AUGUST 2019

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

SERVANT DISCIPLESHIP: The Gospel of Mark

A ministry of TODAY WITH MARK JOBE President of Moody Bible Institute

Counting the Cost In our car we have hear. Jesus’ answer demanded much an auto pass that more than he was prepared to give. allows us to charge Verse 22 records: “He went away sad, the cost of tolls. Even because he had great wealth.” Jesus better, it means I do drew a line between being a fan and not have to stop at becoming a true follower. the toll booth. This works well, most of the time. But one I knew a young man who, at 17, decided day, I realized that one of our kids to get baptized. When he told his had borrowed the pass, and it was mother, she said, “I’d rather have you nowhere to be found. I pulled into the be dead than be one of those people.” change part of the tollway and began This young man went ahead and was fumbling for coins. Ignoring the looks baptized, not out of disrespect, but from drivers behind me, I searched because he had to choose God over our car and even the ground below his mom. His decision to put Christ first the basket. Clearly, I wasn’t prepared. cost him something. I hadn’t counted the cost of driving on that tollway. The disciples, after watching the rich young man leave, asked Jesus, Some people are like that in their “Who then can be saved?” (v. 26). spiritual beliefs. They appreciate Jesus explained that there is a cost the idea of Christianity but haven’t to following Him. “Whoever does not considered what it costs to follow take up their cross and follow me is not Jesus. In Mark, chapter 10, a wealthy worthy of me. Whoever finds their life young man approached Jesus. He will lose it, and whoever loses their life admired Jesus, calling Him “Good for my sake will find it” (Matt. 10:38–39). teacher,” and asked how he could be guaranteed eternal life. Jesus gave Martin Luther said, “A religion that gives him a challenging command, “Go, sell nothing, costs nothing, and suffers everything you have and give to the nothing, is worth nothing.” When we poor, and you will have treasure in follow Christ, there’s a price to pay. Are heaven. Then come, follow me” (v. 21). you ready to follow? If so, you must In essence, Jesus said this: If you follow count the cost. Decide today to make me, it’s going to cost you something. Him number one in your life. Choose This wasn’t what the man wanted to Him. Follow Him. n

˜800™ 356›6639 THEOLOGY MATTERS by Dr. John Koessler

Jesus Our Ransom ne notable feature of Mark’s Jesus did not do this for His own sake Gospel is his portrayal of but for ours. Those for whom He died O Jesus as the servant of God. have been buried and are risen with The theological center of this theme Him (Rom. 6:4). is found in Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, God is both the initiator and the but to serve, and to give his life as a recipient of this spiritual transaction, ransom for many.” Although Jesus was but we are the beneficiaries. God sent Israel’s promised King and Messiah, He His Son into the world (John 5:36). did not come to reign but to serve by He accepted Christ’s suffering as a offering His life as a ransom. This New satisfactory payment for our sin. Yet the Testament word speaks of exchange. reward is given to us. Paul expresses In other Greek writings, it refers to the the essence of Christ’s substitutionary price paid to buy back a prisoner of war work on our behalf in 2 Corinthians or a slave. The prophet Isaiah predicted 5:21: “God made him who had no sin that Israel’s Messiah would come as a to be sin for us, so that in him we might suffering servant. According to Isaiah become the righteousness of God.” In 53:10 it was the Lord’s will to make Mark 10:45 Jesus points to His suffering Christ suffer because this suffering as an example. But before we can serve was “an offering for sin.” we must be served. When we trust in Christ, we exchange our sin for His Two important theological terms are righteousness. Only then are we fit to used to explain what it means that serve Him. n Jesus gave His life as a ransom, penal and substitutionary. To say that Jesus’ suffering was penal means His FOR FURTHER STUDY suffering was neither an accident nor To learn more about the penal and a tragedy. He voluntarily gave His life substitutionary nature of Christ’s to satisfy our deserved punishment. work, read Pierced for Our He shed His blood to pay the ransom Transgressions: Rediscovering the God’s justice demands for our sin. Glory of Penal Substitution by Steve When we describe His suffering as Jeffery, Michael Ovey, and Andrew substitutionary, we emphasize that Sach (Crossway).

TODAYINTHEWORD.ORG FROM THE EDITORS by Jamie Janosz

MBI Professors: Milestones of Service Dr. Rosalie de Rosset I love my students! I love talking to them You may recognize Dr. Rosalie de Rosset about their lives, their struggles, and the as a Today in the Word Q&A columnist. way Jesus meets them. I’ve grown up She’s also a writer, conference speaker, with my students.” After 50 years, Dr. frequent guest at Moody Radio de Rosset is thankful for what teaching programs, and book club host. But has taught her. “The most important her life’s passion is teaching. In May, thing you can do is to be humble and she celebrated 50 years of service at teachable and to encourage both Moody Bible Institute as a professor qualities in your students.” of Communications and Literature. What a Dr. Eric Redmond remarkable achievement! “The most This year, Eric Redmond important thing authored Today in the Word In May, Moody honored you can do is devotionals on 2 Chronicles to be humble Dr. de Rosset at President’s (March 2019) and the Gospel and teachable Chapel, where former and to encourage of Mark (August 2019). In students and colleagues both qualities in April, Dr. Eric Redmond spoke of her influence your students.” successfully defended his on their lives. As a pillar –Dr. Rosalie de Rosset doctoral dissertation and of the Communications earned his PhD! Moody and General Education students honored their department at Moody, she has taught professor for his accomplishment with scores of students to be better thinkers, showers of silly string and balloons. readers, writers, and speakers. Dr. Redmond is an associate professor Dr. de Rosset is known for challenging of Bible at Moody Bible Institute. He her students (and our Today in the Word began teaching at Moody in 2015, after readers) to dig deeper into God’s Word, attending Washington Bible College to love God and follow His leading, and and Dallas Theological Seminary. He to think theologically about personal and earned his PhD from Capital Seminary political issues. She keeps in touch with and Graduate School. He and his wife, many of her former students who thank Pamela, live with their five children in her for the role she played in their faith the Chicago suburbs where he also journey. Dr. de Rosset says, “I’ve had serves as an associate pastor at a more than eight thousand students. local church. n

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MANAGING EDITOR Jamie Janosz SENIOR EDITOR Elena Mafter Servant Discipleship: CONTRIBUTING EDITOR John Koessler The Gospel of Mark WRITER Eric Redmond We who follow Christ want to be His wholehearted ART DIRECTOR Lynn Gabalec disciples. At the end of our journey we all would like GRAPHIC DESIGNERS to hear the words of our Lord: “Well done, good and Larry Bohlin, Rachel Hutcheson faithful servant!” (Matt. 25:23). But with today’s emphasis MARKETING & PRODUCTION Paul B. Currie on being strong, empowered, visionary, and influencer, the biblical call to live like a servant, may feel out of MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE PRESIDENT touch. How do we live as faithful servants? Mark Jobe INTERIM PROVOST The Gospel of Mark, our study with Today in the Word John Jelinek EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT this month, will help us find the answer. The theme of Mark Wagner the book is Christ the Servant, and Christ Himself shows SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT us who the true servant is and how to become one. As Greg Thornton CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER we go through the book chapter by chapter, we’ll see Ken Heulitt how Christ leads His disciples, teaching them to be true CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER servants by His own example. They “must be the very Samuel Choy last” (Mark 9:35); they “must deny themselves and take VICE PRESIDENTS up their cross” (Mark 8:34); they serve, and shouldn’t Tim Arens Larry Davidhizar expect to be served (Mark 10:45). Jim Elliott Bruce Everhart Doug Hastings We pray our study this month will reveal to us in a Frank W. Leber Jr. Bryan O’Neal new way that discipleship is first of all servanthood. Paul Santhouse Our prayer is that the message of Mark’s Gospel will Heather Shalley Janet Stiven take us back to the simple truth of faithfulness and Debbie Zelinski obedience to God’s guidance. Thank you for studying

TRUSTEES the Bible with us! And thank you for supporting the Christopher Denison ministry of Today in the Word. n Orbelina Eguizabal Mike Fabarez T. Randall Fairfax (Chairman) —Elena Mafter, Senior Editor Mark Flannery Thomas S. Fortson Manuel Gutierrez Mark Jobe Paul Johnson (Emeritus) James Meeks Moody Bible Institute is the sole publisher of Today in the Word, copyright David Schipper © 2019 by Moody Bible Institute. All rights reserved. Please direct all Today Julianna Slattery in the Word inquiries to Donor Resource Management, 820 N. LaSalle Blvd., Richard E. Warren Chicago, IL 60610. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, Richard Yook NIV®, copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. Scripture taken from the New American Standard Bible®, copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by the Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. Printed in the U.S.A. Today in the Word is published monthly. Printed on 30% recycled paper.

TODAYINTHEWORD.ORG READ MARK 1:1 15

THURSDAY AUGUST You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased. 1 Mark 1:11

He Came to Serve as God The right start is important for a one who would come before the Lord successful journey. This holds true to make a way for His arrival (see Mal. whether you start your morning with 3:1; Isa. 40:3). John came from the a nutritional breakfast so you can have wilderness. He baptized in order to the mental capacity and energy for the “prepare the way” for the Lord to come rest of your day, or it can mean enrolling to people and free their hearts from sin. your child in the right school so they can become an outstanding learner John baptized Jesus not because and a productive, capable adult. Jesus needed repentance, but so that He could stand in the place of “the From the very first chapter of the many” in need of a ransom for sin (Mark Gospel of Mark, the disciple paints a 10:45). At that incredible moment, right portrait of Jesus that shapes the way at the very beginning of Jesus’ earthly we read and understand the rest of ministry, Heaven responded with so his gospel. In order to affirm Christ’s much affirmation and excitement that deity as the Son of God from the very the sky ripped open. The Holy Spirit beginning of His ministry, Mark begins alighted on Jesus, coming down like with the fulfillment of prophecy and a dove, and the Father’s voice from divine witness to the identity of Jesus Heaven audibly identified Jesus as His Christ. Mark portrays the work of the Son. This passage presents a beautiful One who has come to serve humankind picture of the Trinity, similar to the as the work of God Himself. picture in Genesis 1 during Creation.

Both Isaiah and Malachi prophesied the coming of John the Baptist, the

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US If you have time, begin your study of Mark’s Thank you for joining us on this Gospel by reading straight through the entire month’s journey of Bible study book. Mark’s account of Christ’s earthly ministry and prayer with Today in the Word! Let’s ask the Lord to give is brief and fast-paced. With a little discipline you us a teachable spirit and open our can finish the whole book quickly and learn a hearts to the lessons He wants great deal about our Savior who came to serve us to learn from our study of the and who calls us to serve as well. Gospel of Mark.

6 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 1:16 34

FRIDAY “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, AUGUST “and I will make you fishers of men.” Mark 1:17 2

Fishers of Men In the opening chapter of J.R.R. encountered Simon’s mother-in-law Tolkien’s The Hobbit, we can read who was ill. By the time they left, she a memorable exchange between was well and serving Christ and his the novel’s hero Bilbo Baggins and followers. The rebuke of the demon Gandalf the wizard. Gandalf imposes an in the synagogue and the healing adventure upon Bilbo, the unsuspecting of Peter’s mother-in-law drew all hobbit. Bilbo says, “I beg your pardon, Capernaum to hear about Jesus, as I haven’t asked for anything!” Gandalf’s they brought all their afflicted to Him. reply is direct and challenging, “Yes you The disciples learned an important have. Twice now. My pardon. I give it to lesson—following Jesus would be the you. In fact, I will go so far as to send adventure of a lifetime. you to this adventure. Very amusing for me, very good for you—and profitable In today’s Scripture reading, Mark too, very likely, if you ever get over it.” challenges us as well: “Are you willing to follow Jesus wholeheartedly and When Jesus called ordinary fishermen let Him be in charge of your life?” to become fishers of men, He gave Mark’s Gospel records Jesus’ calling them a kind and challenging invitation. of four men—Simon, Andrew, James, The calling of these ordinary working and John—away from their livelihoods. men demonstrated the power of Christ These former fishermen immediately that could change lives, even the most witnessed that the scribes did not ordinary and cast down. have innate authority to teach; they depended upon the authority of others. After the initial calling of the disciples, Jesus had all authority to teach and Jesus and the four fishermen show the ways of God.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The challenges of daily life can dull us to the Please uphold in prayer MBI’s grand adventure to which Christ invites us. We are system administrators: Joseph called to journey with the great King who promises Kessinger, Joseph Straw, Kyle Sparrow, Michael Paniak, His love both now and forever, in a kingdom Paul Walker, and William without end! Our sins have been forgiven. His Eyerdom. In our time of digital righteousness is ours. And we have power from communications, we couldn’t do the Spirit to live this life with joy! Hallelujah! without their computer expertise.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 7 READ MARK 1:3545

SATURDAY AUGUST Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place where he prayed. 3 Mark 1:35

A Prayer-Dependent Life A. C. Dixon (1854–1925) was a pastor, Here Jesus sets an important pattern a Bible expositor, and an evangelist. for His disciples as they began the He published a book series called The important work of fishing for men. Fundamentals with Moody Bible Institute president R. A. Torrey. Dixon wrote on It was because of the needs of the the importance of prayer, “When we people, and because of the demands depend upon man, we get what man can of preaching and casting out demons do; But when we depend upon prayer, that Jesus spent time alone in prayer. we get what God can do.” He prayed ahead of his schedule, when others were still sleeping, and in a place In today’s passage, we experience a day where He would not be interrupted. This in the life of Jesus. Many were coming was His practice of prayer, a model for to hear and see Him. In fact, Mark His followers (Luke 5:16; 6:12; 9:18, 28; records that “the whole town gathered 11:1; 22:41–45). at the door” (v. 33). Everyone in this town had come to see Jesus! What an As a result of His disciplined habit of overwhelming response to our Lord, prayer, Jesus was able to meet the a great revival of souls. It is the sort of coming demands of serving the most response to Jesus we hope to see in our challenging needs. He would travel churches every week! from town to town, preach in synagogue after synagogue, encounter crowds of Yet, rather than relish this victory or even people—including many possessed by return immediately to revive many more demons. But the demands of preaching, souls, Jesus rose the next day to spend crowds, and demons were no match for time alone with His Father in prayer. a God-infused, prayer-dependent life.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Our schedules may seem to fight against develop- Please include in your prayers ing a prayer habit like Jesus.’ And unfortunately, Moody’s vice president of Human it may seem like we can accomplish much even Resources, Debbie Zelinski. Her leadership, along with her team’s without a faithful prayer life. However, serving dedicated service, helps every others with love, wisdom, patience, kindness, employee use their professional faithfulness, forgiveness, and strength requires expertise for God’s glory. great power from God through great prayer.

8 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 2:1 27

SUNDAY The Son of Man has authority AUGUST on earth to forgive sins. Mark 2:10 4

Persistence Is Rewarded In 2019, Marine veteran Micah Herndon watching. To the paralytic man, Jesus ran the Boston Marathon to pay tribute said, “Son, your sins are forgiven” (v. 5). to his fallen fellow Marines, Mark Juarez, Matthew Ballard, and Rupert Hamer. The religious teachers who were The three men had lost their lives during scrutinizing everything Jesus said and a bombing in Afghanistan in 2010. did declared His words blasphemous. Herndon wore their names across his But throughout this passage, Jesus shoe laces as he ran. After 22 miles, demonstrated that He was not about Herndon’s legs began to give out. He following religious tradition. Instead, continued to run, but his legs gave He was doing something new. He way near the finish line and the Marine was forgiving sin. He was calling a tax collapsed. Yet Herndon, age 31, would collector to be His disciple (vv. 13–17). not be stopped. He crawled the last He was eating with sinners. He and His several yards to cross the finish line. disciples were not fasting like others.

Persistence. For Micah Herndon, it Jesus clearly demonstrated that He was meant finishing his third marathon. For about something different. He was not the four men in today’s passage it meant limited to human tradition that would helping their paralytic friend see Jesus. It keep someone like the paralytic from would have been easy for these friends coming to Him. With everything He said to give up when they saw the enormous and did, He was presenting grace. Jesus crowd surrounding Jesus. But their refused to put the new wine of His truth persistence paid off, and Jesus healed into the old wineskins valued by the their friend. Jesus also said something Jewish authorities. that surprised the people who were

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Today, remember our country’s wounded and Today and tomorrow, please fallen veterans and their families, as well as those join us in prayer for the Human with physical health challenges. Pray for the grace, Resources staff. Today, we are thankful for the service of Peter mercy, and strength of Christ to fill their lives. Ask Miller, Rachel Paul, and Erica God to give your church wisdom on how to serve Loring as they oversee employee wounded and physically challenged saints in your benefits at Moody. midst, so they can experience His love for them.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 9 READ MARK 3:20 35

MONDAY AUGUST Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother. 5 Mark 3:35

Family Disciples Society has little place for those The teachers of the Law said, “He deemed to be insane. The history of is possessed by Beelzebub” (v. 22). America’s mental institutions—“insane They attributed the casting out of asylums,” as they used to be called— demons to the ruler of demons. Jesus gives a small glimpse into the handling responded to these accusations and of those who have lost their abilities to recognized that acknowledging the reason soundly. John Hinkley Jr. was true origin of His works is a matter of sentenced to an asylum for his attempt eternal importance. It distinguished true to assassinate President Ronald family members of Jesus from those Reagan and spent 36 years in a mental who would be eternally condemned as institution. blasphemous.

So it is no small thing when Jesus’ Jesus explained that He could not be family accused him of being “out of demonic, for a kingdom cannot fight his mind” (v. 21). They believed the against itself and be victorious. With schedule He was keeping, which even such a serious accusation, the teachers prevented Him and His disciples from of the Law were ascribing the works eating, was far too taxing. Eighteenth of the Holy Spirit to Satan. Jesus gave century English Baptist pastor and immediate judgment to the teachers of scholar, John Gill, says that Jesus’ the Law, members of the only generation family, in what they perceived as an who could accuse Jesus directly, but the act of kindness, wanted to take Him force of His warning still applies today. home and confine him as a madman! It is important to understand that Jesus Some accused Jesus of being insane serves in the power of God. We need while others declared Him demonic. God’s power too, if we are to do His will.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Few understand the pain of loving someone with a Please add the rest of the brain injury or debilitating mental illness. Few are Human Resources team to your sensitive to the struggles faced daily by spouses, prayer list: Vecia Ricks, Mia Gale, Joseph Bolz, Karla Olson, parents, children, siblings, and caregivers. One and Darric Obinger. Ask God way to live out the truth of being a part of God’s to bless them for the help and family is to be a respite giver. Ask an affected guidance they provide for MBI’s family at church how you might serve them. faculty and staff.

10 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 4:1 20

Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, TUESDAY accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some AUGUST sixty, some a hundred times what was sown. Mark 4:20 6

Good Growing Soil How casually we listen to the Word of kingdom of God has been given to you.” God! If we don’t like a biblical teaching Some simply do not have the soil of a on spiritual gifts, remarriage, submission, good heart necessary to receive and reconciliation, justice, election, or the understand the word of God. like, we reject the teaching as false, insensitive, not applicable to our This parable is instructive for us today: situation, or only half of what the Word We have an enemy who seeks to of God is saying. snatch away what the Word of God will produce in our lives almost as soon as In Jesus’ time, everyone was interested the Word is heard! Persecution has the in what He had to say, so much so that potential to lead us to fall away from Jesus had to step into a boat in order our initial, joyous reception of the Word to teach with enough spatial clearance of God (v. 17). for everyone to hear him (v. 1). But Jesus realized that having a crowd of followers Daily cares and concerns and the did not mean He had a crowd of true deceitful promises of money and listeners. Not everyone was ready to material goods fight against the Word fully understand or to follow faithfully. and limit the production of Christlikeness in us. Only a heart that receives the The Parable of the Sower focuses on Word of God in meekness will yield the different soils rather than the seed the fruitful, maturing Christian life the or the sower. Notice that the seed and Lord intends and desires for each of us, sower remain the same in each scenario. producing a crop of “some thirty, some Jesus distinguishes the purposes of the sixty, some a hundred times what was parables in verse 11. “The secret of the sown” (v. 20).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Prepare your heart even today to receive the Join us in prayer for professors preached Word of God. If your pastor is preaching in the Bible department: Andrew through a book of the Bible, read the coming Schmutzer, Benjamin Wilson, Eric Redmond, and Ernest Gray. passage every day this week, asking Jesus to May the Lord strengthen them speak to you and your church. Or, reread daily the as they train Christian leaders of passage you heard preached last Sunday, asking tomorrow, with their love, wisdom, the Lord to impress His truth on your heart. and dedication to teaching.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 11 READ MARK 4:21 41

WEDNESDAY AUGUST Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith? 7 Mark 4:40

The Hidden Kingdom In the classic fairytale Jack and the transformation, that seed sprouts and Beanstalk, a poor boy named Jack grows “all by itself” (v. 28). Jesus also acquires magic beans in exchange for compared the kingdom to a mustard his family’s cow. His mother, upset by the seed, which when planted, became trade, throws down the bean in anger. the “largest of all garden plants” (v. But that night, a great beanstalk grows, 32). Scripture tells us that while the enabling Jack to climb it where he finds parables were confusing to most of and steals golden coins, enough to those who listened, Jesus privately provide for his family’s needs. explained their meaning to His disciples. Those small beans, that seemed ordinary at first glance, held amazing If the disciples had any concern over potential. In today’s reading, seeds are the nature of the kingdom, their fears used to illustrate the kingdom of God. quickly were laid to rest. Jesus, asleep For now, the kingdom of God is hidden in their boat, suddenly and dramatically from our full sight and understanding. revealed Himself as the awesome We are able to see glimpses of it in the God of power and might (vv. 39–41). works of believers, but the final and full In that moment when Jesus calmed expression is invisible to us. the storm, they were shown what the kingdom held for them. God’s promises In the second half of chapter 4, Mark of righteousness, peace, and joy are records Jesus’ parables focused on certain (see Rom. 14:17). One day we’ll the kingdom of God. The kingdom is experience God’s kingdom in its fullness, compared to an ordinary seed, planted and it will far outstrip the seed of its in the ground (v. 26). In a mysterious currently unseen presence.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US When Scripture says, “What no eye has seen, what Please continue to mention in no ear has heard, and what no human mind has your prayers the Bible department conceived” about the things God has prepared for faculty at Moody: John Goodrich, Matthew Monkemeier, Michael those who love Him, it promises us that we will not Wechsler, Ronald Sauer, and be disappointed by our future hope in any way! Steven Sanchez. We honor their Today we understand the future in part; only at the faithful ministry to the students! return of Christ will we understand completely.

12 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 5:1 20

THURSDAY Go home to your family and tell them AUGUST how much the Lord has done for you. Mark 5:19 8

Tell Your Story When something incredible happens to Jesus received the man and cast you, who do you tell first? Maybe you the demons out of him. But the rush home to report the good news to townspeople were not happy about it. your family. Or maybe you pick up the Mark described the people as pleading phone to call your best friend. Some of with Jesus to leave their region in the us snap a photo and declare the good same vein as the demons begged news on social media. Jesus to go into the pigs rather than be cast into a far country. Certainly, It’s natural to want to share the good the demons thought, Jesus would things in our life with those we love. leave them alone to possess pigs. And in today’s passage, we read an Certainly, the townspeople thought, incredible story of life transformation, Jesus would leave the town alone. one too amazing to keep quiet for long. He could welcome and heal the When Jesus encountered the Gerasenes wretched elsewhere. demoniac, he met a man who was being torn apart from both outside and Interestingly, the healed man also inside. He had been living in the dark begged Jesus—that he might remain among the tombs (v. 3). He displayed with Him. But the same way Jesus uncontrollable strength (vv. 3–4). Daily, deals with everyone whose life He he screamed for relief and was a danger transforms, He sent the man away to to himself (v. 5). He was living with live righteously. The man received by thousands of demons inside him (v. 9). Jesus, now in his right mind, would He was an outcast as a threat to society, proclaim what Jesus had done. and Jesus now was his only hope.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US It’s important to tell your faith story to others. The Janet Stiven, vice president demoniac left the presence of Jesus to tell people and general counsel at Moody, in ten cities how Jesus had changed his life! welcomes your prayers for the team she leads at the Legal Those cities heard a man formerly possessed by department. Ask the Lord to grant thousands of demons tell them how Jesus rescued them wisdom and insight as they him. Ask the Lord to give you opportunities to advise the MBI leadership on legal share your story with people in your own city. and public policy issues.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 13 READ MARK 5:21 43

FRIDAY AUGUST Don’t be afraid; just believe. 9 Mark 5:36

Healing Faith When someone we love is ill, we want dying daughter (v. 23). In a great act of them to get the very best treatment submission, he fell at the feet of Jesus possible. We may travel a long distance even though he was the ruler of the to find exactly the right doctor and give synagogue (v. 22). hope to our loved one. Such was the case in Jesus’ time when many who After Jesus healed the woman, the followed Him were seeking healing. news came that Jairus’s daughter had died. Jesus took into the house Here Mark intertwines two stories, only those who needed to witness a dying girl and a sick woman. The the power of God (v. 38), possibly due woman had heard about Jesus’ miracles to their future roles in the church. He and most likely understood Him to be also excluded those who did not have the Messiah. She had the simple faith faith, possibly so that they would not to believe that power of God was not become scoffers at the resurrection limited by clothing and reached out to of the little girl. touch his cloak (v. 27). Mark seems intentional in intertwining Jesus asked who had touched Him and the 12 years of life of the girl and the sought out the woman who displayed 12 years of illness of the woman. These such faith. He told her, “your faith has two stories show how simple faith healed you” (v. 34). But there was sustains us during great suffering, even another desperate person in the crowd. in the face of death. When others doubt The passage began with Jairus, who the power of God, we should keep requested healing for his 12-year-old trusting Him to do the impossible.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We don’t like our schedules to be delayed or As we read today about Jesus’ interrupted. Imagine how Jairus felt when his healing ministry in Mark’s Gospel, request to Jesus was interrupted by the woman let us thank the Lord for His compassion for the sick and the seeking healing. Even so, it did not prevent the suffering, then and now. Let’s Lord from saving his daughter. Trust today that also pray for patience to wait for God hears your prayers and sees your situation. God’s timing and to accept it with Give thanks for His timing to answer prayers! gratitude.

14 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 6:1 29

I have set the Lord always before me. SATURDAY Because he is at my right hand, AUGUST I will not be shaken. Psalm 16:8 10

Rough Terrain On March 20, 2019, Turkish Airlines sick people with oil and healed them” Flight 1 hit severe air turbulence while (v. 12). about 40 minutes away from landing in New York City. The airlines said the flight Despite these successes, turbulence “encountered an unusual turbulence” arose in Jesus’ ministry too. The and some 30 people were severely beheading of John the Baptist was injured after being lifted out of their certainly a sobering wake-up call. seats and hitting the ceiling. For the John’s ministry was as faithful as the passengers, everything seemed smooth disciples’ ministry. He had proclaimed on the flight from Istanbul to New a message of righteousness to king York . . . until turbulence hit. Herod. Yet because of the king’s pride and cowardice, John lost his life. The newly-appointed ministry of the disciples had been without significant There are seasons in life when serving incident to this point. Jesus had granted the Lord seems fairly smooth. We see them authority over unclean spirits and fruit in the lives of those we are serving, the ability to heal the sick. They were volunteers are plentiful, budgets are told to “take nothing for the journey” strong, and team morale is high. Other (v. 8), to leave the place that would not times can be extremely challenging: listen to them, and to shake the dust off An unforeseen enemy arises within the their feet “as a testimony against them” leadership circle, numbers decline, and (v. 11). It seemed, as they preached a we may feel threatened by a culture message of repentance, they found hostile to our proclamation of Christ. success. Mark tells us that they “drove Both the smooth and the rough times out many demons and anointed many are from Christ, and for His glory.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The disciples retrieved the body of John the Lord Jesus, give us wisdom and Baptist and placed him in a tomb, even at risk of insight to help a person who is being identified by Herod. Today, consider how going through a difficult time. Help us to be a calming and you can serve someone who is going through a reassuring presence for a friend, difficult time. Can you pray for them or offer simple a family member, or a coworker words of encouragement? Your visible presence in who is experiencing “turbulence” their life can help bring a sense of calm and peace. in their life.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 15 READ MARK 6:30 44

SUNDAY Now to him who is able to do immeasurably AUGUST more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. 11 Ephesians 3:20

Desolate of Resources In Jane Austen’s novel Pride and disciples found themselves in a dilemma. Prejudice, Mr. Darcey, the romantic How would they feed the 5,000? interest of main character Elizabeth Bennet, says, “Nothing is more deceitful Quickly they learned that Jesus did than the appearance of humility. It is not need to send the people away often only carelessness of opinion, and or run to the market. Jesus had the sometimes an indirect boast.” As Christ ability to shepherd the people with followers, we are to have true humility. It compassionate care, no matter how is all too easy for us to publicly rejoice in big or how small their need was. In His an accomplishment as the Lord’s work, power, there was enough to feed all the while subtly claiming most of the credit men, women, and children present and for ourselves. have twelve baskets full of leftover food! Unlike the disciples, Jesus’ power was In today’s passage, Jesus sent out more than sufficient. the apostles with His power, and they were successful in casting out demons The Lord provides desolate times of and healing the sick. But somewhere ministry to remind us that our power between their commissioning and their to serve comes from Him alone. Dry return to Jesus they began to take periods of devotions, a sense of credit for this work, thinking their own staleness in worship, or the departure of power had accomplished the tasks. ministry partners remove any thoughts The feeding of the 5,000 taught them of the sufficiency of our own strength to to think otherwise. In what Mark calls do His will. He deserves every ounce of “a quiet place” (v. 31), “a solitary place” credit for any accomplishment and we (v. 32), and “a remote place” (v. 35), the should ascribe all power to Him.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Godly servants are marked by humility. Look at Please include in your prayers your recent accomplishments that have brought today Moody’s chief financial you joy. Go back one by one and declare to the officer, Ken Heulitt. On behalf of the whole Institute, he thanks the Lord, “You alone accomplished this; keep your Moody family for your friendship servant from taking any credit for this and all other and faithful support of Moody’s successes.” Attributing all we do to the grace of ministry. You make this ministry God helps us to be sober about our own power. possible!

16 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 6:45 56

MONDAY Take courage! It is I! AUGUST Don’t be afraid. Mark 6:51 12

Recognizing Jesus The Cambridge Advanced Learner’s hearts about Jesus feeding the 5,000 Dictionary and Thesaurus defines “get led them to fear Jesus as He walked ahead of yourself” as “to do something on water toward them. Rather than too early, or before you are ready or being comforted, they were “terrified” prepared.” One often hears a public (v. 50). Instead of being encouraged by speaker make a remark about getting the presence of the One who had the ahead of himself when he detours from ability and power to feed 5,000 with no the main subject at hand and goes off apparent supplies, they became afraid. track to another item. It can be easy for us to make plans that While in public speaking “getting ahead seem pleasing to God but are actually of oneself” might be excused as taking getting ahead of what the Lord wants the listener on an intriguing detour, it is us to do. We may pray over our plans not recommended when serving God. and offer ideas that will strengthen With kindness and grace, Jesus showed ministries, but waiting to put our ideas the disciples that going ahead of Him in action is difficult. Yet, to make sure was not the way to succeed. we are not running ahead of the Lord, we have to plan with wisdom and delay The disciples were sent on ahead of our plans if necessary. Thankfully, the Jesus to Bethsaida, while he cared for Lord may sometimes provide strong the crowd. In the boat on the lake, the winds to slow us down and allow Him disciples met with strong headwinds to intervene with our plans. Thankfully, that made the journey extremely too, our attempts at running ahead difficult. They were “straining on the of the Lord will not stop others from oars” (v. 48). The hardness of their recognizing Jesus.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Zeal for the Lord is good and right, and even Would you pray for the staff commanded in Scripture (Rom. 12:11)! But we must of Moody Radio’s KMBI, in moderate our zeal with wisdom and patience. Our Spokane, Wash.? Thank God for the creativity and talent of Chris future-planning, vision-casting, organizational Wright, Deborah Massey, Joe overhauls and personal improvement projects Gonzalez, and Scott Carlon and all need a healthy dose of “show me your will” ask that they experience joy and sprinkled throughout them. Slow us down, Jesus! peace in the Holy Spirit.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 17 READ MARK 7:123

TUESDAY AUGUST You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men. 13 Mark 7:8

Against Religious Tradition “Business as usual” can be a roadblock tradition for real worship of God has when it comes to innovation and been a problem of the ages. Human- progress. Whether at work or in our created religious tradition can allow churches, if we do things just because people to praise God vocally without “that’s the way we have always done having a heart for God; and rituals can it,” we may be standing in the way of take the place of genuine faith (v. 6). needed improvements. The Pharisees had established a In Mark 7, Jesus confronts some practice called Corban, meaning traditions practiced by the Pharisees “dedicated to God”. This was a vow and teachers of the Law. Notice that the to set aside money for the Lord. But writer mentions “tradition(s)” five times in one did not actually have to distribute verses 3, 4, 5, 8, and 9. These traditions the money, but only to say the funds had started with good intentions, based were Corban. Then, if a parent needed on Scripture. But over the years, they financial help, an adult child could say expanded into layers of empty rituals. the higher honor would be to hold his money for the Lord. Obviously, this The Jewish Mishnah says, “Tradition is tradition needed to be questioned. a fence around the law.” The ceremonial washing of hands was one such tradition Jesus said it was not what we do on the that had taken on a life of its own. When outside that matters, but the condition the Pharisees asked Jesus, “Why do of our heart (v. 15). We are to be less your disciples not do what everyone concerned with keeping traditions and else has been doing?,” Jesus appealed more concerned about a heart fully to Isaiah 29:13. He said substituting devoted to God.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Serving God requires thoughtfulness and humility. Lord, we pray that you give us the When you have to reconsider practices within your ability to serve you thoughtfully church that have become tradition but are not and humbly, that we will be sensitive to the guidance of the scripturally mandated, try to ask honest questions Holy Spirit in every situation, and and be open to change. Be flexible and gracious to that we as the body of Christ will those asking for changes. Most of all, be open to be open to godly change in our the Spirit’s leading in each situation. churches.

18 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 7:24 37

These people come near to me with WEDNESDAY their mouth and honor me with their lips, AUGUST but their hearts are far from me. Isaiah 29:13 14

Private Miracles P. T. Barnum made history when he telling others disassociated Jesus’ toured the United States in the mid- miracles from common tricks. Jesus’ 1800s with his self-proclaimed Greatest purpose for healing was not to amuse Show on Earth. Barnum invented the art and entertain crowds, but to clearly bear of the spectacle with curious exhibits witness to the power of God. and straight-out hoaxes that drew enormous crowds clamoring to buy At the beginning of today’s passage, tickets. In contrast, Jesus had no such Jesus responds to another request for desire to be viewed as a local showman. healing from a Gentile, a Syrophoenician woman. The woman is grieving When Jesus met the man with deafness because her daughter suffers from the and a speech impediment, He pulled possession by an evil spirit. Here Jesus the man aside from the crowd. He was shows that His ministry to Israel did not already attempting to retreat unnoticed limit Him from a simultaneous ministry in a house in Tyre and Sidon. Jesus to Gentiles. The woman received the takes him “away from the crowd” to requested healing for her daughter. restore the man’s ears and eyesight (v. 33). But despite Jesus’ command In both cases, Jesus clearly showed that they should not tell others, news the power of God, for both salvation of the miracle spread quickly. “People and for physical healing. He also set a were overwhelmed with amazement” precedent for the way we do ministry. (v. 37). By doing this miracle in private, Powerful ministry can take place in the Lord’s acts of compassion could private as well as in public. In fact, much not be viewed as mere crowd-pleasing of ministry takes place in quiet places gimmicks. Further, His instruction against where the public will never see.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Jesus taught that what we say and do in private Today is New Student Orientation matters, and that serving Him is not about gaining on our Chicago campus. Coming public recognition! When you serve God, it should to a new school can be exciting and sometimes frightening. Today, not matter that there is no audience. Can you do as new students arrive on our a quiet act of service today? Maybe it is helping campus, ask the Lord to calm their restack chairs after a church gathering or sending fears and prepare them for the notes of care to those who have been sick. exciting year ahead.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 19 QUESTION AND ANSWER by Dr. Rosalie De Rosset, Professor of Communications and Literature

Is it a sin to fantasize about Our imagination is to be treated as a celebrity? There weren’t holy ground. When daydreams replace Q television or computers in reality, they are a foolish way to escape Christ’s day. Wasn’t He speaking only our present circumstances rather than about people who knew one another? to address, change, or live with them.

While there were no television The second commandment or computers in Christ’s day, is to love your neighbor as A the temptation to fantasize Q yourself? How do we love has existed since the Garden of Eden. ourselves? In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were given everything beautiful and I can hear the poignancy and delightful including the actual presence sincere desire in your question, of God. Then Satan invaded this A one many people ask today innocence, deluding Eve that all of this with a kind of helplessness. You are wasn’t enough, that God had cheated right to suppose that it is impossible them of something better. Eve’s fantasy to love your neighbor if you don’t value of greater knowledge and sensuous yourself. The problem is that Christians indulgence along with Adam’s apparent have to start at a different place than refusal to counter this fantasy (for themselves or their neighbors to come reasons we do not know) led to the up with a good theological answer. tragedy of the Fall. Too often, friends, counselors and Fantasizing about someone who can’t well-meaning mentors, encourage be part of your life is a poor use of a way of thinking that focuses on imagination, whether that person is self-love. They encourage a kind of a celebrity or someone you know. self-affirmation that is not rooted in a Beyond that, the Bible clearly says, biblical foundation, but an individualistic in many places, that sexual fantasy is working up of things to make us feel always sin no matter whom it involves. good. However, Mark 12:28–30 makes Matthew 5:28 is clear: “But I say to you it clear that the first and most important that everyone who looks at a woman commandment is: “Love the Lord your [or man, by implication] lustfully has God with all your heart, with all your already committed adultery with her soul, with all your mind, and with all in his heart.” your strength.”

20 TODAY IN THE WORD If we are not practicing holiness in all that we do, our wills will be weakened, leading to great difficulty in choosing righteousness.

Out of that fierce love for God and obedience were worth little, He proceeds love for our neighbor, the created Adam and Eve and placed second greatest commandment (Mark them in a perfect environment and 12:31). The priority is clear; if you love relationship in the Garden. God issued God, you will love yourself because only one limitation: they were not to you are a reflection of Him, your values eat of the Tree of the Knowledge of will be His, and you will know He Good and Evil (Genesis 2). Notice this values you. Then, you will love your limitation involved choice. To maintain neighbor. When we truly understand this wonderful life, they had to choose how much God loves us, how He even to do right. went so far as to give His Son to die for us, how He provided the Bible to show I teach a course that focuses on a us His love, how He set up laws that, theology of sin in great literature. when followed, provide the best way In the class, we read a number of we can thrive, out of that realization books and stories in which the main comes the ordering of our values and character is destroyed by compulsive our love for ourselves and others. I attraction to evil. In every case he must add that it is imperative to be in or she chooses to open the door to a healthy community of wise believers darkness and keeps choosing through to help remind us of the confidence, self-deception to go places, be with identity, and purpose we have in Christ. people, or do things that perpetuate poor choices. The warning is clear. We I often feel as though, under can choose, but good choices come the pressure of addictive sin, out of rigorous self-examination. It Q I have no choice but to fall. matters what we do not only in our How much choice do we really have work time but also in our spare time, when something seems impossible what we watch, what we read, what we to resist? listen to, whom we befriend. Nothing is neutral. We can take nothing for This is a very good question, granted. If we are not practicing and sadly it suggests holiness in all that we do, our wills A a deception too often will be weakened, leading to great propagated about one of the great difficulty in choosing righteousness. gifts God gave us, the gift of choice. We start believing the lie that choice Because He knew coerced love is no longer possible.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 21 READ MARK 8:121

THURSDAY AUGUST “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.” 15 Mark 8:15

The Yeast of Unbelief Have you ever purchased one of those question (“How many loaves do you small packets of yeast for baking bread? have?”) they would have recalled the That tiny bit of granulated yeast is living feeding of the 5,000 (6:38; 8:5). and active, and it’s the key ingredient needed for bread to rise. In today’s Instead of saying, “Hey, wait a minute. passage, yeast is used as a warning This should be no problem for you,” about disbelief. they did not seem to understand. When Jesus directed the crowd to “sit down,” At this stage in Mark’s narrative, you there was another opportunity for the would hope the disciples were able to disciples to trust Jesus. Just as He recognize a pattern in Jesus’ ministry had done in the past, He would again and learn. If you compare the accounts use their meager resources to show of the feeding of the 5,000 and then compassion for the oversized crowd. the 4,000, both have many similarities. In both, the setting is described as Apparently they have bought into the a “remote place” (6:35; 8:4). In both skepticism or “yeast” of the Pharisees events the disciples encouraged Jesus and failed to understand Jesus’ true to “send the people away” (6:36) and identity. However, just as Jesus refused to “send them home hungry” (8:2–3). to give the Pharisees a sign from heaven In both encounters the disciples raised to assuage their unbelief, so He warned the question of the scarcity of “bread” the disciples against adopting the (6:37; 8:4). Even if the disciples did not Pharisees’ posture of unbelief. Disbelief, recall the similarity of the words within like yeast, has the ability to grow these two exchanges, you would think and multiply. It would require faith to that when Jesus asked the very same recognize that Jesus is God the Son.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Only after giving thanks did Jesus give the fish and New students arrive today loaves to the disciples to distribute. In looking to on Moody’s Plymouth, Mich., heaven, Jesus taught the disciples that the current campus for their studies at Moody Theological Seminary. Would you inventory of our earthly resources does not limit pray that their graduate studies the power of God to meet needs. Faith in God’s would give glory to God and bring ability to go far beyond our resources is important. abundant fruit in students’ lives? Will you trust God to meet your needs today?

22 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 8:22 28

FRIDAY His sight was restored, AUGUST and he saw everything clearly. Mark 8:25 16

Seeing Jesus Many have compared our physical others the chance to come to a gradual eyesight to our spiritual rebirth. In the understanding of what had happened, beloved and famous hymn, “Amazing without the man simply announcing the Grace,” John Newton wrote, “I once was miracle to the surrounding crowd. lost, but now am found, / Was blind, but now I see.” When we come to Christ In a similar way, Jesus’ questioning of and trust Him for our salvation, our eyes the disciples about His identity comes in are opened and we are able to see two separate stages—one related to the and understand God’s truth. It is truly people’s understanding, and the other a miraculous moment! related to the disciples’ understanding. Jesus forbids them to share things that Jesus heals the blind man in two the others need to learn for themselves. stages, first separating him from the crowd (v. 23). The crowd might have Some people come to a gradual seeing reacted negatively to Jesus spitting on of who Jesus is. For some reason, the man’s eyes, maybe even goading they are not able to see the truth the man to turn away before his sight immediately. Jesus shows here that He was restored fully. can be a gradual healer and gradual revealer. Regardless of how quickly Notice that a gradual healing leads to you come to truth, it is He who opened the complete restoration of the man’s your eyes to see clearly, so you are no sight (vv. 23–26). The second time Jesus longer blind. places His hands on the man’s eyes, the man sees clearly! Then Jesus sends him home, not to the village, to give

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Billions of people around the world suffer from We thank you today, Jesus, for spiritual blindness today, many still out of the opening our eyes to your truth, reach of a Bible, a foreign missionary, or any love, beauty, and grace! Thank you for giving us your freedom believers at all. Take a little extra time today to ask and joy. What a miracle! May we the Lord to open the eyes of someone you know have determination and courage who is blind to His truth and pray for missionaries to tell others about the miracle of who devote their lives to reaching the unreached. God’s saving love.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 23 READ MARK 9:1 13

SATURDAY AUGUST This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him! 17 Mark 9:7

Glorified and Clarified American astronaut Scott Kelly the Father spoke of the identity of His describes the first time he saw Earth Son, all became very clear. Only Jesus from space, saying, “As the Sun came remained standing before them (v. 8). up I was absolutely blown away by how incredibly beautiful our planet Earth is. Based on the Transfiguration, the Absolutely breathtaking. Like someone disciples’ questions about the took the most brilliant blue paint and resurrection and Elijah just make sense. painted a mural right in front of my eyes. They hadn’t done so well understanding I knew right then and there that I would who Jesus was, even as they watched never, ever see anything as beautiful as Him feed thousands and walk on planet Earth again.” water. So we can easily expect that they needed help to understand this The view from space allowed Kelly to important moment. see Earth with fresh eyes, helping him more fully appreciate its beauty. The Jesus’ follow-up question and Transfiguration was a stunning event explanation about Elijah and the Son that gave Peter, James, and John, a of Man might have seemed out of sync fresh look at Jesus. They were terrified! with what they just witnessed. Yet it In fact, Peter was so scared that he was true: The all-glorious Son of God, had no idea what to say (v. 6). Instead, the Lord of Moses and Elijah, would he offered insulting suggestions that suffer for the salvation of His people reduced Jesus to a mere teacher, one and then rise again from the dead! in need of Peter’s help, or someone When we finally see this Jesus face no greater than Moses and Elijah. But to face, we will not find anything when the cloud enveloped them and more beautiful.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Pause to meditate on what it will mean to stand in Today, Moody’s campus is filled the very presence of the glorified Jesus. Think of with students who are coming the most bleach-white garment in your possession. back after their summer break. Ask the Lord that these young It will look pale in comparison to Him. Quiet people will have a good transition yourself enough to imagine hearing the Father say into the new school year and that to you, “This is my Son, whom I love!” (v.7). Are you His Spirit will teach them and prepared to stand in His holy presence forever? guide them in all truth.

24 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 9:1429

SUNDAY Everything is possible for one who believes. AUGUST Mark 9:23 18

Discipleship Requires Prayer How do you resist the devil? In his Certainly by now the disciples were commentary, John Calvin addressed that knowledgeable and experienced at very question, “Not every kind of faith casting out evil spirits. So why were that will suffice, when we have to enter they not able to cast out this particular into a serious conflict with Satan, but one? Jesus pressed into the situation, that vigorous efforts are indispensably recognizing the length of time the boy necessary.” had been tormented by the spirit and the lack of faith present in both the This passage is not the first time Mark “unbelieving generation” (v. 19) and the records the casting out of an evil spirit father. He advises the use of prayer— by Jesus’ disciples. Already they had prayer, apparently, of great faith (v. 29). successfully cast out many evil spirits Somewhere in following Jesus, even by the authority which Jesus gave them as they had successfully cast out other (6:13–27). Nor was it the first time they evil spirits, the disciples had missed the saw Jesus encounter an evil spirit. lessons on deep and fertile praying.

Their first lesson in casting out demons In our efforts to follow Christ well occurred when they were still new and make disciples, it is important to disciples. They were with Jesus at emphasize and re-emphasize prayer a synagogue when He cast out an as the means to accomplishing work in unclean spirit (1:23–26). And then, in His power. Facing the evil one in both their sight, He had ordered evil spirits seen and unseen realms requires prayer out of the Gerasenes demoniac (5:13) accompanied by great faith. Christ and the Syrophoenician woman’s has the power for us to successfully daughter (7:29). overcome all evil.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Do you fight your battles with prayer? As we seek As we’ve read in today’s to be faithful servants of Christ, we must first get devotional about prayer and its on our knees. Evangelist D. L. Moody once said, power to overcome evil, let’s lift up to the Lord our need to spend “He who kneels the most, stands the best.” Renew more time with Him. Let’s ask Him your determination today to spend more time in to make us people of prayer, able prayer. Ask God for His power to stand firm and and willing to overcome evil with overcome evil in our world. good through fervent prayer.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 25 READ MARK 9:3850

MONDAY AUGUST Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God. 19 1 Corinthians 10:32

Self-Judgment When we hear a report of child extreme acts to stop our sinful behavior: abduction or abuse, it provokes dismembering the hand or the foot, or righteous anger within us. We taking out one’s eye. Then, one will not immediately recognize the incredible be “salted with fire”—judged in hell’s fire injustice of someone taking advantage as mentioned in verses 43, 45, and 47. of the innocence and weakness of a child. No justification is possible for this The consequence of sin is real. Hell blatant disregard for righteousness. is described here as a place where “the worm does not die and fire is not So it shouldn’t surprise us that Jesus quenched” (v. 48), and stands in stark minces no words as He speaks about contrast to entering the kingdom of God judgment for those who cause “little (v. 47). Hell is a real threat to the person ones” to stumble (v. 42). But who are the who causes another to stumble. little ones? First, He is referring more broadly to new believers, all those new The reality of eternal punishment should followers who were casting out demons urge careful self-examination of our in His name or giving a cup of cold water actions, because the consequence is to His disciples (v. 41). Jesus reminds His worse than entering the grave. Death disciples that “whoever is not against us is not a threat; it is natural. But the is for us” (v. 40). But just earlier, Jesus consequence of hell is beyond what referred specifically to small children is natural. Therefore, just as we react (vv. 36–37). To avoid causing “little with great concern about an abused or ones,” young or old, to sin and to avoid abducted child, we should pay attention the fiery judgment of hell for making to Jesus’ warning and lead others to them stumble, Jesus suggests some Christ, not turn them away.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US For many, the mention of hell can feel too harsh, Fall semester at Moody Bible too out of touch with modern sensibilities. Yet Institute begins today! Please join the reality of everlasting punishment does not us as we pray for Moody’s faculty, staff, and administration. Pray that disappear because our society wishes to ignore they will work together in unity it. We must continue the task of preaching the to help students become strong gospel. There is no other message that gives Christian leaders of tomorrow. people the good news of escaping hell.

26 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 10:116

That is why a man leaves his father TUESDAY and mother and is united to his wife, AUGUST and they become one flesh. Genesis 2:24 20

Jesus, Marriage, and Children Statistics on divorce in America can this was not God’s intended plan. There make the chances of having a lasting seems to be an exception in Matthew marriage seem bleak. Divorce is 19 for allowable remarriage when not something anyone desires. The one has been victimized by adultery: dissolution of a marriage causes pain “I tell you that anyone who divorces not only to the married couple, but to his wife, except for sexual immorality, their children, friends, and extended and marries another woman commits family. And Christian marriages that adultery.” But even in this we need to fail can be a negative witness for be cautious. Every passage should Christianity. be read in light of all the other biblical statements on marriage, for Scripture In this passage, Jesus speaks frankly is consistent within itself. about marriage and divorce. Jesus’ teaching on the lawfulness of divorce Also in this passage, Jesus turned reveals that God’s original intent in His attention to children who were Creation was that no one who married being brought to Him for blessing. His would separate. God had “joined disciples rebuked those who brought together” Adam and Eve (v. 9). They the children. The passage says that became “one flesh” (v. 8). He intended Jesus was “indignant” (v. 14)—not at a lifelong union between a man and a the parents and others who brought woman for our joy and for His glory. the children, but at the disciples. Jesus welcomed and blessed the children (v. While many believers have 16). He upheld as sacred both the union experienced God’s grace and mercy of marriage and blessing of children. in remarriage, Jesus clearly taught that

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US This passage may be hard to read for we all know The student body of MBI gathers married couples who struggle. Today, ask God to this evening for the Opening help you come alongside and serve those in need. Convocation ceremony. Dr. Mark Jobe, Moody’s president, will lead Maybe you can offer to care for the children of a the students in a time of prayer. young couple so they can have a night out? Or you Please support Dr. Jobe’s ministry could extend a dinner invitation to a couple having to the students with your prayers a difficult season. today.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 27 READ MARK 10:1731

WEDNESDAY AUGUST Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 21 James 1:9

Last in the Kingdom In August 2017, in his final world himself proved as faulty as his words of competition, Usain Bolt, the United flattery. Notice that he recognized Jesus States 100 m world-record holder only as a “good teacher” and not as God was favored to win in the IAAF World (v. 17). He felt he never had broken the Championships in London. Bolt had not Law, but on the contrary, his heart was lost a final of any race for four years, but controlled by greed. Rather than gaining this race would not provide a cherry on eternal life, he would go away “last,” top of the sprinter’s incredible career. because he refused to follow Jesus (v. Instead, Bolt was defeated in the finals 22). By contrast, the disciples, who had by longtime rival Justin Gatlin. The great sacrificed all to follow Jesus and who king of the 100 m dash was knocked were probably considered “last” with down a few notches, finishing third. respect to wealth and accomplishment, would secure a place in the kingdom, Sometimes those expected to finish in gaining rewards for their sacrifice and first place do not make the mark. As most importantly, eternal life. it relates to eternal life, Jesus affirms that many who assume they have Many have given their lives for the lived a good life and acquired the Lord’s service. Some have moved into righteousness needed to guarantee the mission field, far from their families. salvation, in fact have missed the mark. Others have made second-career moves that significantly reduce their income The rich man who inquired of Jesus and standard of living; they go without about inheriting eternal life felt certain many of life’s comforts. Their sacrifices that he had salvation in hand. From the are not in vain. They are winning the start, however, his assumption about race of eternity (vv. 30–31).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The disciples might have been amazed to realize Those who work in Food Service that gaining wealth does not guarantee heaven’s have a vital ministry to the approval (v. 26). Equating riches with the blessing students on campus. Please pray for Seth Mendez, Rachel of God is prevalent even today. In contrast, Jesus Campbell, and Paul Houk as they commends decreasing our portfolio for the great serve the whole student body with purpose of His kingdom. Think of how you can nutritious meals in the Student decrease yours in order to advance the gospel. Dining Room.

28 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 10:35 52

THURSDAY Whoever wants to become great AUGUST among you must be your servant. Mark 10:43 22

Front Row Seats The average Super Bowl ticket costs greatness; they are about serving (vv. between $2,500 and $3,000. However, 42–45). The ten think James and John one sports fan paid $65,000 to get a are going to have a leg-up on telling seat on the 40-yard line, just six rows them what to do in the kingdom by from the field, for Super Bowl LII! Front speaking first and securing the key seats row seat—or even those close to the next to the King. However, if we think in front row—are coveted in any sports or terms of the heavenly kingdom of Christ, entertainment venue. The closer the this view of power positions is wrong- seat to the front, the higher the price headed. such a ticket can fetch. Power seeking is part and parcel of Getting front row seats in Heaven this world’s way of living. To be great was the request posed to Jesus by in God’s kingdom involves being a James and John (v. 37). But when they servant—exemplified by Jesus. Jesus’ confidently asked Jesus to give them path to greatness came through seats at His right and left, they did not serving those in need of salvation. really know what they were asking. He offered Himself to purchase our These seats come with the high price- redemption. By the world’s standards, tag of undergoing suffering, which Jesus there was nothing great or appealing would soon experience. The seat giving, about serving or dying by the shameful too, is not up to us. It is in the hands death on a cross. Yet, the best seats of God the Father, who sovereignly in the house, where Jesus will reign, determines kingdom rewards. Most of come by following the path our King all, Jesus explains to the jealous band of took to greatness. disciples that these seats are not about

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asks Keeping in prayer the Food James and John (v. 36) and again a blind man Service staff, please add Brianne (v. 51). To each, Jesus responded as a servant: Dueck, Gonzalo Garcia, Gregory Dickson, Hoa Lam, and Jeffery listening, helping, caring. While the crowd thought Williams to your prayer list. They the blind beggar was unworthy of Jesus’ attention, make an important contribution Jesus served him with the same grace He gave to to the successful operation of the James and John. We must do the same. Student Dining Room.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 29 READ MARK 11:121

FRIDAY AUGUST Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! 23 Mark 11:9

The Useless Tree Fig trees are found all over Israel. Entry (vv. 1–11). The Jewish hope was The tall, leafy, shade-giving trees that their triumphant King would return produce two harvests of fruit each year. to establish Himself in Jerusalem, Despite its unassuming exterior, the provide the promises of His kingdom fruit produced by a fig tree is rich and to Israel, and vanquish Israel’s foes. But delicious with a wonderful distinctive even though Jesus had been welcomed smell. But fig trees don’t necessarily by crowds, the Jewish people were not flourish on their own. They take time and prepared to receive Jesus as their King. nurturing in order to grow and give fruit. Jesus discovered a nation living in a way In today’s reading, Jesus uses the fig that did not please His Father. That’s tree as an important symbol of the why they received the curses promised nation of Israel. Notice that the fig tree in Deuteronomy 28 for failing to obey appears here both before (vv. 12–14) the Lord; they would be cursed just like and after (vv. 20–21) Jesus’ tumultuous the fig tree. The cursing and withering visit to the Temple. In order to restore of the fig tree here serve as a warning the Temple to a house of prayer for for Israel. the nations, Jesus began physically removing buyers, sellers, and vessel- Despite this haunting symbol, all was carriers. His clearing of the Temple upset not lost for Israel, as the promises to the the chief priests and jealous scribes, disciples revealed. Neither is all lost for and the Bible says they began plotting those churches today that have veered to destroy Him. Notice also that the from the mission of being Christ’s incident with Jesus in the Temple occurs witnesses. By faith, many in Israel will be immediately following His Triumphal forgiven, and it will be restored to glory.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Keeping the church on track in Christ is not just With thousands of students to the job of the pastor. With patience, love, humility, serve, Jonathan True, Joseph and prayer, every member has a responsibility Timmer, Martin Rios, Nathaniel Brumbaugh, and Olivia Litowski to help our church maintain faithful stewardship have busy days in the Student of the gospel. Together, we need to seek the Dining Room. Ask the Lord to salvation of the lost and make disciples of those strengthen them and give them saved. Ask your pastoral staff how you can help. joy for their day-to-day work.

30 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 11:27 12:12

SATURDAY The stone the builders rejected AUGUST has become the cornerstone. Mark 12:10 24

Rejecting Jesus A cornerstone, also called a foundation patiently. Finally, he even sent his own stone, is important because it is the very son, and the workers not only rejected first stone laid in a building. Structurally his efforts, they killed his son. Ultimately it is the stone on which the rest of the farmers received just punishment the building is constructed. Jesus is for their actions (v. 9). described as the Chief Cornerstone of the church (Eph. 2:20). While some of Jesus’ parables were difficult to understand, this one was The tenants in Jesus’ parable had not. Verse 12 says the meaning of the stewardship of the landowner’s land. parable was understood by the religious Instead of sharing the fruit of the land leaders. They knew Jesus was speaking with the owner, however, they rejected to them directly. The religious teachers his authority by disrespecting and then had continued to question Jesus’ source killing each messenger he sent to collect of authority. In chapter 11, verses 27–33, rent. Scripture said the landowner sent they had directly confronted Jesus “many” messengers, “some of them they about His teaching and actions. “Who beat, others they killed” (v. 5). Finally, gave you authority?” they asked (11:28). the landowner sent his son, “whom he This occurs four times in just these few loved” (v. 6). Instead of paying what was verses (vv. 28, 29, 32). due, the tenants first acknowledged that this was indeed the son, and then, It’s potentially possible to run a church decided to kill him. These farmers had without the authority of Christ and His a relationship with the landowner. He Word. It’s possible for a church to turn was allowing them to work his land. away from the gospel. We should take He reached out to them repeatedly, seriously the warning in this parable.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The picture of the landowner killing the tenants Vice president Paul Santhouse is gruesome and sobering. The Lord will hold welcomes your prayers for the accountable those who reject His authority teams at Moody Publishers. Thank the Lord in prayer for the ministry through His Son, as well as those who do not of its Finance team: Catrina follow God’s Word—those who reject the authority Barwick, Harrison Gunter, Jeffrey of the Son of God. Encourage your church to Reynolds, Priscilla Diaz, Richard respect and follow the Word of the Lord. Peterson, and Susan Malnati.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 31 READ MARK 12:2844

SUNDAY AUGUST You are not far from the kingdom of God. 25 Mark 12:34

Greatness God’s Way When the Loyola University men’s God with all your heart and with all your basketball team reached the Final Four soul and with all your strength.” And also in 2018, many thought their Cinderella to love one’s neighbor as oneself. These season would end with a NCAA words seemed to satisfy the scribe’s championship. Entering the tournament inquiry as he concurred with Jesus’ as a No. 11 seed, they defeated understanding of the uniqueness of God opponent after opponent to secure their and His definition of the two greatest spot in the Final Four. Taking a first-half commandments. But Jesus’ response lead against the Michigan Wolverines, indicates that the scribe’s intellectual Loyola’s victory seemed secure. But agreement (“he had answered wisely”) Michigan’s offense proved too powerful, was not enough (v. 34). He was close and they were defeated. Loyola was so to the kingdom without fully believing. close to winning, and yet so far away. Agreement with the truth about God The scribe who asked Jesus about the and even acknowledging “good things” most important commandment was so about the Bible are not enough to enter close to fully understanding the identity the kingdom of God as a citizen. While of Jesus and entering the kingdom. right thinking about God is necessary Already he had found Jesus answering to confess that God came in the flesh the other religious leaders’ questions to redeem us, this confession must be very well. Now, rather than testing coupled with a heart of faith in Christ Jesus like his peers, he seemed to want and His redemptive work. Our heart and affirmation of who he thought Jesus was. our mind are deeply connected as we Jesus replied by quoting Deuteronomy place our trust in Christ alone for our 6:5, the command to “love the Lord your salvation.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Some people may feel like they are Christians just Lord Jesus, teach us by the power by knowledge of the Bible or association with the of the Holy Spirit to love you church. But knowing the facts about Christianity with our whole heart, mind, and strength. Increase our faith! May is not enough. We are called to come to Jesus we trust you with everything in us, in faith, to open our hearts to His truth and and not just offer you intellectual acknowledge Him as our personal Lord and Savior. agreement with your truth. Amen!

32 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 13:123

Watch out that no one deceives you. MONDAY Many will come in my name, claiming, AUGUST “I am he,” and will deceive many. Mark 13:5–6 26

Preparing for the End Herod’s Temple was destroyed by the in Revelation. Those living in the first Romans in 70 AD with an incredible century were to remain on their guard; amount of violent bloodshed. In The those believers who are alive and the Jewish War, historian Flavius Josephus time of the rebuilding of the temple describes the destruction with horrific should be on their guard for persecution and vivid words: “Crowded together and attempts at deception. around the entrances many were trampled by their friends, many fell Jesus’ explanation of events associated among the still hot and smoking ruins of with the complete destruction of the the colonnades and died as miserably Temple calls the reader to be watchful as the defeated. . . . Everywhere was for deceivers in order to endure to slaughter and flight.” So great was the that final end. Today, many try to take bloodshed, one very well might have advantage of people’s fears, pointing to mistaken those days for the last days. the chaos in our world, as we near the time of the return of Christ. Jesus predicted the destruction of the Temple, even while it still stood Yet our response to the hope of Christ’s in magnificent splendor. Incredulous, return is to be watchful, guarding the disciples pressed Him for more ourselves against deceiving words details wanting to know where and about His return and preparing without when it would happen so they could anxiety for the world’s hatred toward be prepared. The “end” Jesus speaks us to increase. We know that our Lord of here refers both to the destruction will be victorious, He will destroy His of Herod’s Temple in the time of the enemies. And we will be with Him in disciples as well as the end described joy forever.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US We are not to be anxious and fearful, but to be Today we invite you to pray for firm in our faith. The Lord promises salvation to Moody’s Customer Service Center “the one who stands firm” (v. 13). Losing salvation in Chicago. Praise God for this team that serves with dedication is not possible for the believer. But those who turn and excellence, answering forever away from a profession of Christ reveal hundreds of phone calls every day themselves as never having truly accepted Him. with a kind and helpful attitude. Those belonging to God will never lose their hope.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 33 READ MARK 13:2437

TUESDAY AUGUST What I say to you, I say to everyone: Watch! 27 Mark 13:37

Signs to Stay Awake Driving along the Baltimore-Washington Unlike the predictable signs of the Parkway in October, you will see a changing seasons, the exact time of beautiful sight: most of the foliage the return of Christ is unknown even to begins to change into red, orange, Jesus (v. 32)! Only the Father has that and yellow shades. The stretch of road date on His calendar. Jesus, in humility, between the two cities is lined with trees voluntarily choses to leave that date in bursting with colors. And when drivers the mind of the Father alone. see these autumn colors, they know winter is coming very soon. In doing so, Jesus lovingly creates a situation in which we must be ready When the leaves of the fig tree sprouted at all times for signs pointing toward and its twigs became tender, it was a His return. We cannot drive down life’s sign for Jesus’ audience that summer road looking for an annual event that was drawing near (v. 28). Jesus used the will nudge us to get ready for what’s to ability to read that physical sign in nature come. Instead, we must live in readiness to exhort his hearers to consider signs mode at all times, being ever watchful. pointing to His return. Christ’s words about the end times have The unique nature of these signs would more permanence than the present distinguish them from anyone’s claim heaven and earth. We would do well to to have seen the returned Messiah. heed His words with expectant hearts. Scripture teaches that all celestial This time He is coming with the power bodies will be disturbed by the return and glory of His rule. of Christ—the sun, moon, and stars (vv. 24–25).

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US How often do you check your daily calendar? Would you pray for Greg While we cannot check our calendar to know the Thornton, senior vice president exact date of Christ’s return, every generation has of Media? Greg’s humility and love for the Lord have been a hoped that Jesus would return in their lifetime. blessing for many at MBI. Ask God This eager expectancy reflects the promises of our to continue guiding Greg in his salvation. We are to live each day as if we will see media ministry, as well as in his our King in His full glory tomorrow. service on MBI’s leadership team.

34 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 14:1 21

WEDNESDAY She has done a beautiful thing to me. AUGUST Mark 14:6 28

Preparing for Passover As the most anticipated movie of 2019, Equally wrongly, Judas entered a plot to Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame broke the betray Jesus. The wayward disciple was international opening weekend gross guided by his desire for money rather record, making $859 million. Building than the remembrance of God’s mercy up to the event, potential viewers were as commemorated by the Passover. encouraged to re-watch the entire 20+ movies in the Marvel series leading up Rightly, however, a woman unidentified to Endgame. For many, the pre-viewing by Mark anointed Jesus for burial with measures helped make the waiting for costly pure nard or perfume, recognizing the movie worth all its surrounding hype. Him as her High Priest (Ex. 29:7). She had eyes to see Jesus’ coming death In Mark’s narrative, multiple preparations and burial, and associated it with were under way for the Passover, all Passover. This woman prepared for the of them associated with Jesus. Some feast by worshiping Jesus, recognizing of these actions were horribly wrong her need for His mediation. Similarly, the and went against the central meaning disciples obediently prepared the place of Passover. Others were perceptively to share the Passover feast with Jesus. right and honored the event. Wrongly, the chief priests and scribes worked The way we prepare to participate in the to remove Jesus from the Passover Lord’s Supper—the event memorializing celebration. Their actions were Jesus’ death for us—can help us especially self-condemning since they gain more from the celebration. Our knew what the Law taught about murder preparations of worship and obedience and what the Old Testament taught appropriately honor Jesus and about treating the righteous as evil. remember His sacrifice.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Does your church participate in the Lord’s Supper, Thank God for the lesson we’ve also known as the Communion Table? If you know learned from today’s reading. the date ahead of time, set aside time to prepare May we remember Jesus as the Passover Lamb, thank Him for His your heart for worship. Reread passages that sacrifice on our behalf, and honor mention the Lord’s Supper in the Gospels, reflect Him as Lord. May we worship Him on the meaning of Christ’s death on your behalf, in Spirit and in truth! and ask the Lord to cleanse you of sin.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 35 READ MARK 14:2252

THURSDAY Truly I tell you, I will not drink again AUGUST from the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God. 29 Mark 14:25

The Coming Crucifixion By this time the disciples should have be weak in prayer rather than vigilant, been well-prepared for the death of and eventually would lead to their Jesus. Three times He had warned desertion. them of the soon-to-come events in Jerusalem, each time with the promise Fully understanding the significance of His resurrection after three days of the death of Jesus will take the (8:31; 9:31; 10:32–34). The disciples remainder of our lives in both this had just witnessed a woman pour out world and the next. For all eternity we costly oil on Him, which He described as will rejoice at the significance of His preparation for His “burial” (14:8). And, as great redemption of our souls by the they celebrated the Passover, He spoke sacrifice of His life. In this life, we have of His body and of drinking again in the every day to meditate on His atoning kingdom of God (14:25). work, the forgiveness that comes by the shedding of His blood, His fulfillment of The disciples didn’t fully understand the requirements of the Law’s judgment, Jesus and continued eating. Jesus and His taking God’s wrath on Himself in showed again that they did not our place. recognize Him when He said there were potential betrayers and deserters among We should appreciate the meaning of them. Misunderstanding the significance Christ’s death more and more each of His statements about the coming day. Participation with fellow saints in Crucifixion, Peter pledged loyalty to the Lord’s Supper should be sweeter, Jesus with great overconfidence. “Even our prayer life should become stronger, if all fall away, I will not” (v. 29). Their and our devotion to our Savior should misunderstanding would allow them to increase.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Today’s Lord’s Supper celebrations emphasize the Are you a part of a local church? solemnity of the event. We come to this table in a Take time today to pray for your serious manner. We take time to prepare ourselves. church, as well as for your pastor and elders. As today’s devotional The Lord’s Supper, like Passover, is also a feast of shows us, the best way to grow celebration. We marvel at the forgiveness of our in faith, understand the things of sins through Christ’s death. Thank God with joy God, and make disciples is in a while taking communion! community of believers.

36 TODAY IN THE WORD READ MARK 15:1 27

FRIDAY He was pierced for our transgressions, AUGUST he was crushed for our iniquities. Isaiah 53:5 30

The Death of Jesus The Heidelberg Catechism features a took place, He did not speak up in series of questions and answers, which His own defense but accepted His instruct in specific doctrines of the faith. sentence. As the soldiers brutally Question 39 focuses on the significance mistreated Jesus, He did nothing to stop of the Cross, asking if it is important them (vv. 16–20). Jesus did not use His that Christ was crucified and did not divine power to deter this abuse. He die in another way. The answer: “Yes, did not act to save Himself. Accepting for thereby I am assured that He took the greatest injustice ever leveled upon Himself the curse which lay upon at a person in history, Jesus showed me; because the death of the cross was His disciples, and us as well, how to accursed of God.” handle injustice—walking through the most unimaginable, unbearable, unjust, The significance of the Cross of Christ unrelenting, undeserved, and seemingly for our salvation is clearly understood unendurable of trials. Jesus let His by any Christian reading of the events silence speak when He was wrongly of Good Friday. But the significance of accused. His innocence stood trial as the Cross for our suffering may not be as leaders played politics with His life. well understood or appreciated. Jesus’ acceptance of unjust treatment, even to A centurion, or soldier, watching the the point of His crucifixion, affirmed His events, declared, “Surely this man was identity as the Messianic King. the Son of God!” (v. 39). His response shows us that our acceptance of unjust Jesus did not reply to the charges treatment for the sake of Christ will brought by His accusers (v. 5). As speak volumes to those looking on, Barabbas was released and mocking pointing them to that same Messiah.

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US The centurion’s testimony is significant! As a What a sobering message soldier, he no doubt witnessed a great number presents today’s Scripture! As we of crucifixions. As a Roman, he most likely was a read about the death of Jesus, help us remember, Lord, that in polytheist. That is why his declaration of Jesus a world trying to achieve justice as God, after witnessing Christ’s crucifixion, is its own way, all justice belongs especially moving. Rejoice and tell someone else of to you. your certainty that God Himself came to save you.

MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE 37 READ MARK 16:1 8

SATURDAY AUGUST He has risen! He is not here. 31 Mark 16:7

The Empty Tomb Mark’s Gospel account ends on an about the resurrection and the promise odd note. In many Bibles, verses 9–20 from Jesus that they will see Him alive, contain a commentator’s note about they do not announce it to anyone. the disputed authenticity of the closing section of the book. Many Bible scholars Even when there are no obstacles say that the earliest manuscripts of the preventing us from remembering Gospel do not contain this ending. Christ’s death on our behalf, we might be hesitant to tell others about Him. Equally odd is the description in verses Even with the scores of reassurances 1 to 8: the reaction of the three women we have from His Word, history, and the at the tomb of Jesus. They are there, Holy Spirit within us, we still might find having overcome obstacles to get to ourselves hesitant to proclaim to others Jesus, including awaiting the Sabbath that the tomb is indeed empty. to finish, the sun to rise, and having the stone rolled away. Yet, they are described The end of the Gospel of Mark proposes as “alarmed” by the appearance of the a challenge to servants of Jesus: Will angel at the tomb (v. 5). we be silent with the message of Jesus’ death and resurrection? Or, will we use Moreover, after multiple reassurances the empty tomb and the proclamation that the crucified Jesus is alive, this of His resurrection as a starting point account says that they leave fearful and to take the message of the Gospel of even more —“bewildered” (v. 8). In the Mark—the good news of Jesus—to conclusion of Mark’s Gospel, despite the everyone without fear, assured by the assurances to tell Peter and the disciples promise of His return?

APPLY THE WORD PRAY WITH US Now that you we have finished the Gospel of Mark, In conclusion of our study of the we suggest you go back and read the full story Gospel of Mark this month, let’s again. With the end in mind, you will notice the thank God for His wondrous salvation extended to all who many references to Jesus being the Son of God believe, and for His grace that is and King of the Jews who came to offer eternal always sufficient. Let’s pray that life. Ask the Holy Spirit to give you boldness and our lives would be pleasing to our courage to tell others that Jesus’ tomb is empty. Lord Jesus Christ.

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