith. So does our unbelief hinder God’s ability, or is it His willingness, to work in our lives? I can’t think that we could make God unable to do a miracle, but if we really don’t believe that He can, then…
But what about people who have had it laid on their backs that it’s their fault that they are sick or ill, that if only they had enough faith, they would be healed? That’s a cruel teaching. Or maybe it’s that the people didn’t even have any curiosity to know or try to understand how this Jesus that they knew had these powers and wisdom; they didn’t even want to find out, they just dismissed Him.
5. Is there a sinful habit you fall into because of a lack of faith? If so, “mourn your sin”. As we learned in studying the Beatitudes, it is good to confess by telling God how this hurts you, others, and Him. Then ask Him for the faith to trust that He will meet you.
Wow, I can think of a whole lot of sins that are the result of a lack of faith. I am connecting the dots here that my sin and heart idols are because first, I don’t believe that He is enough, and secondly, that I don’t believe that in Him, I am enough, or another way to put it is that He pronounces over me, “You are enough.” That is fundamentally why I will struggle with needing the approval/affirmation of others, or why I will struggle with jealousy of others or I will gossip or shade the truth to make myself look better, or why I want to control things or seek comfort in the things of this world. It’s why I have fear or anxiety of the future, or even worry.
Susan–WOW. So thankful I saw this, your words are so powerful “I am connecting the dots here that my sin and heart idols are because first, I don’t believe that He is enough, and secondly, that I don’t believe that in Him, I am enough, or another way to put it is that He pronounces over me, “You are enough.”
Hi Lizzy, I actually was just thinking that it feels a little lonely on the blog in the afternoon as most are here in the morning hours, so it’s good to “see” you’re here, too! Yes, I am thinking that a lot of my striving and sinning has to do with these two things.
🙂 I’m at work but saw this come through email and always stop when I see your posts. Glad I did because it really blessed me. You truly have more wisdom than you know dear friend! Only wish we were here together in person!
I never want anyone to “feel lonely” on the blog! You are so dear to me, Susan.
Susan, you describe this so eloquently. And yes, we need to believe him, “You are enough.” I feel not enough,too, so often.
6. Read Mark 6:6-12
A. What did Jesus tell them to do, and why, do you think?
Jesus sent the disciples out in pairs of two and gave them authority over evil spirits. He told them not to pack anything for their journey, only to take their staffs. They were not to take extra clothes, food, or money. They were to stay in people’s homes who welcomed them. If they received no welcome in a town, they were to leave and shake the dust from that place off their shoes, as a testimony against that place and its people. Why did He tell them to do this? Maybe to teach them to be dependent upon God and others, to be humble to accept help from others, to help them build relationships with people so as to invite them into His family?
B. How was the experience of the disciples different from that of Jesus in Nazareth? Why, do you think?
It says that they did drive out many demons and heal a lot of sick people, so most people they met must have been receptive to listen and believe. They must have encountered softer, hungrier hearts that were less cynical than in Nazareth. Also, maybe in these towns they were mostly unknown so people didn’t have any preconceptions of them.
12. John was arrested soon after Jesus was baptized and spent 40 days in the wilderness.
13. John asked, “Are you the one who is to come, or shall we look for another?” I would expect that John
was discouraged that he ended up in prison by doing what God had guided him to do as a prophet.
Jesus answered him in the words from Isaiah 42 (the servant of the Lord), “the blind receive their sight, and the lame walk,” and so on.
Jesus has compassion on John because he knew the truth John had proclaimed. In verse 9 Jesus said John was a prophet and more than a prophet.
Read the commentary.
Where do you have doubt? My doubts come when injustices seem to go without consequences; when good people suffer and continue to suffer, when we do everything possible to help someone and they turn away, when discouragement attacks- really it is Satan who attacks as I know we are in a spiritual battle when we obey Jesus and trust him.
Father God, I believe your promises, every word you give to us. but I am having a doubt about my good friends who love you and their suffering does not ease. We pray and wait and wait. So far my friend, Linda, is suffering from severe pain, from sleeplessness, from elevated blood pressure and glaucoma. She loves you and witnesses for you and I want to see healing and relief for her. Father, it makes me hurt so much that I cannot do anything to help her. It hurts me that there is no answer. I am sad and puzzled. Please intervene and give peace. I do know there is a future and a hope. thank you for never leaving or forsaking us, I pray in Jesus’ name.
Shirley, praying with you for your friend, Linda, and for you. Isn’t it hard when we feel we cannot do anything to help and feel we do not have an answer? I have been there.
Shirley — this reminds me of a psalm where he felt that way and then looked to the end of those who seemed to get away with so much…
Today, a group from my church will go to Linda at 3 PM to pray and lay hands on her. So we give these cares to God and wait on Him.
14. Read the following one page commentary on the above. Comment.
I have never heard of this series of verses, nor have I contemplated them. Oh sure, I’ve read them before, but again, here is Dee getting us to unpack them and consider what they say!
John doubts Jesus…I wonder if he is anxious waiting in prison and the anxiety helps to feed the doubt? I have wondered, in my own life, at times if I am crazy to constantly reflect on bible verses and God throughout my day. I have wondered if others are like me or if I am odd? I did this just the other day, even before reading these lines! I pondered that day, if I was wasting my time (ugh), and if it would all be in vain in the end (double ugh and I can’t believe I am speaking these words 😔).
John considers that He might be a false prophet according to the article, but I can’t find in scripture where it says that. The article also says that Jesus turns to Johns disciples, “…with tears in his eyes…” and replies. I can’t find that in 3-4 versions either. The author seems to embellish a bit, yes?
Jesus does give John a glowing benediction to the people He is talking with in His presence at the moment. He reminds them of John’s ministry and his faith. John reminds me of a human angel who paved the way for the Messiah.
it all is a comfort to know that my doubts were Johns doubts too; that I might be crazy, and these thoughts were his as well. Maybe I am ok?
Doubts are healthy. Sara Groves says her songs are processing songs to get through doubts.
Sharon Leach, wondering how you are feeling this morning. Hope you have recovered from the flu and are getting back in motion again! Praying for you.
Rebecca, thank you so much for asking. I am doing better and slowly recovering. I appreciate yours and everyone’s prayers! Lord willing, will be jumping back in next week😊
14. I absolutely love the commentary by Jon Bloom on John the Baptist’s doubting Jesus while in prison. It give me comfort that in pain and suffering, Jesus understands my doubts and fear and has compassion. I have a strong Christian friend who is going through a real crisis of doubt right now because of life circumstances. For her and others in crisis, I pray that Jesus will speak gentle words of comfort, provide grace in time of need, “the help that is needed,” and hope in his sweet promises.
“He does not always answer with the speed we desire, nor is his answer always the deliverance we hope for. But he will always send the help that is needed. His grace will always be sufficient for those who trust him. The hope we taste in the promises we trust will often be the sweetest thing we experience in this age. And his reward will be beyond our imagination.”
Yes — so many back away in times of suffering. I pray she does not!
16. Read Mark 6:30-44
A. Summarize what happened and anything that strikes you.
Jesus recognizes that there are many people around them and tells the disciples He would like to leave with them to rest and be quiet. They go in a boat but people recognize them and insist on following them. Jesus feels compassion toward them and preaches to them. The disciples approach Him late in the afternoon to get Him to rest. They tell Him to send the crowds away so they may eat. He tells them to feed the people but the disciples say they have no food for such a large crowd. Jesus tell them to feed the people. They only have a small amount of food, but suddenly they have enough to feed 5000! Is this “the” story of feeding 5000? I thought the food came from a little boys’ lunch? Jesus blesses the small lunch, holds it to heaven, and then requests that the disciples hand it out. All the people and their families are fed.
B. What should this have told the disciples concerning the identity of Jesus?
They should have realized that He was special at this point.
i always have pondered why Jesus healed some and didn’t others, how he performed “miracles” like this feeding of the 5000 and others but didn’t want the people to tell. I guess I have my answer in the past couple of weeks….if He allowed everyone to know at once then His mission would be cut short; He would dies earlier than He wanted. If that happened we then He wouldn’t have time to “train” the disciples to be His hands and feet. Just thinking….
Most think there are two different times Jesus did this — but another thought is that there was just one, but told from different perspectives.
17. Read Mark 6:45-56
A. Summarize what happened and anything that strikes you.
Jesus, again wants them to rest. He tells them to head across the lake and He goes away to be alone to pray (to the mountain?). When He returns He sees the disciples struggling with the boat on the water; it had become windy. He walks on the water to them and tells them to not be afraid. He calms the water and gets in the boat. They think He is a ghost at first. When they get to land, people recognize Him and begin to bring their sick to Him for healing. He was like a rock star!
B. Meditate particularly on verses 51-52. What had they not understood that led to a hardness of heart?
I’m not sure in getting what the point is here. How in the world could they not have known who He was when they had seen everything they did with Him? Especially raising the dead and such? Did they just not want to believe it? They didn’t understand the feeding miracle? Why? I think it’s like my husband…each time we run short of money it somehow shows up. He gives the glory to God, but then forgets. The next time we we run short the cycle happens again; he worries, it shows up, he thanks God, then forgets. He doesn’t mean to, but the world takes over. I can see how he could doubt when we don’t have Jesus in front of us, but the disciples??? They had Him right there! How could they not believe?
Amazing what you can deny when your heart is resisting…
11. Read Mark 6:21-29
A. Summarize in a few sentences what happened. Herod threw a banquet with many attendees. Herodias’s daughter pleased the group with her dancing so much that Herod promised her whatever gift she wanted. Herodias made the girl ask for the head of John the Baptist. John was executed and the head ended up in Herodias’s hands.
B. … Do you agree or disagree and why? I think I disagree. The narrative says that Herod was sorry and it is not a text with the goal of making Herod look good so I think we can believe it. Also, John the Baptist was entertainment to Herod so even on a basic level Herod would have wanted to keep him around. All the language in verses 14-20 (though I do not have the original Greek to truly understand the implications of the vocabulary chosen) indicates that it is Herodias who is bitter, not Herod. Herod was a powerful man who thought much of himself, he (at least initially) probably didn’t think much of the accusations… but eventually his conscience did catch up with him and he remained troubled. I find it interesting that it seemed he would have broken his word to the girl had not everyone been watching… shows he is a man ruled by his selfish desires and not by integrity.
C. Meditating on verse 26, what heart idol do you think was operating in Herod? I think approval was definitely in play in verse 26… however I do not think it was his main idol… it may have been control and in not soiling his reputation (breaking his vow) he kept his power and control intact where as if he lost even a little respect it would weaken his position. He may not wanted to show weakness in the form of affection/admiration for a lowly prisoner who questioned his choices.
I think it’s also worth noting that a Herodias was likely controlling and maybe abusive as well. The daughter didn’t seek to ask for she wanted but deferred to her mother and then “with haste” carried out her request…
Good point on Herodias.
I summarized the story of Jesus and the disciples and feeding the 5000, but lost it when my phone rang. What struck me is the amazing miracle that Jesus did with the 5 loaves and 2 fish. Was this not enough for all to believe? Yet, we know that people are more interested in the short-term benefits…
Mark 6: 45-56 Another night at sea with a terrible storm! Jesus went to the mountain to pray… and the disciples were so afraid! When they saw Jesus walking on the water they thought he was a ghost. He said, “Don’t be afraid. It is I”. The wind ceased and they were amazed. Their hearts were hardened and they didn’t understand about the loaves.
Thanks be to God that the Spirit has revealed to me the identity of Jesus. Praise God that Jesus has compassion on me when I am so undeserving, so selfish and so needy, turning to idols for comfort and doubting when he doesn’t answer my prayer as I had hoped.
Praise God for his goodness, for his forgiveness and for his promises and his presence in my life. These momentary pleasures are minimal when I know that eternal life is promised to me. To God be the glory.
I will remember from this week that Jesus is in control of all of creation. He calms the storms and is the bread of life.