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Mark 4 Reading & Reflections This post accompanies my reading of Mark 4 on the Circular Grace YouTube channel. The Parable of the Sower Let's jump into the Gospel According to Mark, Chapter 4! Wow, this Gospel moves at some pace and here Jesus delivers His now well known Parable of the Sower. As an experienced gardener, I really appreciate this parable because I understand how seeds respond to different environments. I enjoy growing chilli peppers from seed and often manipulate the soil to achieve certain growing goals. For example, I have a short growing season, owing to my northern location. I want my chilli plants to bolt towards the light and develop fruit earlier. To achieve this I give them tiny pots with a minimum of soil. Basically, planting them in stony soil. I end up with a miniature plant and left like that it wouldn't produce fruit and would wither and die. To keep it alive, I give it liquid feed and it then produces fruit. In this parable however, the plant that grows from the seed sown in stony ground doesn't receive the nutrients it needs for growth. Genuine faith is a seed sown in fertile soil. It grows because it receives constant blessings of spiritual nourishment. In the video, I shared my personal testimony of how God blesses me through the trials that I face. There's more to take away from this Chapter and I'm going to walk you through some of my favourite respected commentaries to get a better understanding of what Jesus is teaching us. Enduring Word Commentary This commentary gives a nice description of a parable. I liked the way they explain that a parable takes a familiar circumstance and uses that to explain a spiritual reality. b. Then He taught them many things by parables: The word parable comes from the idea of “to set along side.” As Jesus used parables, the idea was to set a spiritual truth along side a daily truth of living. You'll find a very useful walkthrough of the Parable of the Sower in this commentary but I thought, particularly useful was their explanation of the 'mystery of the Kingdom'. The word, 'mystery' may often be taken for granted by those who know the Gospel story but it's worth stopping and considering how we know, what we know and because of who. ii. In the Bible, a mystery isn’t something you can’t figure out. It is something that you would not know unless God revealed it to you. In the Biblical sense of the idea, you may know exactly what a mystery is, yet it is still a mystery because you would not have known unless God revealed it. I found this next point very useful because I have scratched my head over what Jesus was trying to teach about those who don't hear the parable. This helped me to understand that some people would not be curious at all. Some would simply let the words go in one ear and put of the other, without a second thought. i. A parable isn’t exactly an illustration. A good teacher can illustrate by stating a truth and then illustrating the truth through a story or an analogy. But when Jesus used parables, He didn’t start by stating a truth. Instead, the parable was like a doorway. Jesus’ listeners stood at the doorway and heard Him. If they were not interested, they stayed on the outside. But if they were interested, they could walk through the doorway and think about the truth behind the parable and what it meant to their lives. I recommend a good read of the full commentary. There's a nice section on Jesus as the light in the context of the light hidden under a bush. Here's the link: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-4/ Blue Letter Commentary Another very useful commentary that will provide a good overview of the parables. The first thing that jumped out for me here was the context around how Jesus gave only parables to the multitude whilst giving those He had chosen as disciples, one to one tuition. The disciples are incredibly blessed to receive special treatment and as we understand, this is so they can go on to explain the meaning of the parables to those who are curious enough to find out. They are being trained to serve as Jesus' spokespeople. II. The way of expounding that he used with his disciples; When he was alone by himself, not only the twelve, but others that were about him with the twelve, took the opportunity to ask him the meaning of the parables, v. 10. They found it good to be about Christ; the nearer him the better; good to be with the twelve, to be conversant with those that are intimate with him. And he told them what a distinguishing favour it was to them, that they were made acquainted with the mystery of the kingdom of God, v. 11. The secret of the Lord was with them. Profoundly, when we walk through the doorway of Jesus' parables, we too become His disciples. As born again believers, we are each connected to Jesus through the Holy Spirit. We are indwelled with the Spirit of God. This relationship means that when we seek in faith, we will find in faith. Remember that this chapter is telling a pre-pentecost story. Jesus' disciples are face to face, one to one with Jesus in the flesh. After Pentecost, believers are one to one, face to face with Jesus through the Holy Spirit. There's a lot to take away from this very in-depth commentary. To read it in full, follow the link: https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_004.cfm Bible Hub Commentary Another full and useful commentary that provides a great deal of clarity on the meanings of the verses. I particularly like the way these commentaries discuss the language used in relation to translation from the original Greek and Hebrew. I've picked out a snippet relating to the seeds sown on thorny ground. It's far better than my attempt to illuminate this but hopefully helps to put my shared thoughts into perspective. Verse 19. - The cares of the world (τοῦ αἰῶνος); literally, of the age ; that is, temporal and secular cares, incident to the age in which our lot is cast, and which are common to all. These, like thorns, distress and trouble, and often wound the soul; while, on the other hand, the care of the soul and the thought of heavenly things compose and establish the mind. If you'd like to read the full commentary, please follow the link: https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/mark/4.htm I do hope you've found my comment on Commentary useful. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Post a comment below and let's share the Word of God with each other!

Mark 5: Reading & Reflections This post accompanies my video reading of Mark 5 on the Circular Grace YouTube channel. Jesus casts out demons! I loved the richness of detail Mark reveals in this chapter when recounting Jesus' miracles. I have to confess that in reading so far, I've yearned back to my readings of Matthew's Gospel. I found his narrative so beautifully stated. It rolls off the tongue with a rhythm that feels like poetry. In contrast, I've been finding Mark a little clinical to read in comparison, until now! All of a sudden, for me this Gospel has sprung to life with an intimacy that is bringing the characters into sharp focus. In my minds eye, I can see the setting and characters so clearly. Let's jump into the commentaries to see what more can be revealed to us. Enduring Word Commentary This commentary starts with the vividly detailed description of a demon processing a human. Personally, I found it bone chilling when I consider that I wasn't reading a fictional horror thriller. This is a real life, truthful account of the actions of a multitude of demons taking a human being hostage. What a terrifying revelation! Here's what they say: i. Demonic possession is when a demonic spirit resides in a human body, and at times the demon will show its own personality through the personality of the host body. ii. Demonic possession is a reality today, though we must guard against either ignoring demonic activity or over-emphasizing supposed demonic activity. In my post reading reflection on YouTube, I excitedly point towards just how many demons make up a legion. This commentary is a little tap on the head and reminds me that although there are approximately 6,000 soldiers in a legion, that's not necessarily a literal number. Often in scripture a figurative description is given to represent an idea of numbers, in this instance to mean a great many demons. I was intrigued to hear them say that the demons may have been attempting to intimidate Jesus. Fascinating because although they know who He is they are still rebellious. It seems they respond to any direct command He gives but if there is an opportunity left available to them, they delight in that opportunity to do evil. For a fuller explanation and further contextual explanation about this exciting chapter, follow the link: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-5/ Blue Letter Bible Commentary Another very full commentary that's worth reading for a verse by verse understanding of this chapter. I particularly liked the way they clarified the source of death and disease in the world. I liked the reminder that when God created the earth it was perfect. God created man in His own perfect image. God created Adam and Eve to live eternally by His side. God had a perfect plan but man had opportunity to obey or disobey. Death was the consequence of Adams choice to disobey God's command. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. As we can clearly see in Genesis 2:17 (KJV), God's command included an explicit warning about death. Personally, I consider that we inherited from Adam a body that is dying. We call it aging but really isn't the body merely decaying slowly. Death as concept seems to inevitably create the reality of illness and disease. I'm simply musing over personal thoughts here rather than offering theology, here's what the commentary has to say: Diseases and deaths came into the world by the sin and disobedience of the first Adam; but by the grace of the second Adam both are conquered. Christ, having healed an incurable disease, here goes on to triumph over death, as in the beginning of the chapter he had triumphed over an outrageous devil. I believe this very notion of the nature of death is a fundamental truth that's important to grasp for a full understanding of the Gospel message. We need to understand the connection between Jesus conquering death and our personal story of salvation and subsequently our eternal life with God. I'm often a little sad that some faithful believers don't grasp the significance of current and future. It seems to me that as a consequence, many often miss out on the blessed assurance given to us. Failing to understand, isn't a question of the status of our salvation. Thank the Lord we do not have to sit a theology exam, prior to being saved! I wonder about a question of the confidence a person may lack if they don't understand their salvation. Whilst some may in the end be surprised to find they didn't know Jesus after all. Faithful believers shouldn't live a life of worrying unnecessarily when assurance has been given in scripture. For that reason I found this commentary very useful because it pulls the strands together. This commentary series is a wonderful resource for a better understanding of the Gospel message, generally. Follow the link to read the full commentary. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_005.cfm Bible Hub Commentary Always a very informative commentary with some good discussion on translation and comparisons to the other Gospels. I love to read information that provides extra historical context because it's sometimes difficult to imagine a culture 2000 years ago when we live so differently now. This commentary paints us a picture of the nature of the 'tomb' as mentioned in this chapter. It helps us to imagine the circumstances in which this wretched man lived. I can't help but think of his neighbours who resented the loss of a profitable herd of pigs rather than rejoicing at the salvation of a brother. I remember a comment I reviewed on YouTube when I shared this story reading Matthew. The commenter was indignant over the plight of the pigs. Apparently, claiming it an example of inhumanity! Where's your compassion for the man the demons were holding hostage, was the sentiment of my reply. I like pigs, cute little things in my opinion but Jesus came to offer salvation to human beings who believe in Him. The Jews did not have their burial-places in their cities, lest they should be defiled; therefore they buried their dead without the gates in the fields or mountains. Their sepulchres were frequently hewn out of the rock in the sides of the limestone hills, and they were lofty and capacious; so that the living could enter them, as into a vault. Later in the commentary, there is a wonderful explanation of how Jesus performed miracles. It shines a light on the very nature of Christ, both man and God. The source of the miracle is spiritual, it is of Jesus who is God. Jesus is God in the flesh and thus is physically a man with flesh and blood. As such, He could be touched physically. The lady believed Jesus was God and she had faith in His spiritual power. She knew that His spiritual power was beyond His flesh and blood and so knew that she did not have to physically touch the man. She could simply offer him her heart and she had faith in His response. She touched Him with her heart. Verse 31. - St. Luke (Luke 8:45) adds here, "When all denied, Peter said, and they that were with him, Master, the multitudes press thee and crush thee. But Jesus said, Some one did touch me; for I perceived that power had gone forth from me." This incident shows the mysterious connection between the spiritual and the physical. The miraculous virtue or power which went forth from the Saviour was spiritual in its source and in the conditions on which it was imparted, but it was physical in its operation; and that which brought the two together was faith. Multitudes thronged the Saviour, but only one of the crowd touched him. For a full reading, follow the link. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/mark/5.htm Lots of my personal musings in this walkthrough. I'm not a theologian, I'm a student and still putting it all together. I'm happy to discuss any point raised. Let's learn together!

This is the literal truth ! Before we jump into the published commentary on the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 6, I'd like to share a general observation. Have you noticed how much clearer the picture becomes when you start to compare the Gospel's? I was thinking about this as I sat editing the video reading. I remembered back in my younger days when I would follow particular music bands. I'd clamour to the shops and buy up a selection of fantastic magazines to essentially read the same story. Each article would cover the latest adventure but maybe they'd feature a different band member or someone on the inside who had something unique to reveal. That's a bit like reading about the life of Jesus from the perspective of the different Gospel authors. I noted here in Mark, that we're given more of a glimpse of the dialogue between Jesus and the disciples when they are faced with a crowd of 5000 hungry men. I've heard people try and pass off this story as something not to be taken literally. Suggesting that the real number would be far less. I noted that Jesus directs the disciples to seat the people in groups of either 100 or 50. 39 And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. 40 And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. This is notable because it provides us with clarity that the people gathered were hundreds and hundreds and that literally translates to thousands. I remember reading a note by MacArthur on this who makes the point that the text is accounting for the number of 'men' only and that the implication is that if women and children were counted alongside the men, the crowd could have been much larger. Let's jump into the commentaries on this chapter. Enduring Word Commentary At the beginning of this commentary there is a snippet relaying a kind of ancient joke. The fact that Jesus was a carpenter, wasn't considered a selling point. It's highlighting that it wasn't thought acceptable for people to flock to a common labourer for answers to life's biggest questions. i. Throughout the centuries, some people have thought that Jesus’ employment as a carpenter somehow discredited His message. In ancient Rome, there was a terrible persecution under the Emperor Julian. At that time, a philosopher mocked a Christian, asking him “What do you think the carpenter’s son is doing now?” The Christian wisely answered, “He is building a coffin for Julian.” Later in the commentary, they clarity that the term 'carpenter' was used more broadly than it is today. It wasn't limited to an artisan who worked only with wood but also could include builders generally. For example, Jesus could have worked with stone. I didn't know that! Here's the link for a wealth of further information: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-6/ Blue Letter Commentary A striking element from this chapter is the story of Jesus' own people denying Him. I've heard it said that Jesus couldn't do miracles in Nazareth in a way that implies he did not have the power. I think this is a strange way of reading the situation and was happy to find clarity in this commentary. It wasn't that Jesus was powerless to perform miracles in His hometown, he did in fact perform a few. It was rather that he was denied the opportunity to perform miracles. They didn't believe He could and therefore lacked the necessary faith to ask him. 4. He marvelled because of their unbelief, v. 6 . We never find Christ wondering but at the faith of the Gentiles that were strangers, as the centurion ( Mt. 8:10 ), and the woman of Samaria, and at the unbelief of Jews that were his own countrymen. Note, The unbelief of those that enjoy the means of grace, is a most amazing thing. Take a look at the commentary for a fuller explanation and loads of other useful context and clarity. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_006.cfm Bible Hub Commentary I've mentioned how much I value this particular commentary site before. I really like considering the origin Greek and Hebrew text because it can illuminate the meaning. The snippet I've selected provides us with clarity on how the disciples were commanding to equip themselves as they set out to minister on behalf of Jesus. They are asked to go with nothing of value, placing their faith in God to provide for them. I wondered when reading the passage, what exactly a 'scrip' may be. I found the answer here alongside other useful information. Those who had a staff might use it; those who had not one were not to trouble themselves to procure one. The scrip (πήρα) was the wallet for food. They were to take no money in their purse (μὴ εἰς τὴν ζώνην χαλκόν); literally, brass in their girdle. St. Mark, writing for Romans, uses this word for money. St. Luke, writing for Greeks, uses the term (ἀργύριον) "silver." St. Matthew ( Matthew 10:9 ) says, "provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass." This commentary provides a lot of extra historical information that I found fascinating, such as other ancient writers outside of the Bible mentioning John the Baptist. Verse 17. - In prison. Josephus ('Antiq.,' 18:5, 2) informs us that this prison was the fort of Machaerus, on the confines of Galilee and Arabia, and that there John was beheaded. Herod's father had built a magnificent palace within that fort; and so he may have been keeping the anniversary of his birthday there If you find extra context helps you to form a better picture in your head, I fully recommend reading this commentary. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/mark/6.htm I'll leave it there for today but please feel free to post a comment and ask questions if there is anything you would like more information on. I don't always know the answer off the top of my head but generally enjoy and have the time to go hunting through respected commentary for answers.

This post accompanies my video reading of Mark 7 published on the Circular Grace YouTube channel. Mark 7, Gospel Reading Have the Jews forgotten who God is? I say it time and time again, what an exciting chapter! Honestly, I truly believe that every chapter is exciting. We are reading about Jesus, what He said and what He did when He walked amongst us in the flesh. It's awesome and wonderful to behold and every word is exciting to me as a believer and follower. Again, I'm thrilled to see Mark really helping us to focus in on the messages. In Matthew we get the very important clarity on how Jesus relates to God's story in the Old Testament. Without Matthew's Gospel, we'd struggle to understand without being very, very familiar with the Old Testament, Jewish custom and history. Mark can dispense with this level of detail Matthew must include and instead, it seems he helps us more with the meaning behind Jesus' words. He spells things out for us. Let's jump into the published commentaries to learn more about the messages gifted to us in this chapter. Enduring Word Commentary If we cast our memories back to previous chapters, we'll remember that the Jewish religious leaders have already decided to reject Jesus and plot to kill him. It seems they have now set out to gather evidence for a trial. a. Having come from Jerusalem : This was another official delegation of religious leaders from Jerusalem , coming to evaluate the ministry of Jesus. We saw a previous delegation in Mark 3:22 , and they pronounced a harsh condemnation against Jesus. This delegation from Jerusalem already made up their mind about Jesus and looked for something to confirm their opinion. This whole chapter seems focused on the difference between what is internal and external to some degree. In the heart compared to not in the heart, from the Will of God or outside the Will of God. It paints a picture of the nature of faith as something internal rather than external. It contrasts the difference between faith and ritual, ceremony or tradition. Faith is something we have in our heart rather than a state of being that we can create by merely doing something special. Maybe simply, we could consider it a discussion around the difference between the Will of God and the will of man. God did Will that people and objects should be cleansed before coming into His presence in the Old Testament book of Exodus. Since then however ceremonial and ritual hand washing has been further elaborated as a tradition. This tradition was thought up and developed by Religious elders. Jesus is pointing out that the tradition has overshadowed and replaced the true meaning of what God intended. My simple example, it's not logical to wash your hands and then do something to make them dirtier than they were before you washed them. It would be hypocritical to to suggest something was a truth when it is clearly not true. ii. “The biblical mandate that the priests had to wash their hands and feet prior to entering the Tabernacle ( Exodus 30:19 ; 40:12 ) provided the foundation for the wide-spread practice of ritual washings in Palestinian and diaspora Judaism.” (Lane) A little context is very helpful in forming a fuller understanding. In Jewish religion at the time and still today, there is written law and alongside this they have oral tradition. Religious leaders had considered the written word and further developed it and come up with a new hand washing ceremony that they determine has superceded Gods written law. This is what Jesus is at great pains to point out. God's Will has taken a back seat to oral tradition. This snippet provides an explanation of the seriousness. Religious leaders have begun to declare that the words of men are higher than Gods Word. ii. “Rabbi Eleazer said, ‘He who expounds the Scriptures in opposition to the tradition has no share in the world to come’… The Mishna , a collection of Jewish traditions in the Talmud , records, ‘It is a greater offense to teach anything contrary to the voice of the Rabbis than to contradict Scripture itself.’” (Wiersbe) I can't recommend this commentary more, it will really help with an understanding of not only this chapter but of the importance of understanding the Will of God as revealed to us in scripture. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-7/ Blue Letter Bible Commentary This commentary also provides much clarity on the discussion above. What jumped out for me is the emphasis on the need for ordinary people to understand. This was why Jesus spoke to us at length. He wanted to correct the false teaching being offered by those claiming to represent God. Jesus wanted us to understand that what was being taught was not the will of God. Jesus came to give us the Will of God. To explain what God wanted from us. To correct the misrepresentation taking place. Note, It is not enough for the common people to hear, but they must understand what they hear. When Christ would run down the tradition of the Pharisees about washing before meat, he strikes at the opinion which was the root of it. Note, Corrupt customs are best cured by rectifying corrupt notions. This commentary provides a great perspective on Jesus' mission. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_007.cfm Bible Ref Commentary The story about the Greek lady and Jesus' remarks to her regarding crumbs and dogs is hotly debated. I shared my simplistic reflection of Jesus' conversation and mercy towards the Greek lady. This commentary expands upon my thoughts to provide greater clarify and a fuller understanding. They helpfully link the occasion in with the theme of the whole chapter. We're being offered the opportunity to consider the pitfalls of empty ceremony and ritual at the beginning of the chapter and here we have a working example. Even Jesus' ministry in general is designed to reach the Jews and leave reaching the Gentiles for Paul and early members of the church. The gospel is meant for the Jews first. But when faced with a Gentile woman with a great need, Jesus forgoes tradition and takes the moral act of granting her request. If you have a different interpretation picked up from another reputable source, I'd love to hear it. We often face a choice in terms of interpretation and sometimes, often it can be the same answer differently stated. A little like the difference between how Matthew and Mark explain things. https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/7/Mark-chapter-7.html I'll leave it there for this chapter but hope you were able to learn something new!

Video Reading, Mark Chapter 10 This   Blog   Post   accompanies   my   video   reading   of   Mark   10 published   on   the   Circular   Grace   YouTube   channel . Getting to the Heart of the Matter! There's a lot packed into this chapter and I'll try and draw out as much as I can alongside links to respected commentaries. The chapter begins on the topic of divorce. A subject as controversial in Jesus' day as it often is today amongst Christians. Apparently, different Jewish Rabbis had different opinions on how to interpret the law God had given them through Moses. There's a familiar theme we've seen throughout from the religious leaders of the time, there is a lot of hypocrisy. On this subject, like others it seems to hinge on what they think they can get away with rather than what is righteous before God. The focus is on the letter of the law and not the heart of the matter. Enduring Word Commentary This commentary provides a good overview of the situation during Jesus' time, pointing back to Moses and the Book of Deuteronomy. The key to understanding the exchange in context is to know that divorce was being passed off by some leaders as a religious duty and Jesus was challenging this. i. The rabbis of that day had a saying, “If a man has a bad wife, it is a religious duty to divorce her.” Jesus went against this way of thinking. Personally, I found these verses hard hitting. I have been divorced. It's not something I'm proud of and I repent of my lack of faith, obedience and understanding when I was younger. I didn't understand God's plan for man, woman and matrimony. I didn't understand that just like we are incapable of faith without God's grace, we are incapable of becoming one flesh without the grace and mercy of God in our marriages. It's something I've only begun to understand through experiencing it, this late in life and through asking for and recieving God's hand in my marriage. My experience is that God will bind two people together and weave them into one flesh if each are willing to love, honour and obey God as the central pillar of their communion together. I'm not painting the picture of a perfect marriage, my marriage has what I'd call an average degree of ups and downs, bickering, nagging and falling out. The thing that I've noticed however is that when we look to God to step in when things are challenging He does. I think of it as the living waters of Christ cleansing and binding. We seem better somehow than ever and on it goes becoming closer to that, one flesh ideal. I'm not sure I've explained that at all well. If I'm honest, I've never attempted to describe my feelings on the subject of biblical marriage before. I recommend having a read of this commentary for more clarity than I can manage. Here are a couple of snippets: d. From the beginning of the creation, God made them male and female: God’s real purpose for marriage is not fulfilled in divorce but only in seeing God’s original plan for marriage. In saying, “God made them,” Jesus asserted God’s ownership over marriage; it is God’s institution, not man’s, so His rules apply. e. And the two shall become one flesh: By bringing the issue back to the foundation of marriage, Jesus made it plain that couples must forsake their singleness (a man shall leave his father and mother) and come together in a one flesh relationship that is both a fact (they are) and a goal (shall become). There's loads more covered in this commentary. Follow the link to read it in full. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-10/ Bible Ref Commentary I don't always include a link to this commentary but it often provides a helpful, clear and somewhat shorter summary of a chapter compared to other more lengthy commentaries. I liked the clarity provided at the beginning on how Mark's Gospel differs to Luke and John. Here it points out some of what Mark leaves out. Where Luke and John give an extensive account of Jesus' teaching between Galilee and Perea, Mark skips ahead to the action. He leaves out Jesus' exhortation to forgive seventy-times-seven ( Matthew 18:15–35 ), the Feast of Tabernacles ( John 7:11–31 ), controversial teachings in Jerusalem ( John 8:12–59 ; Luke 11:14–36 ), the story of the Good Samaritan ( Luke 10:25–37 ), the death and resurrection of Lazarus ( John 11:1–44 ), and several confrontations with the Pharisees that incited the religious leaders to try to find a way to kill It's a useful commentary, follow the link if you want to read it in full. Remember there is a little pop up link to the commentary after you arrive using the following link. https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/10/Mark-chapter-10.html Blue Letter Bible Commentary Matthew Henry is the author of this commentary from Blue Letter. I like that he often paints a picture of the location, putting the map of where Jesus walked into context. Our Lord Jesus was an itinerant Preacher, did not continue long in a place, for the whole land of Canaan was his parish, or diocese, and therefore he would visit every part of it, and give instructions to those in the remotest corners of it. Here we have him in the coasts of Judea, by the further side of Jordan eastward, as we found him, not long since, in the utmost borders westward, near Tyre and Sidon. Thus was his circuit like that of the sun, from whose light and heat nothing is hid. Now here we have him, Here's a couple of maps I found that may help to picture it. I liked how this commentary covered Jesus' teaching on the little children. I've often considered the teaching from the perspective of the character Christ desired in us. Here the point is made that we are to embrace the children as part of the Kingdom of God. Jesus came to save us all, including the children. 3. He owned them as members of his church, as they had been of the Jewish church. He came to set up the kingdom of God among men, and took this occasion to declare that that kingdom admitted little children to be the subjects of it, and gave them a title to the privileges of subjects. Nay, the kingdom of God is to be kept up by such: they must be taken in when they are little children, that they may be secured for hereafter, to bear up the name of Christ. This was a cherished reminder of my first encounter with Jesus as a child. When I cried out in an agony of tears when I read the account of Jesus' distress when praying in the garden of Gethsemane just prior to His arrest. I was young and didn't understand that Jesus must die. It brings to mind the anxiety that the disciples are experiencing in these chapters as Jesus begins to share his destiny with them. It seems they just can't take it in. They won't fully understand until Jesus comes back to talk to them after the resurrection. It's a great commentary for getting into how the disciples must have felt and how Jesus handled their emotions. 3. See here what method he took to silence their fears. He did not go about to make the matter better than it was, nor to feed them with hopes that he might escape the storm, but told them again what he had often told them before, the things that should happen to him. He knew the worst of it, and therefore went on thus boldly, and he will let them know the worst of it. Come, be not afraid; for, This commentary is definitely worth a fuller read for more context and understanding. You'll find a very clear outline to help your understanding of the whole chapter. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_010.cfm Bible Hub Comment I often link to this commentary and pull up a note on the text. Here I'm going to flag up some of the other resources available alongside the commentary on chapter and verse. Here's a snippet from their useful guidance on prayer points relating to this chapter. I thought they were very good! Pray for strength and wisdom to honor and protect the sanctity of marriage. Ask God to help you cultivate a childlike faith, free from pride and self-reliance. Seek God's guidance in prioritizing eternal treasures over earthly possessions. Pray for a heart of servanthood, willing to serve others selflessly. Ask for increased faith and persistence in prayer, trusting in Jesus' power to heal and transform. To read this commentary in full, please follow the link. https://biblehub.com/study/chapters/mark/10.htm I'll leave it there for this week. I'm running behind in my post surgery not quite yet, organised life. I'm determined to keep on schedule and upload both video and commentary today. It's Friday and I'm trying to make it my regular upload day. God be with you all, until I upload again. Thank you for reading along with me!

Mark 11 Video Reading This   Blog   Post   accompanies   my   video   reading   of   Mark   11 published   on the   Circular   Grace   YouTube   channel . Jesus's Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem A short chapter but a chapter full of information to build our faith and understanding. Jesus has frequently asked for people not to broadcast his miracles abroad and tried to keep somewhat under the radar. This all changes as He makes His penultimate entry into Jerusalem. Although Mark doesn't share the multiple visits, this is not Jesus' first trip to to Jerusalem. From the other Gospels we know he made many visits to attend key Jewish festivals. On this occasion Jesus does not enter Jerusalem quietly, it is a triumphant entry with a multitude gathered to great Him as the long awaited Messiah. Let's dive into the respected commentaries to learn more! Enduring Word Commentary This commentary clarifies the point I made above about Jesus making multiple trips to Jerusalem. a. Now when they drew near to Jerusalem: If all we had was the Gospel of Mark, we might think this was Jesus’ first journey to Jerusalem. But the Gospel of John tells us of many previous trips. Jesus, like any devout Jewish man, went to Jerusalem for as many of the major feasts as He possibly could. I mentioned in the video my amazement that Jesus was able to mount an unbroken colt. Horses and donkeys are trained to accept a rider on their back and it generally takes a considerable amount of time despite what you often see in a classic western movie! This commentary draws out another consideration for us to contemplate. Jesus could have chosen a stallion for his triumphant entry into Jerusalem. On a side note, His grand finale and next triumphant entry into Jerusalem, will be on such a battle ready, glorious and Kingly mount! This time however Jesus comes in peace in contrast to His next entry when He will come as King, Saviour and Judge! Staying on this part of His story: c. You will find a colt tied, on which no one has sat : With this, Jesus established that He would enter Jerusalem riding on a colt . He deliberately chose a young donkey, not a stallion, not a horse, and not coming on foot. This is because in that day, to come riding a colt – as opposed to a mighty war-horse – was to come as a man of peace. Jesus didn’t come to Jerusalem as a conquering general, but as a suffering (though triumphant) servant. I recommend this commentary for a good understanding of Jesus's entry into Jerusalem. I'll post one final snippet before providing the link to the full commentary. c. When He looked around at all things: Jesus came as the Messiah to Jerusalem, not as a mighty general to conquer the Romans. He came first to look at the standing of the people of God, and to make an inspection. In the rest of Mark 11, we see the results of this inspection. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-11/ Blue Letter Commentary You'll find that the different commentators often pick out different aspects of the same verses but adding in some extra context. You'll find some interesting discussion on the fig tree in this commentary. I like the emphasis on the message. The disciples heard what sentence Christ passed on this tree, and took notice of it. Woes from Christ's mouth are to be observed and kept in mind, as well as blessings. We can find ourselves lost in the detail and forget the message sometimes. I liked the reminder that Jesus offers us almighty blessings but He is also judging us. Jesus passed judgement on the tree and the consequences were death. It put me in mind of God the Father appointing Christ both our Saviour and our Judge. Our salvation is an almighty blessing but it comes with an expectation of obedience. Ultimately those who do not accept the authority of Jesus choose death. The next segment that caught my eye was the significance of the Temple Courtyard. It's one of those occasions when I heard something new from a familiar story. I'd previously focused on what they had turned the house of God into but not given any consideration to which part of the house of God had been corrupted. The courtyard is very significant because it is where God invites strangers, essentially Gentiles to draw near to Him. By turning it into a house of thieves the Scribes and Pharisees were denying 'all nations' appropriate access to God. Yet another example of the failings of those people God had ordained to be His representatives on earth. The fig tree and its empty promise springs to mind. Jesus judged them! 3. He gave a good reason for this; because it was written, My house shall be called of all nations, The house of prayer, v. 17 . So it is written, Isa. 56:7 . It shall pass among all people under that character. It shall be the house of prayer to all nations; it was so in the first institution of it; when Solomon dedicated it, it was with an eye to the sons of the strangers, 1 Ki. 8:41 . And it was prophesied that it should be yet more so. Christ will have the temple, as a type of the gospel-church, to be, This can be a heavy commentary to read but you'll find a lot of context and links to related passages of scripture. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_011.cfm Bible Ref Commentary Here's my final link to commentary for this chapter. My list is far from exhaustive and you'll find multiple resources from a range of different respected churches and Christian organisations online. I encourage you to reach out and find people you trust in faith to discuss the Bible with. Reach out at church, join a Bible study group. First and foremost pray for guidance and discernment. Walk through scripture with the Lord at your side. Make being in the Word of God a daily devotion and I am confident your faith will grow and the messages will take a firmer hold in your heart. That has been my experience and I pray the same blessings for you! I'll leave you with a final snippet from this brief but powerful commentary. Throughout the rest of the Passion Week—the final few days prior to the crucifixion—Jesus will engage in many debates and teach many truths, not all of which are recorded in Mark 12—13 . It is His last chance before the crucifixion to get people to think about worship as God designed it to be, and reject the worldly nationalist fervor. His words and actions remind us to keep our eyes on God, not the things God has blessed us with. https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/11/Mark-chapter-11.html Thank you so much for reading along and sharing in this wonderful opportunity to hear the Word God with me. Until next time, God bless you!

Mark 12 Video Reading This   Blog   Post   accompanies   my   video   reading   of   Mark   12   published   on   the   Circular   Grace   YouTube   channel . The Vineyard represents Israel This is a very interesting and insightful chapter and I found jumping into the verse by verse commentaries very helpful. In this post I'll share some brief thoughts but you'll get far more clarity if you follow the links to the published commentary. The chapter begins with the parable of the vineyard. Jesus shares the gruesome story about the tenant farmers who rise up against the owner of the vineyard they lease. Enduring Word Commentary There's a really detailed walkthrough of this parable in this commentary. It begins by sharing some context about the kinds of agricultural agreements in the region of Galilee at the time of Jesus. I was fascinated to learn that archaeologists had found evidence of the kinds of disagreement outlined in the parable. a. He leased it to vinedressers and went into a far country: This sort of tenant farming relationship was a common practice in Jesus’ day, especially in the region of Galilee. Archaeologists have discovered records of this same sort of dispute between landowners and tenant farmers. Whilst the historical context of agricultural workers is interesting, far more significant to the Gospel message is what the Jews listening would have understood upon hearing Jesus's words. In the Old Testament the analogy of a vineyard was used to represent Israel. This points the hearer to a contextual understanding of the vinedresser as being the person overseeing the vineyard. In the context of the vineyard being Israel, the vinedresser is a leader of Israel. b. That he might receive some of the fruit of the vineyard from the vinedressers: Because Jesus spoke to a Jewish audience, they were aware that the vineyard was used in the Old Testament as a picture of Israel (Isaiah 5:1-7). Therefore, the vinedressers represented the rulers of Israel and the vineyard represented the people of God as a whole. You can begin to understand why the Pharisees are getting quite hot under their collars. Whilst Rome officially governed Israel, the Jewish religious leaders are responsible for God's people. In this parable, God's people being the fruit of the vineyard. Imagine being there and hearing Jesus condemn the religious leaders. They are being presented with a choice, do they stand with God's Word or those who are rejecting Him? I imagine that the many do not have ears to hear but that a few truly open their eyes and see. Later this commentary makes the point that the Pharisees are convicted of the Holy Spirit. They have a clear choice, they see the situation clearly but reject Jesus (see later snippet). Once you understand the context of the parable, it follows that this is a story about leaders of a nation who are violently rebelling against the Lord their God and His Word. Jesus is the Word, the ultimate prophet of the One True God, a final messenger sent by the Father. The parable helps us to see an attempt by the rulers of Israel to take over from God as Lord of God's people. a. Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do? The vinedressers were foolish enough to think that if they only killed the owner’s son, the vineyard would be theirs. Jesus drew the correct point – they rejected messenger after messenger, finally rejecting the Son, so their day of reckoning would come (He will come and destroy the vinedressers). There's a chilling warning at the end of the parable. Whilst the vinedressers surge ahead with evil intent, their destiny is sealed. They will fail! Judgement will fall and wrongs will be righted. Here's a reminder of what Jesus warned about the damnation for those leaders who mistreat God's people. Mark 12:38 - 40 ( KJV ) 38 And he said unto them in his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in the marketplaces, 39 And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost rooms at feasts: 40 Which devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayers: these shall receive greater damnation. Spoiler alert... The tomb is EMPTY! The Pharisees and Sadducees get a reminder and a lesson on the nature of resurrection later in the chapter. Jesus warns them they are rejecting the truth as given to them through scripture. I find this really interesting because maybe they could be forgiven for being mistaken but it seems this is a case of wilful disobedience. I'm thinking of the winedressers in the parable. They know they are not legitimate owners of the land. They know they are committing a crime and a sinful act. They do it anyway. The commentary makes the point that these religious leaders are convicted of the truth of Jesus's words but rather than repent, they double down on their murderous intent to destroy the Son of God. It's a theme that runs through all the Gospel. It's very sad because, today we are citizens of a World where most people have now been given an opportunity to accept the Gospel of Christ but they actively reject it. Eventually there is a judgement. d. They knew He had spoken the parable against them: They were cut to the heart and convicted by the Holy Spirit. They reacted to the conviction of the Holy Spirit by rejecting, not by receiving. They plotted to murder Jesus instead of repenting before Him. This is one of many commentaries and each provide a variety of context to help us think about these verses. Find verse by verse commentary for the rest of the chapter and further explanation on the points I pulled out if you follow this link. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-12/ Bible Hub Commentary The question of whether to give tribute to Caesar or not is interesting. The Jews generally considered that the Romans had no authority to govern them. That the situation was an abomination to God. Here we have the Herodians join the Pharisees, an unnatural alliance. The former are a strange sect of Jews who support Herod to the pont of flattering him with the notion that he may be the prophesied Messiah! These Herodians were a sect of the Jews who supported the house of Herod, and were in favor of giving tribute to the Roman Caesar. They were so called at first from Herod the Great, who was a great supporter of Caesar. Tertullian, St. Jerome, and others say that these Herodiaus thought that Herod was the promised Messiah, because they saw that in him the scepter had departed from Judah (Genesis 49:10). Thinking back to the murderous thoughts of the Pharisees, is it any wonder that they have enlisted the support of the Herodians? In their minds the Messiah will physically reign over them as King immediately. They must therefore expect that Jesus will make a move against Herod. This seems an appropriate opportunity for them to temp Jesus to make a verbal stand. Maybe they are hoping the Herodians will have an opportunity to rush back to Herod with news of a war cry? Our Lord, in his infinite wisdom, avoids the question altogether whether the Jews were rightly in subjection to the Romans. This was a doubtful question. But there could be no doubt as to the fact that they were tributary. This was made plain by the evidence of the current coin. Now, this being so, it was manifestly the duty of the Jewish people to give to Caesar the tribute money which he demanded of them for the expenses of government, and especially of supporting an army to defend them from their enemies. Jesus did not fall for their evil trap! Instead He points out that they are willingly participating in Herod's Kingdom by accepting his currency as a legitimate form of trade. It seems to be an argument about both rights and responsibilities. I believe it means that once you come under authority you are bound by the conditions of that authority. Personally, I thought this was interesting. We are all under God's authority, regardless of whether or not we accept or reject God. He is our legitimate Sovereign Lord! https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/mark/12.htm Bible Ref Commentary Let's take a look at what Bible Ref have to share about the story of the widow at the end of the chapter. It's an opportunity to see that all is not lost. There are those with eyes that see God and ears that hear God. I liked the way this commentary points at the contrast between the widow and the religious leaders. Mark next shows Jesus highlighting a woman who is the exact opposite of these foolish leaders. Out of honor to God, a widow donates the last of her meager funds. She has no expectation that she will receive any earthly honor; in fact, she may be scorned for giving so little. But Jesus commends her for giving more to God than any of the leaders who have supposedly dedicated their lives to God's service ( Mark 12:41–44 ). What a powerful contrast! For the full commentary, visit the link and scroll to the pop out commentary. https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/12/Mark-chapter-12.html I'll leave my comment on commentary there for this week. I hope you managed to understand a little more by reading through. I'd love to hear your thoughts. We're all learning as we read and I know the next time I consider this chapter, I'll be amazed at what more there is to know. Jesus keeps on sharing and keeps on teaching if we have a heart to keep asking Him to lead us. Praise Our Almighty Lord for His Grace and Mercy?

Mark 8, Video Reading (This Blog Post accompanies my video reading of Mark 8 published on the Circular Grace YouTube channel.) God Became Flesh and walked amongst us! Thanks for reading along as I share, Mark's Gospel, Chapter 8. Personally, I'm in awe of the fact that we are not merely reading a story. We are blessed to be transported back to a time in human history when God became flesh and walked amongst us. Jesus came to talk to us, to live with us and to die for us so that we could spend eternity with Him. We're reading eye witness testimony of His Word and His deeds. It's a truly awesome blessing, so let's dig deep into a few published commentaries and try and understand the messages. Enduring Word Commentary I often visit this commentary first because it generally provides a good overall summary and it didn't disappoint. Immediately, I was pleased to read something, I hadn't personally considered. I knew this miracle testimony was almost identical to the previous feeding of the multitude but I'd missed something. This commentary, invites us to consider that Jesus is testing His disciples in light of their previous experiences. They'd been in this exact same situation before! b. How can one satisfy these people with bread here in the wilderness? We can imagine Jesus hoping one of the disciples might say, “Jesus, You did this before. You can do the same kind of work again.” Jesus hoped they would regard His past faithfulness as a promise to meet their present need. I think it's tempting to think that the disciples should really have known better by now but then I stop and think. How many times do I fail to look to Jesus, despite knowing He always has the answer. I mentioned in the video that I'm experiencing a little anxiety over my up coming surgery but that's just one example. Most days, I get a little anxious over something I read about in the news or some other thing going on in my life. Jesus has been trying to teach the disciples to put their faith in Him. This testimony is a blessing to each of us who reads. I imagine the question penetrating through to me personally, 'Denise, have you got eyes to see and ears to hear'?Jesus is teaching us through His Word to have faith in Him. I believe it's why the Gospel's were written. To deliver His Word of guidance to every one who chooses to follow Him. Literally, Jesus is leaving instructions on how to follow Him. Jesus is explaining how to go about picking up our personal cross. I wonder at the notion of being ashamed. There seems a focus on how we would go about demonstrating that we are not ashamed. It seems to me these verses are an encouragement to be proactively proud doers. I was interested that this commentary mentioned that some scholars have questioned whether this miracle testimony is a retelling of the feeding of the 5000 rather than a separate miracle. I find that a little surprising in light of Jesus' reference to the previous miracle. Only a scholar who doubts the authenticity of the Bible could doubt this as a separate miracle, in my humble opinion. I'm mindful to always question which side of the 'faith' fence, so called scholars are sitting. To believe in a miracle, requires a faith in the miracle maker. A miracle isn't a wonderful magic trick that leaves us wondering how the magician accomplished his trick. These biblical miracles are evidence of the awesome power of God. Only God can create a miracle and therefore we can have faith that Jesus is one with God because He created miracles. i. Some scholars argue this specific miracle never happened. They claim that this was merely a retelling of the feeding of the 5,000. Their main argument is, “how could the disciples forget Jesus’ previous work so quickly?” Yet even mature Christians, having experienced God’s power and provision, sometimes go on to act in unbelief. This wasn’t so surprising after all. There's much more to learn from this commentary, take a look. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-8/ Bible Ref Commentary This is a much shorter commentary but I found yet another aspect of the reading, I'd personally overlooked. I'd forgotten where Jesus and the Disciples were in terms of location. We were given this information in Mark 7:31 (KJV), "31 And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis.". Here the commentary clarifies. Jesus had taken His disciples—apparently more than just the Twelve—into Gentile territory, presumably in an attempt to find a quiet place to teach. In Mark 7, they traveled northwest of Capernaum to the region of Tyre (Mark 7:24), then continued farther north to Sidon (Mark 7:31). Now they are in the district east of the Sea of Galilee. The significant context for us is that Jesus' mission is expanding to include both Jew and Gentile. It's a turning point. For further information, have a read of the full commentary. https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/8/Mark-chapter-8.html Blue Letter Commentary This is a full commentary with a good level of detail, inviting thought. They provide a good discussion on Jesus' warning to His Disciples about the 'leaven' of the Pharisees. I make my own bread and I enjoy coming across analogies of 'yeast' or 'leaven' in the Bible. Often it describes the way a sin grows and occasionally an increase in spirit. I watch my lump of dough rise to double it's size because a tiny bit of yeast has been added and I understand. I'm understanding that the disbelief of the Pharisees is an example of how sin magnifies sin. As we read we see how more and more people become infected and sinful thoughts become sinful actions. 3. The reproof Christ gave them for their uneasiness in this matter, as it argued a disbelief of his power to supply them, notwithstanding the abundant experience they had had of it. For the full commentary, follow the link. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_008.cfm Bible Hub Commentary I've shared a lot of personal thoughts so far in this post and there's still much I haven't covered from this very important chapter. Rather than make this post overly long, I'll simply finish with the concluding points from the Bible Hub Commentary. For all of the teachings I haven't mentioned, I really recommend this commentary. Personally, I heard Jesus providing unquestionable clarity on the relationship between faith and salvation in this chapter. For example in His reference to the second coming. The cross of Christ appeared to the great body of mankind to be shameful and contemptible. To the Jews it was a stumbling-block, and to the Greek's foolishness. Hence vast numbers, whether through shame or fear, did not dare to confess it, and still less to preach it. And therefore it is that St. Paul says ( Romans 1 :l6), "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ." Follow the link for more clarity. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/mark/8.htm I hope you will have been inspired to read more and understand more. Until next time, God bless you 🙏

Video reading Mark Chapter 9 This   Blog   Post   accompanies   my   video   reading   of   Mark   9 published   on   the   Circular   Grace   YouTube   channel . The Awe Inspiring Transfiguration of Jesus Its wonderful to be able to share these life transforming verses with you once again. Chapter 9 of Mark's Gospel is exciting on so many levels. Firstly, the transfiguration is awe inspiring, a glimpse of the miraculous change that awaits all those who truly follow Jesus. I don't know about you but it's something I can't begin to imagine for myself. To be transfigured in the image of Christ, to be given a perfect body! No more dodgy legs and no more corrupted spirit. Here's a couple of verses that help put Jesus' transfiguration in perspective. Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. (1 John 3:2 ESV) For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. (Romans 8:29 ESV) The disciples were given an opportunity to see a glimpse of Christ in His glorified, heavenly and soon to be ascended form. It would also prove to be a powerful foretaste of the transformation of us all in our eternal heavenly state upon Christ's return to collect us. There's a good write up on the transfiguration in Got Questions: The disciples never forgot what happened that day on the mountain and no doubt this was intended. John wrote in his gospel, “We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only” (John 1:14). Peter also wrote of it, “We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty. For He received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to Him from the Majestic Glory, saying, ‘This is my Son, whom I love; with Him I am well pleased.’ We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with Him on the sacred mountain” (2 Peter 1:16-18). Those who witnessed the transfiguration bore witness to it to the other disciples and to countless millions down through the centuries. https://www.gotquestions.org/transfiguration.html Enduring Word Commentary This commentary further clarifies the nature of the transfiguration. It is not an illusion or merely a miraculous light shining on Jesus from above. It is as the word expresses, a physical change. i. If we’re not careful, we think of the transfiguration as just a bright light shined on Jesus. But this wasn’t a light coming on Jesus from the outside. “The word transfigured describes a change on the outside that comes from the inside. It is the opposite of ‘masquerade,’ which is an outward change that does not come from within.” (Wiersbe) The disciples were confused and concerned that they didn't understand when Jesus told them He would rise again. Here on the mountain, they not only see the transfigured Jesus but alongside Him, Moses and Elijah alive and taking. iii. Right in front of them, the disciples saw evidence of life beyond this life. When they saw Moses and Elijah, they knew that Moses had passed from this world 1,400 years before and Elijah had passed some 900 years before. Yet there they were, alive in glory before them. It gave them confidence in Jesus’ claim to resurrection. Whilst they may still have been somewhat bewildered at the time, this experience would remain with them and strengthen their faith and confidence. Here's the link for the rest of the commentary: https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-9/ Bible Hub Commentary After the transfiguration on the mountain, Jesus returns to find the Scribes and Pharisees arguing with His disciples. This commentary adds some clarity concerning the reaction of the multitude upon seeing Jesus. They aren't merely pleased to see Him but notice something more. Verse 15. - The multitude were favourably towards Jesus, and were glad that returned at an opportune moment to defend his disciples against the scribes. But why were they greatly amazed? The word in the Greek is ἐξεθαμβήθη. It seems most probable that they saw in his countenance, always heavenly and majestic, something even yet more Divine, retaining some traces of the glory of his transfiguration, even as the face of Moses shone when he came down from the mount ( Exodus 34:29 ). It hardly seems likely that the amazement of the people was simply caused by our Lord having arrived at an opportune time to relieve his disciples of their difficulty. This commentary helps out with an understanding of Jesus' weary attitude that reading casually we can think of as directed at His disciples who have failed to cast out the demon processed man brought to Jesus by his concerned father. We read here that Jesus is directing His displeasure to a greater extent to the unbelievers. Verse 19. - O faithless generation. These words were no doubt intended primarily as a rebuke to the Jews and their scribes; though not without a glance at the weakness of faith of his own disciples. The words are the complaint of one weary of the unbelief of the masses and of the weakness of faith in even his own. Bring him unto me (φέρετε); literally, Bring ye him to me. The theme is very much about the nature of unbelief in the whole chapter. The message, one of the transforming power of belief in Jesus Christ. When Jesus calls on the father to have belief, his answer is one of desperation and a humble plea for Jesus to help him. Personally, I find this a powerful reminder that our faith is a gracious and merciful gift from God. The answer of the father is touching and beautiful. Greatly agitated, he cried out and said (we might well suppose (μετὰ δακρύων "with tears," although the weight of evidence is against this addition being retained in the text), I believe; help thou mine unbelief. It is as though he said," I do believe; but my faith is weak. Do thou, therefore, increase and strengthen it; so that whatever there is in me of doubt or remaining unbelief may be taken away, and I may be counted worthy to obtain from thee this blessing for my son." Nor can we doubt that Christ heard a prayer so humble and so fervent, and took away from him the last remains of doubt and unbelief. It's a wonderful commentary and for more, follow the link: https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/mark/9.htm Blue Letter Bible Commentary My final link is to the Blue Letter Commentary and it helps out with the notion of the great and the small in terms of serving Christ. It also digs further into the nature of belief. The disciples are concerned that there are those outside of their group casting out evil in Jesus' name. They have rebuked then for for doing so. Jesus reminds them that to use His name is to be with them in belief that Christ is the Son of God. You may remember that it is well established by the attitude of the Pharisees up to now that only God can cast out devil's and heal sins. It's why they accuse Jesus of blasphemy . To use the name of Jesus to perform these acts is to acknowledge His deity and power. These people are calling Jesus the Messiah! It's a powerful testimony of faith and belief in Jesus Christ a with that belief is also the power of Christ. 5. This is a reason why we must not discountenance and discourage those who are serving the interests of Christ's kingdom, though they are not in every thing of our mind and way. It comes in here as a reason why those must not be hindered, that cast out devils in Christ's name, though they did not follow him; for (as Dr. Hammond paraphrases it) "It is not only the great eminent performances which are done by you my constant attendants and disciples, that are accepted by me, but every the least degree of sincere faith and Christian performance, proportionable but to the expressing the least kindness, as giving a cup of water to a disciple of mine for being such, shall be accepted and rewarded." If Christ reckons kindness to us services to him, we ought to reckon services to him kindnesses to us, and to encourage them, though done by those that follow not with us. There is a lot to learn from the commentary. To read it fully, follow the link: https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_009.cfm I hope you have enjoyed my skip through the commentaries. If love to hear your thoughts and any additional insights you have gleaned from these verses. Please add your thoughts and comments below

This Blog Post accompanies my video reading of Mark 13 published on the Circular Grace YouTube channel. Video Reading Mark 13 Jesus tells us what to watch out for! I've come across people who try to dismiss the Book of Revelation based on a variety of claims. I recently heard it being passed off as being a play written for theatre and not intended to be taken literally. Whilst I understand this kind of rejection coming from an atheist, I'm surprised when I hear similar coming from a self proclaimed believer. I have to assume they are not familiar with the Gospels which confirm the words spoken by Jesus to the disciples. This chapter is so important because it provides unequivocal confirmation from Jesus that He will return. Further to this He forcefully outlines for all following, what His expectations are. We are to Pray , share His Gospel , Watch for Him and be ready ! Let's jump into the commentaries and see what we can learn about these powerful verses. Enduring Word Commentary The chapter begins in Jerusalem where the disciples are marveling at the wonders of Herod's Temple. By all ancient accounts it was a truly remarkable and awe inspiring sight. iii. The beauty of the ancient temple is well documented. The Jewish historian Josephus says that the temple was covered on the outside with gold plates that were so brilliant that when the sun shone it was blinding. Where there wasn’t gold, there were blocks of marble of such a pure white that from a distance, strangers thought there was snow on the temple. The text indicate that Jesus and the disciples are sat on the Mount of Olives where there would have been a magnificent view of the Temple. They may have been gazing at the Temple in the distance when they begin to discuss what Jesus had meant when he said (Mark 13:2-3 (KJV) 2 And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. 3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately, I have not personally visited Jerusalem but if you have you may have been blessed to look upon the stones Jesus is talking about. This commentary provides some context on just how big they were. iv. The comment of the disciples – see what manner of stones and what buildings are here – is especially appropriate given the massive stones Herod used in building the temple. Today, tourists can see some of these massive stones, at least the ones used to build merely the retaining wall for the temple compound. These cut, quarried blocks of limestone are so big – some 50 feet wide, 25 feet high, and 15 feet deep – that most modern construction cranes could not lift them. Jesus prophecy foretold what would happen and just 7 years after the temple was completed, it was destroyed alongside most of Jerusalem. b. Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down : Some 40 years after Jesus said this there was a widespread Jewish revolution against the Romans in Palestine, and the rebels enjoyed many early successes. But ultimately, Rome crushed the Jews of that day. Jerusalem was leveled, including the temple – just as Jesus said. There are those that choose to see the world being cleansed as a consequence of the spread of the Gospel but Jesus's teachings paint a vividly different picture. As I read what the commentator shared below, I remembered another verse, (Matthew 10:34-36 (ESV) " 34  “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. 35  For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. 36  And a person's enemies will be those of his own household. The good news extends to people who if they believe and follow Jesus will be saved by the grace and mercy of God. The destiny of the world is that it will be ravished by wars, famine and earthquakes culminating in a period of vast tribulation not seen since the beginning of creation. i. “Our Lord’s outlook upon this age was not that of one in which there should be a gradual cessation of strife between the nations, by the victory of the preaching of His Gospel, until the whole earth should be reduced by that preaching to a condition of peace.” (Morgan) This commentary provides a very detailed verse by verse overview of this chapter and I recommend dipping into it if you have the time. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-13/ Bible Ref Commentary I learnt something in the very first paragraph of this commentary. I'd heard the phrase, 'Olivet Discourse' but didn't understand the context. Here it confirms that the discourse is so called because of the location the discussion took place. In hindsight, I wonder why I hadn't joined the very obvious dots. Jesus' teaching recorded in Mark 13 is called "The Olivet Discourse" because He and the disciples are on the Mount of Olives, east of the temple. In the discourse, Jesus prophesies about the fate of the temple, Jerusalem, and the end times. There is scholarly debate around the timing of Jesus's biblical prophecies with some claiming they have all been fulfilled. I can't claim to be a scholar but from my reading of the New Testament so far, I find the position completely at odds with the Gospel writings when viewed and read in their entirety. You could read book after book that will try to convince you one way or another, personal I suggest, simply reading the bible and hearing what it tells you. There's a very nice little overview in this commentary outlining the different positions. Jump into the link at the end to read it, if you are interested. I will focus on the prophecy as outlined by Jesus in the Gospel rather than the musings of worldly scholars. This commentator summed it up nicely. At the end of the tribulation, Jesus' return will be unmistakable. He will come with power and glory and gather His followers to Him ( Mark 13:24–27 ). The parable of the fig tree will remind the tribulation saints that they have all the information they need. Even though they will not know the exact moment of Jesus' return, they can rest that He will come quickly. They should live their lives accordingly ( Mark 13:28–37 ). For the full commentary, follow the link. https://www.bibleref.com/Mark/13/Mark-chapter-13.html Blue Letter Commentary This lengthy and full, verse by verse commentary is provided by Matthew Henry. Although a heavier read, it is full of context and clarity and worthy of dipping into. It begins by pointing out something that, although clearly stated in the scripture, can be overlooked. This is a private discourse between Jesus and just a few of Jesus' lead disciples. It is not part of a sermon to the multitude. It of course is destined to become a message shared to the four corners of the world as part of the testimony of Christ recorded in the shared Gospel. The opening paragraph states: We have here the substance of that prophetical sermon which our Lord Jesus preached, pointing at the destruction of Jerusalem, and the consummation of all things; it was one of the last of his sermons, and not ad populum-to the people, but ad clerum-to the clergy; it was private, preached only to four of his disciples, with whom his secret was. I liked how Henry walks us through the confused perspective of the disciples. As we have read in previous chapters they do not understand what Jesus is trying to tell them about His death. They are still caught up in the anticipation of a triumphant Messiah who will liberate Israel in these days and their lifetime. They have not yet experienced the resurrection or the indwelling of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Henry explains what their thoughts may have been concerning the Temple: III. How natural it is to us to desire to know things to come, and the times of them; more inquisitive we are apt to be about that than about our duty. His disciples knew not how to digest this doctrine of the ruin of the temple, which they thought must be their Master's royal palace, and in which they expected their preferment, and to have the posts of honour; and therefore they were in pain till they got him alone, and got more out of him concerning this matter. I found a lot to think about as I skipped through Henry's commentary. It brought out aspects of Jesus' warning I hadn't fully considered. This comment draws out the guidance on how the disciples should react to the circumstances they will find themselves in. The warning is that that world will be an increasingly dark and troublesome place, full of depravity and evil. The world rejects the light and truth of Jesus and will persecute those who proclaim the truth in Jesus' name. As we know, if the world rejects Jesus, it will also reject his representatives. Jesus is preparing the disciples by warning them about what to expect. The message is that they must not be tempted to look away from their Saviour. They must look directly at His truth and hold onto it. They have no power in and of themselves, they must call upon Jesus. If they hold on to their faith and trust in Jesus, the Holy Spirit will give them the words they need. They must not rely on or go back to trusting in their worldly, manmade responses. My thoughts shared here are made from considering this verse alongside what Henry is saying (Mark 13:11 (KJV) 11 But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost. Matthew Henry seems to be relating back to this message as he describes the warnings to 'take heed': III. They must take heed that they be not drawn away from Christ, and from their duty to him, by the sufferings they should meet with for Christ's sake. Again, he saith, "Take heed to yourselves, v. 9 . Though you may escape the sword of war, better than some of your neighbours, because you interest not yourselves in the public quarrels, yet be not secure; you will be exposed to the sword of justice more than others, and the parties that contend with one another, will unite against you. Take heed therefore lest you deceive yourselves with the hopes of outward prosperity, and such a temporal kingdom as you have been dreaming of, when it is through many tribulations that you must enter into the kingdom of God. Take heed lest you needlessly expose yourselves to trouble, and pull it upon your own head. Take heed what you say and do, for you will have many eyes upon you." I admit that I don't always have time to read Henry's complete commentary. It sometimes requires a lot of thought to track his thoughts back to the text of scripture. I include snippets that I pick out from a quick scan through. I tend to focus in on a sample of the commentary and give it thought in relation to the Bible text. I generally find this approach useful because I pick a little up rather than tackling the whole thing and getting a bit lost. A detailed analysis and review of the complete commentary would be incredibly enlightening. I confess however that it would be quite a task and it's often too much to take in. My final snippet is taken from the end of the commentary, where Henry concludes his thoughts on our Christian duty to watch, be awake and to stay awake: It is therefore the indispensable duty of all Christ's disciples, to watch, to be awake, and keep awake; "What I say unto you four ( v. 37 ), I say unto all the twelve, or rather to you twelve, I say unto all my disciples and followers; what I say to you of this generation, I say to all that shall believe in men, through your word, in every age, Watch, watch, expect my second coming, prepare for it, that you may be found in peace, without spot, and blameless. I'll leave the link for you to dip into. It's a lovely resource, regardless of how much of it you decide to tackle. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_013.cfm I hope you will share your thoughts on this wonderful chapter. Until next time, God bless you and keep you in His Almighty truth!

Video Reading Mark 14 This Blog Post accompanies my video reading of Mark 14 published on the Circular Grace YouTube channel . Why understanding the Passover is important! What springs to mind first for me when considering this chapter is the origin of Passover and how this relates to Christ and our salvation. Over and over in the last few chapters Jesus has emphasised that He must fulfil what has been written. I find it helpful to keep in mind the origin of what has been written. Jesus is talking about Old Testament scripture that testifies the Will of God. God's declaration of His plan for His world. The prophets weren't sharing their own personal thoughts but proclaiming the Word given to them by God, our Father in Heaven. Jesus is the Lamb of God, prophesied, prescious, innocent and perfect. His innocent blood is about to be sacrificed to save sinners. I'm pondering the origin of Passover. Remembering the blood of the perfect sacrificed lambs that God commanded be put on the doors so that His wrath would pass over the Israelites. That innocent blood saved them and opened the door for their exodus from Egypt. Just as Jesus's innocent blood opens a door for us today. I'm also thinking about the final judgment when Jesus's blood covers us so that the wrath of God will pass over us and we are saved and given safe passage to His new and eternal perfect Kingdom. To understand Passover, we need to travel back into the Old Testament. The Jews were exiled in Egypt for 430 years and the last, approximate 210 of those in captivity as slaves. The Feast of Passover commemorates the circumstances of God's mighty act of judgement that finally forced Egypt to free the Israelites. The Egyptians knowingly and wilfully defied God and stubbornly refused to free the Israelites. The Egyptians had a misplaced trust in their false pagan gods and rejected the command of the one true God. He sent to them a command to release His people so that they could serve Him. God put ever increasing pressure on the Egyptians in the form of worsening plagues that they were powerless to prevent. Essentially to demonstrate His Almighty and supreme power to them but also to His people. God's final and devastating judgement plague poured out on Egypt takes the life of every firstborn and defeats them. The Egyptians respond in fear and terror at God's power and agree to free the Israelites. You'll get the full story in the book of Exodus but these verses give the specific circumstances that describe the origin of 'pass over'. The blood comes from the lambs God has commanded, be sacrificed. Exodus 12:12-13 (ESV) 12  For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments: I am the Lord. 13  The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt At the centre of the Feast of Passover are two key elements, unleavened bread and the sacrificial lamb. I have only focused above on the lamb. This chapter begins just before Passover and Jesus and His disciples along with all other adult male Jews in the region must gather in Jerusalem to celebrate. God has commanded this. To understand the reason unleavened bread and a sacrificial lamb are central to the celebration, we can jump back into the book of Exodus. God gives a specific commandment that yeast is forbidden and unleavened bread eaten for a specific number of days and then gives instruction on the precise preparation of a sacrificial Passover Lamb that all must eat. Exodus 12:14(ESV) 14 “This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord—a lasting ordinance. I wanted to paint this picture of Passover in the hope that it may help bring light to the verses in this chapter. There is a lot more depth, particularly regarding 'yeast' that I've skipped over, study the Book of Exodus for a fuller understanding than my little summary provides. This chapter begins just before Passover and the commentaries provide a lot of context. Let's jump in and take a look. Enduring Word Commentary This verse by verse commentary begins with the Passover and gives us context on the mood of those attending. The Jews are awaiting the prophesied Messiah who will usher in the ultimate promised salvation event. Like Exodus the Messiah will open the door to freedom. a. After two days it was the Passover: The time is significant, because there was at Passover not only a great expectation of the Messiah, but Jerusalem was also crowded with these Messiah-expecting multitudes. Since Passover remembered the time when God raised up a great deliverer and freed Israel from foreign oppression, it was a time of great patriotic and messianic anticipation. The Romans were on guard and ready for any hint of revolt. The commentator provides details regarding the geographic location of Jewish people who would gather in Jerusalem. ii. Every male Jew who lived within 15 miles of Jerusalem had to come to Jerusalem for Passover. Many more came from great distances – including Galilee. Many people who heard and saw Jesus in the region of Galilee were here, with great respect and great expectation regarding Jesus. We know from the text that the religious leaders did not want to kill Jesus during the Passover but God's plan is supreme. c. Not during the feast: The; religious leaders did not want to kill Jesus during the Passover feast, but they ended up doing it during that time anyway. This clearly shows that Jesus was in command and though the leaders acted according to the evil inclination of their hearts, their actions fulfilled prophecy and the plan of Jesus. I learnt something new from this commentary. I had incorrectly assumed that this was a different telling of the same story about a lady anointing Jesus. i. This isn’t the same event as when a sinful woman brought the alabaster box with ointment, broke it and anointed Jesus’ feet. That occasion was precious, but it was different in that the woman was overwhelmed with her own sense of sinfulness and adoration to her pardoning Lord. Mary seems focused on Jesus alone, not even on her own forgiven sin. It is a great thing to love Jesus for all He has done for us; it can be greater still to love Him simply for who He is in all His wonder and majesty. As always, there is much to learn from this commentary but I'll leave it there and jump into another to look at some more verses. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-14/ Blue Letter Commentary The previous commentary explained that the religious leaders didn't want to kill Jesus during Passover but this commentary highlights another motive. That despite this they wanted an opportunity to display his fabricated guilt and suffering to a crowd. (1.) That his death and suffering might be the more public, and that all Israel, even those of the dispersion, who came from all parts to the feast, might be witnesses of it, and of the wonders that attended it. I'm pondering this and remember that they went to a lot of trouble to make sure their part in the betray and murder was kept quiet. They took Him under the cover of darkness and conducted a clandestine mock trial. The public would witness Jesus's death by Roman commanded crucifixion. I found Henry's commentary a little hard going for this chapter as he makes complex reference to other commentators I am unfamiliar with. One snippet I did find useful however, was his description of the temptation Satan used on Judas Covetousness was Judas's master-lust, his own iniquity, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. It is not said, They promised him preferment (he was not ambitious of that), but, they promised him money. I'll leave it there for this commentary. Have a look if you have time to ponder and want to really study this chapter. I'm confident there is a lot to digest. https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_014.cfm Bible Ref Commentary You may have used Got Questions and if so this commentary is part of that collection of resources. I've chosen this snippet because it helps clarify my thoughts in the opening and joins up the dots. In the Old Testament, Old Covenant we have the Passover. Today living under the New Covenant created through Christ's sacrifice, we have the Last Supper which we now commemorate during communion. Here the commentary helps us to understand by harmonising the Gospels. It's very clear that we need to read all of the Gospels to get the clearest understanding possible. Mark describes the Passover meal with the disciples ( Mark 14:12–21 ) while John goes into greater detail about what Jesus taught them ( John 13—17 ). In Egypt, the blood of lambs protected the Israelites from death ( Exodus 12 ). As Jesus prepares to shed His own blood to bring life to the world, He dismisses Judas to set the stage ( John 13:21–30 ) and transforms that Passover meal into the Lord's Supper ( Mark 14:22–25 ). As always there is much more that could be said and I hope one day to finish sharing the Bible and start all over again. I look forward to sharing more when and if I am blessed to do so. In the meantime, I'll leave this chapter and look forward to sharing Mark Chapter 15. If you have any thoughts or comments, please share them below.

This Blog Post accompanies my video reading of Mark 15 published on the Circular Grace YouTube channel . Link to Mark 15 Reading Reflection on Christ's Suffering This chapter is heartbreaking from beginning to end as we read what happens after Jesus is betrayed into the hands of those intent on torturing and killing Him. I watched a video recently on the new evidence put forward to support the authenticity of the Turin Shroud. I'm sure you'll be familiar with the ancient artifact believed to be the burial cloth Jesus was wrapped in. (Mark 15:46 (kjv)) 46 And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre. Watching the video was traumatic because although I've read the verses and knew that Jesus suffered, I hadn't appreciated or understood the full extent of the depraved cruelty that was inflicted upon His innocent and pure body. The word scourge rolls off the tongue quickly and is not a particularly familiar phrase. I wanted to think about what we should understand about the nature of Christ's suffering. Mark gives us just one word, 'scourged'. (Mark 15:15 (KJV)) 15 And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified. Scourging was a torturous and severe form of Roman corporal punishment. The excruciating pain that He most definitely endured before being presented with His cross to carry was horrific. The agony He suffered before He was brutally nailed to a cross to experience a humiliating and drawn out death should really bring each of us to repentance. He picked up that cross for every one of us! He suffered unimaginable, excruciating agony so that each of us could be saved. I'm humbled and I'm guilty and if anything ever brought home to me personally the reality of my utter unworthiness of His Almighty sacrifice, it was this gruesome video. Whether or not this shroud is the actual linen cloth that Jesus was wrapped in or not, isn't the point. This video provides graphic details regarding the injuries Jesus would have suffered before His death on the cross due to scourging. Shroud Studies : Dr John Campbell If you have some time to spare and are unfamiliar with what scourging is, this video provides detailed context regarding the type of torture Jesus endured. I'll now take you through the commentaries. This first one will add further context regarding the trial and crucifixion. Enduring Word Commentary This verse by verse commentary begins with context around the timing of the trial. We read in the previous chapter that Jesus was taken at night and questioned through the night by the Chief priests and scribes. This chapter begins with the official trial, whereby the Jews must present a case for Roman judgement. i. This trial was held immediately, in the morning for good reason. “The detail that Jesus was delivered to Pilate’s forum early in the morning is a significant index of the historical accuracy of the tradition. It was necessary for the Sanhedrin to bring its business to Pilate as soon after dawn as possible because the working day of a Roman official began at the earliest hour of daylight. Legal trials in the Roman forum were customarily held shortly after sunrise.” (Lane) We now see why Jesus was taken at night. Not only so that the multitude that followed Him were not aware but so that He could be dealt with before the beginning of the Sabbath. The Jews would have felt confident that Pilate would comply with their wishes because he had a cruel and ruthless reputation. The text tells us however that Pilate mistrusted the Jewish leaders. I imagine he could have wondered what they were concocting and whether it may be to his detriment. i. There was something working against this expectation. History tells us that Pilate simply didn’t like the Jews, and that he believed they were a stubborn and rebellious people. Since he was constantly suspicious of the Jews, when they brought him a prisoner for execution he immediately suspected there was a hidden agenda at work. Roman trials were public and Pilate was bound to follow the rule of law. He didn't trust the Jewish leaders and they didn't provide convincing evidence against Jesus. i. In addition, Pilate was no friend of the Jews. He could see through their manipulation, and he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy. This made Pilate want to find a way to free Jesus even more. Jesus offered no defence and this baffled Pilate who would have been accustomed to seeing men grovel and hearing them plead for their lives. As we read the text, we are aware that Pilate doesn't want to condemn Jesus. Maybe he doesn't want to be a puppet whos strings are being pulled by the Sanhedrin. Maybe he truly sees the innocence and purity of Jesus. We don't know, however it's clear he tried to win Jesus His freedom. i. Pilate figured, “If this man claimed to be king, and was even the slightest bit hostile to Rome, then the crowd will love him. These Jewish leaders don’t want Jesus to go free, but the crowd will sympathize with Him.” The crowd are not sympathetic to Jesus however. They are not the multitude who love and follow Jesus. Instead they are an unruly mob assembled by the Jewish leaders. They plead for an unworthy sinner and murderer who will live because Jesus dies. The commentary moves on to provide context on the most likely state of Jesus' health after scourging had been inflicted upon Him. His health was most probably in a sever, even critical state. The goal of the scourging was to weaken the victim to a state just short of collapse and death. “As the Roman soldiers repeatedly struck the victim’s back with full force, the iron balls would cause deep contusions, and the leather thongs and sheep bones would cut into the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Then, as the flogging continued, the lacerations would tear into the underlying skeletal muscles and produce quivering ribbons of bleeding flesh. Pain and blood loss generally set the stage for circulatory shock. The extent of blood loss may well have determined how long the victim would survive the cross.” (Edwards) It is in this tortured state that Jesus Our Saviour is lead away to suffer humiliation and further torture at the hands of Roman Soldiers. Remember that pain and torture was a gruesome form of sport in the Roman Empire with people paying to witness horrific scenes of mutilation in the gladiator arena. These perverse soldiers seem to have taken the opportunity to amuse themselves. i. We should expect that the Roman soldiers were tense during the Passover season, because it was a time of messianic expectation among the Jews and riots were likely. Mocking and beating a bruised, bleeding, exhausted man provided a few moments of stress-relieving entertainment. We'll leave this commentary here and take a look at a couple more. https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/mark-15/ Blue Letter Commentary Henry's commentary is full of theological context and requires a careful read to get the most from it. I like to include a link for anyone who may like to delve deep. There are numerous links to Old Testament verses to help harmonise the Old and New Covenant. Here's an example that helps us to understand the significance and importance of Jesus giving His innocent blood. 1. A bloody death, and without blood no remission, Heb. 9:22 . The blood is the life ( Gen. 9:4 ); it is the vehicle of the animal spirits, which connect the soul and body, so that the exhausting of the blood is the exhausting of the life. Christ was to lay down his life for us, and therefore shed his blood. Blood made atonement for the soul ( Lev. 17:11 ), and therefore in every sacrifice of propitiation special order was given for the pouring out of the blood, and the sprinkling of that before the Lord. Now, that Christ might answer all these types, he shed his blood. I'll finish with how Henry described the darkness that descended and what it foretold for those who betrayed Jesus. There was a thick darkness over the whole land (some think over the whole earth), for three hours, from noon till three of the clock. Now the scripture was fulfilled (Amos 8:9), I will cause the sun to go down at noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day; and Jer. 15:9, Her sun is gone down while it is yet day. The Jews have often demanded of Christ a sign from heaven; and now they had one, but such a one as signified the blinding of their eyes. It was a sign of the darkness that was come, and coming, upon the Jewish church and nation. To delve I to this commentary: https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/mhc/Mar/Mar_015.cfm My Final Thoughts Whilst we focus on the suffering and the darkness of those hours, I'm reminded of the star that shone over Bethlehem to usher in the birth of Our Saviour. It illuminated a great Light that is to walk amongst us. Jesus endured and defeated death and was from the very begining of creation the Light of the World. His light will shine for eternally and I pray it will be the eternal light in your life! Let me hear your thoughts by adding a comment below. 👇