Opening Question
What makes someone a good student?
Introduction
Many commentators will divide Mark into two sections: the first half ends at 8:30 or perhaps 8:38, and the 2nd half ends at 16:8 (or 20). The first half answers the question, “who is Jesus”? This half shows the path to identity ending at Caesarea Philippi where Peter announces the identity of Jesus. The second half asks, “why will Jesus die?” and shows the path to the cross and the passion of Jesus.
This lesson examines several teachings on discipleship. Jesus will predict his death, and then reveal to the disciples the cost of following Him. They do not seem ready at this point and are confused about what a real disciple looks like.
Mark 8:22-30
Jesus heals a blind man, but it doesn’t work the first time Jesus tries. As Dr. Shepherd notes in the lesson, this cannot be because of any lack of power on Jesus’ part. He knows how and has ample connection to the life-giving power of heaven. Yet there is a lesson her for the disciples, as part of chs. 8-10 on discipleship.
How would you react to having a partial healing? What would full healing feel like compared to the partial? What lesson do the disciples learn about discipleship through the metaphor of “sight” being only partial? What is their spiritual vision like?
What identity does Peter give to Jesus compared with the rest of those queried? Why is this an “inspired” answer?
Mark 8:31-38
We often think of the disciples hearing Jesus speak about taking of a cross in a figurative sense: “oh, that is just my cross to bear” when asked why I drive a Toyota instead of a Ferrari. But Jesus here teaches that His disciples must be willing to suffer the worst of Roman tortures—the crucifix and the ignominy that accompanies this cursed and humiliating death.
Peter was certainly willing the night of Jesus’ arrest to fight to the death; but when Jesus allowed Himself to be arrested, Peter ran. Why is death in battle considered honorable and even sought-after by some, while death by execution is to be avoided at all costs? What is the real cost of following Jesus illuminated by Jesus’ statements regarding being ashamed of Him?
Mark 9:1-13
Many skeptics believe that Jesus’ words in 9:1 were never fulfilled because such people believe them to apply to the 2nd coming. But in Mark, as in Matthew, Jesus promise that some will not taste death is followed immediately by the story of the transfiguration. This event plays an expanding role to Jesus’ baptism where the same Heavenly voice is heard again.
What role to Elijah and Moses play in meeting to speak with Jesus? Why are these two men significant in Israel’s history, and what happens to them if Jesus fails in his mission?
Once again, we see discipleship at its worst as Peter tries to make three “tabernacles” for the transfigured men in front of him. If the word here for “tabernacle” is the same as the word used for the Hebrew temple, what is Peter really offering to make?
Mark 9:14-29
This story of the unclean spirit in the young man is nearly as sensational as the Gadarene/Gerasene Demoniac story earlier. But here, discipleship is again highlighted. The disciples are unable to cast it out! This time, Jesus replies (vs. 19) with what appears to be exasperation about their unbelief. After casting out the deaf/mute demon, He teaches the disciples the power of prayer for this “type.”
Are there truly different types or families of demonic spirits? Perhaps we’re uncomfortable speaking about the topic, but Jesus certainly was not. When the reality of spiritual and demonic bondage is in front of us, we’re better off admitting the problem and seeking the power of God. How does our spiritual connection give us power in these instances?
Mark 9:30-41
Once again, Messianic Secret, and then Jesus forecasts His death. But instead of listening, the disciples argue about Who is the greatest. We seem to be the same today, always striving for superiority in games, work-accolades, academics, driving, or just being “right” in every-day arguments.
What lesson does Jesus teach when He places a child in the middle of the disciples? How were children valued in that culture, and why does Jesus use one as an example here?
Mark 9:42-50
The conclusion of Mark 9 has some textual challenges where some verses appear to be added to the later manuscripts of Mark. But either way, vs. 48 includes the words, and the teaching is still clear here: If you want to enter life, it’s better to go in missing a limb if that body part causes you to sin. This seems to be playing on the ideas of the Pharisees that sin reside in the body, and caused the bad behavior. If that were so, Jesus argues, better cut the limb off, and still get the rest of you into heaven. But perhaps there is more. What do we value most, that which is closest to us, that prevents full discipleship? What part of my life should be cut off for the sake of the Kingdom?
What would you find most difficult to part with if Jesus asked you to relinquish it for the sake of the Kingdom?
Closing Comments
Discipleship is a life-time experience. But Jesus is patient with us, even if we’re exasperating. May God provide the grace we need to grow daily and learn the lessons that equip us for ministry and His eternal Kingdom.
