First off – I love this group — how you dig, how you tackle Paige. We are following her in our little home church, and getting lots of moaning from some men, and I want to pull my hair out. But then I come here and am so very pleased. Thank you! Your enthusiasm, diligence, and hunger are like honey to my soul!
Paige said we’d move to Mark this week, but didn’t say where, so I will have to guess. I’d love it if she did Mark 13, but I’m guessing she will do Mark 14 with Mary’s anointing and the Last Supper. So we will look at those two events on Monday and Tuesday. I’m keeping those lessons short so you can dive in as early as Wednesday to the message.
I think watching Mary of Bethany is the key to being a sheep and not a goat. Every time we see her, she is at the feet of Jesus: listening, weeping, or anointing Him. It’s all about the heart, Stupid! (For those of you who were not with us when Paige did 1 Samuel, she named it: “It’s the Heart, Stupid!”) She was inspired by the 1992 presidential campaign between Bill Clinton and George H. W. Bush, when Bush was the incumbent, and by the slogan “It’s the economy, Stupid” that political strategist James Carville coined. Clinton won. What matters most in our lives, and keeps us from being goats, is the condition of our heart, for out of it flow all the issues of life. I always loved it when our Lizzy talked about having a heart as soft as freshly opened Play-Doh. That’s a heart that truly repents quickly, that sees people “not as trees walking” but people made in the image of God with souls, people with hurts and needs who need love, and moves toward them. That is evidence that we are sheep, not goats.
Link to Paige: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GoOP2x1YGOY
SUNDAY:
1. How have you experienced the goodness of the Lord, or the sense of His presence, or unusual circumstances or timing or circumstances that made you suspect He engineered it?
MONDAY: The Anointing at Bethany (Probably on Wed)
2. Read Mark 14:3-10
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11)
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why?
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it?
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man?
E. What was the reaction of those present?
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified?
Tuesday: The Last Supper
We know they reclined at the table, so Tissot is probably closer than the famous painting by Leonardo Da Vinci.
3. Read Mark 14:12-26
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why?
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how?
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think?
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts?
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you?
This is where I will put the video when Paige puts it up. (For me it will probably be very early on Thursday — but you may want to watch it live.)
Wednesday:
4. Watch for about 23 minutes and share your favorite parts and explain why. Or, watch it all and then review the rest of the week.
Thursday:
5. Watch for about 23 minutes , or however you like, and share your favorite parts and explain why.
Friday:
6. Watch to the end, or howeveryou are doing it, and share your favorite parts and why.
Saturday:
7. What’s your take-a-way and why?
115 comments
SUNDAY:
1. How have you experienced the goodness of the Lord, or the sense of His presence, or unusual circumstances or timing or circumstances that made you suspect He engineered it?
—Being down here in Texas isn’t as easy as people think for us. The relationships are difficult. One of our friends who spends their winters in Arizona texted this past week and asked “Are you having a grand time?” I didn’t respond yet because I want to be careful how I frame what I say. The short answer is No. My son Chris is not happy. He is not walking in close relationship with Jesus so he is not seeking God’s will for his life. He is unhappy in his job and can’t seem to get his act together with all he needs to get done on his house and the land they own. And my dil Steph is loudly reminding him of his faults and failings. She is not where she needs to be in her relationship with the Lord and she is pretty self righteous about her knowledge and her works. She is oblivious to how narrow her little world is. She is full of frustrations.
So how has this affected me? Well first reaction has been that I have wanted to just pack up,and go back home to family and friends who are a whole lot more balanced and affirming. Talking to myself here but “It’s about the heart Stupid!” And But for God. 😊 He has graciously reminded me that we are down here because He made it clear this is where he wants us at this time. He is here with me in this and I am in need of being refined and he wants to use me as this crooked stick to draw some straight lines. I am reminded by Paige’s teaching that everything the Lord involves us in is harder, slower, messier and more problematic than I would ever want it to be. God is engineering my circumstances and this time in my life. I started reading a book yesterday called “What is Wrong With the World?” It is a book about sin and the content is taken from sermons and writings by Tim Keller and were compiled by his wife Cathy since he died. I am finding some very helpful reminders for me personally as I confess and acknowledge my own propensity to sin. And my own self-righteousness. Sin is crouching near by but Jesus my help is nearer. It is kind of hard to admit what an incredibly slow learner I am. Pride, that old inbred sin of the flesh is a hard one but for Jesus and the Cross. I am getting a better sense of His presence and I am feeling grateful for that.
Oh Bev, sounds so hard, yet you are wanting to obey and love wisely. Father, I pray you will give Bev wisdom, when to speak, when to be silent, how to love so well they ask why. Work in their son’s and daughter-in-laws hearts. In Jesus Name I pray.
I will join Dee, in praying for you, dear Bev. Family relationships, especially in close quarters for a long period of time, can be difficult. I will pray that you continue to sense His presence in spite of the situation. Thank you for the book recommendation by Cathy Keller.
Don’t I know this so well…”everything the Lord involves us in is harder, slower, messier and more problematic than I would ever want it to be…”
That has been the story for me for the last 10 years. I’m sorry you have to endure this mess Bev! Isn’t it because we need to reach everyone possible for the Kingdom before He comes again? You don’t know who is watching. When we go to court we have the opportunity to show Him to the judge, the bailiff, the lawyers and our daughter and SIL. I have tried to instill in the kids early on that they are here to spread the Word of God. That’s it. We can have good times but they can touch others with their knowledge of Him. It has backfired on Grace (She’s the one who really takes it to heart and tries to teach at school!). She has gotten in trouble for discussing it. I tell her it’s okay, but I was sad this past week when I asked her what kind of Valentines would she want to get for her classmates. She said, “nothing about God because they wouldn’t like it.” I should have used that time to talk about Jesus being love and Valentines was all about love, but ALAS! I am too busy to think things through well….UGH! Now I will have that conversation with her! And, by the way, where are all the valentines cards with Jesus on them??? I have never seen them myself….maybe she could make some that we could mass produce and sell??? Also, her birthday is on Valentines Day.
Oh, sweet Grace. And the meaning of her name! That she might have grace for the sin in people’s lives who are hurting her as Christ has for her. Her birthday on Valentine’s Day !! Wow. The Lord can use that. I wish I had seen this earlier in the week. I found a great Valentine printable for my grandkids online. I’ll try to link it for you, Laura. If you search John 3:16 printable valentine, you might find it. It’s adorable and gives a great verse. Praying for you. I love your heart.
Bev, this, too, stood out for me from Paige: I am reminded by Paige’s teaching that everything the Lord involves us in is harder, slower, messier and more problematic than I would ever want it to be. I don’t think you are alone in feeling that way. I understand your thought about just packing and going home. I had a few times when I just wanted to run away to Timbuktu (there will be other people there, too, if there is such a place) and forget about any type of involvement with people. But for God. He who gave us the example of his son, Jesus. We cannot share in His joys if we are not willing to share in His sufferings as well. And we know that the latter is temporary, but the former is eternal. Hang in there, dear friend! He is faithful! Thank you for sharing.
Haha. Timbuktu. We could all have a party there!
Sweet Bev. My heart goes out to you in this trial. We know God has a great plan for you in Texas. We visited San Antonio a few years ago and stayed on the river walk. It was beautiful. Praying God shows you some beauty and that your Light shines so brightly to your family there and they are brought out of their darkness.
Read Mark 14: 12-26
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11)
Jesus brought Mary and Martha’s brother, Lazarus back to life, four days after he died.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why?
Mary poured a vial of very costly perfume over the head of Jesus. Some felt that she had wasted the perfume that could have been sold, and money given to the poor. This is an aromatic oil, also used in preparing a body for burial. I feel that Mary was expressing her love and devotion to Jesus. Jesus tells the naysayers, that we will always have the poor, but they will not always have Him. “She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for the burial. Truly, I say to you, wherever the gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done, will also be spoken of in memory of her.” Jesus told His disciples and all He spoke to, what was going to happen and who He was, but they could not comprehend it.
Mary is giving Jesus the gift of her heart.
I need to be diligent at listening to and really hearing what He is saying to me.
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it?
I have always felt I needed to show my love, in everyday ways….to my husband and children, family, those who are lonely, in need of a friend. When life happens, I need to quickly check my heart and my thoughts.
This verse on my calendar today: “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s Grace in various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man?
Mary did not listens to her critics. She listened to Jesus. She seemed to be so much more perceptive than the disciples and Jesus’ other followers.
E. What was the reaction of the others?
They were scolding her.
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified?
Mark 14:6 ~ “She has done a good deed for me.” Mark 14:7 ~“She has done what she could; she has anointed my body for burial.”
Mark 14:8 “wherever the gospel is preached, in the whole world, what this woman has done will be spoken on memory of her.”
Luke 10:42 ~Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Matthew 26:10 ~ For she has done a good deed for me.”
I don’t know if she realizes that He will be crucified, even though Jesus stated that she had anointed Him for burial.
Monday
First of all, thank you for praying for my sister. Her surgery went smoothly and she has had no pain at all since. She tires quickly as expected but is doing very well. I stayed with her one week until she could safely drive.
2. Read Mark 14:3-10
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11) Mary is very grateful for the resurrection of her brother, Lazurus.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why? It stood out that Mary entered a room full of men to worship Jesus. As Paige said, she ignored the spectators to show her love and gratitude to her audience of One. It’s just beautiful.
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it? I don’t recall ever thinking in those terms of HAVE TO DO SOMETHING. I have felt the urgency to do things in obedience to the leading of the Spirit that resulted in a demonstration of my love. An example would be yesterday when I used sing language to “sing” at church. After finishing the pastor said, “You can see her love for the Lord without her saying a single word.”
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man? She did not announce her plans ahead of time, she did not get an appraisal of the perfume/ointment, she did not acknowlege the other men in any way (look at me, see what I’m doing)
E. What was the reaction of those present? Displeasure, indignation, criticism What a waste… she should have done…
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified?
Leave her alone don’t trouble he she’s doing something good/beautiful she has done what she could (according to her heart,resources,ability she’s anoiMe font Me in advance for my burial Wherever the gospel is preached,her actions will be remembered This will be a memorial to her
I do think Mary knew Jesus would die. I think it was revealed to her by the Spirit, and possibly through Jesus’ own words. She would not be there to anoint Him at His burial, so she was doing it now.
So thankful that your sister is doing well, Cheryl. Thank you for the update.
Cheryl, praise God for the good report on your sister.
First time here.
Welcome, Vicky. I pray you will be blessed by our studies, as we all are.
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11) He brought her brother Lazarus back from the dead.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why? Simon the leper is the host, last week I had been reading the other account of woman anointing His feet and wiping them with her hair. I’m guessing Simon had been healed by Jesus. He hosted the meal to genuinely honor and thank Jesus.
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it? Worship Him on my knees or face to the ground. Only He is worthy.
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man? A woman at that time may have been seen as inferior in status so it was brave to approach Him at someone’s house and break a jar to pour perfume on His head while He was reclining at a table.
E. What was the reaction of those present? Some were indignant at the waste and perfume could have been sold and proceeds given to the poor. Judas left to betray Him.
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified? She had done a beautiful thing. She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body to prepare beforehand for my burial. What she has done will be told in memory of her wherever the Gospel is preached. I don’t know she knew he would be crucified but I think she sensed His end was near.
I agree with you and Cheryl that Mary knew he would die — perhaps not crucified, though He did say he would be!
1. How have you experienced the goodness of the Lord, or the sense of His presence, or unusual circumstances or timing or circumstances that made you suspect He engineered it? I have lost 2 uncles and 2 cousins in the past 2 weeks. Even though there is great sadness in their passing, the love that was shared during the family gatherings that ensued was beautiful and heartwarming. I know that it is because of the Lord that we are able to love one another.
Oh, Dawn, I am so sorry. So much sorrow all at once. I pray the Lord will continue to comfort your family as you spend time together.
Praying for your family Dawn. That is a lot. 😔❤️🙏
May the Lord be with your family and comfort them. That is a lot of loss.
Oh, Dawn! So many losses in such a short amount of time. Thankful you have family to love one another at this time.
Oh, Dawn! That is a lot to go through in a short time. What a sweet blessing that your family had a gathering filled with love for one another.
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11) Because he brought her brother Lazarus back to life.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why? I’ve never quite understood why she wiped his feet with her hair. Why didn’t she use her apron, skirt or sleeves? I’ve never wiped anything with my hair.
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man? Because everything that she did went against their culture.
E. What was the reaction of those present? They were appalled and angered.
Interesting question about the hair rather than a sleeve. I get the sense she was so overwhelmed with emotion. I think she let down her hair which was also a shameful thing for a woman to do in public.
2. Read Mark 14:3-10
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11)
He brought her brother Lazarus back to life.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why?
I think the actual pouring the oil on His head stands out to me. I think it would be so strange to be sitting at a dinner, and have this strange woman walk in, break a jar snd begin to pour it on His head! I would be confused and probably a little uncomfortable to say the least. I’m guessing the others might not have known her.
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it?
I have been a Christian my whole life. I didn’t always know Jesus though. I don’t think I ever had that feeling, sadly. When our son was a teen and we went through so much, I decided I needed to learn more about Him, and actually study the Bible. I think that was my “something to show my love” bit. I have studied and tried to understand ever since those days, about 20 years ago now.
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man?
She did not care what anyone thought about her in that moment.
E. What was the reaction of those present?
My version says they were “indignant,” and they “scolded” her. They said, that perfume was worth a years’ wages and that money could be used to feed the poor.
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified?
– to leave her alone
– she is doing a good thing
– she did what she could
– she anointed Him for burial
– she will be remembered forever around the world for her good deed
It seems like she knew but I can’t imagine she did since she wasn’t privy to His teachings as the disciples were.
We aren’t sure what He taught her when she sat at His feet — or if she ever traveled with Him. But He implies she knew, at least that he was going too die and be buried.
I thought it implied that, and she seemed very intuitive, but I couldn’t find where it said that definitively. I think she might have been the one who was listening closely to what Jesus really said and the others did not seem to comprehend it.
MONDAY: The Anointing at Bethany
2. Read Mark 14:3-10
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11)
—I think the fact that Jesus had raised her brother Lazarus from the dead would have been a major factor. But even before that Mary “got it” about Jesus. She had experienced his unconditional love and had seen his miracles and had heard him teach. To me it is apparent she believed him when he said he was going to die. But unlike even his own disciples she believed he would be resurrected. She had seen it first hand with Lazarus. The depth of this story has many beautiful layers.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why?
—It is incredibly revealing who and what Judas was all about. On one end of the spectrum in Jesus life we have Mary. On the other os Judas who was completely mercenary in his relationship with Jesus. It was all about what was in it for Judas himself. He was looking for position, power and money. It was incredulously wasteful in his eyes what Mary had done with such a valuable possession. In verses 10 & 11 the last verses we read in the passage are incredibly revealing as to the heart of Judas. In his indignant anger he immediately went to the chief priests to betray Jesus for money.
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it?
—I hate to admit it but I really don’t relate to this question at all. I was late in life before I came to a clear understanding of the perfect unconditional love of God. I never imagined myself being able to offer God anything. And sadly it is not my nature to be a doer. I am slow to rush in and“do” things even for people.
Even now pondering this question I wonder at what could or would I do to show Him I love Him. I do tell Him I love Him and I desire his love will show through me to others.
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man?
—Jesus was her complete focus and mot man.
E. What was the reaction of those present?
—They were indignant about her actions and rebuked her for it.
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified?
—He immediately came to her defense and acknowledged she did what she could and that the meaning of it would be her legacy wherever the Gospel was preached throughout the world.
—As I said above yes I think she had listened and believed Him that he was going to die.
I went back and read the above posts after putting mine on the blog and I was blessed by your responses to my first post.
Laura I thought of you and your family struggles and credit you for staying the course with incredibly difficult family relationships.
And Patti you too live with estrangement which would be so hard. I even think of the fact your son (and family?) live down here only a few miles from where we are right now. Can’t help but wonder if we would ever cross paths. Lots and lots of people have moved into the area. I appreciated your answer to question C. You said you tried to “show my love, in everyday ways”. That is so good
Dawn so sorry for all the grief that has entered your family recently. but a blessing your family could come together and share in loving and heartwarming ways.
It has broken my heart. They live near Johnson city. Only God can heal this.
SUNDAY:
1. How have you experienced the goodness of the Lord, or the sense of His presence, or unusual circumstances or timing or circumstances that made you suspect He engineered it?
I am a little bit late coming in here, as I just had my right eye cataract removed yesterday. I had a successful procedure and was cared for by the Lord through the hands of a skilled surgeon and his staff. I have better eyesight now, 1 day post-procedure, and my recovery feels faster than the first one. I want to thank God for better physical eyes. And I pray my spiritual eyes will be better as well.
Perhaps, it is normal to have felt some anxiety during an eye procedure; nevertheless, Scriptures came to mind that gave me peace. I even had time to pray for the people I love, and that included you all-that definitely was His presence.
The RN who took my place as the instructor at my former job joined us for church this past Sunday. All this time, I thought she had been attending a church elsewhere, but she told me that she does not have a home church. I sensed her loneliness, though she has hidden it very well, when in a short conversation a week ago, she told me that many times in group settings she has felt like she does not belong! Another lesson for me is not to take people for granted. Surely, the Lord had both of us in mind when He allowed us to be working together nowadays. Please pray for this friend-I am not sure she is a Christian.
Bing, Good to hear you are on the other side of the cataract surgeries. That is truly a blessing in today’s world to have improved eyesight again.
Interesting to hear about the RN you are associated with coming to your church. I pray she will find the fellowship she needs in her relationship to you and a clear understanding of the gospel by being in church where the Word is being taught. God is always working for good in ways we don’t expect. 😊
Bev, thanks for your encouragement. Some recent experiences have made me insecure about forming new relationships; I’m afraid of being hurt again. But I know fear is not from God. I know He will take care of me, and I just need to trust Him to do His work in and through me.
Oh Bing, I’m so glad the surgery has helped. I don’t think I could ever do it because of the gross factor!
You are so kind to think of us during your procedure. Isn’t that just like you to do? Thank you!!
Oh Bing, I’m so glad the surgery has helped. I don’t think I could ever do it because of the gross factor!
You are so kind to think of us during your procedure. Isn’t that just like you to do? Thank you!!
Sounds like the Lord has. brought another chick under your wing!
Praising God that your eyesight is doing so well after your cataract surgery, Bing. I will pray for your RN friend. What a blessing that she is coming to church. I understand that loneliness, as it is hard to form friendships these days, especially in new places. You will be a blessing in this friend’s life. Praying for you and Richard, as you continue to share your gifts in new ways, seeking God’s will.
Tuesday
3. Read Mark 14:12-26
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why? verse 21 stood out to me as I read this very familiar passage, The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.
Even though Jesus was going to His death as foretold, that did not relieve the betrayer’s respnsibility for his actions. I’m saying this badly, but I hope you get my meaning. Jesus knew He would be betrayed, but that did not mean that Judas did not have a choice in his actions. Those actions had severe consequences.
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how? Yes it does. In both instances Jesus knew exactly what His Father had prepared, the donkey and the upper room. He gave specific instructions that were then followed: Go here, find this, say this, etc.
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think? Jesus told them that one of them would betray Him. Sorrowfully they each ask, “Is it me?”
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts? I can only speculate here, but I think the selfisness of Judas and his unspoken criticism of Jesus led to a very hard heart. A hardened heart is more suseptible to the influence of Satan.
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you? Communion is meant to be a regular PHYSICAL reminder of what Jesus has done for us. Humans are forgetful and need reminders often. Communion is special to me because it’s a time of unity with other believers. It’s a time when we all acknowledge our need for a Savior, the death of that Savior, and the salvation he provided. For me it’s a blend of sorrow and joy.
Communion a blend of sorroww and joy — true!
2. Read Mark 14:3-10
A. In John 11, this woman is clearly identified as Mary of Bethany, rather than the story of the sinful woman who anoints Jesus very early in his ministry at the home of Simon the Pharisee. (Not Simon the Leper) These accounts are often confused. Simon the Leper was probably a man whom Jesus healed and a friend of Jesus. Why might Mary of Bethany have been incredibly grateful to Jesus? (See John 11)
Because Jesus raised her brother, Lazarus, from the dead.
B. Read the whole account. What stands out and why?
Mark 14 tells of Mary breaking an alabaster jar of expensive nard and pouring the perfume on his head, and wiping his feet with her hair.
C. When you were a new Christian or a revived Christian, was there ever time when you thought, I HAVE TO DO SOMETHING TO SHOW MY LOVE! If so, what was it?
I have to “work” to show my love. When I was a new Christian, I thought I should do mission work to show my love for Jesus. And of course, I realized that my work was “empty” since I saw it more like an obligation rather than from the heart of deep gratitude.
D. How do you know that Mary was not driven by a desire for the praise of man?
She knew she would be criticized for wasting such expensive perfume. She did not mind being in front of men or being shamed for it. It showed her love and devotion to Jesus, as that jar could have been her inheritance. It showed her humility as feet washing is only reserved for servants to do.
E. What was the reaction of those present?
Disgust, anger, and angry rebuke.
F. Find everything Jesus says about Mary. Do you think she understood he was going to Jerusalem to be crucified?
Jesus said to leave her alone. What she has done is a beautiful thing. The poor will always be with them, but Jesus will not be with them always. She was preparing his body for his burial. Mary would always be remembered for what she has done for Jesus.
I am not sure Mary knew that Jesus would be crucified. But if she was often at his feet listening to him speak, she may have an idea and may have understood it when Jesus said that she had prepared him for His burial. Her spiritual eyes may have been opened at that time. And though grieving with that thought must have the assurance that she has done what she could to show her deep devotion to Jesus.
Only the very wealthy can afford nard. It is an anointing of Jesus. One website said it would have been about 12-16 ounces of pure nard! I also read that anointing a guest’s head with oil is customary, but not the feet. Mary showed her humility by including Jesus’ feet-she knew there was no price to equal what Jesus had done for her and her family.
What priceless thing do I have that I can offer my Savior and Lord?
This is such a good point, Bing!
Mary showed her humility by including Jesus’ feet-she knew there was no price to equal what Jesus had done for her and her family.
3. Read Mark 14:12-26
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why?
Jesus gave the two disciples very specific instructions about the man carrying the pitcher of water.
He also mentions that one of them will betray Him.
At the Passover meal, He breaks the bread and tells them this is His body; He calls the wine, His blood, which is poured out for the covenant for the many.
He says that He will not drink this again, until He drinks it new in the Kingdom of God.
He tells them they will all fall away; “I will strike down the Shepherd and the sheep shall be scattered. But after He is raised, He will go to Gallil
Jesus also tells Peter that he will deny Jesus, three times, before the rooster crows twice.
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how?
The instructions are very specific.
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think?
Jesus tells them that one of them will betray Him. They each respond “Surely not I?” They feel they would not do such a thing, but we are all vulnerable and very human.
Tuesday: The Last Supper
We know they reclined at the table, so Tissot is probably closer than the famous painting by Leonardo Da Vinci.
3. Read Mark 14:12-26
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why?
v. 12 …when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover Lamb… He knew it was to be his last supper with the disciples. He was setting up a time to say goodbye to his disciples and to encourage them for what was to come.
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how?
Yes. V. 16 said, “…found things just as Jesus had told them.” His instructions here were the same as where to find the donkey, just as he told the disciples.
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think?
One of them will betray Him. Each one thought the same-is it me-that is preposterous! After what Jesus has done? Oh, how often I have failed Jesus when I said I wouldn’t.
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts?
Could there have been an internal struggle for Judas during that period? Was that a period of warning, and Judas decided to betray Jesus?
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you?
So, we will remember what He has done for us. I think we can easily forget the grace and mercy extended to us, so we need to be reminded. Communion reminds me of how great a sinner I am and how great a Savior I have.
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why? Jesus took the bread, gave thanks and broke it… knowing all that was to come Jesus gave thanks.
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how? With the donkey he told them they would find the donkey and colt and tell owner Jesus needed them. Here He tells them about the man carrying a jar of water will meet them.
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think? Follow the man with jar of water and say to owner of home he enters the Teacher where is my guest room where I may eat Passover with my disciples? He will show you an upper room, furnished and ready. It happened as Jesus said and they prepared the Passover.
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts?
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you? So it would be part of a regular practice to remember what Jesus did for us where we partake of the same bread and juice/wine as they did with him. It would not be just words on a page but something to enter into with Him. It’s very humbling as long as I pause and remember the cost of my sin laid upon His body.
“…something to enter into with Him,” Judy I have never thought about this before, such a personal application. So good.
Amen to Cheryl, Judy! So good!
Tuesday: The Last Supper
3. Read Mark 14:12-26
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why?
—It is fascinating that all the arrangements had been made in Jerusalem for large guest room where the two disciples Jesus sent ahead of time could begin the preparations for the Passover meal. This is pure speculation but I actually wonder if perhaps angels had been sent to arrange for the room and even who the man carrying a pitcher of water might have been. Nothing is just happenstance with the Lord.
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how?
—It does in that he gave specific instructions as to what they would find and what to say.
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think?
—Jesus informed the group that one of them eating with him would betray him. They were deeply troubled by that revelation and each questioned who it might be even themselves. They knew Jesus was aware of the thoughts and intentions of people as he had demonstrated in their presence before and it made them vulnerable. They had to be struggling in their own hearts with the news he was going to die and afraid as to how they might act in the face of that reality. They loved Him and knew he loved them so it had to be a confusing time.
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts?
—It would seem Satan was close at hand with Judas as his tool. He is not omnipotent or omnipresent like God so I think as it was convenient be took control of Judas to accomplish his goal of killing Jesus. As needed he was entering into and motivating Judas.
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you?
—This makes me think of Keller’s comment that we need to preach the Gospel to ourselves everyday. One of our pastors when he led us in communion said that every time we had a communion service it was a form of preaching the sermon of Christ death on the Cross for our sin until He comes again. In other words by our actions of taking the elements of Communion we were preaching the Gospel. Jesus knew it would be needful and good for us to remind ourselves of this crucial truth that is integral to our faith in Him and his finished work on the Cross. His body was broken like bread and his blood was shed in the ultimate sacrifice to pay for our sin. We dare never forget it. To me it is a holy celebration of what Jesus did. A time to remember. I think there is a danger of becoming too introspective during a communion service. At least that is what I have often experienced in the call to examine ourselves. I think we might do better to regularly examine what Jesus did and let it fill our hearts and minds with gratitude because it is a given that I am in no way worthy of this great salvation that is mine. He alone is worthy to receive all honor and glory. It is also a time to remember that He is coming again. What wonderful hope we have.
I love your points on communion, Bev, especially this:
what Jesus did and let it fill our hearts and minds with gratitude because it is a given that I am in no way worthy of this great salvation that is mine. He alone is worthy to receive all honor and glory. It is also a time to remember that He is coming again. What wonderful hope we have.
Great point about Satan entering in….
An angel! Yes!
3. Read Mark 14:12-26
A. What stands out upon your first reading and why?
I guess what stands out is this “man” who the disciples were supposed to find that had the room where they could meet. It reminds me of when they were sent to find the donkey and the colt. Jesus didn’t explain who the owner was there either. It seems random, but I guess He made arrangements earlier with these guys?
B. Does the beginning remind you of Jesus’ instruction to the disciples to get a donkey? If so, how?
Hahaha! I didn’t read this before I answered above! Yes! See above 👆.
C. What does He tell them, and how do they each respond? (Verses 17-21) Why, do you think?
He says one of them will betray Him. They are “greatly distressed” and wondered if it would be themselves. They couldn’t imagine how it would “play” out.
Jesus is not very helpful with the knowledge of who it will be that betrays Him. So, I guess I would think, obviously He knows who it is, but we do not. I wonder if it is me?
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts?
In the case of the dipping, he is acting like he isn’t doing anything wrong. He’s being a hypocrite. He knows he is about to betray Jesus and he still acts like he is one of them. He faces the man he is about to help kill! To me this is worse than actually going and telling the chief priests his intention.
When he went to the chief priests he is selling his information for money. He has put himself above Jesus’ life. He is being selfish.
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you?
He wanted them to always remember Him and what He taught them. For me it is a reminder of His sacrifice for me. Thank You Lord.
D. John says that when Judas dipped his bread in, Satan entered Judas. Luke says Satan entered Judas when he went to the chief priests. Thoughts?
I think Satan entered Judas both times. Judas went to the chief priests before the meal together, so it sounds as though Satan was prompting him and he acted upon that. At the meal, it was evident that Jesus knew that Judas was betraying Him. Jesus refers to the scripture, “as it is written” in verse 21. Then, he adds “but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed!” When the chief priests offered Judas money, it seems to have sealed the deal between Satan and Judas.
E. Why did Jesus institute communion to be a regular practice? What does it mean to you?
Jesus wanted His followers to remember that the bread represents His body, which was given to be crucified for the sins of all who believe in Him. The wine represents His blood poured out in death for our sins, and the bond of the covenant. This is God’s commitment to His people that His Son paid the sacrifice and this is the new covenant with God and His people. It is no light matter. It means a recommitment to Him from me. It is a very solemn and serious practice that I do not take lightly. It reminds me of how frail my commitment can be if I am not communicating with Him consistently. Praising Him, Praying to Him and listening to Him.
Patti and all –what do you think about Jesus’ words to His Father in John 17:12
None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction soo that Scripture would be fulfilled.
I asked you all to pray for my retreat travels and we decided to do it by zoom — greatly relieved!
That is a great answer to prayer, Dee! Zoom instead of you traveling. I will pray that all can get their technology to work properly. Thank God for Zoom!
At times, I have felt ambivalent about Judas, especially in light of John 17:12. The fulfillment of Scripture is beyond my mental faculties when it seems to contradict God’s love and mercy. And yet, I also know He is holy; He will not tolerate sin; slow to anger; full of compassion, but man still has a choice. Is Judas’ story one of those whose understanding needed to be left in God’s sovereignty? His ways are higher than mine, his understanding, no one can fathom. Just as the Devil chose to usurp God’s authority, Judas chose to betray the Lord. It was a choice.
Joshua offered this to the Israelites, and to us:
“And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
I be;leve in the total sovereignity of God. Judas was chosen to be one of the twelve, but not elected to eternal salvation. It is beyond finite comprehension, and yet we see other examples where God chose people for other purposes than redemption and salvation. Romans 9:18-21 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth.
19Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?
20Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?
21Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?
You’ll see Paige is not ambivilant — so I’ll be interested in your reaction!
Praise God for answered prayer for you retreat, Dee. God is so good!
It sounds like Jesus is speaking of the disciples, as He kept them safe and in His care, while they were with Him. Judas was never a genuine believer, or one of the true sheep. Judas was destined for destruction, so that the scripture would be fulfilled. Zechariah 11:4-17 talks of the rejection of the Shepherd and the price of 31 shekels. Psalm 41:9 Judas was never a genuine disciple and his betrayal and scenes from the last supper are spoken of in this Psalm. Jesus knew all of this and all that was to take place because He is part of the Trinity. God is Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
He is speaking about the disciples and His followers. The “one” is Judas.
After looking over my notes and re-listening and reading the comments here, I have come to think that Judas was another “angel of light”. The serpent himself was one of the angels and was in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve. He participated in the Edenic (a word?) pleasure of God’s creation, yet chose to mar it with sin, creating the big chasm between man and God. But God foreknew and had a plan. And no one can thwart God’s plans and purposes. So until Jesus comes again, we will always have the serpent’s presence at times disguised as an angel of light. ” For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, (a Judas) but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 15:57
And what a comfort this is: “I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.’” – Isaiah 46:10
Bing, this is interesting. Judas, an angel of light? That seems weird to me. Wouldn’t he be an angel of darkness?
Laura, thanks for noting that-what I meant and missed saying is he disguises himself as an angel of light. Being with Jesus, acting like he is a disciple but his true colors showed up just as the serpent masqueraded as an angel of light until he was exposed for who he really was of the darkness (using your word) rather than of the light.
I hope this is clearer.
2 Corinthians 11:14-15
And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light”.
SUNDAY:
1. How have you experienced the goodness of the Lord, or the sense of His presence, or unusual circumstances or timing or circumstances that made you suspect He engineered it? Oh. Well, I have had a week where the Lord showed me my sin in another study I’m doing. Gotta love when we are learning a study that we lead and the Lord gives you an example of your own sin that needs correcting! I have almost come to expect it and because I want to grow in my faith, I don’t mind the sin being exposed. We are studying James and the lesson is about how our faith is not genuine unless we are living it out. My sin was in criticizing my husband because I was feeling rejected. Rather than looking at the root cause of my feelings, I looked to blame him by his actions for my feelings. In reality, he is not to blame for my feelings. Once I realized what I had done, I was able to go to him and apologize and repair our relationship. Staying in the Word really is vital to walking in faith-I’m not sure I would have seen this so quickly without the study we are doing this week. I am listening to Paige and will catch up here soon. I left comments on Bev’s first post, but that is all I have time for today. Almost through Paige’s teaching and many things she brings out that I have not noticed before! I get the men not liking Paige, Dee. My husband can’t listen to her either. Not sure if its her manner of speaking and a woman’s perspective? I suspect this because he sends me some things to listen to that I struggle to get through as well, for those reasons.
This touched my heart, Chris. I find new sins revealed in every study. It is so important to stay in the Word. What a blessing to be in this study. I am being pruned, in a good way.
Chris — I so appreciate you sharing your story of repentance. We all need to hear that.
Yes, Chris. As someone has said here before, we all need to be daily repenters. Not a day goes by lately that I have not been confronted with sin in my life. But not a day goes by that God does not show His never-ending love through forgiveness, either. Very, very grateful. Ugh! I am not sure if my last two sentences are grammatically correct.
I too have struggled this week Chris! I am traveling to surprise my sister for her 70th birthday! She has NO idea. I am so excited! I have listened to about 25 min of Paige and will finish tomorrow. I’m so sorry I haven’t been here too much this week. I love you all ❤️.
Safe travels and have a wonderful celebration with your sister, Laura.
Have fun, Laura! And safe travels! That would be a wonderful surprise for your sister!
Safe travels, Laura, I’m certain your sister will be thrilled, what a wonderful surprise.
Wednesday
The part where Paige said that Judas was motivated by Jesus when He revealed His knowledge of the betrayal really stood out to me. I had always wondered how Judas could execute his plan in the face of the words of Jesus. Then when Paige read that about the snake winding it’s way up to Gethsemane, and Jusdas being the head of the snake and the seed of the snake in Eden, it made the whole scenario so sinister.
4. Watch for about 23 minutes and share your favorite parts and explain why. Or, watch it all and then review the rest of the week. What stood out to me is the description of Judas that he had full blown hatred for Jesus. His movements were calculated and determined. Judas opened the door to satan through seed of bitterness that grew. He went to them and agreed to sell Jesus for less than half the value of the perfume anointing Jesus earlier. Jesus looks at Judas and says he knows he will betray Him and it only motivated Judas not stopped him. Whew. I had not heard such a strong description of who Judas was. It’s scary that you can be with Jesus divine and perfect and betray Him.
Watch for about 23 minutes , or however you like, and share your favorite parts and explain why. After her description of Judas she said the rest not so different and neither are we. Who we think we are is not who we turn out to be. The words at Passover the disciples hardly notice. The strength of Peter’s love for Jesus so dazzled him that Peter trusts in that love instead of Jesus. Everything has been enabled by Jesus.
James, John and Peter pulled aside to pray but they didn’t care enough to stay awake. I can love Jesus when it is beneficial to me but not when costly to me. Peter denies and disowns Jesus. While Peter is denying Jesus in the courtyard inside Jesus is denying nothing, Jesus didn’t die for the bad guys He died for the good guys like Peter. I also wrote Jesus didn’t die for the good guys or bad guys but for those who need Him. Jesus was alone before they ever left Him and He is fully aware they will and HE FULLY LOVES THEM. If there is hope for Peter there is hope for all of us. So much packed into this. I think I want to be aware of times to care enough to stay awake for what He would like me to do.
Wednesday:
4. Watch for about 23 minutes and share your favorite parts and explain why. Or, watch it all and then review the rest of the week.
I watched the whole thing earlier tonight and again was so blessed and comforted by the love of our Triune God for his wayward people like me. I relate so much to Peter and the disciples. Many times, I think too highly of myself and my faith. “No way! I will not do that!” I have also been apathetic and have taken Jesus for granted. I have abandoned him before, afraid of men and seeking man’s approval.
“How deep the Father’s love for us, How vast beyond all measure,That He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure.How great the pain of searing loss –The Father turns His face away,As wounds which mar the Chosen One bring many sons to glory.” Stuart Townend
Wednesday – I am taken by Paige’s idea that we show one side of ourselves around people and may be a different person when we aren’t around others. She was speaking about Judas; how he was one way with the disciples but another away from them. I wonder how much I am like that? When does my “true” self come out? Hmmmm…..
All such good observations about Judas. Very convicting!
The tech didn’t work so I made it here in person. Roads were pretty good. Please pray for my trip home Saturday as I’ll be tired and weather looks iffy.
So glad you arrived safely, Dee. You are so brave to still be doing this kind of traveling, faithful to the Lord. Praying for your return trip tomorrow, safety and alertness.
Praying for your trip home tomorrow, Dee. Praying for good weather and clear roads. May God do the driving with you, place an hedge of protection around you, and keep you in His care.
Praying for you, Dee, as you speak today and for a safe trip back home tomorrow.
Praying for your safety. Please pray for our family also traveling very early Saturday morning to visit my sister in Tx.
Thank you, all! And Lord, be with Laura’s family on that long drive!
Laura, you must be on your way now to TX. May the Lord watch over you and make this trip a very memorable time with your sister.
Praying for you and your family, as you travel to Texas today, Laura. Praying for safe travels and good travel weather. May your time with family be a wonderful blessing.
6. Watch to the end, or however you are doing it, and share your favorite parts and why.
I have listened to all of this and re-listening. There is so much that is so good. I love that she recaps all that we have belongs to God, He has allowed us to us it for His glory. I need to think of this daily. Am I using my resources and gifts for Him in the best way. And how like the disciples I am. How often do I fall away. Do I keep the door tightly closed against the evil one? I am vulnerable and the enemy is clever. I need to be on God’s Word and in prayer a lot!
The descriptions of Judas and how he truly hated Jesus and sought out ways to destroy Him, sickened me to my soul. He sold out his soul for 30 shekels and for his jealousy and vindictive heart. When did Satan first enter Judas…it seems like hi was there a long time.
Jesus knew everything! Jesus wept. He knew where He was going and He knew that His beloved disciples would turn against Him and scattered. He is not an “add on”. He is GOD, come to earth. What a powerful lesson. He did not quit. He went to the cross and suffered for each of us, for me. Oh, how grateful I am that He saved my soul. Lord, help me to have a clean heart, a broken and contrite heart and to know that all I offer you is rags..
How I thank you for what you have done for me, dear Jesus? Please take my heart and soul and help me to know Your will for the rest of my life. Help me to keep my eyes on You, Lord. In the Name of Jesus, I pray.
Even after all this, Jesus loved his disciples and died on the cross, a horrible death for all of them, who abandoned Him then, and for all of us, all of me, who still are sinners. Lord forgive me.
I love this post Patti! “He is not an add on!” Correct!
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday:
5. 6. Watch and share your favorite parts and explain why. Or, watch it all and then review the rest of the week.
—As I have entered into Lent this year I am finding meaning like I have not seen in my past years. Paige started this particular lesson with a some interesting comments about Lent.
“Lent needs to be a time of activity. Lent needs to be a time of adding things and not taking away or denying things.” That was definite food for thought.
Then before she prayed to start the lesson she said I don’t have words for this teaching and said I need help and she felt overwhelmed. I see why now that I have just finished listening to it and frankly I have no words add to hers. I took notes almost to the end but had to just stop and listen. When Paige Brown who is obviously not a touchy feely person cries I cry. But she cares and that comes through. The depth of the truths she is teaching is gripping. And her personal application powerfully applied. I don’t want to muddy the waters with my words. I hope everyone has time to at least just listen to this teaching. I am interested in others comments though because I do learn from all of you as I read your thoughts. And you may provoke some thoughts of my own.
I totally agree with your entire post, Bev. It was powerful.
Bev, I agree with Patti. This lesson was powerful.
Amen!
Thursday, Friday, Saturday:
7. What’s your take-a-way and why?
Paige’s outline struck me:
1. The ones who fell away through animosity, arrogance, apathy, and abandonment
My lesson: I have been there at one time or another in my life. Paige said, ” We need to see ourselves according to the truth.” It is easier to talk about how these things apply to ‘them’ instead of seeing where I am in these and to repent and be reconciled to Jesus like the disciples, except Judas.
2. The One who fell on His face
My lesson: Only Jesus had the Gethsemane experience. Only He had died on the cross the way He did. Only He had the agony of being abandoned by the Father because He bore my/our sins. “He did not go there before me; He went there instead of me.” Willingly. So, I may never have to have Gethsemane. So I will never be abandoned by God. So, I will never be alone.
The one who falls at His feet
My lesson: Worship should be my response, like Mary of Bethany. Gratitude should be a daily song. And service should flow from both. All that I am and ever hope to be, I give them all to thee. To God be the glory!
And I love her closing prayer from Jude 24:
“Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”
Amen to all you wrote, Bing!
Some others highlights that stood out to me:
Love the sweet story of Paige’s father. He understood her pain in losing him.
* There is a distance between who we think we are and who we really are.
Jesus changes the words of the Passover . It is no longer on memory of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and Moses bringing God’s people though the sea.
The Great Agony for Jesus and the two elements of His prayer.
1. The Reality of the cup. Jesus death is so different than anyone else’s death ever. The physicality of the death is not mentioned.
Jeremiah 25: 15 ; Isaiah 51:17 ; Ezekiel 23:33 The cup is called:the cup of wrath. Cup of horror and desolation.Metaphor for God’s fierce judgment and punishment against sin. Full measure of Divine judgment.
God’s infinitely Holy, perfect will in opposition to sin. (quote ) It will to treat sin as it deserves. God will treat atrocities as He promised.
2.The wrath is about the relationship of Jesus and the Father.
God’s wrath is real. Jesus prayed alone to the ABBA Father. There are no spectators. In Jesus’ humanity, He says “not My will but Thy will be done. The Father strengthens Jesus to accept the cup. Jesus willingly accepts it. Jesus is submissive to the will of the Father. Jesus has submissive love for His Father.
Jesus accepts the cup, the wrath~ which is why He is separated from the Father on the cross.
This is such an emotional lesson.
Patti, I agree with everything you shared and that this was truly an emotional lesson. I cried buckets listening to this. Oh how great the Father’s and the Son’s love for us!
There are so many things that stood out to me in this lesson.
1. Animosity:
Judas hates Jesus, he left a seed of bitterness or resentment unchecked and it grew into hatred which led to his betrayal.
I’ve been reading this week about spiritual warfare and how we leave doors open to the enemy. With most Americans it is said that bitterness is the most common door left open. I have definitely been guilty of this and am trying to be more aware of when I need to forgive and not let those seeds of bitterness grow, but dispel them right away.
Amen, Chris. I need to work on this too.🙏
This is interesting for sure. I would probably agree although I haven’t thought much about it.
2. Arrogance
Don’t argue with Jesus about yourself-he is always right.
Interesting how the Lord Jesus spelled out the disciples part in fulfilling prophecy and they didn’t want to hear it. I wonder how often he has shown me what was coming and I didn’t want to hear it. Sometimes, like recently, I have feared something coming and comforted myself with this just being a fear and maybe it is…interesting though how my worst fears have been the very things the Lord has given me to try my faith. Were the disciples worst fear abandoning Jesus? Did they have such arrogance because of their trust in their love for him or was it because they couldn’t face their greatest fear?
Apathy:
in the garden. Jesus did not need his friends, but he asked them to pray for their own needs-He just finished telling them that they would all leave him.
This is one thing that I had always struggled to understand. Why did they fall asleep? It makes so much sense that he wanted them to pray for themselves and I never saw this. I guess they didn’t either if what she is saying is true, that they trusted in their love for him to keep them from falling away.
The biggest thing about this to me is that Jesus was praying against prophecy-against taking the cup and the disciples falling away. He wanted another way in his humanity. Isn’t this what ALL of prayer is about? Accepting the Father’s will and seeking another way at first? Hmm. Submitting our own will to the Father’s is our greatest need and is what Jesus struggled with as well.
Abandonment:
While Jesus is inside denying nothing to Pilate, Peter is outside denying everything at the same time.
Isn’t this always as it is for us? We are always at odds with our faith. We are wanting reconciliation, but fighting with one another. We want forgiveness, but battle bitterness. We want to be holy and obey, but battle sin daily. Peter wanted to be obedient and faithful to his Lord, but found himself afraid and hiding from him, just as Adam and Eve did in the garden. Our sin is bigger than us and we can never win that battle without him. We must stay close and in the Word until we are brought back to paradise and the battle is won for good.
Chris, All of your insights on these sections are so good and spot on! Thank you!
Yea, thank you Chris!
Awareness:
He was alone before they ever left him, but he loves them still.
He loves us in spite of our desertion. His love is so tender and sacrificial. I suppose my love for my children can be this way, but I know that his sacrifice is so much more than I could ever understand. Understanding his love and sacrifice in this way lends so much more to my appreciation for it. I have said before that if we ever truly understood the sacrifice we must make for our children, we would probably never have any. It’s HARD.
Chris, I so appreciate how you broke down Paige’s lesson. It was so rich and powerful. I have felt a deeper devotion and gratitude to our Savior through her teachings on the final week of Jesus. She has brought life to the seemingly little parts of that week. Thanks for sharing!
Chris, Amen to Bing! Thank you for these wonderful summaries! Yes, I agree! We don’t know what we will be called to do when we have children.
So thankful for God’s help every day!
Thank you Chris! I haven’t had much time of my own this week and truly appreciate your summary. I did listen to most of the sermon but haven’t had time to post 😔.
Agony:
A sorrow so deep it kills, rather than a sorrow so deep, you wish you would die. Depth of sorrow so great, it is incomparable. Why is his death so different than the martyrs more glorious deaths?
This one, I feel like I have felt the sting of—sorrow so deep it kills. The death of children and even the death of my parents’ marriage, and now the death of our son’s marriage-it feels like part of me IS dying. The pain is so great at times, so raw. We see our children suffering and we wish we could take it away. We feel the loss that is unimaginable and there is no description for that pain. It’s numbing. It brings deep, deep sorrow and it’s only the fact that there is still work to be done here that you get up again and continue living. When the great martyrs die there is 1. A cause to die for and 2. The joy of giving the Lord glory by standing strong in your faith. When Jesus died, he was losing a relationship that made up his being. Literally, a part of him was dying.
I realize I didn’t word this well because He did die-not just a part of him. I guess I meant to say losing the relationship with the Father was a piece of him dying that he didn’t want to give up. Is it fair to say that relationships are what we live for? How often have we heard of a loved one suffering so from the death of a spouse that they lose the will to live? This is what I am speaking of-that losing relationship with the Father was the hardest part, but He did it for us-to save those who do not deserve it. It is hard to wrap our minds around.
Yes, I think the relationship is the key here. I can feel sad that my friend’s husband died, for her, but when my child “dies” (our daughter for example, has not died, but our relationship is gone/killed) that is different. I’m not sure that is a good example of this though….idk if I understand well.
Laura, I think to me, our families are so closely knit to our hearts that it is similar to the Trinity in terms of the closeness and pain when that is broken. Maybe I am stretching the analogy too far, but certainly when we have pain of a close broken relationship, we feel that far more than other losses.
Dee, I would love to hear your perspective on this. We are made for relationship and it makes sense to me that as we are made in God’s image, our relationships here are a picture of the Trinity and this is why there is such deep pain when those are broken. Maybe I’m a little off base?
Relationship
He has to be alone with his father. The Father is the very thing that is going to be taken from him. The Father is listening to him and strengthening him.
I also said goodbye to my dad in a nursing home when he was losing it from dementia. This part brought tears. I wish I had had such a conversation with my dad. I often went alone and sang hymns with him. He couldn’t respond with words, but he would sometimes have a tear in his eye.
The being alone with the Father, I get that. I sometimes in grief have needed this so badly. He does strengthen-I always come away strengthened. We don’t always recognize our need and should be doing this daily.
Acceptance
This is the moment of decision-he says, not my will but yours be done. The Father strengthened him for this decision.
Not to trivialize this very special prayer of Jesus to the Father, but isn’t this the essence of all of our prayers? We are struggling or watching others struggle and we want something better for us or for them. In the end, we pray not my will but Yours. The essence of prayer is relationship. We worship, we confess, we seek answers to our needs, we thank God for all he does for us. This prayer of Jesus is interesting because although he knew the plan, he wanted a different plan. Something that would fit with his humanity? Something that would not cost SO much? I don’t know, but for the creator of the universe to look for another answer to the problem of sin, knowing the only answer: the grief and cost is unimaginable.
The one who falls at his feet.
Mary of Bethany. She gave everything she had to show her devotion. I remember when I first became a Christian and knew so little about faith and the Bible. I had a friend who was Catholic and had heard stories of nuns. It seemed like a beautiful thing at the time, to assign myself to the Lord’s work for life. Not marrying and having the freedom to serve the Lord had an idyllic beautiful picture in my mind. Of course, marrying and raising my children for the Lord has had its own beautiful moments, but I know now that no matter the path, serving the Lord is anything but easy. Giving everything we have to him—this is something we need to do over and over as long as we live in this world.
This lesson was so rich and really got at my heart. Maybe it is partly the season I am in with loss and of course the Lord working in my trials. Thank you Dee for always following the nudges of the Spirit for our lessons. I’m praying you had safe travels today and are home safe again.
Thank you for these meaningful posts, Chris. It is early Sunday morning and I am loving and learning from each post.
Me too!
Take a way
So much teaching this week, so good, but the teaching on Gethsemane resonates within me. Jesus did not go to prayer ahead of me (an example); He went there instead of me (a substitute). He was facing separation from the Father, agonizing over it then accepting it. That is something I will NEVER have to face, for NOTHING can separate me from the Lord. God loves me because….He loves me. Something I read this morning underscored that: The law said Love the Lord, but now over and over we read about His love for us, His love not mine. Overwhelming, eternal, unconditional love….for me. I’m reminded again of Keller’s message, how God made room for me in the perfect and complete relationship that already existed between Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. That perfect relationship was broken on the cross to make a space for me, for me.
Yes, Cheryl, this really gets at the relationship part. Thank you for wording it so well.