Our stony heart idols cannot be removed,
they can only be replaced by the One who turns a heart of stone into a heart of flesh.
It is only when we are captivated by something greater than our idols,
that we can experience victory from the chains that bind us.
This week we again see the Pharisees trapped by their idol of power,
hardening their hearts against Jesus.
But we also see one man who is being wooed toward
the One who can set him free.
So our symbol for the week is a heart transplant.
In February I spent time with Lee and Vince Petno, dear friends that Steve and I met in Akron, when both the men were doing medical residencies. I met Vince’s wife Lee, and invited her to Bible study. She was a practicing Catholic and refused, saying, “My church takes care of that.” She had religion, like the Pharisees in Mark 12, but not a relationship with Jesus.” But I gently persisted and she finally came and received “a heart transplant.” She changed so dramatically that her husband, Vince, was intrigued. Lee, obeying 1 Peter 3:1-2 literally, didn’t say a word, hoping to win him without a word.
When Vince met me he asked, “Are you the one responsible for the change in my wife?”
I laughed and said, “No! That would be Jesus.”
“Really!” He looked amazed but it put him on a pursuit for truth. He went on a Catholic retreat called Cursillo (similar to the Protestant “Walk to Emmaus”) and God found him. Vince and Lee eventually left Catholicism, but have been passionate for the Lord all these forty plus years. Last Friday I got an e-mail from Lee saying, “I am still in the afterglow of my salvation.” Vince spoke at Steve’s funeral, saying, ” I could fix other peoples’ hearts, but not my own.” He explained how God gave him a heart transplant! (Sometimes he tells people, “I had a heart transplant when I was in training to be a cardiologist.” They are amazed and asked him to tell them about it! Isn’t that a great segway into a testimony? 🙂
Isn’t that a great way to describe the expulsive power of a new affection?
I am not ashamed of the gospel for it has the POWER to drive out religion, idols, and darkness. We watched Lee and Vince live for the Lord, and then, their children, and now, their nine grandchildren! What power there is in the gospel!
When Vince retired from his practice of cardiology, he began a factory in Ohio to make mobility carts to help the handicapped in third world countries. Now they are in Florida, living in a retirement/assisted living community that also has one of these factories. When I visited, Vince had just returned from an African tour to check on how the carts were doing, and what was needed. Watch this and be inspired! Vince said, “When we give them a cart, we tell them where the love comes from.”
I’m looking forward to your thoughts on Friday, for it may be controversial, and I so appreciate the depth here. This week’s passage is not covered by Keller in his book, though I surely would have loved to know how he interprets the story of the widow’s mite!
Highlight from Last Week:
I can’t say it enough. I love the interaction, the iron sharpening iron aspect of our blog.
You dance on the table when there are answers to prayer — I saw it with Jennifer’s answer concerning her daughter and Bing’s answer concerning helping her students in a time of Covid 19.
You share wonderful posts of songs and more. I asked Lizzy to send me this when she wrote about it on the blog concerning the Easter service from her church last week. Their Philip is the last little boy to sing — and then Nila posted the same song done by another group. Though we are self-sheltering, we are inter-acting, not neglecting the fellowship of the saints!
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Share one specific way your heart has been changed by Jesus. Share also one way you still need a stone changed to flesh.
Monday: Let Us Kill Him, and the Inheritance Will be Ours
3. Read Mark 12:1-12
A. Summarize what happens in this parable.
B. Whom do you think the various tenants represent?
C. Why did the final tenants want to kill the Son? (verse 7)
D. What does Jesus mean by verse 10?
E. Why did the Pharisees decide not to try to arrest Jesus?
4. What idols do you see at work in the hearts of the Pharisees? What motivated
them to harden their hearts?
5. Do you have an idol you run to for your needs? How do you harden your heart
against the Lord when He whispers to you to come to Him instead? What lies have
you believed?
6. How might you pray for yourself to overcome your heart idols today?
Tuesday: Avoiding a Heart Transplant
Kathy Troccoli tells of her own heart transplant. As a young woman she was intrigued by a lifeguard at the pool who loved Jesus. She and Kathy had many discussions, but Kathy was always trying to outwit her with hard questions, in an attempt to avoid Jesus. Finally this young woman said, “I can’t answer all your questions, Kathy — but no matter what, one day every knee will bow to Jesus — some who are saved and some who are lost. You will bow too.” That put the fear of God into Kathy and softened her heart.
Here we see the Pharisees and the Sadducees coming to Jesus with hard questions, hoping to trap him, avoiding their own heart transplants.
7. Read Mark 12:13-17
A. How were the Pharisees trying to trap Jesus — hoping He would show disrespect for
Caesar? How did He escape their trap?
B. Do you see any practical applications from Jesus’ answer? If so, what?
8. Read Mark 12:18-27
A. How were the Sadducees trying to show Jesus that He was wrong to teach there was
a resurrection?
B. What does He tell them that shows the error of their thinking?
C. Some have taken verse 25 to mean we will become angels. What point is Jesus
actually making?
D. What do you learn about the resurrection from Jesus’ answer?
Wednesday: Very Close to A Heart Transplant
9. Read Mark 12:28-34
A. What is the scribe’s question and Jesus answer?
B. What is the scribe’s response and Jesus response to him?
10. Meditate on verse 30, asking the Spirit to illumine you for your own life. What do you
see?
11. How might you incorporate the above into prayer?
12. I keep going back to the different way liberal churches and traditional (meaning the way the churches were when they originated) churches see the purpose of the church. Liberal churches jump right to the second commandment, minimizing the first. Why is the first vital?
Thursday: Beware of Obstacles to Heart Transplants
Many today see Jesus as a great teacher or prophet, but do not honor Him as Lord. Unless we believe He is Lord, we will never have a heart transplant.
13. How does Jesus use the very words that scribes have written down to prove to them
that He is Lord? (Mark 12:35-37)
Because our hearts are idol making factories (Calvin) we need regular help in turning the stones in our hearts back to flesh. Our idols are the stones. Take heed to the following warning of Christ.
14. Of what does Jesus warn in Mark 12:38-40? What do you think are the idols that lead
to pretense and concern over outward appearance?
15. How might you earnestly pray for yourself in regard to the above?
Friday: The Widow’s Mite — More Here Than We Might Realize
Usually this passage is used as a lesson in generosity, and I’m not disputing that. I do think Jesus is commending the widow. But, when you look at the context, might there be another lesson here? First, I’d like to see if you see what I believe I see — and then I’ll jump in and tell you my perspective.
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general
condition of the hearts of the religious leaders?
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the
religious leaders have practiced.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps
you see more.)
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter
divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?
(I am going to jump in with my thoughts after several of you speculate. Hoping for a good discussion.)
Saturday:
21. What is your take-a-way and why?
167 comments
9. Mark 12:28-34 the scribe’s question: “Which commandment is the most important of all?” Jesus replied ,” The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.”
10. Meditate on verse 30 asking the Spirit to illuminate this for my own life.
11. Praying, Heavenly Father, Thank you for your love, Yes, may your name be glorified in my life. I love you with all my heart , all my mind and all my strength!
I pray for your spirit to illuminate this message every moment and may my focus be directed to you. forgive my selfish tendencies.
12. The first commandment is vital because in order for me to love others well, I need God to shine through me to be the light and the salt in a decaying culture.
Thursday: Beware of Obstacles to Heart Transplants
Many today see Jesus as a great teacher or prophet, but do not honor Him as Lord. Unless we believe He is Lord, we will never have a heart transplant.
13. How does Jesus use the very words that scribes have written down to prove to them that He is Lord? (Mark 12:35-37) – He gives them the example that ‘David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit declared: “The Lord said to my Lord: Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet”. Since David calls him Lord how can he be his son?” Jesus is trying to make them see that he is Lord. From my side note in my Bible…“because Psalm 110.1 speaks of two Lords above Israel’s king. The first is clearly God (Yahweh) but who is the second? Since no person reigned over David, many first century Jews believed this Psalm spoke of the Messiah. Jesus pointed out, then, that this Messiah had to be more than a descendant of David–the political liberator they expected. He also had to be a heavenly or supernatural being.”
Because our hearts are idol making factories (Calvin) we need regular help in turning the stones in our hearts back to flesh. Our idols are the stones. Take heed to the following warning of Christ.
14. Of what does Jesus warn in Mark 12:38-40? What do you think are the idols that lead to pretense and concern over outward appearance? – He warned to watch out for teachers of the law. I think there could be a control idol, status idol, how important you look and how many people are listening to you or following you. An idol of desire could be there, that you want to be the best and not take in to consideration what you really are teaching, and what is coming across when you do.
15. How might you earnestly pray for yourself in regard to the above? – Lord as I read the scriptures for today, I kind of want to step back and search myself. I don’t want to be like the teachers that only care about there outward appearance and fool others in to thinking that I’m more than I am. I’m a nobody, that is trying hard to be the somebody you see I can be. Help me to always search my heart, before I speak, which I know I don’t do, so I can know for sure that you are speaking through me. I want others to want what I have, but I want them to see that what I have is You and that nothing I do is by my own power. You need to shine through me. Help me to get there Lord. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.
Just wanted to share the song Love the Lord, done by Steve Green some years ago. The youtube video shows 2 children acting out their belief. I don’t know how to give the link but it is easy to find. There is also a version done on the album, Hidden in My Heart by Jay Stocker, volume 1.
what a powerful scripture!
https://youtu.be/3c_ThPdGROQ
Shirley, I hope this is the one you’re talking about. I used to have this Steve Green video that my kids loved when they were growing up.
Yes! thanks, Sharon!
As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders?
The religious leaders are more concerned with law than heart (spirit).
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced.
They are cheating widows out of their property.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps you see more.)
Jesus was sitting near the boxes that were used to collect money. The amplified version says that when the wealthy people put in their large amounts it would have made a loud sound (they were coins). He watched a widow out in 2 copper coins (which would barely make any noise at all). Hers were known as the “Widows mite” because it was the smallest amount of coinage worth only 1/64th of a days wages.) He then discusses this with His disciples, telling them that the widow gave all she had so that was worth more than the large sums given by the wealthy, who could afford more.
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?
She was poor and a widow. That’s all I see in three versions.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
Jesus and the disciples are lamenting over the greatness of the temple walls. He says to them that one day they won’t exist anymore.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?
Yes, I think He is saying that having great wealth won’t help in the end times. Being generous is good but even in the end it won’t matter because none of the brick and mortar will be left.
10. Meditate on verse 30, asking the Spirit to illumine you for your own life. What do you see?
I am to love God with ALL my heart, soul, mind and strength. I think heart stands for emotions, soul for being, mind for intellect and strength stands for energy, power. Everything, in other words. He is to be the first and only. Only if we love God in this way can we truly love our neighbour.
11. How might you incorporate the above into prayer?
Father, I am so weak and distracted. The world has such a powerful pull. Help me to love you with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my mind and with all my strength. And help me to love my neighbour. Even as sorrow surrounds my life, help me to love you well, focus on you and what you are doing. Help me to remember that you love me and are with me every moment. Even as I physical distance myself from others, help me to love them in creative ways. May this day in my life be for your glory.
14. Of what does Jesus warn in Mark 12:38-40? What do you think are the idols that lead to pretense and concern over outward appearance?
The idols leading to pretense and concern for outward appearance might be any of the common idols: approval of man, security or wanting power or control. For me it is mostly wanting others approval but security is also there. There are certain expectations for how we dress depending on the “roles” we have.
15. How might you earnestly pray for yourself in regard to the above?
Oh, Lord, I so lean toward wanting others to think well of me. Tear this from me, Lord, that I may only want you to think well of me. May I be so focused on you that, though I am dressed in rags with messy hair and no makeup, I may be comfortable before anybody. Help me not to pretend I am whole, when I am broken. Yet, help me to know that even though I am broken, I am whole in You.
I love this Diane and pray it with you for myself:
“Help me not to pretend I am whole, when I am broken. Yet, help me to know that even though I am broken, I am whole in You.”
Amen and amen!
Diane ~
Amen. Me too. “Help me not to pretend I am whole, when I am broken. Yet, help me to know that even though I am broken, I am whole in You.”
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders?
When I thought about the religious leaders in the chapter the older son in the prodigal story came to mind. He truly thought he was serving the father with his obedience when in reality he was serving himself. I guess the word I keep coming back about their hearts is deluded.
They thought Jesus was their enemy.
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced.
They have used their power and position to oppress the very people they should be gracious to and have sought to impress others
I thought of this:
Isaiah 58
6 “[Rather] is this not the fast which I choose,
To undo the bonds of wickedness,
To tear to pieces the ropes of the yoke,
To let the oppressed go free
And break apart every [enslaving] yoke?
7 “Is it not to divide your bread with the hungry
And bring the homeless poor into the house;
When you see the naked, that you cover him,
And not to hide yourself from [the needs of] your own flesh and blood?
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps you see more.)
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?That she was poor, and that she put in all she had to live on
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
Jesus saying that the temple, and his body will be destroyed.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?When I read the text the first time, my practical cynical self thought about how the self-righteous religious leaders would have control over the temple treasury and I wondered over the widow putting in all she had.
I cannot claim to have come up with this on my own, I read a Christianity Today article that said that Jesus was not teaching us a lesson on generous giving in pointing out the widow, but instead pointing out her complete trust in God, her surrendered life and that he would be going to the cross soon after, completely trusting and surrendering his.
It is moving.
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders? They have been seeking self, trying to appease their idols and bend life into their mold. Even the last scribe whom Jesus told that he was not far from the kingdom of God had a testing spirit, telling Jesus he was right implies he was testing him and not wanting to necessarily learn. In fact the warning at the end of the chapter shows that these Pharisees are not seeking what they should be seeking.17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced. They “devour” widows’ houses…other translations imply that they cheat widows and exploit their weakness to take their property.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. Jesus is watching many people put their offerings into the money box, many, not just a few…and of the many their is only one poor woman mentioned who puts in a scant amount. Her actions are significant enough to lead Jesus to point out the occurrence to his disciples. And knowing Jesus it isn’t her actions that are noteworthy but the heart behind the action.
B. What particular do you see in the description of the widow? Only that she comes and offers. There is no documentation of any other actions or interactions.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story? The disciples declaring how marvelous and impressive the buildings were and Jesus reminding them that they will not last.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what? I have honestly never thought of this story as a generosity lesson. It has always been a trust lesson to me. The widow is coming with what is likely all that she has. Her regard of the Lord and His law leads her to obey and trust in Him. He is first in her life to the point that she gives what little she can with a heart that is inclined to trust God as her provider and she will be satisfied. I have always seen the widow as a peaceful heart content with ‘nothing’ because her God is everything.
Mark 12:35-37 How does Jesus use the words the scribes have written down to prove to them that he is Lord? This is hard for me to explain.. but David called him Lord as prophesied. We know that Jesus was born as a descendant of David, thus being a son.
Mark 12:38-40 Idols that lead to pretense and concern over outward appearance are likely pride and control. They want to be seen and given adoration.
Praying for self: Father, guard my heart from these desires, to be noticed by others, for I know that you are the one worthy of all worship. You have given me all that I have and have withheld what is not for me to have. I thank you for your love for me and for knowing my heart that can be so fickle and so selfish. To God be the glory, In Jesus’ name. Amen
16. The general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders seems to be selfish desires, consumed with appearance and how they are to be respected by others.
17. Mark 12:40 The injustice here is they cheat widows who they should be watching out for. They have no compassion.
18. The scene in verses 41-44 describe Jesus watching the people putting money into the offering box. The rich people put in large sums and obviously desire
to be noticed. The poor widow put in 2 small copper coins, but it was all she had. I think it showed her love for God and her trust He would meet all her needs.
19. The second bookend to the story is Jesus’ words to his disciple in response to his statement. Look, what wonderful stones and buildings. Jesus said, There will not be one stone that will not be thrown down.
20. I think that Jesus is letting his disciple know that he needs to rely on what God will be doing as Jesus is the symbol of the cornerstone of the faith. The temple is only a temporary structure. These religious leaders lack understanding of God’s plan.
Friday
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders?
Their hearts are hardened to see the truth. They were filled with arrogance and thought they were in control.
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced.
They shamelessly cheat widows out of their property.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps you see more.)
As Jesus sat near the collection box in the temple, He watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped two small coins. He then calls the disciples over to Him and says, “I tell you the truth , this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.”
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?
She is poor, gave two small coins, gave more than all the others and gave everything she had to live on, not just a tiny part of her surplus.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
When leaving the temple the disciples pointed out how magnificent the buildings were and how impressive the stones in the walls were. Jesus agreed how great the buildings were, but went on to say they would be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of the another.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?
Most definitely. I think there’s a twofold lesson here. Jesus is telling His disciples that just like the widow who gave up more by giving everything she had, this is what it means to follow Him. To become poor in spirit…totally dependent upon Him. He wants all of their heart, all of their soul, all of their mind, and all their strength. I think the other lesson is Jesus gave up everything, He sacrificed His life…He’s the ultimate example…Amazing love.
The words to this song came to mind…The Heart of Worship
King of endless worth
No one could express
How much You deserve
Though I’m weak and poor
All I have is Yours
Every single breath
I’ll bring You more than a song
For a song in itself
is not what You have required
You search much deeper within
Through the way things appear
You’re looking into my heart
I’m coming back to the heart of worship
and it’s all about You
Its all about You, Jesus
I’m sorry Lord, for the thing I’ve made it
And its all about You,
It’s all about You, Jesus
Friday: The Widow’s Mite — More Here Than We Might Realize
Usually this passage is used as a lesson in generosity, and I’m not disputing that. I do think Jesus is commending the widow. But, when you look at the context, might there be another lesson here? First, I’d like to see if you see what I believe I see — and then I’ll jump in and tell you my perspective.
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders? – their hearts were hardened to the true meaning of what Jesus was teaching and to who he truly was.
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced. – they take the houses of the widows and then make it look good by praying long drawn out prayers.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps you see more.) – Jesus sat away from where the blessings were being put and watched what all the people were giving. The rich people were giving in large amounts but a widow came and gave very little, which was all she had to give. He called his disciples over and told them that the widow gave more then the rich even though it was a small amount. It was more because it was all she had.
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow? – He describes her as a poor widow, not just a widow.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story? – One of the disciples noticed the massive stones and magnificent buildings but Jesus tells him not one of them, no matter how magnificent will be left, they will be thrown down.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what? – I think other than being generous, Jesus is trying to teach us that it won’t matter how important you are, how much money you have, or how much you were able to give in your life. It is more important to have your heart right and your faith in Jesus knowing that He will be the one to matter in the end. Everything we have will be gone, it won’t be buried with us, but our clean hearts, our mind and souls turned to on Jesus will never leave us. He will always be with us.
It won’t allow me to add another reply to Rebecca, So this song is for you, Rebecca and anyone else that is in the fire. I’ve been in what has been the fight for my life these past handful of years and especially these past few months. This song by Ellie Holcomb is titled “You Love Me Best.” A youtube link is at the bottom of this post.
My mother, she holds me
When I’m weak, she consoles me
My troubles weigh on her mind
My tears fall down from her eyes
But You, You loved me better
My father, beside me
Holds out his arm to guide me
His wisdom waits in silence
He speaks and I grow quiet
But You loved me better
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
Closer than the heart within my chest
Because You loved me best
The ring around my finger
To have and hold forever
It circles round like years that
We’ve walked through joys and tears
But You, but You have loved me better
And there may come a day
When all other loves have gone away
When darkness hems me in
You’ll be right where You…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVjZYT8qtLQ
Nila, I just read this this morning and OH…thank you. I knew you were going through the fire but didn’t know the flames were growing hotter in your life lately. So let’s pray for one another sister for our God WILL melt our hearts-with those flames! I just prayed for us. Much love to you sis.
Yes, praying for one another. That we would not give way to bitterness or cynicism. This is a beautiful 2 minute clip of the potter and the fire:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xj5q8DGwzrE
Here is the link to the 52 minute presentation of “The Potter: Reflections of a Master Artisan”. I met this man a few years ago. He is a potter and a pastor and he draws such life-giving analogies. I found Dave Blakeslee online six years ago when I also found Dee’s wonderful blog.
https://ourdailybreadfilms.org/film/the-potter-reflections-of-a-master-artisan/
Oh, Nila. What a powerful song! Thank you for sharing it with us (though it is especially meant for Rebecca). It seems the fire either smolders or is hot for most of us right now.
Pondering a little more On the widow tonight… those who gave out of abundance didn’t feel a sacrifice… they still were likely able to lean on what was left in their possession for security … but the one who felt it most also felt God’s provision the most. She gave all she had not only in material wealth but also all she had of her heart … convicting…
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practised.
They devour widows houses and make showy long prayers.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps you see more.)
Jesus was sitting in the area where the offerings were made watching the people. Many rich people were putting in large sums. A poor widow put in two small copper coins, equaling one penny (about a labourer’s wages for a day). She gave all she had.
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?
She was poor.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
Jesus foretells the destroying of the temple
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?
The widow loved God so much she gave everything she had. This stands in contrast with the rich young ruler who could not give up his possessions to follow Jesus. His possessions were ruling him. God was in command of this poor widow.
God is not asking for our surplus. He is asking for everything.
7. Read Mark 12:13-17
A. How were the Pharisees trying to trap Jesus – hoping He would show disrespect for Caesar? How did He escape their trap?
First they flattered Him, saying that they knew He was a man of integrity, teaching the way of God and not being swayed by men. So they asked Jesus if the Jews should pay taxes to Caesar. He escaped because first, He knew they were trying to trap Him, and He simply asked them to look at a coin and answer whose picture was on the coin. They answered that it was Caesar on the coin, and Jesus told them to give to Caesar what belongs to him, and give to God what belongs to God.
B. Do you see any practical applications from Jesus’ answer? If so, what?
I think Jesus is saying that following God, being His child, following His ways, doesn’t mean that you can ignore the rules and laws of the current place you are living in now, which is in your own society, culture, country, city, town, neighborhood. You should obey authorities and laws, such as paying your taxes, driving the speed limit, not stealing from your employer, etc… You only may not obey if it puts you in a moral dilemma because what you are being asked to do would violate what God would tell you to do. And right now, I think it means for “Christians” to stop their rants about the devil is attacking the church because we are being prohibited to meet together in large groups, and to feel like their “rights” are being violated. I get really irritated when I see some FB posts, and this one pastor in particular that I’ve seen one person post his diatribes, about this. I want to say, for crying out loud, this is for the good of all, to keep people from being infected, to protect our families, our healthcare workers. As believers, we should follow the rules and guidelines set by our local mayors, our state governors, and other authorities who are telling us right now to stay at home and no large gatherings. I do not agree with the protestors.
8. Read Mark 12:18-27
A. How were the Sadducees trying to show Jesus that He was wrong to teach there was a resurrection?
The text says that the Sadducees did not believe in resurrection. So they came to Jesus, and, using a hypothetical situation about a woman being married seven times (because first husband died and there were no children, so she kept marrying the next brother in line, and there were seven of them), asked Him whose wife will she be, then, at the resurrection?
B. What does He tell them that shows the error of their thinking?
First, He tells them they are in error because they do not know the Scriptures and they don’t understand the power of God (to raise the dead). Jesus tells them, in essence, that it’s silly to think there can’t be a resurrection just because the resurrected life will look differently than life here on earth. He says that people won’t be engaged to one another nor will they marry.
C. Some have taken verse 25 to mean we will become angels. What point is Jesus actually making?
I don’t think He means we will turn into angels because they are different kinds of created beings than us, but that we will be like them in how we live together.
D. What do you learn about the resurrection from Jesus’ answer?
It’s the part about when He told them that when God spoke from the bush to Moses, God told him that He was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Now those men were already dead, but God is saying that He IS their God, not that He WAS their God, while they were alive. Jesus explains that God is not the God of the dead, but the living, so God meant that He was still the God of these men and they were still alive (they were now with God). I also learn that I guess I won’t have a “role” in heaven….I won’t be known as the wife of….or the mother of….. so we will know each other but husbands and wives won’t be continuing their marriage as it was here on the earth. I guess this is telling us that heaven is kind of an asexual society?
I love that insight into those men being alive.
9. Read Mark 12:28-34
A. What is the scribe’s question and Jesus’ answer?
The scribe wants to know of all the commandments, which one is the most important? I also noticed that the text says that this scribe had heard Jesus and the other religious leaders debating, and had noticed that Jesus always gave a good answer. So I get the feeling that he wasn’t trying to take his turn at tricking Jesus, but was asking Him a sincere question. Jesus answers that the most important command is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind and strength, and He goes on with the second most important, which is to love your neighbor as yourself.
B. What is the scribe’s response and Jesus’ response to him?
The scribe tells Jesus that He is right, and that he understands that these commands are more important to God than offering sacrifices and burnt offerings. Jesus sees that this man is getting it (I am thinking of some of the passages in the OT where God is so sick and tired of the people’s offerings, festivals, and sacrifices and He lament that their hearts are far from Him) and says, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” I think this man was close to getting it that it is the heart that matters more than practicing religion.
10. Meditate on verse 30, asking the Spirit to illumine you for your own life. What do you see?
God is really only asking one thing of me: LOVE ME. Love Me with all your heart, love Me with all your soul, love Me with all your mind, love Me with all your strength. There’s so many verses that tell me how to behave; don’t be selfish, look out for the interests of others, don’t grumble and complain, be kind, forgive…the list goes on and on. But this really wraps all these up when I am focused on loving Him and not myself. It’s really a beautiful thing He is asking of me: LOVE ME. God doesn’t need my love, but He desires it. This verse sounds like a beautiful invitation, the kind a groom would make to his bride. I can picture in my mind the Lord holding my hands, looking into my eyes, and saying, “Love Me.” And the love me with all your strength…but there are times I feel so weak and unable. He still wants me to offer Him what I have, with the strength that I have, and He says it is enough; He can work with what I have, however weak it is. He’s not asking me to be superhuman.
11. How might you incorporate the above into prayer?
Oh Lord, this is a beautiful invitation from You, and in my mind it is like my wedding day and You are saying, “Love Me.” And I know that You ask this because first, You loved ME. All You want is my love in return, for my heart and mind and soul to long for and desire You. Please enfold me in Your arms of love and never let me go! I know my love for You can grow cold, be weak, and my attentions and longings turn to other things, yet I pray that You will keep fueling the flame of my desire to be for You alone.
12. I keep going back to the different way liberal churches and traditional (meaning the way the churches were when they originated) churches see the purpose of the church. Liberal churches jump right to the second commandment, minimizing the first. Why is the first vital?
This is a tough question, Dee. I’m not sure. I think perhaps the first is vital because, and not even in the context of “churches”, liberal or traditional, but narrowing it down to an individual person who may be in a traditional church or a liberal one: it is possible for this person to be DOING all manner of wonderful things; fighting for social justice and reform, advocating for the poor, the immigrant, the marginalized; feeding the hungry, speaking up for those who feel ostracized by the church, like the LGBTQ community, and yet they may not truly know God in a personal way. I believe it is possible for a person to do many amazing and helpful things in these ways, using their gifts and talents and money if they have it; to be generous and brave. Didn’t we learn here that God gives these “common graces” to all (was that from Mere Christianity?) For example, I love some of the writings of Parker Palmer and have read one of his books. He is a very thoughtful, insightful man (he identifies himself as a Quaker) and has done much to speak out and help the marginalized. Yet, I found myself disappointed in the last chapter of his book I read about growing old, which was so full of wisdom, but at the end, he said he wasn’t really sure what happens after you die, so I’m not sure what he believes or his relationship with God?
Then, in also reading the biography of St. Francis of Assisi, he did describe a very definite conversion experience and he coupled that with a desire to serve the poor, especially the lepers, but he was careful to want his followers to adhere to the practices of the church. So I think the two commands must go hand-in-hand, and that the one to love your neighbor as yourself should start to grow and bud and blossom as a person grows in their relationship with God. Though I admit to being so weak: I worked a 12 hour shift yesterday and had two rather demanding patients (physical needs and their personalities) and towards the end of my shift, I was getting physically and mentally tired, and it was harder for me, as in I had to work harder at being patient, doing the extra little things, and as I drove home I wondered how in the world did Jesus do it…seemingly never running out of patience with people, though the crowds kept coming and pressing and asking of Him?
13. How does Jesus use the very words that scribes have written down to prove to them that He is Lord? (Mark 12:35-37)
I am not completely sure of the answer here but this is good and challenging. So I do know that Jesus did come from the line of David so that is what the scribes taught and went further saying the Messiah will be David’s son, yet they were unable to go into the deeper things without His Spirit opening their eyes..and that scripture Jesus quoted is deeper. I think Jesus’ seeing that deeper layer proves that He is Lord for a mere man is not able to see the deeper layers in Scripture and it is clear in what Jesus quoted that David is not calling the Messiah his son but rather the Lord.
14. Of what does Jesus warn in Mark 12:38-40? What do you think are the idols that lead to pretense and concern over outward appearance?
Jesus warns to watch out for the teachers of the law for their ministry is their god. Approval and control. I think Jesus warned against them because listening to them can be devastating to the heart for they are not a true representation of who God is.
15. How might you earnestly pray for yourself in regard to the above?
To watch out that I too don’t lust after my idols. That if I make a mistake or sin that I have to earn God’s favor again somehow. Rather I have earned His favor through Christ alone and by remembering that, and with the help of His Spirit, I desire to repent and turn when I sin, but it is a relational thing rather than earning favor with God for it has already been paid for. It is so easy to forget so I must be reminded!
Dee, I’m curious about your take on the widow. I couldn’t find your post about it?
I wanted to add that although we are to give our “all,” here on earth, living in our world, that is difficult. My husband would say, yes, but how do you pay for your house, insurance, cars, etc? I’m guessing this is where you were going with our conversation about the widow. At what point is giving and using balanced? I’ve heard the Bible says you give 10% of your wealth. My mom used to warn me of churches that might take advantage of you too. What is the balance? If you have kids you have to take care of them. If you adopt kids you have to have money for that too. If you make masks for the pandemic you need money to buy the cloth and elastic. You get the idea….
Thursday: Beware of Obstacles to Heart Transplants
Many today see Jesus as a great teacher or prophet, but do not honor Him as Lord. Unless we believe He is Lord, we will never have a heart transplant.
13. How does Jesus use the very words that scribes have written down to prove to them that He is Lord? (Mark 12:35-37)
He quoted a prophecy in the OT that the scribes should be familiar with? David who they know is king refers to somebody else as His Lord. So David is not the ultimate king but Jesus.
Because our hearts are idol making factories (Calvin) we need regular help in turning the stones in our hearts back to flesh. Our idols are the stones. Take heed to the following warning of Christ.
14. Of what does Jesus warn in Mark 12:38-40? What do you think are the idols that lead to pretense and concern over outward appearance? Outward appearance-robes and places of honor- control and power
15. How might you earnestly pray for yourself in regard to the above?
That I would seek to honor God rather than to honor myself. To be more concerned about the condition of my heart that is hidden rather than what is just showing outside.
Friday: The Widow’s Mite — More Here Than We Might Realize
Usually, this passage is used as a lesson in generosity, and I’m not disputing that. I do think Jesus is commending the widow. But, when you look at the context, might there be another lesson here? First, I’d like to see if you see what I believe I see — and then I’ll jump in and tell you my perspective.
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general
condition of the hearts of the religious leaders?
Hard heartedness; hearts of stone; proud
17. The first bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced.
They devour the widows’ houses
18. Read Mark 12:41-44.
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can. (Sometimes reading out loud helps you see more.)
The word “but” seems to almost prepare the reader to see something opposite of the verses before the widow came. She was noted as a poor widow and before that the words were crowd and rich people threw in large amounts (they would make a lot of noise giving attention to the giver). She gave 2 copper coins equivalent to a few cents.
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?
That she came and was not concerned about the discrepancy between what she was giving compared to the others. She gave out of her poverty; others gave out of their wealth.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite. Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
The magnificent buildings that the disciples saw and pointed to Jesus was nothing in God’s economy. They will not last. But the widow’s mite will always last because it should her dependence on God for the meeting of her needs.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?
Our heart’s condition matters to God more than what we give. The widow I exemplifying trust in God for her future no matter how dire it must look to others.
(I am going to jump in with my thoughts after several of you speculate. Hoping for a good discussion.)
Saturday:
21. What is your take-a-way and why?
To be watchful of my heart and to let it be soft towards God. Not to let the world squeeze me into its mold. Doing what is right and not seeking the praise of man.
13. How does Jesus use the very words that scribes have written down to prove to them that He is Lord? (Mark 12:35-37)
He reminds them of the words of the teachers of the law who have themselves said that the Messiah is the son of David, and then He quotes the psalm that David wrote, specifically, “The Lord said to my Lord, sit at my right hand…” He asks them, how can this one that is written about be both David’s Lord and son? He is speaking about Himself.
14. Of what does Jesus warn in Mark 12:38-40? What do you think are the idols that lead to pretense and concern over outward appearance?
He is warning about self-importance and arrogance. He talks about the teachers of the law loving to walk around in their flowing robes (look their best), take the most important seats (seats reserved for the privileged) in the synagogue and have special seats of honor at banquets. He says that they “devour widows’ houses” (does that mean that they wouldn’t help a widow to keep from losing her home?) and that they like to show-off with their long prayers in public.
Pride and vanity about appearance is likely fueled by wanting approval and affirmation. Recently, a few FB friends started this thing about posting your own high school senior photo “in support of the class of 2020”. So I posted mine and received all of these compliments, and one morning I thought, this really isn’t supporting graduating seniors, it’s just feeding my own ego, and so I removed it! Second “blow”…my daughter looks at that high school photo, and at me now, and says oh dear, is this what’s going to happen to me when I’m your age?! I said well, you can’t keep it up forever, unless you go for a lot of plastic surgery and Botox… Our culture definitely worships beauty and we can get caught up in wanting that approval.
15. How might you earnestly pray for yourself in regard to the above?
I think I can pray for the Lord to show me the best way, the healthiest way, to care for my body and appearance, which inherently, I don’t think is a sin, but to keep it in the proper perspective and that it doesn’t become my ultimate goal. What I must care more about is the kind of person He is making me to be.
16. As you look at the context of all of Mark 12, what would you say has been the general condition of the hearts of the religious leaders?
Their heart condition is one of entitlement, stepping on others to get what they want, hypocrisy in approaching Jesus instead of genuine interest in knowing Him, really wasting the time they had with Jesus when they could’ve learned so much from Him and discovered the truth about themselves and God, but they were so busy trying to trick and trap Him and make Him look bad, and self-promotion.
17. First bookend to Widow’s Mite: Read Mark 12:40 and describe what injustice the religious leaders have practiced.
Jesus says that the religious leaders “devour the homes of widows”. I looked at The Message translation and it says that they exploit the weak and the helpless. So it’s a form of exploitation of the widow who has no husband to defend her.
18. Read Mark 12:41-44
A. Describe the scene, noting any detail you can.
There was a place in the temple where people put their offerings for the temple treasury, and Jesus took a seat opposite that place and watched as the people put in their offerings. A lot of rich people put in large amounts of money. It actually says that they “threw” in large amounts. Maybe the sound of their many silver coins made a loud clatter? Then a very poor widow comes along and it says she “put in” two very small copper coins. I get the idea that she laid the coins down very quietly…her two small coins were not going to make the impressive sound of the lots of coins the rich threw in. I also get the idea that she placed her coins in the offering container with reverence, while the rich carelessly tossed in their offerings. Likely the widow was ashamed and didn’t want to call attention to her very small offering. But Jesus noticed right away and called His disciples over and pointed her out, telling them that what she put in was more than all the others combined. The reason is that the rich gave out of their wealth, but she gave out of her poverty, and it was all she had to live on.
B. What in particular do you see in the description of the widow?
She was poor, so it must have been evident in her clothing that she was poor. She didn’t throw her coins in, she placed them in. Her two small copper coins were worth only a fraction of a penny. In contrast to the rich throwing in their offerings, I picture her quietly and carefully placing in her two small coins. To throw something away, or in, is an attitude of I don’t really need this. Was it hard for her to put in those two coins, the only money she had at that time to live on? I think even if it was hard for her to let go of those coins, maybe with worry about now how am I going to eat, I still think God was honored that she let them go.
19. Second bookend to widow’s mite: Read Mark 13:1-2, remembering that chapter divisions are not inspired. What is the second bookend to the widow’s mite story?
Right after Jesus made a point to tell His disciples about this widow, as they’re leaving, one of them is just fascinated with the magnificence of the temple itself and its massive stones. Jesus says oh, these great buildings? One day they’ll all be gone; every stone will be thrown down.
20. Do you think Jesus is teaching more here than just a lesson on generosity? If so, what?
I don’t really see generosity in this story. The rich people’s offerings; they weren’t really being genuinely generous; it didn’t cost them anything to give such large offerings and their attitude of just throwing it in seems like indifference to me. The widow’s offering in monetary terms was not generous; how much could a fraction of a penny matter to the treasury? And we’re not told about her heart attitude…was it a struggle for her to give up those two coins, or was she eager to give all that she had? In the end, she puts in her two coins. Those two coins couldn’t do much to maintain this magnificent temple; in fact, one might say she was better off to just keep them. But what if what she was really offering was her heart, her trust, to the Lord? God didn’t “need” her two coins, but she gave them into His hands. She was looking to Him as her Husband, to be faithful to Him in the way she was able to afford, and to trust Him then to provide and care for her. Maybe too, the contrast between the magnificent building, the temple….but as believers when we trust God, our hearts are an even more magnificent temple where God truly dwells. And that’s the true temple that we are to be building and maintaining with our “offerings”.
.but as believers when we trust God, our hearts are an even more magnificent temple where God truly dwells. And that’s the true temple that we are to be building and maintaining with our “offerings”.
I love this, Susan. What a great spiritual picture to think of as we attempt to live in a way pleasing to the Lord.
Susan, I just want to thank you for your thoughtful answers on this blog. So many times your answers give me pause to ponder in a fresh way the Scriptures we are studying. Today I am helped by your ponderings about “the healthiest way, to care for my body and appearance” and what our ultimate goal is in that regard. “What I must care more about is the kind of person He is making me to be.”
But even more, your thoughts about the widow’s mite are profound; “as believers when we trust God, our hearts are an even more magnificent temple where God truly dwells. And that’s the true temple that we are to be building and maintaining with our “offerings”.”
Dee, are you going to share with us your thoughts on the widow’s mite?