Why did the tiny band of twelve disciples explode over all the Roman world?
What news could have turned that world upside-down?
As Keller writes in this final chapter,
there were dozens of movements where the leader claimed to be the Messiah,
but when the leader died, the movement collapsed.
Not so with Christianity.
Here is a map of how Christianity exploded throughout the Roman Empire in the 1st century:
And below is a map of where we are today. (The gray areas represent other world religions.) As Keller has said, “80% of the members of all the world religions, with the exception of Christianity, still live in the areas where they were founded. But Christianity is everywhere!”
Why?
Because, indeed, our Founder has risen from the dead.
If you are in a church that teaches the Resurrection is simply a metaphor for spring following winter, ask yourself:
“Would that have turned the world upside down?”
Hardly!
It is this news that changed the world:
N. T. Wright questions why 40 days of Lent and mourning should be followed by a single day of celebration on Easter Sunday. Indeed, every day of the Christian life should be a celebration of all that Easter Sunday means, and we are certainly going to celebrate and ponder this all week.
Father, it is July of 2020. But please fill our hearts with that same wonder, excitement, and joy that the early disciples had that first Easter Sunday! May we learn new things together as we look at your powerful Word, filled with truth and glory.
Peter and John running to the tomb.
Highlights from Last Week:
From our own Rebecca, who has traveled with us on this blog from nearly the beginning. She was my administrative assistant for many years, and we have all come to love her. She wrote:
As you know I am in the biggest trial of my life so far and in pain as I write this. Yet I want to share with you how He is meeting me. Whoa am I experiencing Galatians 2:20 in a deeper way but it is HIM in me helping me to live by faith in the Lover of my soul who loved me and gave Himself up for me! I have days that I fall to anger, or worry, or desire for revenge, or a desire to just fall into depression and escape. I often cry out-help! Oh, He is giving me this unnatural self control-I can’t explain it for my flesh desires to lash out and just leave to punish this person that wounded me. Yet He is giving me this calm and self control I can’t explain. I am amazed at the courage He is giving me as He frees me from relational idolatry..it is truly amazing-it is Him, not me and I want to tell the world. My sister in law said that she knows God is going to be glorified in this for He already is in her life-for she has been encouraged. She knows this is not me but Him..It’s all HIM. 🙂 🙂 🙂
So I come to the blog and He tells me this-He is turning toward my storm setting his face like flint and IS setting me free …Yes He is..and He is also guarding me from the foxes that would come in to destroy the fruit God is tending in my life through this. That last paragraph of “The End” in Keller’s book encouraged my heart like you wouldn’t believe. “Because of Jesus’s death evil is a passing thing-a shadow. There is light and high beauty forever beyond its reach because evil fell into the heart of Jesus. The only darkness that could have destroyed us forever fell into his heart.” Over the past few months I asked God for Wisdom in my situation and slowly but surely He is giving it . This evil won’t destroy me for it fell on Jesus’ heart.
On a personal note, so many of you came to encourage me on my decision to give my husband morphine, against his initial wishes, at the end of his life. You are dear. I don’t know that I was right, but I do know I am forgiven, and God allowed Steve to wake at the end and to say “I love you” just before he died. How good is our God!
Also, congratulations to each one of you who stayed the course through 23 weeks on Mark. Well done! So grateful for your faithfulness.
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- Do you have a God Hunt to share?
Monday: A Radical Re-Evaluation of Women
N. T. Wright says that “The resurrection shows a radical re-evaluation of women, for they are front and center.”
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
B. How is this different from other world religions?
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!)
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?
4. Read the opening three pages in Chapter 18 of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
Tuesday: Really Risen
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think?
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message?
8. Read up to He Has Done It in Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
Wednesday: What Happens To Those Who Die Before Christ Returns?
Keller does not cover the very end of Mark, perhaps because the earliest manuscripts don’t have Mark 16:9-20, but goes into other passages and thoughts about the resurrection. So we will ponder as well.
I’ve been reading N. T. Wright’s book “Surprised by Hope” about heaven and the resurrection. He believes, and this seems supported by Scripture, that our souls rest in Jesus when we die, but we don’t receive new bodies until Jesus returns and resurrects them. “Paradise” may be different than the new heaven, may be the place our souls rest until the new heaven and new earth are joined together. It is a mystery, perhaps beyond our ability now to comprehend, but this makes sense to me. For those of you who have pondered the phrase in the Apostles Creed that Jesus “descended into hell, or descended to the dead,” I found this article from The Gospel Coalition helpful:
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/christs-descent-dead/
Christ’s Descent to the Dead
As this article says, perhaps Jesus descended into paradise, where souls await, and this is why he said to the thief, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Perhaps there is a resting place that is good where souls wait until the renewal of all things, including our bodies.
9. Thoughts on the above?
10. Read the section in Keller’s book entitled He Has Done It and share your notes and comments.
Thursday: A Remembrance of The Future
11. Read this last section of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
Friday/Saturday: Reflection and Review
12. Would you take 10 minutes or so to review Mark and list three take-a-ways?
13. Now, do the same with Keller’s book.
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not?
132 comments
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Rebecca’s beautiful post, describing how our Lord is meeting her right in the middle of the storm.
Yes, me too Rebecca, those last lines in Keller’s chapter were/are life-giving to me as well: “Because of Jesus’s death evil is a passing thing-a shadow. There is light and high beauty forever beyond its reach because evil fell into the heart of Jesus. The only darkness that could have destroyed us forever fell into his heart.”
Also, the painting of Peter and John running. Reminded me of the ballad by Don Francisco ~ “He’s Alive” . Written and sung from Peter’s perspective.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Lmv_xR6_q8
And in light of how Christianity exploded following the death of Christ, I thought of the memorial service for Ravi Zacharias that was live-streamed on Friday. How God rescued a 17 year old on a bed of suicide and took him around the world to tell others of this Jesus who has come to rescue. We have stories to tell each other of how our God has rescued and continues to rescue us. Hebrews 3:13 says, “But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called “Today,” so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.” This is what happens right here on this blog. Thank you, Dee!
That song always gives me goosebumps, Nila!
I am so encouraged, Nila with Hebrews 3:13..could God not have kissed us more through you? Thank you!
Thank you for the song, Nila. Beautiful resurrection praise!
WOW I never heard that song before. Very touching. Thanks for sharing.
Nila, thanks for sharing the song. I have loved that very much and have forgotten about it.
1. what stands out to you from the above and why? Honestly, it is your assurance of being forgiven, Dee. The peace that exudes from your statement, “I do know I am forgiven.” I still struggle so with trying to be “the good kid.” Past mistakes and choices haunt me and run the track in my mind as I subconsciously keep tabs of the errors in a day to see if I can still come out ahead and have favor. This struggle has been coming i to focus more and more recently as God reminds me, convicts me to focus on the truth of my identity. To allow Him to break down the familiar walls of effort that are crumbling at the bases but boast assurance and to humbly step only in His Grace. I too often work situations to try and be the hero but HE is the hero. Lord, help me KNOW.
2. Do you have a God hunt to share? Awhile back I asked for prayer to run into a gal again to hopefully become friends and encourage her. I have been concerned about her but finally ran into her on Wednesday! I got her number and am praying.
Oh Jill — thanks for sharing that. Reveals so much about your heart and how we can pray for you– that sneaky devil! It is finished, my sister! I will pray for God to make that so real in your heart.
Dee,
…God allowed Steve to wake at the end and to say “I love you” just before he died. I love that God is so intimate with you that He knew what your heart longed for.
Thanks, dear Rebecca. Yes.
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not?
I hope you don’t mind if I answer the last question first. I don’t know how much I can be here this week. My daughter is being married this weekend and there is much to do. Please pray for us. With the corona virus still lurking our province is currently in a phase where only 10 people can meet together at a time and then only with physical distancing in place (6 feet) unless those other individuals are in your family/friend bubble group. Krista had so hoped that the number at the wedding could be more than that, but, though the province may open up more this week, we have to plan for a very small group. She is so disappointed. Many interesting stories to tell about trying to prepare for a wedding while under lock-down with most of the stores closed. May God bless this wedding and marriage, even though it begins under trying circumstances.
Yes, I really enjoyed using Keller’s book on Mark along with your study. Keller’s perspective along with your own gentle guidance, Dee, and the insights of all the dear ladies here has been great.
I didn’t know Krista was getting married this weekend. Oh such a time, but may it be a great blessing!
Prayers for all things to work out for Krista and prayers for all the final preparations. How exciting for you all.
Diane, praying for a specially blessed wedding and for God to bring about the best day for Krista and her husband-to-be. And for you and your family.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? – I never really thought about the 40 days of lent and the sorrow of Jesus dying on the cross and yet one day to celebrate his resurrection. I need to really remember this and be joyful of what he did for me on that cross. Also Rebecca, what a blessing you are to us all. You are struggling and in a major trial and yet you have so much faith in the Lord that he is with you and will take to through to the end. Thank you for being so open to us. Dee, you made me cry when you said Steve woke up at the end and said he loved you. Oh my.
2. Do you have a God Hunt to share? – We had our first Life Group in peson today and we had a gorgeous sunny perfect temperature day that allowed us to meet outside. It was so good to meet in person after 2 months. We had such a great conversation and time together. It was defintely a God Hunt since we have had a lot of rain lately and He made it clear and sunny.
It is so good to meet in person, even in limited ways with virtual hugs!
Sunday
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Dee, this has been such a wonderful and informative study and I appreciate your perseverance and faithfulness in preparing it each week…one of my highlights!
Rebecca’s words were so encouraging to me last week and I thank the Lord for her and the work He’s doing in her life.
2. Do you have a God Hunt to share?
All that’s going on in our country right now can be especially scary when your son is a policeman but thankfully we live in a small community and the Lord brought to my mind from Isaiah 26:3-4, “He will keep me in perfect peace if my mind is stayed upon Him. Trust in the Lord forever, for in God the Lord we have an everlasting rock.”
He is a good, good Father and He is in control!!
Oh — special prayers for your policeman son, Sharon. Hard to be a mama during these times.
Oh Sharon I will for sure be praying for your son and for you to find peace in this turmoil we are living in right now.
Sharon, praying for your son. I love that verse in Isaiah.
Thank you so much for your prayers and encouragement!
Sharon, I will pray for your son.
😍
Yes, prayers for your son; my grandson is a first year policeman, just graduated from Academy in Oct. Prayers for him as a young black man(22) now facing these trials…in Maryland.
Oh Shirley, will be praying from your grandson…may God’s hand of protection be upon him.
What stands out to you from the above and why?
Rebecca’s growth, her pressing in response to her pain stands out to me. The asking of the Lord for wisdom, I love that and her recognition that he is answering, he is meeting her. These move me.
That every day should be a celebration all that Easter means also stood out to me, it made me think of this:“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”
― Albert Einstein
Do you have a God Hunt to share?
I have prayed this passage for myself, and at times for all here on the blog:“14 For this reason I bow my knees to the Father [a]of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 from whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 that He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”
My God hunt is that through our counseling sessions, I believe I am beginning to rest the weight of my soul, in ways I have always felt unable to do, on that love. I do not articulate it well, but there has been a shift, a change…I am very grateful and want to keep growing in this.
That’s such a good prayer, Chris — and love hearing about you resting the weight of your soul in His love. I’m reading the best book on evangelism: Unlikely Converts — and he talks about how badly we need to do that as believers as we witness with fear and trembling.
Chris–so thankful for this God hunt–this shift, releasing the weight of your souls anguish–so thankful for this healing dear friend
Love this, I am beginning to rest the weight of my soul
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Rebecca’s light shining through such terrible darkness. It would be so hard for me to press on, going through what she is, but her example encourages my heart and reminds me of His power, His steadfast love for His own.
2. Do you have a God Hunt to share?
I shared some the last time I posted of an ongoing trial in my life– I had more details here, but I’m going to be brief instead–I am just thankful for a specific family at church and an older couple, both in our small group that met last night. I am so thankful for how He has woven into our lives ones who can walk this journey with us and encourage us in ways no one else really can. A tender reminder of His care.
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3 A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
Many women, including Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome, and many other women who came up with him to Jerusalem, followed Jesus when He was in Galilee and they ministered to him. After Jesus was buried, Mary Magdalene and Salome were the ones to find the empty tomb and hear from the angel that Jesus had risen.
B. How is this different from other world religions?
The way the women were treated by Christ shows how His kingdom is unlike any other religion or kingdom. In the first century, women were not allowed to testify in Jewish court of law. This shows that women were valued, treated with respect, and shown worthy of receiving the most important message of Christ.
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!)
I think it proves the authenticity to use women, and also shows the upside-down-ness of the Gospel—it is not like the world’s system.
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?
I feel valued by God, treasured, worthy. God also chose a woman to bring His Son into the world, which I think also shows His love and value for women.
4. Read the opening three pages in Chapter 18 of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
Mark certifies that Jesus is really dead by repeating the names of the eye witnesses.
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think?
It was as hard for them to imagine a true bodily resurrection as it would be for us today. It seemed impossible.
Knowing of our big load at seminary, it is sweet to see you here, Lizzy. I loved this:
I feel valued by God, treasured, worthy. God also chose a woman to bring His Son into the world, which I think also shows His love and value for women.
Love how God sends people, the family and the older couple, as an encouragement to you
Lizzy, I am so very grateful for the provision of encouragement for you, what a gift!
And thank you for encouraging me, You have always been so kind to me and it has meant more than you know.
Monday: A Radical Re-Evaluation of Women
N. T. Wright says that “The resurrection shows a radical re-evaluation of women, for they are front and center.”
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ. – the women followed him in Galilee and attended to his needs. They also bought spices to anoint Jesus’ body after the Sabbath was over.
B. How is this different from other world religions? – Well I’m not to well versed on other religions, but from what I hear, I would say that the women would not have been able to follow a man. Would they have had to stay behind? I’m thinking they were not an important class in 3rd world religions.
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!) – My first thought was because we listen and hear what is being said and are organized (LOL) but I’m thinking since women were not as important as men, that using a women to say what they saw would have been more reliable since they were speaking out and not worried about being silenced?
D. What does this mean to you as a woman? – To me this shows that God can use women in a mighty way and that we are on the same level as men are. He doesn’t think we are useless, he respects us and considers us just as important as men.
4. Read the opening three pages in Chapter 18 of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments. – My question is why Pilot was surprised when Joseph came and asked for Jesus’ body that he was alredy dead. This wasn’t the first crucifixition was it? Wouldn’t he have know how brutal of a death it was?
Good question.
I have heard Jesus died more quickly that most experiencing crucifixion.
Ok thanks Dee
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened.
the stone had been rolled away
an angel was sitting on the right side, who said to them “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here.”
The angel said they would see Jesus in Galilee, just as He had said.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message?
To prove the authenticity of the story and show His value of women.
8. Read up to He Has Done It in Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
Jesus was not a ghost. His resurrection body was flesh and bones. He was recognizable, touchable, and He spoke. Three fundamental facts that prove the Resurrection: the empty tomb; the testimony of hundreds who saw Him; the transformed lives of His followers.
After paying the price for our sin, in FULL, He walks out FREE. The resurrection was God’s way of stamping “paid in full” across history so none could miss it. It is finished.
Monday
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
Some women were watching from a distance when Jesus was crucified. Including followers of Jesus who had cared for Him in Galilee…Mary Magdalene, Mary- mother of James the younger and Joseph and Salome. There were also many other women who’d come with Him to Jerusalem. It was Mary Magdalene and Mary of Joseph who saw where Jesus was buried. The three women purchased burial spices to anoint Jesus’ body and they went to the tomb the next morning wondering who would roll the stone away.
B. How is this different from other world religions?
Jesus treated women with equality and saw their value. In other religions they’re second class.
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!)
In Lee Strobel’s book The Case For Christ, he says, the author faithfully recorded what actually happen even if it was embarrassing due to the fact that a women’s testimony was considered worthless. Maybe God entrusted them with it just to the show the men how much he did value women.
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?
I am precious in His sight and no one can tell me otherwise.
Love this: I am precious in His sight and no one can tell me otherwise.
What stands out to me? Yes, the spread of the Gospel around the world. It is an encouragement to me that I have brothers and sisters in Christ around the world. I am also awed that the gospel is powerful in individual lives as Rebecca has testified. I agree that Christ in me is my hope, for without the Holy Spirit’s presence I am lost in this sinful world that is filled with anger and violence.
I am pondering the question of the God hunt. I have several thoughts on this, but I will share one. Over the past year I have found a new prayer partner in an unexpected place. Barbara was caring for my elderly cousin, Donald, in his home in Vt. for nearly a year until he passed after Thanksgiving. She is married to Donald’s nephew, so we are distantly related by marriage. At first we prayed for his health issues, for her endurance and wisdom. Now it has progressed to family concerns and spiritual growth needs. It is a very special bond, truly an encouraging bond that we share as we trust God in prayer. During this pandemic I realize how much we need other Christians.
Shirley-I love this gift God has brought you in Barbara. A trusted prayer partner is a treasure.
Beautiful story of God sending you a friend, Shirley.
I love your God hunt Shirley 🙂
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
a. Rebecca’s testimony stood out to me. “This evil won’t destroy me for it fell on Jesus’ heart.”Thank you, Rebecca that you are setting your heart on God in the midst of the pain you are going through right now.
b. “He is not here.” Oh, what a glorious statement! All the difference in the world – the good news of all times. In the midst of chaos in our nation, where is Jesus right now? Interceding for us at the right hand of the Father. Where is the Holy Spirit right now? In us, with us, for us. Praise you, Father!
c. The picture of John and Peter melts my heart and brings tears to my eyes. The anticipation! Could it be? I can almost feel their hearts about ready to burst.
2. Do you have a God Hunt to share?
a. So many provisions from God for our church as we do a slow re-entry to meeting inside our church. I saw God’s hand leading, guiding, and strengthening our hearts.
b. 8 women signed up to do a bible study of Philippians with me through Zoom. We start this Thursday. Prayerfully excited.
c. One of our Honor Society students (I am the adviser) got picked for a $1000.00 scholarship for college. Her teacher told me that this student can really use financial assistance to pursue a teaching degree. Praise!
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I love the world map of today showing how Christianity has spread from, as you say, “…a band of 12 people…” It is just so cool!
Rebecca, I am sad for your hurt right now. I am praying for you and the situation. God is leading there is no doubt I can see, in your heart!
Do you have a God Hunt to share?
Forgot the God hunt….
I have really struggled mentally with the distance learning/teaching I have been required to do since the virus hit the shores of America. Although I am typically a social person, I believe that is the “imposter” (as Brennan Manning would say), and my true self is an introvert. That’s what has caught me off guard for the last two months….that I am all alone in my work environment and I start having thoughts that are not positive; an email that I think has a “tone,” a competitiveness that this teacher is doing something that I should be doing, or students who zoom with another teacher, why won’t they zoom with me? It’s driving me crazy and I will be SO glad when we are finished in a couple of weeks. Where did it come from?
SO, now the God hunt…part of the problem is a 20 person text thread that I am on with colleagues. It has settled down of late (or are they leaving me off now?? Hahaha), but it was ridiculous at the beginning. If I didn’t stay on then I missed some things. If I stayed on then I was annoyed. Today one colleague who is retiring got a visit from students who had made him an awesome thank you card. Giant sized and all! It was cute and very sweet of the students. He posted a picture on the thread. Next thing I know, other teachers were posting their pictures of their students who had visited them and made cards. I started feeling bad that I didn’t have students who cared about me…feeling sorry for myself for sure! I asked God why I couldn’t just be happy for those teachers? I asked Him to help me be happy and not be concerned with things like this. I asked Him to take away any jealousy in my heart. Tonight I received an email from a ninth grade student that was SO kind! It made me tear up. She said how it was a rough year for her and I made it better! She said she wished we could have spent more time together instead of doing the distance learning end of year thing. I couldn’t believe it! She could have sent it any day and she sent it today 😊. Thank You Lord Jesus. Just when I needed it You swooped in and surprised me. Right on time ♥️.
Laura, I believe you’ve made a difference in the lives of so many of your students. Sometimes, we (I) forget to say “thank you” to those who have impacted our lives, but then those people come to mind later, often many years down the road. That was so wonderful a surprise, though, for you to receive that email!
Susan thank you for always being the encourager. You are so kind and remind me so much of my sister. I love you and hope we can meet again someday sooner rather than later. I am praying for you 🙏🙏🙏
Meeting you in person and knowing you here, I agree with Susan wholeheartedly.
Thank you Dee. That means a lot to me. Praying for us; for peace.
I so admire teachers for what you are going through. Yes, so glad you received that email, Laura. I ,too, am sure there are many who just forget to say thanks…
Thanks Shirley, having a student say it means an awful lot to me 😊.
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph and Salome
Many other women were there saw Jesus’ crucifixion and death. They cared for Jesus during his years of ministry and went up with him to Jerusalem.
There were three women who went to the tomb. Even though they were wondering who was going to roll the stone away, they still went and God honored their faith by letting them be the first to see the stone rolled away and Jesus was no longer in the grave!
B. How is this different from other world religions?
Women are seen as second class citizens or inferior to men.
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!) Another way of God showing an inverted kingdom?
I Corinthians 1:27 But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?
That I am as worthy in God’s eyes as anybody else. That I am important to Him.
Wonderful. “I am important to Him.”
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
– They were His followers; Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and John, and Salome (?). There were many other women as well.
– The women took care of Him.
– They were watching the events.
– They saw where the body was laid.
– They purchased burial spices for the body.
– They went to the tomb on Sunday morning.
– They discussed how to move the stone on the tomb.
B. How is this different from other world religions?
Not sure? Are women not allowed to participate in death rituals?
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!)
I have heard (somewhere) that women were not considered very lofty in this culture. Maybe they were too scared to lie because if they got caught there would be stiff consequences? If they saw and reported the events then others would believe because too many had the same story and wouldn’t risk the chance of the punishment? They were believable.
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?
I think God cares for me just as He does men. I think He entrusted the women with an important task so that makes me feel special.
Correcting my mistake.
The three women were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, not John, and Salome (still don’t ever remember this woman’s name or who she was?
Read Mark 15:40-16:3
List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
They stuck around, they saw where he had been laid, they were ready as soon as they could to care for Jesus’s body, they had followed and cared for him during his ministry.
They were trusted with the message of the resurrection, Keller says that women’s testimony at that time was not admissible in court and if the story were a made-up one the first people to tell of the resurrection would not have been women.
B. How is this different from other world religions?
Many religions have women in the backseat
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!)
More of God’s upside-down economy :~)
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?I though of Hagar’s name for God of El Roi “the God who sees me”
4. Read the opening three pages in Chapter 18 of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
One thing that stood out to me was that Joseph of Arimathea was a “prominent member of the council” I wonder if he had been part of the group who gathered to charge Jesus before they sent him to Pilate, had he been there and been part of the “all” who said crucify him and then afterward God had opened his eyes?
Chris – -Luke 23:50-53 adds insight to Joseph of Arimathea.
Thank you for that Dee 🙂
4. Read the opening three pages in Chapter 18 of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
There was only one movement that didn’t die out amongst believers in this times. Keller says there were many who said they were the messiah during those times. Jesus is the only one who claimed the title and the faith has actually stuck. He believes it’s because of what happened after the crucifixion; the resurrection.
Keller believes Mark was certifying Jesus’ death with the different people involved in taking the body and completing the actual burial process.
He also believes that by Mark repeating the 3 women 3 times, that it is a true account. He said it over and over for others to go check with the women if they didn’t believe Mark. These women were alive at the time and others could do so.
Monday
4. Read the opening three pages in Chapter 18 of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
In reading this section a thought came to my mind in regards to Joseph of Arimathea. He buried Jesus in the tomb made for himself. Matthew 27:60, “He placed it (the body of Jesus) in his own tomb…”. In Luke 23:50-51 it describes him as a good and righteous man and that even though he was a member of the council he didn’t agree with the decisions and actions of the other religious leaders. And in Mark 15:43 it says …”he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.” Now, please forgive how morbid this sounds, but I wonder if through his knowledge of prophecy he got it and therefore knew that Jesus wouldn’t be in his tomb for very long…he still had a tomb for when he died. Just a thought!
So often I make a comment, Sharon, and then read you saying the same thing!
Tuesday: Really Risen
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think? – I think they just were in denial. No one wants to see someone they love leave them, especially by dying. They should have believed him since everything he said or did came true and happened, but just like the times in the past, they just didn’t understand.
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened. – The large stone was away from the entrance of the tomb, Jesus was not in there. The angel sitting there told them that he would be in Galilee waiting for them. And it was the start of Peter being forgiven for his betrayal.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message? – They witnessed his death and burial and also heard from the angel that he had risen. They took care of his every need.
8. Read up to He Has Done It in Keller’s book and share your notes and comments. – With so many accounts of Jesus’ appearance after his resurrection, it amazes me tht so many still deny him and think the Bible is a book of made up stories. Lord, please heal your land and help us until you come again.
This from Julie: With so many accounts of Jesus’ appearance after his resurrection, it amazes me tht so many still deny him and think the Bible is a book of made up stories. Lord, please heal your land and help us until you come again.
My thought on this is what Ravi Zacharias shared — primary reasons for rejecting are emotional, not wanting to give up control. Reading Unlikely Coverts — a good book for evangelism in these times
Thanks Dee for the book recommendation. I am writing this one down. One of our sons is way out there right now, thinking that his gift is talking to the dead and giving them peace to leave. We don’t know what else to say to him. I am going to buy this book.
I will be praying for your son Julie and for you.
3. Mark 15:40-16:3 The women are looking on from a distance; the ones named are Mary Magdalene, Mary, the moth;er of James and Joses, and Salome; they had followed Jesus and ministered to him along with many other women. The women who bought spices to anoint him were the 3 mentioned; they came to the tomb very early on the first day of the week.
B. How is this different from the other world religions? This was a religion in which the followers went out to many areas to share the Good News and make converts in other countries.
C. Why did God entrust women to be first with this message? My personal feeling is that Jesus knew the tender hearts of the women and knew they would be wonderful witnesses of his love and compassion.
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?I feel valued and blessed to know that Jesus’ followers included many women in a culture in which women were not given equal standing to the men.
Opening of chapter 18: the Beginning; Joseph of Arimathea showed much courage to go to Pilate, requesting to bury Jesus in a tomb before the Sabbath. The way Mark reports the burial is significant because he is certifying that Jesus was really dead. Joseph is an eye witness. A Roman centurion was also a witness to Pilate. The 3 women that Mark names are also witnesses to his death. By including their names, Mark is indicating that one could go to these women who could corroborate the facts as he records it. He is giving an historical record.
Good thought on women, Shirley. Rather like marriage — better with one man and one woman.
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think?
I don’t think they knew what He meant. I mean, they were ordinary, every day men. I wouldn’t have understood what “rise again” meant if I were there…
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened.
An angel sat in the tomb. The angel spoke and said Jesus had risen from the dead.
The angel said Jesus would meet them in Galilee.
Jesus has told them this would happen.
3. Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ.
1. That Jesus had quite a few women who followed him. Mark 15:41b
2. That women often were the first with the message of the Gospel.
B. How is this different from other world religions?
Other word religions focus on men being first but God raises up women.
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!)
I am not sure either, but I know He is passionate about women just as He is about men-equally, yet women were treated unjustly and lower than. That wasn’t his plan-different roles after the Fall, but not putting women as lower than to be oppressed and walked all over. I think maybe He is just revealing His heart-He loves Women and desires to lift us up. This is our mighty God!
D. What does this mean to you as a woman?
That He deeply loves me and desires to (and is) lift me up-that He is happy when I trust in Him with bold confidence of His love and care for me. As I walk along the way, every day wherever I am and whoever I am with, in whatever career, or any path He has me on, He wants me to show other’s Jesus-and what a high calling! He doesn’t see men as higher than me or more worthy of His love.
So so good:
He deeply loves me and desires to (and is) lift me up-that He is happy when I trust in Him with bold confidence of His love and care for me. As I walk along the way, every day wherever I am and whoever I am with, in whatever career, or any path He has me on,
Rebecca, your letter D goes so well with your beautiful picture on the blog (which I have always loved!). I see Jesus in your face 😊. Love you sister!
Laura- I love you too and likewise sis..I see Him in you. I enjoy your videos on FB for I get to see you more! 🙂
Tuesday: Really Risen
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think?I think it was incomprehensible to them, so they filtered it out.
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened.
The stone was rolled away, the ‘young man’ knew who they were looking for and knew of Peter and the disciples. He also foretold that Jesus would appear to them in Galilee.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message?
Like so much of what God does, using women is upside down- the opposite of what the world would have expected.I love that Jesus valued women, I don’t think we can fully appreciate how counter-cultural his interactions with them really were.
Good point on not understanding the depth of how counter-cultural He was with women.
Chris-this is so true and as I was answering the question, I had that feeling–that I knew the answer but also knew in writing it that I really have no clue the weight of “how counter-cultural his interactions with them really were”. And then I think, this is so true of everything we know of Jesus, of the Gospel–I want to always grow in experiencing the weight more than just knowing the words.
I want to always grow in experiencing the weight more than just knowing the words.
Lizzy, so key- “I want to always grow in experiencing the weight more than just knowing the words.”
Really Risen
5. Jesus had told his followers he would die and rise again on the 3rd day, yet no was expecting it, why?
I believe that they just could not take in the reality of these words because they had an expectation that he would be a savior in their time for the nation Israel and just didn’t get it that this would be their divine Savior and for all peoples.
6. Mark 16:3-7 All evidences of the supernatural that happened: the stone was rolled away and it was huge, the young man dressed in white sitting near the tomb, the angel said, He is not here, he has risen!
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message? Probably for the reason that their love was so deep and they would always remember these special details to share as they would be witnesses of their Savior!
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think?
What Jesus said must not have made sense to the disciples. They had expectations and the reality of Jesus’ words was silenced by their wrong expectations. Isn’t this the truth for us at times? We just don’t want to believe if things don’t make sense to our finite minds.
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened.
The stone that covered the tomb was large and not easy to have been rolled away easily. The women saw an angel sitting inside the tomb and Jesus’ body was no longer there.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message?
He loved women as much as He loved men and they were the ones who were there with him all through the crucifixion and His death. And they were the ones who came to dress His body. God has no favorites and I believe He wanted to give women the love, respect, and status they deserved. Also, this just popped up in my mind. Just a thought.
A woman, Eve was the first one tempted? Could it be that amidst the curse of labor pain, God so planned to redeem “women” by letting them be the first to “see” the Good News of the resurrection? In Christ, there is no male or female, Greek or Jew… And I do not think that this has anything to do with works righteousness.
Love your conclusion,Bing, as Eve was the first one tempted, could it be God so planned to redeem women by letting them be the first to see the Good News of the resurrection?
Shirley, this was another comforting thought to me in light of what I said above: That there is no great sin that can take us away from the redeeming love of Christ. Imagine going down history as the one who initiated the sin cycle for the human race! Or being Peter and denying Christ. Ah, I can only trust the sovereignty of God. So many mysteries-it seems like the more I read the Word and listen to God, the more questions I have than answers. So thankful He is patient with us.
yes, me too, more questions than answers!
Keller does not cover the very end of Mark, perhaps because the earliest manuscripts don’t have Mark 16:9-20, but goes into other passages and thoughts about the resurrection. So we will ponder as well.
As this article says, perhaps Jesus descended into paradise, where souls await, and this is why he said to the thief, “Today you will be with me in paradise.” Perhaps there is a resting place that is good where souls wait until the renewal of all things, including our bodies.
9. Thoughts on the above?
Wow-this article was quite a revelation to me! I have never read anything about Christ’s descent and often not sure where my departed loved ones are. I have comforted myself with the thoughts that they are with Jesus but my idea of them being in heaven or in paradise is vague or what I would just call faith in the unknown parts of the mystery trusting that God’s plans for His people are always good. I find this very helpful and would be ruminating on it for a while.
I have misplaced my book so I haven’t had a chance to comment on my readings of Chapter 18!
8. Read up to He Has Done It in Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
I guess I didn’t realize how many times Jesus appeared to so many hundreds of people over the course of 40 days. I found that interesting. I liked how Keller says not everybody could have been hallucinating… at least not that many people with the same hallucination.
Another thought that intrigued me was how the disciples went on to teach about Jesus and his resurrection. Keller says that if it weren’t true why would they preach it for so long and even willing to be be put to death for it?
Finally, Jesus rose after three days in the tomb, just as he said he would at least three times during his life to the disciples. I love how Keller ends this part of the chapter by saying this:
“The resurrection was God’s way of stamping PAID IN FULL right across history so that nobody could miss it.”
Chapter 18:The Beginning
Jesus had repeatedly told his disciples that he would die and rise on the 3rd day, yet no one went to the Tomb with this expectation.
To them, a resurrection was inconceivable. The Greeks did not believe in resurrection, the Jews had no concept of one rising from the dead though some believed in a general resurrection when the world would be renewed. A Greek philosopher, Celsus, believed that women were hysterical and their testimony could not be accepted as truth.
Mark did include the women’s testimony because they were really present. In Luke’s gospel we read of his meeting with the disciples. His body was with flesh and bones, he was recognizable and he made many appearances. In face a long list of people claim to have seen Jesus. I remember the book Evidence that demands a verdict, with all the proofs of the reality of the resurrection!
Keller states 3 lines of evidence: the empty tomb, the testimony of eyewitnesses, and the effect on the lives of Jesus’ followers.
Jesus came to pay the penalty for our sins! The resurrection is God’s proof of Paid in full! Nobody can miss it. If only more would accept it…
It is good news for us.
Tuesday
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think?
I think they were looking for an earthly messiah to rule over them. Save them from the rule of the Romans. His talk of death and rising didn’t fit that narrative.
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened.
The large stone had been rolled aside. An angel, described as a young man in a white robe was sitting to the right inside of the tomb and the body of Jesus gone. The angel spoke and said, “Don’t be alarmed. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead! Look, this is where they laid His body.” The angel instructed the women to tell the disciples including Peter that Jesus is going ahead to Galilee, just as He said before He died.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message?
I think He wanted the disciples and Peter to see the value of women in “His Kingdom.” As Keller says, “inverted kingdom.”
8. Read up to He Has Done It in Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
”Three fundamental lines of evidence to convince us that Jesus rose from the dead…
The fact of the empty tomb
The testimony of numerous witnesses
The long-term impact on the lives of Jesus’s followers.”
It breaks my heart to know that my brother and sister were raised with this teaching (the day they received Christ was written in my Moms Bible and they were baptized.)…one now claims to be agnostic and the other Buddhist. They want anything but Christianity. Why? I wonder when and what hardened their hearts? Were they really ever saved? There is a “Christian” singer with the Hawk Nelson band, John Steingard, who just recently came out and said he no longer believes in God.
Dear Lord, soften their hearts to see truth, to see their sin and realize how much You love them. I don’t understand but I continue to pray. Amen
I didn’t know that about your siblings — I will pray. So hard to understand, but it gives me hope they were tender when they were young.
Thank you for this Dee…”gives me hope they were tender when they were young.” YES!
Wednesday: What Happens To Those Who Die Before Christ Returns?
9. Thoughts on the above? – Wow for me that was some heavy reading. Not quite sure yet what I’ve absorbed and will have to go back and read it again. But if Jesus has the keys to Hades and he took them from the masters as he descended down, is it saying that there are no more chances with Jesus to get to heaven? Or the opposite, that since He is holding the keys, that there still is a chance for those who died before accepting Jesus, that they may still make it to heaven?
10. Read the section in Keller’s book entitled He Has Done It and share your notes and comments. – “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” How awful would this be. I am so grateful that I have hope in the One that paid the ultimate sacrifice for me. I have something to loo forward to once I leave this temporary home, but pity to those who don’t believe. How sad. I love this line too, “The truth of the resurrection is of supreme and eternal importance. It is the hinge upon which the story of the world pivots.” Thank you Lord for the resurrection of Jesus, it brings peace to my soul knowing that I am living in a world where you are in control.
Doesn’t it, indeed, Julie — esp. in these days.
Oh yes Dee, it sure does.
Wednesday
9. Thoughts on the above.
This is a good article and definitely gave me a whole different perspective on the decent of Jesus Christ. It also sheds so much light on Jesus telling the criminal on the cross that today you’ll be with Me in Paradise…”He transformed Paradise from a place of expectation to reality.” That is so comforting!
10. Read the section in Keller’s book entitled He Has Done It and share your notes and comments.
A great little section of how Jesus fulfilled Psalms 22. “The truth of the resurrection is of supreme and eternal importance. It is the hinge upon which the story of the world pivots.”
Thursday
11. Read this last section of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
This was such an encouraging section, A Remembrance of the Future. The story of Joni Eareckson Tada having to stay in her wheelchair while everyone around her was asked to kneel and pray and she cried, not because she couldn’t kneel, but because she had a glimpse of what heaven would be like…such a beautiful picture! It is because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ that as Christians we have so much to look forward to…”being a part of the Kingdom of God where there will be complete healing of all the relationships in the creation, be reconciled to God, to nature, to one another, and to ourselves. It gives us enormous hope to live. It promises not just new minds and hearts but new bodies. All suffering will be gone and one day will be glorious. On the Day if the Lord all things will be turned inside out and we’ll know joy beyond the walls of this world.”What a day of rejoicing that will be!
Amen!
9. The article, “Christ’s descent to the Dead” I read this and fined some things way over my understanding, but the summary is definitely stating clearly my understanding that Christ remained in the grave for 3 days, proclaiming the victory achieved by his substitutionary death. Yes, I agree it has biblical and historical support. I love that Christ is ruling and reigning!
10. He has done it! Jesus quoted Psalm 22, My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Yes, Mark’s story is all true. Jesus truly is the Son of God.
I love that he reviews the scripture texts from John 11 25-26, then I Thessalonians 4:14 and Corinthians I 15:13-19, always my favorite texts.
9. Read the section of Keller’s book, He has Done It, and comment:
The concluding sentences in this section say, “The truth of the resurrection is of supreme and eternal importance. It is the hinge upon which the story of the world pivots.” This brought to mind a riveting story that Billy Graham told. Ravi Zacharias relates this story on this 2 minute audio link:
https://www.rzim.org/listen/just-a-thought/outside-of-the-resurrection-no-other-hope-2
This is the story in Billy Graham’s written words:
https://billygraham.org/devotion/what-is-most-important/
“If Jesus Christ is alive, then there is hope for the world. If Jesus Christ is in the grave, then I don’t see the slightest glimmer of hope on the horizon.”
(Konrad Adenauer, in conversation with Billy Graham, before he retired as the Chancellor of Germany.)
Thanks, Nila!
Love these word from Ravi, thank you, too, Nila
Dee, I posted a response to # 9 this morning that says it is waiting for your approval. I’m sorry for the trouble.
Please let me know if I need to re-format my post and try again.
Thank you!
I often have to approve when there are links. It’s not a big deal — you just have to wait as I may not be on my laptop for a while.
Thursday: A Remembrance of The Future
11. Read this last section of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments. – This whole book was so good and so eye opening. There is so much hope in God’s Word for those that believe. It’s a shame that some will not know that hope “Only in the gospel of Jesus Christ do people find such enormous hope to live. Only the resurrection promises us not just new minds and hearts, but also new bodies.” What a promise we have from Jesus. Thank you Lord. “The joy of your glory will be that much greater for every scar you bear.” Another victory for us, our suffering is not being done in vain. We will come out ahead of it all. Thank you Lord for your suffering so I can rejoice and be free. “Jesus, the King, created all things in love. He has the power and the beauty to see his vision for the world through to its glorious end, to undo everything we have been able to do to harm it. To accomplish that, he had to come and die for it. Three days later, he rose again; and one day will come back again to usher in a renewed creation.”…”God made me to love him supremely, but he lost me. He returned to get me back, but it took the cross to do it. He absorbed my darkness so that one day I can finally and dazzlingly become my true self and take my seat at his eternal feast.” Oh Lord, I am so so sorry for what I’ve done to cause you pain and suffering, for the darkness you had to face because of me. I’m sorry for the way your creation is being taken care of. Help me Lord to be a good steward of what you have placed in front of me. I don’t want to sadden you any more. I want your next coming to be even more joyful than what I expect it to be. Please forgive me Lord. I love you and want to make you happy. In Jesus Name amen.
I love your heart and your prayer, Julie.
11. Read this last section of Keller’s book and share your notes and comments.
This section made me weep. Our counselor brought out the angel saying to the women, “why do you look for the living among the dead” I have been slowly applying that to my grief. The trauma of what happened to my son is real and evil and horrific, but I know he is alive…this is moving me slowly, out of a place I have felt stuck.
This section also moved me because of the racial unrest we are all facing. My son’s girlfriend is black, she has a seven-year-old son, we have fallen in love with both of them, ways that I might have been ambivalent to the injustice black people face have been changed because I now have black people who I care deeply about, my love changes the way I process what’s going on. I struggle so much with the thought of that tender-hearted 7-year-old boy as a teenager facing someone assuming he is bad just because he is black.
I have been broken-hearted about the reaction of many of my white friends, I don’t think they know they are bigots. My prayer a while back was for my heart to break for the things that break God’s heart, I feel like this is a piece of the answer to that prayer. How I long for the promised shalom…the day when everything sad comes untrue.
Oh Christina, yes, “for my heart to break for the things that break God’s heart”. We are in a hurting world and many have no idea what it is like to be treat inhumanely. I know the pain because of my family though we have been protected in many ways. Jesus knows our pain and only He can heal our hearts.
Yes, “for the day when everything sad comes untrue.”
Oh Chris — what a great testimony. So true that when love someone it changes how we see things. I love it that God is mixing His beautiful colors in your family, And I will keep praying for your healing in seeing your son alive. Did you hear what Ravi Zechariah, his father, and grandfather all have on their tombstones? John 14:19. Because I live, you also will live.
Chris, I am so touched by what you shared here. And being to share your thoughts about your son’s death again. And for your son and his girlfriend. Yes, let our hearts break for the things that break God’s heart.
Oh yes Chris ~ “How I long for the promised shalom…the day when everything sad comes untrue.”
11. A Remembrance of the Future: Yes, when John the Baptist asks , “Are you really the Messiah?” Jesus quotes from Isaiah the prophet, The blind shall see and so on. This is the Kingdom of God, the complete healing of all the relationships in creation.
Yes, if Jesus is risen, it is possible to face the suffering and all the difficulties of this present world. Keller gives the wonderful example of Joni Eareckson Tada, who was disabled when young and is confined to a wheelchair, but has the wonderful hope of heaven when she will be able to kneel before her Savior! She sings a song called “Heaven” and it is so joyful!
The resurrection promises us new minds and spirits, but also new bodies! We have hope! When Jesus showed the disciples his scars he reminds them of what he did for them. Their idea was of a worldly kingdom, but he gave them much more. His scars had saved their lives, but also prepared them for what would lie ahead for them.
Ahead of us lies the Day of the Lord, when God will make everything right! What joy lies ahead for us. Our own hurts and sadness will be replaced with the eternal joy of glory with our Lord. We are to live in the light of the Resurrection.
I see the joy in your post, Shirley. Thankful too for how you are encouraging sisters on this blog.
Shirley, Thank you for this strong encouragement:
“Ahead of us lies the Day of the Lord, when God will make everything right! What joy lies ahead for us. Our own hurts and sadness will be replaced with the eternal joy of glory with our Lord. We are to live in the light of the Resurrection.”
Friday/Saturday
12. Would you take 10 minutes or so to review Mark and list three take-a-ways?
1. The servanthood of Jesus Christ. His example of love and compassion while being scrutinized and pursued by the religious leaders.
2. His death and resurrection. Knowing that He drank the cup of God’s wrath so that I might have eternal life is very emotional and humbling and because of His resurrection I have hope, I have abundant life.
3. I wanted to chose a favorite story and I decided on the Gentile woman who had a demon possessed daughter. I chose this because it gives us a glimpse into His plan of grafting the Gentiles into salvation. And of all the interactions He had with people she understood the gospel, her eyes were opened.
13. Now, do the same with Keller’s book.
1. The purpose of Mark…”to try to show, through Jesus’s words and actions how beautiful His life makes sense of ours.”
2. “The gospel isn’t advice; it’s the news that you don’t need to earn your way to God; Jesus has already done it for you.”
3. “The kingdom of God is different from the kingdom of God.”It’s inverted and upside down.
I really appreciated this assignment as I realized how much I’d forgotten that really had an impact on me and it was hard to just chose three! I pray that this study continues to change me from the inside out…to go the 18 inches from my head to my heart.
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not?
I did enjoy the platform of this study. It was helpful to have the wisdom of Keller’s book. I do have to say that the preface of each blog is my favorite part as we get a glimpse into your thoughts and helps bring understanding into the study. I also liked that you included highlights from the previous week.
Oops! Correction on question 13, #3…The kingdom of God is different from the kingdom of the world.
Thanks, Sharon — your input is helpful!
Read Mark 15:40-16:3
A. List whatever you learn about the women involved in the life of Christ. There were many of them. They nurtured, cared for Jesus (and likely the disciples and others) … they stayed with Joseph to see where Jesus was laid. They were the first to go finish the job of burial. They did not ask (or tell) anyone else that they were going even though they would need help with the stone and guards.
B. How is this different from other world religions? I am not very educated in other religions but it seems women are not a part of stories in other religions. They are not given roles.
C. Why do you think God entrusted women to be the first with this message? (I’m not sure!) I think it may be because they would accept it and tell it… their joy would outweigh their fear. Men might have kept it secret out of fear and disbelief?? Or maybe it was just a kiss from the King for these women, to be relieved of their grief. Or maybe God wanted to prove that all humans have worth.
D. What does this mean to you as a woman? I love that God is tender toward both sexes as they should have been…meaning He is not effected by cultures and history and loves his creation as He sees them, equal, but different on purpose, and His.
Friday/Saturday: Reflection and Review
12. Would you take 10 minutes or so to review Mark and list three take-a-ways?
How to put three take-aways from Mark is hard!
a. Mark is jam-packed with the ministry of Jesus. His last three years on earth was lived in a focused (set like a flint) way. Is my life focused on the will of God?
b. Every encounter was personal, whether it be a crowd, or one person, or even His enemies. The book tells of a Savior who knows the real need behind the perceived need and meets it at that point. People are then left with a choice either to follow Him or not. How personal has Jesus been to me?
c. God’s purposes are not thwarted by man’s maneuverings. The cross meant to silence the Lamb was used by God to announce His salvation through His Son. Joseph’s words rang: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20 Do I believe in the sovereignty of God in light of what is going on in the world?
13. Now, do the same with Keller’s book.
I still have not found my copy of the book although I have skim-read the last chapter. Still looking for it.
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not?
I found it helpful to read the Scriptures first and answer the questions myself before I read Keller’s book. Then I feel like I am not just writing his interpretation by rewording it with my own words. It has allowed me to exercise my “intellectual muscles” as somebody puts it and be convinced in my own mind about the veracity of Scriptures. Reading Keller’s and my blog sisters’ thoughts enlightened me along the way. I have found applications that I would never have thought of in my past readings of Mark. I also have a greater appreciation of the straightforward tone of the book. Keller is always a delight-I can almost hear his voice talking to me as I read the pages of the book.
So wise, Bing, to answer questions first.
Dee, I realized I kind of skirted around your question here. lol I do love this format. Your questions often push me in the right way and keep me on track. I love the highlights and your personal examples. Having Keller is a plus-he has a way of making sense of some difficult passages to me. Thankful for how God is using you and him in my life. I feel like I am going through a spiritual growth spurt doing this study in Mark. Thankful!
Whatever I am learning here from you and from everybody else I am trying to put into practice as I do a study with some ladies in our church via zoom. We had our first session in the book of Philippians. Such a sweet time listening to the hearts of my sisters in Christ.
Bing, I did the same. I only read the book when Dee put it in for that day and did not read ahead. I found it interesting that I answered in the right way so to speak after reading Keller’s take on it. 🙂
5. Though Jesus had told the disciples 3 times in previous chapters in Mark that He was going to die and rise again on the third day, no one was expecting it. Why, do you think? I think they did not understand…. even though they had seen Christ call others back to life they did not have a physical Jesus to look to to bring himself back to life. Jesus talked so often in parables that to key in to His literal messages must have been hard. They still thought of death as final…they were still stuck in this world.
6. Read Mark 16:3-7 and find all the evidences that something supernatural had happened. the stone was rolled away despite guards. There was an angel present. The angel knew details without being told. Jesus was gone and His burial cloth left behind, folded intentionally.
7. Why do you think God entrusted women with this message? I remember Keller saying something about this… that it proved the story’s validity because women were never used as legal witnesses. So God was using the unlikely witness to show it was real AND to prove the worth of women.
12. Would you take 10 minutes or so to review Mark and list three take-a-ways?
1. I realized in a new real way that context matters. Where did they just come from? Where do they go? Who else has He said this to? Etc. Mark constructed the book, it isn’t a haphazard collection of happenings.
2. Encompassing #1 is the practice of copying scripture. Even more than reading it aloud, copying Mark into my journal proved to really help me slow down, notice, ponder, and BE with The Word. I will continue to do it… it also works to directly counteract my tendency to want to “accomplish” during Bible times. Meaning I can sometimes want to get to the next mile marker in reading in order to feel .i accomplished something (approval idol). But copying it is so slow and meaningful that the “accomplishment “ falls away and it’s just time with Jesus.
3. I am struck, in our Mark study, how incredibly purposeful Christ’s words and actions were. To look at the stories with the question,”What was Christ’s purposes here?” Is enlightening.
13. Now, do the same with Keller’s book. I especially love the identity talk in this book. Keller is a fabulous model of how to be honest in lament but apply the Gospel. He always brings it back to the Gospel!
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not? I think by “this way” you mean doing the blog in conjunction with a book? I do like it. I listen to a lot of sermons (esp Keller) but reading sections of a book as we move along in scripture seems a lot more even paced. I can’t always find quiet time in my busy house to listen to a specific sermon but I can pick up a book and read a few pages, underline, and make notes. That said, I DO like being guided to certain sermons…but most Keller’s books come from his sermons anyway. Other authors would be lovely, too. I know I don’t interact much on the blog (or Facebook. This is a busy season of life for me.) but I do appreciate this lovely place, reading others’ thoughts and learning.
Thanks, Jill. Helpful.
Shirley, Thank you for this strong encouragement:
“Ahead of us lies the Day of the Lord, when God will make everything right! What joy lies ahead for us. Our own hurts and sadness will be replaced with the eternal joy of glory with our Lord. We are to live in the light of the Resurrection.”
12. Three takeaways from Mark: So I am taking three passages that stood out to me and why. first is Jesus in the boat with the disciples when the storm arose. chapter4:35-41 This episode was very dramatic and it made the disciples realize that Jesus had authority over the whole creation. “who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”
Second is the stories of Jesus’ healing, in particular the one in which the woman with the issue of blood was healed. chapter 5:21-34. This stands out because Jesus made it clear that her faith was the reason, “Daughter, thy faith has made thee whole, go in peace.” She had interrupted Jairus, yet Jesus then healed his daughter!
Third is the story of the brothers, James and John in chapter 10:35-45, with their request to sit at Jesus right and left hand, in his glory. but Jesus taught them, that “whoever would be great among you must be your servant.”
So these are all so important to believe who Jesus is, to have faith and to learn that our role is to serve others, as Jesus demonstrated.
12. Would you take 10 minutes or so to review Mark and list three take-a-ways?s
~ From Mark 9:23 “All things are possible to him who believes.” That God gives us a reason to hope.
~ From Mark 10 – Our Lord’s tender love for children.
~ From the final three chapters of Mark – That forgiveness of my sin came at such high cost.
13. Now, do the same with Keller’s book.
I’ve been journaling over these past months as we dove deep into Mark. As I look through my journal here this morning I can see some nuggets from Keller:
~ In Keller’s reference to C.S. Lewis’s character Eustace he says…..”We don’t just need someone who can just grant our wishes. We need someone who can go deeper than that. Someone who will use his claws, lovingly and carefully and pierce our self-centeredness and remove the sin that enslaves us and distorts even our beautiful longings.” (p. 38)
~ This succinct, beautiful, painful truth: “You see, if there really is a dance, then there really is a King who loves us without need. And if there really is a stain we can’t wash out, then there is going to have to be a cross………. Your real self will not come out as long as you are looking for it; it will only emerge when you’re looking for him.”
~ “But do you know where constant worry comes from? Its rooted in an arrogance that assumes, ‘I know the way my life has to go and God’s not getting it right.’ Real humility means to relax. Real humility means to laugh at yourself. Real humility means to be self critical.” (p. 161)
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not?
I really liked taking a deep dive into the gospel of Mark. It helped me to slow down and contemplate and then to apply the gospel to my life’s circumstances.
Dee, your use of a symbol for each week was so helpful in remembering the heart of each week. I also valued the highlights you carried over from each previous week. Over these past six years what has consistently been especially meaningful is your own personal stories, Dee. Thank you for that vulnerability that invites me to do the same.
A couple days ago I posted another song to this blog’s Private Facebook prayer page that my daughters and I recorded. It is called “As You Find Me”. (Maybe somebody here needs this song. I do. I’m experiencing some deep sadness over loss this week.)
Thanks, Nila. I love the songs with your daughters.
“what has been especially meaningful is your own personal stories, Dee”
Yes, I agree with that!
13. Takeaways with Jesus The King by Keller:Chapter 1 , the Dance- This chapter helped to clarify the interrelationship of the Trinity for me. And I like this quote,”You are made to center everything in your life on me”
The Stain, chapter 7- this brought out the subject of sin so well; the sins of the human heart which lead to separation from God, both individually and in systems, like politics ” another outside in approach that does not change the heart.”
The Cup, chapter 15 Mark 14:36 When Jesus said, “Take this cup from me”, Keller explained this so thoroughly, the Greek word, deeply distressed, meaning astonished, and the Greek verb, meaning overcome with horror. I was awakened to the horror of this time for him in the Garden.
14. I really liked doing the blog this way. I was able to go to much deeper levels than I ever did. I liked Keller’s book as a resource explaining so many scriptures. Thank you, Dee, and each of my blog sisters.
9. Thoughts on the above?
Boy has my week been busy! I got stuck on this article because it’s something I have wondered since hearing that Joyce Meyer thought Jesus went to hell (I had been reading something online that said she said this). I wondered what to think of her and her ministries at that point. Now I think I know where she got it! THANK YOU DEE for posting this article! I found it to be a rough read, and I looked up all the scriptures to reference, but now I am clearer on what she may have meant. It’s all about the Apostles Creed; the confusion. The article says that for hundreds of years the AC has been interpreted differently by different “authorities” like Calvin and Luther. Some denominations leave the part out that says, “…descended into hell (or Hades)…” I think I have recited it both with and without that phrase.
I like the idea of the different “boxes” that souls go to upon death. The place is called Hades, and it’s split into 3 sections. There’s the righteous and unrighteous boxes, and the hell box (Tartarus). The author says
“The Creeds did not mean by descendit ad inferna that Jesus went to Hell, if by Hell we mean “place of torment”; rather, they meant what we said above, that Jesus’s human soul resided in the place of the dead, and specifically the righteous compartment, between his death and resurrection.”
SO interesting to me. He also says that when God returns those souls who are righteous will be released to be with Him.
Another thought I liked was this:
“…Christ has gone before our loved ones into the place of death and shines the light of his resurrection there now.” This was comforting to me to know that my parents would be in His light.
Friday/Saturday: Reflection and Review
12. Would you take 10 minutes or so to review Mark and list three take-a-ways? – I really enjoyed going through the book of Mark this way. It had so many good things to discover that I only read over before. For one, just how the disciples, even though they followed Jesus around, saw all the miracles he performed, they still didn’t get it who he really was and what his purpose on earth was. I can only pray that I can have a heart and mind that understand just what it is that he has done for me. How he has prepared the way for us. And on the other side of this, the Pharisees and religious leaders saw what he was doing, and saw all the people who did believe but were so against Him and what he stood for. They were threatened and afraid that their status would diminish with Jesus around. And I loved how some of the harder areas, like the parables came to light with the discussions put on the blog and with Keller’s book describing it in a way I could understand.
13. Now, do the same with Keller’s book. – Page 22 “The gospel isn’t advice: It’s the good news that you don’t need to earn your way to God; Jesus has already done it for you. And it’s a gift that you receive by sheer grace–through God’s thoroughly unmerited favor.” this is so good to know and to remember. It also helps me to see exactly what Jesus did for us. Page 166 “Only the gospel gives you a motivation for unselfish living that doesn’t rob you of the benefits of unselfishness even as you enact it.” Thank you Lord for giving this love to me, to be willing to help those who may have hurt me, or that I really don’t feel like helping at the moment. Only you can make my heart open to this. Page 222 “Physical darkness brings disorientation, but according to the Bible, so does spiritual darkness. Spiritual darkness comes when we turn away from God as our true light and make something else the center of our life.” Lord help me to always turn toward you first and to always center my life on you and your Word. I need you to guide me through this life. Help me to love unconditionally as you do and help me Lord to always give you glory.
14. Did you like doing the blog this way or not? If so, how was it helpful? If not, how not? – I loved this format Dee. I think it was a great way to dig in to God’s Word and have a little more clarification on the sticky, more confusing parts. Thanks for putting this blog together for us. I appreciate you and all you do to help us grow.