Teaching Video Summary: Mark 12 & 13

Introduction

This teaching video explores Mark 12 & 13, emphasizing Jesus’ rejection by humanity. Using an analogy of organ transplant rejection, we reflect on how people resist what is essential for life.

The World’s Rejection of Jesus

• The Pharisees and Sadducees attempt to trap Jesus.
• The irony of trying to outwit “The Word” (John 1).
• Flattery fails against Jesus, who depends solely on the Father.

The Question of Taxes (Mark 12:13-17)

Jesus’ response to paying taxes to Caesar highlights a deeper truth: as the coin bears Caesar’s image, we bear God’s image and belong to Him.

Humility and the Greatest Commandment (Mark 12:28-44)

• “Love God and love your neighbor” requires humility.
• The widow’s offering as an act of total surrender.

Rejection and Humility Throughout Scripture

Examples from the Old Testament (Noah, Abraham) show that surrender leads to renewal and blessing.

The World’s Hostility Toward Jesus’ Followers (Mark 13)

• Jesus warns of inevitable persecution.
• Faithful proclamation of the Gospel remains a necessity.
• Standing firm in faith over seeking worldly power.

Application: Living in Dependency on Jesus

• Commit to Christian community.
• Surrender entitlement, pride, and anger.
• Depend on Jesus, rather than focusing on personal obedience.
• God’s goodness and mercy continually pursue us.

Lesson 19: The King, Prophet, and Priest

Instructor: Jeremy Thomas

Focus: The final week of Jesus’ life (Mark 11 – Mark 12:12)

Introduction

Imagine a birthday party piñata—colorful, promising, but empty inside. This illustrates the theme of today’s lesson: how things that appear full of life can actually be spiritually hollow.

I. Jesus as the King Who Offers Peace

Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem (Mark 11:1-6)

• Jesus sends disciples to get a colt, fulfilling Zechariah 9:9-10.
• Obedience to Jesus requires faith, even without full understanding.

The Crowd’s Expectations

• The crowd shouts “Hosanna” (Save us now!).
• They expected a military savior, but Jesus came to bring eternal peace.
• Many later turned against Jesus when he did not meet their desires.

II. Jesus as the Prophet Who Speaks Truth

Cursing of the Fig Tree (Mark 11:12-14, 20-26)

• The fig tree had leaves (outward signs of life) but no fruit.
• Symbolic of Israel’s spiritual condition—rituals without righteousness.
• Jesus teaches that true faith must bear spiritual fruit.

III. Jesus as the Priest Who Calls for Purity

Cleansing the Temple (Mark 11:15-19)

• Jesus overturns tables, challenging corruption in worship.
• The temple should be a “house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:6-8).
• Instead, it had become a “den of robbers” (Jeremiah 7:11).

Response of the Religious Leaders

• They plot to kill Jesus instead of repenting.
• Parable of the Tenants (Mark 12:1-12) foretells their rejection of God’s Son.

IV. Application for Today

Lessons from the Fig Tree and the Temple

• Beware of hollow religion—faith should produce real transformation.
• Trust God even when He doesn’t meet our expectations.
• True disciples bear fruit and follow Jesus wholeheartedly (John 15).

Conclusion & Prayer

Are we truly bearing spiritual fruit? Let us abide in Christ and trust His ways.

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord… he is like a tree planted by water…” – Jeremiah 17:7

Closing Prayer: Lord, make us true disciples, not just outwardly religious, but deeply rooted in You. Amen.

Lesson 18: The Rich Young Ruler and Discipleship

Introduction

Many of us hold onto possessions for sentimental reasons, but do they hold us back from what truly matters? In this lesson, we examine what Jesus teaches about wealth, faith, and discipleship.

Review of Lesson 17

• Jesus spoke more about hell than heaven.
• Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone.
• Discipleship requires humility and selflessness.

Mark 10 Overview

Jesus’ journey to the cross (Mark 8:31 – 10:52) was a time of deep discipleship. He continued teaching, healing, and guiding his followers, showing that discipleship happens in everyday life.

Themes in Mark 10

1. Pride vs. Humility

• The Pharisees test Jesus on divorce.
• The rich young ruler values wealth over Jesus.
• James and John seek positions of honor.
• Jesus emphasizes childlike faith and servanthood.

2. The Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17-31)

His Question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”

Jesus’ Response: Challenges his understanding of goodness and lists key commandments.

The Man’s Claim: “I have kept all these since my youth.”

Jesus’ Challenge: Sell all possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him.

The Man’s Reaction: He leaves saddened, unable to part with his wealth.

3. Jesus’ Teachings on Wealth and Salvation

• Wealth can be a barrier to faith.
• Salvation is impossible through human effort but possible with God.
• Those who leave worldly security for Christ will receive eternal rewards.

Application & Reflection

The Ultimate Question: “What do you think of Jesus?”

• Jesus knows our hearts and what we treasure most.
• The issue isn’t wealth but where we place our trust.
• It’s not about how we start but how we finish in discipleship.

Ask yourself:

• What is taking preeminence in my heart?
• Am I progressing in my walk with Christ or drifting away?
• Where is my treasure—on earth or in heaven?

Group Discussion Questions

Take time to reflect and discuss these questions in your group:

• Questions 1 and 6 from Day 2
• Questions 4 and 6 from Day 3
• Question 4 from Day 4
• Question 3 from Day 5

Conclusion

May we be found treasuring Christ above all things. Let’s remain steadfast in our faith, ensuring that our discipleship journey is not just about how we start but how we finish.

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45

Lesson 17: Mark 9:30-50 Teaching Video Outline

Speaker: Scott Neubauer

Introduction

• Encouragement to read Mark 9:30-50 and parallel passages (Matthew 17-18, Luke 9).
• Overview of the geographical journey from Mount Hermon to Capernaum.
• Understanding the big picture: Jesus’ journey towards His crucifixion.
• Key biblical perspective: Jesus is seen throughout the Bible.
• Opening prayer.

Overview of Mark 9:30-50

Scene setting: Two parts of the journey

• Traveling through Galilee (outdoor journey).
• Indoors in Capernaum (private teaching moment).

Differences from previous passages:

• No large crowds, no Pharisees, no miracles.
• Intimate teaching moment with the twelve disciples.

Key takeaway: Jesus remains in control despite the disciples’ misunderstandings.

Three Key Themes

A. Humility

• Definition: Freedom from pride and arrogance.
• Modern contrast: Lack of humility in sports, social media, and daily life.
• Jesus’ ultimate humility:
  • Foretelling His death and resurrection.
  • Choosing to suffer crucifixion for salvation.
• Key scripture: Philippians 2:5-8.

B. Pride

• The disciples’ argument: Who is the greatest?
• Jesus’ response:
  • “If anyone would be first, he must be last and servant of all.”
  • Illustrates humility by placing a child in their midst.
• Warning against pride:
  • Destroys unity (in churches, small groups, workplaces).
  • Leads to exclusivity and competition.
• Story of the underground church in Iraq:
  • Unity among believers despite differences.
  • The importance of humility in the Christian community.

C. Warnings

• Leading others into sin: Mark 9:42
  • Serious responsibility in discipling young believers.
  • Followers of Christ must be examples, not stumbling blocks.
• Seriousness of sin: Mark 9:43-48
  • Jesus’ radical language about cutting off sin’s influence.
  • Sin originates from the heart (Mark 7:21-23).
  • Solution: Renew the mind (Romans 12, Colossians 3).
• The reality of hell: Mark 9:47-48
  • Hell is real and the consequence of rejecting Christ.
  • Quote from William Booth: “Five minutes in hell would change how we live.”

Application

• Remember Jesus’ sacrifice:
  • Communion as a reminder of His humility and suffering.
• Self-examination on pride:
  • Reflection on the “Proud People vs. Broken People” chart (Vertical Endeavor resource).
• Final prayer:
  • Surrender to God’s will, repentance, and a commitment to humility.

Closing Prayer: “Our Heavenly Father, we thank you. I thank you for your goodness and graciousness. I thank you for the example that Jesus set. It’s a reminder that we are wholly dependent on Him. I pray that your word would sink in and change people’s lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Lesson 16 – Mark 8:27–9:29

A study on Jesus’ ministry, identity, suffering, and discipleship.

Introduction

Focus: Gospel of Mark, specifically Mark 8:27–9:29. Theme: Jesus’ ministry, identity, suffering, and teachings on discipleship.

Key Sections and Themes

1. Jesus’ Identity (Mark 8:27–30)

• Jesus asks His disciples: “Who do people say that I am?”
• Varied opinions about Jesus’ identity (prophet, miracle worker, etc.).
• Personal question: “Who do you say that I am?”
• Peter’s confession: “You are the Christ.”
• Reflection: The importance of personal faith in recognizing Jesus as Savior.

2. Jesus Predicts His Suffering (Mark 8:31–33)

• Jesus reveals He must suffer, be rejected, die, and rise again.
• Peter rebukes Jesus; Jesus rebukes Peter: “Get behind me, Satan.”
• Lessons:
  • Suffering is part of God’s plan.
  • The danger of focusing on human desires over God’s will.

3. Call to Discipleship (Mark 8:34–38)

• Jesus calls for self-denial, taking up the cross, and following Him.
• Challenges:
  • Embracing suffering and hardships as part of faith.
  • Reflection: Prioritizing Jesus over worldly gains (“What does it profit a man…?”).

4. The Transfiguration (Mark 9:1–8)

• Event: Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John.
• Moses (representing the Law) and Elijah (representing the Prophets) appear with Jesus.
• God’s command: “This is my beloved Son; listen to Him.”
• Lessons:
  • Jesus is central; listening to Him provides clarity in times of confusion.

5. Healing of the Boy with an Evil Spirit (Mark 9:14–29)

• Situation: A boy possessed by an evil spirit; the disciples fail to cast it out.
• Key statement: “All things are possible for one who believes.”
• Father’s prayer: “I believe; help my unbelief.”
• Lessons:
  • Faith and prayer are essential in overcoming spiritual challenges.
  • Jesus’ power to completely heal and restore.

Reflection and Application

• Faith and Submission: Submission to God’s will, even in suffering. Prioritizing prayer and aligning with God’s plans over personal desires.
• Growth and Maturity: Discipleship involves ongoing spiritual growth. Encouragement to deepen faith, prayer life, and knowledge of Jesus.
• Personal Questions for Reflection:
  • Who is Jesus to you?
  • Have you embraced the reality of suffering in following Jesus?
  • Are you actively seeking God’s will and growing in your faith?

Lesson 15 – Mark Chapter 8: Dependency, Competency, and Spiritual Insight

Introduction

Mark’s Gospel employs a unique “sandwich” technique that alternates between dependency, competency, incompetency, and dependency. This teaching explores these contrasts to reveal deeper spiritual truths.

Part 1: Dependency (Verses 1–10)

Context of Dependency

• Wilderness setting symbolizes desolation and vulnerability.
• The people rely on Jesus for physical and spiritual sustenance.

Disbelief and Blindness of the Disciples

Although the disciples recognize their insufficiency, they fail to realize Jesus, the Bread of Life, is their solution.

Jesus’ Compassion

• Jesus shows concern for the crowd’s needs.
• Reflection on God’s compassionate character (Exodus 34:6).

Provision Through Jesus

Disciples receive from Jesus and share with others, teaching that God’s commands reveal our need for Him and invite us to depend on His sufficiency.

Part 2: Competency of the Pharisees (Verses 11–13)

Pharisees’ Approach

• Militaristic opposition to Jesus.
• Attempts to control and discredit Jesus stem from a refusal to depend on God.

Jesus’ Response

Jesus grieves over their rejection, departing in sorrow rather than anger, allowing them to persist in their choice of self-reliance.

Part 3: Incompetency of the Disciples (Verses 14–21)

Context of Incompetency

• Disciples are distracted by their failures.
• They misunderstand Jesus’ teachings and focus on material concerns.

Jesus’ Directive

Jesus warns against the pride of self-reliance, emphasizing the need for continual dependence on Him.

Lesson on Dependency

Incompetency leads to spiritual blindness when focus remains on self. True clarity comes from reliance on Jesus.

Part 4: Dependency Restored (Verses 22–26)

Healing of the Blind Man

The gradual healing of the blind man reflects the disciples’ slow journey to spiritual understanding.

Dependence and Deliverance

• Others bring the blind man to Jesus, symbolizing prayer and intercession.
• Jesus’ compassion and patience lead to clear spiritual sight.

Conclusion

Living in Dependency

Salvation and spiritual clarity require ongoing reliance on Jesus. Practical steps include Scripture study, prayer, and church community.

Key Takeaway

The Christian life is not about competence or self-reliance but ongoing dependence on Jesus, who provides compassion, provision, and sight.

The Art of the Story Sandwich in Mark’s Gospel

Teaching Summary Outline by Jeremy Thomas

Introduction

• Presenter Introduction: Jeremy Thomas introduces the session.
• Central Theme:
  • Exploring the literary structure in the Gospel of Mark, focusing on “story sandwiches.”
  • Connecting Mark’s storytelling to deeper theological truths.

Section 1: The Concept of the “Story Sandwich”

• Definition:
  • A narrative structure where one story is inserted into another, forming a “sandwich.”
  • Central story (the “meat”) reveals the core message.
• Illustration:
  • Comparison to sandwiches where the meat is the identifying element, not the bread.
• Biblical Examples:
  • Example from Mark 5 (Jairus’s daughter and the bleeding woman).

Section 2: Exploring the Sandwich in Mark 7

• Central Narrative:
  • Focus on Jesus’ interaction with the Pharisees about purity (Mark 7:1-23).
  • Teaching framed by two miraculous feedings (Mark 6 and 8).
• Chiasm Structure:
  • Mark’s use of a pyramid-like narrative structure with the central teaching as the climax.

Section 3: Theological Insights

• Key Themes:
  • Purity and impurity: External rituals vs. internal transformation.
  • Human insufficiency vs. divine sufficiency.
• Application to Mark 7:
  • Jesus critiques traditions of men that overshadow God’s commandments.
  • Central teaching: The heart matters more than outward rituals.

Section 4: Practical Applications

• Discussion Prompts:
  • Reflect on personal traditions and how they align with God’s commands.
  • Explore faith and humility exemplified by the Syrophoenician woman.
• Life Lessons:
  • Emphasis on inward transformation over external compliance.
  • Avoiding the pitfalls of religious pride and hypocrisy.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to Reflect:
  • Focus on God’s commandments motivated by love, not fear or tradition.
• Closing Prayer:
  • Request for internal cleansing and genuine worship.

Understanding the Kingdom of God

Introduction

• Welcome & Prayer
• Encouragement to spend time in silence and solitude with Christ.
• Prayer for guidance and understanding during the study.
• Main Theme: The reality and relevance of the Kingdom of God in Scripture and life.

Key Sections

What is the Kingdom of God?

• Definition: A spiritual state where God’s life is accessible on earth (Andrew Murray).
• Characteristics:
  1. Presence and rule of the King (Jesus Christ).
  2. Power of God and Christ in believers.
  3. Entry through spiritual rebirth.
  4. Blessings of living in the Kingdom.

Development of the Kingdom of God in Scripture

• Phase 1: Prophesied in the Old Testament (e.g., Daniel 2:44-45).
• Phase 2: Present during Christ’s earthly ministry.
• Phase 3: Provisional phase after Christ’s rejection and ascension.
• Phase 4: Millennial reign of Christ on earth.
• Phase 5: Eternal Kingdom (Revelation 21-22).

Practical Applications (So What?)

• Living as Citizens of the Kingdom:
  • Questions for reflection:
    • Do I believe the Kingdom of God is real?
    • How does this belief shape my life and actions?
  • Areas to work on (e.g., overcoming fear, living for God’s approval).
• Improving Relationship with God:
  • Importance of solitude and quiet time with God.
  • Suggestions for deeper spiritual intimacy (e.g., reading related materials).
• Impact on Others:
  • Reflecting the Kingdom of God through actions and relationships.
  • Encouragement to live a life that reveals the Kingdom’s reality to others.

Encouragement and Group Study

• Recommended Questions: Focus on specific group discussion questions to deepen understanding.
• Closing Blessings: Encouragement for continued growth and reflection.

Lesson 12: More of Jesus’ Miracles

1. Introduction

• Acknowledgment of participants’ engagement in small groups and Bible study.
• Encouragement to share something impactful about the study during Christmas with friends and family.

2. Overview of Mark Chapter 6:30–56

• Passage Divisions:
  • Verses 30–44: Jesus feeds the 5,000.
  • Verses 45–52: Jesus walks on water.
  • Verses 53–56: Jesus heals the sick in Gennesaret.
• Observation: Headings summarize Jesus’ actions but may miss His deeper identity and mission.

3. Context and Key Actions in Mark Chapter 6

• Chapter Overview:
  • Begins in Nazareth with Jesus teaching and being rejected.
  • Disciples sent out to preach and heal.
  • Interlude: John the Baptist’s execution by Herod.
  • Return of the disciples; Jesus attempts to retreat for rest.
  • Miracles: Feeding the 5,000, walking on water, healing the sick.
• Focus of Teaching:
  • Compassion of Jesus as the Good Shepherd (central theme of verses 30–56).
  • Heart of Jesus revealed in His deep compassion for people.

4. Jesus as the Good Shepherd

• Scriptural Support:
  • Mark 6:34: Compassion for people “like sheep without a shepherd.”
  • Supporting passages: John 10, Ezekiel 34, Psalm 23.
• Jesus’ Compassion in Action:
  • Teaching and feeding the crowds.
  • Leading and caring for the disciples.
  • Healing and restoring the sick.

5. Detailed Analysis of Key Miracles

• Feeding the 5,000 (Verses 30–44):
  • Jesus’ focus on providing spiritual and physical sustenance.
  • Significance of abundance: A demonstration of God’s lavish provision.
• Walking on Water (Verses 45–52):
  • Jesus’ leadership and guidance through trials.
  • Disciples’ lack of understanding due to hardened hearts.
• Healing in Gennesaret (Verses 53–56):
  • Jesus’ power to heal and restore lives, fulfilling His role as the compassionate shepherd.

6. Application and Reflection

• Focus on Jesus’ Identity:
  • Recognize Jesus as the compassionate shepherd in trials and blessings.
  • Depend on Him rather than attempting to control outcomes.
• Sharing the Message:
  • Share personal insights from the study with family and friends during Christmas.

7. Conclusion

• Quotation from John Newton emphasizing the completeness of Jesus as the source of everything.
• Closing prayer for understanding and application of the teaching.