Mark 01

Mark 1:1-8, Matthew 3:1-12 Luke 1:80 3:1-18 John 1:6-28 The Message and Ministry of John the Baptist

Matthew to the Jews, Mark to the Romans; Luke to the Greeks, John made it clear and unmistakable that Jesus was GOD in Human form to all man kind.

A pupil of the Apostle John, Papias A.D. 70-155 wrote in his "Explanation of the Lord's Discourses" that he had made the the Elders, and the followers of the Elders his business. He stated the following; "The Elders said this also: Mark, having become the Interpreter of Peter, wrote down accurately all that he remembered-not, however, in order-of the Words and Deeds of Christ. For neither, did he hear the Lord, nor was he a follower of His, but later on, as I said, he attached himself to Peter, who would adapt his instruction to the need of the occasion, but not reach as though he were composing a connected account of the Lord's Oracles; so that Mark made no mistake in thus writing down some things as he remembered them. For one object was in his thoughts-omit nothing that he had heard, and to make no false statements." [ Page 458 Halley's Bible Handbook by H. H. Hally ]

John Mark is the human author of this book. The name Mark is actually a sur name, his common name being John. John Mark was the son of Mary, Mary's home was a meeting place for the disciples of Jesus Acts 12:12; and is where  Peter went when the Angel released him from prison Acts 12:12
It is believed that Mark was a convert's of Peter because of the language used in 1st Peter 5:13. Mark in his later years became a companion, a intimate and beloved helper to Peter. He was with him in Babylon when Peter wrote his First Epistle 1st Peter 5:13 About 12 years later AD 62 Mark appears in Rome with Paul Colossians 4:10 Philemon 24. Then 4 or 5 years later just before Paul is martyrdom he asked Mark to come to him, II Timothy 4:11.

It had not started out that way, Mark went with Paul and Barnabas to Antoch (Acts 12:25) in AD 44 and started with Paul on his first missionary journey, but Mark turned back, Act 13:13 In AD 50 Mark wanted to go with Paul on his second missionary journey, but Paul refused to take him because of his turning back on the first Journey. This cause the separation of Paul and Barnabas Act 15:36-39. Mark went with his Uncle Barnabas, and Paul took Silas. Some criticize Paul for this, but he knew his schedule was so busy and difficult that he could not have someone he could not depend on.

 It is probably the first of the gospels written, but Matthew provides the best link to the Old Testament and introduction of the King. Mark’s accurate presentation was not as an eye witness, but primarily from discussions with Peter. Early church fathers believed he wrote it in Rome for Gentile Roman Christians, and his explanations bear this out. He wrote of Christ as the servant of the Lord, so records more of Christ’s deeds than words. Some assume the upper room was in the home of Mark, but this lacks proof. Some think he was the youth who fled from the Garden naked, but their basis for this is quite faulty.

v 1. The “good news” is not about Mark’s book, but about Jesus Christ. Mark does not give a genealogy, which would not be appropriate for Christ the Servant.

v 2,3. Mark quotes Isa. 40:3 to introduce John the Baptist preparing for Christ.

v 4-11. He sees John the Baptist dressed as a prophet, preaching repentance for the remission of sins, and announcing Christ.  Matthew skips nearly 30 years of Jesus life and goes right to his forerunner, John the Baptist. Since he was of the priesthood of Aaron, he probably began his ministry at 30 years of age, about six months before Jesus began His. John’s message was first, repent to be saved. The second part was the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Not immediate, but imminent. It could have been in that day if the Jews would have accepted their Messiah, which God knew they would not.  Matt. 3:3; Mk. 1:2,3: 3:4-6 and Jn. 1:23 all refer to Isa. 40:3. Workers cleared the roads for the Jews to return from Babylon and they cleared the roads for those who came to Jerusalem to the feasts, but here John is preparing the way for Christ. He was clad like Elijah and ate the diet of the poor, locusts and wild honey. Many repented. John gave special warning for the Sadducees and Pharisees to repent, because they expected to enter the kingdom simply by being sons of Abraham. John only baptized the repentant in water, but he was not worthy to untie the sandals of Christ, who (after an interval over 2000 years) would baptize with the Holy Ghost and fire. Pentecost was just a preview of this prophecy of Joel 2:28,29. Jesus began His ministry by coming to John to be baptized. He objected, but Jesus chose this to show He was identifying Himself with sinners. This is a picture of death and resurrection, and Christ called His death a baptism, Mt. 20:22. John recognizing Jesus as Messiah, Mt. 3:14 is not in conflict with him not knowing Him, Jn 1:31. John was filled with the Holy Ghost from the womb, Lk. 1:15, grew up in the wilderness and may not have attended Feasts. Jesus attended them, but was secluded in Galilee. so they may never have met. John just knew he was to prepare the way for Messiah. So the Holy Spirit revealed this to him just as He revealed to Samuel who was to be king. The Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in the form of a dove. to confirm to John and the other people that Jesus was Messiah. . In Jn. 1:31, John is emphasizing the fact that the two were not acquainted with each other, so people would know there was no collusion between them in presenting Jesus as Messiah.  Jesus’ ministry was authenticated from heaven by the coming of the Holy Spirit like a dove, and by the voice of the Father. The Father used those same words on the Mount of Transfiguration. The entire Trinity was present.  

v 12,13. Mark doesn’t give details of temptation.      Jesus was actually driven by the Spirit into the wilderness, Mk. 1:12, where He fasted 40 day and nights. This may have been on a mountain overlooking Jericho. Satan tempted Him at least at the end, when His resistance was weak from hunger.
The first test regarded sonship. Jesus had power to turn stones to bread, but God’s will had been for Christ to fast, so He answered with Deut. 8:3, not to live by bread alone but by the Word of God. (This also authenticated Deuteronomy)  Actually, or by vision, Satan took Jesus to a pinnacle of the temple, inferring from Mal. 3:1 that Jesus could appear spectacularly to the people. Besides, angels would protect Him, Ps. 91:11,12, although Satan did not quote that accurately. This would not have been God’s will either, so Jesus quoted Deut. 6:16, not to tempt God.

v 8-11. Satan is the prince of this world, Jn. 12:31, and offered Christ the kingdom without the cross, if He would worship him. Jesus would have worshiped an inferior and would have thwarted the plan of salvation, so He again answered from Deut. 6:13 and 10:20 that only God should be worshiped. In these temptations Satan used the same method he used on Eve in the garden and what is described in 1 Jn. 2:16, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye and the pride of life. Satan only left for a time, Lk. 4:13, but as soon as he left, God sent angels to minister to Jesus.

v 14,15. More detail on the start of Jesus preaching ministry, Mt. 4:12-17. First the temptation, call of some disciples, first miracle at Cana, then preaching in Galilee

v 16-20. This is the call to leave all to be fishers of men, Mt. 4:18-22 notes.

v 21-28. Lk. 4:31-37 tells of Jesus casting demons out of this man, and the crowd being astonished as Jesus spoke with authority.

v 29-31. The restoration of Peter’s wife’s mother also in Mt. 8:14,15; Lk. 4:38,39.

6 OF 19 JESUS' PRAYERS: JESUS IN SOLITARY PLACE MARK 1:35

v 32-39. This adds to Lk. 4:42-44 notes that Jesus sought out this solitary place before daylight in order to pray. Also that Simon was leading the way to find Him.

Mk 1:41 Mt 8:3 Six Miracle Healing a Leper

v 40-45. The healing of this man of leprosy is not given in Matt. till 8:2-4 and in Lk. until 5:12-14. This portion adds that the man publicized it so that Jesus had to secretly go to desert places to avoid the huge crowds.

Mark 02

v 1-12. By faith four others lowered this man through the tiling of a roof to be healed of paralysis. For the benefit of the religious leaders present, Jesus first forgave his sins. Then as proof of His power to forgive sins, He healed the man and ordered him to pick up his couch and go home. Even the scribes and Pharisees glorified God.

Mt 9:9 MK 2:13, 14 Lk 5:27-28 Jesus Calls Matthew (Levi) Disciple

v 13-22. Capernaum was a customs seat on the route from Damascus to the Mediterranean Sea. Jesus called Levi, (Matthew) away from his unpopular task of tax collector. He likely had cheated as well as collected for Romans, so he and his friends were hated as sinners. Jesus rebuked the self righteous Pharisees who criticized His eating with sinners by saying He came to call sinners to repentance. When He was questioned for not fasting like the disciples of John or the pharisees, He gave three examples. 1. A bridegroom’s guests don’t fast while he is with them. (This was the first hint of the cross in Mark’s gospel.) 2. A new patch of unshrunk cloth would make an old garment tear. 3. New wine is not put in old wine skins or it will break during fermentation. His way and the Pharisee’s way did not mix. He compared their ways to old wine which they thought was better than Jesus’ new way. 

v 23-28. Compare Lk. 6:1-5. The Law allowed any to eat grain as they passed through a field, but the Pharisees strictly interpreted that as work done on the Sabbath. Jesus illustrated that David and his companions ate bread designated only for priests because of present need. (David alone, 1 Sam. 21:1 meant no official entourage, but others indicated v 4,5). Jesus and disciples had a present need, and He declared Himself as Lord of Sabbath.

Mark 03

Mt. 12:13; Mk 3:5 Lk 6:10 Miracle healing of a withered hand

v 1-5. Lk. 6-11. The man with the shriveled hand on the Sabbath was a definite set up by the Pharisees to accuse Jesus. He tested their motive by asking if it was right to do good on the Sabbath. Then turning to the man, He healed him to show that He was Lord also of the Sabbath. He did no ”work”, but simply spoke and the man was healed. He was angry at their attitude, the only time it is specifically mentioned in the N. T. 

v 6-12. This humiliated and infuriated the Pharisees, and they counseled with the Herodians how they could destroy Jesus. He left for the Sea of Galilee and preached from a boat because of the crowd. He healed everyone and cast out demons. Unclean spirits fell before Him proclaiming Him the Son of God, but he told them to be quiet, men were to proclaim Him. He told men to not tell of Him because he was too popular.

v 13-19. See Lk. 6:12-16 for calling the twelve disciples and their names.

v 20,21. They were so thronged they couldn’t even eat and friends (literal family) tried to bring him home, thinking he had gone religious fanatic, insane. Also v 31,32.

v 22-30. Scribes claimed He cast out demons by Beelzebub, prince of demons, but He showed by parables how impossible that was, Satan warring against Satan. He warned them not to blaspheme against the Holy Ghost, because that sin could not be forgiven. They had come close to calling the Holy Spirit Satan.

v 31-41. In ignoring the pleas of His family, Jesus showed the new relationship of all believers being His family.  
Many Religions believe that "blaspheme against the Holy Ghost" is committing Suicide or taking your own life. This I personally do not agree with. I believe that if a person is mentally ill or high on drugs to where they do not know what they are doing, except asking God to forgive them for what they are about to do and that would be taking their life. If that person is truly sorry and asking forgiveness from his or her heart, I believe that God will grant that request of forgiveness High on Drugs: the person is taking so many pain pill to help stop the pain that the person isn't thinking normal.

God sent the Holy Ghost to us and the Holy Ghost knocks on our door to our heart, if we refuse the Holy Ghost then, I believe this is the blaspheme against the Holy Ghost because if you don't believe in the Holy Ghost how can you ask for forgiveness,

Mark 04

v 1-12. This was about Passover time. Jesus withdrew east privately with his disciples, which Lk. 9:10,11 says is near Bethsaida, and He was speaking of the kingdom of God. Mk. 6 adds that this was not only after John was beheaded, but after the disciples first tour of preaching. Mk. adds they sneaked away by boat, but people anticipated their move, even outrunning them. There was such an incessant crowd, they kept too busy to eat, and Jesus’ compassion was not just for the sicknesses He healed, but because they were like sheep without a shepherd. Evening caught them in this deserted place and Jn. 6:5-7 add that Jesus tested Philip by asking where they could buy food for the people. Philip was a native and protested that 200 denarius, or two hundred days wages would not buy enough food. Also, there was no place to get supplies, so the disciples wanted Jesus to send the crowd away. Jn. 6 says it was Andrew who located the lad with 5 barley loaves and two small fish. It was a large grassy area so Jesus told the disciples to have them sit down. Mark says by hundreds and fifties and that Jesus looked to heaven when he blessed the food. There were 5000 men, so with women and children there were probably 10-20,000 total. Jesus commanded them to pick up the fragments that remained after everyone was filled, and there were 12 (bushel size) baskets full. This is the only miracle recorded in all four gospels, and it showed the disciples that in the future Jesus would provide spiritual food, but it was the disciples who would have to do the feeding. Jn. 6:14. Many people did not realize “that prophet” = Messiah. This was the high point of Jesus’ popularity as the people, after seeing the miracle by “that prophet”, wanted to make Him king by force. People wanted a king who would give them (1.) Medicare-free healing; (2.) Welfare-free food; (3.) Military- defeat Rome. From this point on, Jesus said little to convince people He was Messiah, and spent more time instructing His disciples. Jesus had the disciples get in a boat and cross over to the other side, about seven miles, while He sent the people away, then He went up into the mountain to pray alone.  Also see Lk 8:4-10  Chart. Verse 1 adds that Jesus began to teach by the seaside, but the multitude grew and He taught from a boat.

v 13-20. See comments on Lk. 8:11-15.

v 21-23. See comments in Lk. 8: 16-18.

v 24,25. In the parable of the measure, if one accepts Christ’s offer of the kingdom in Mk. 1:15, more will be added. If he rejects, he will have no part in the Kingdom. The portion regarding the measure is not found in Matt. and Luke.

v 26-29. This is the only parable unique to Mark. In this a man sows seed, leaves the production to God, then comes back for the harvest. Some feel this is the spiritual growth of believers, but is more likely, in context of kingdom parables, means Jesus is the Sower, Developer, and the Manifested of the kingdom.

v 30-34. . The Mustard Seed. At that present time the mustard seed was properly the smallest idiom Jesus could use for his illusions. Stating that you didn’t need large amounts, you must have the faith.

v 35-41. Jesus’ disciples were caught in one of the violent storms. The terrain allows sudden storms to sweep across the Sea of Galilee, and they were caught in one. In danger of their (standard 30’) boat sinking, they awakened Jesus. When Jesus rebuked the wind and waves both became immediately calm. “Peace be still”, Mk. 8:39 means “be muzzled and stay that way”.

Mark 05

V1-20  Mark mentions just the worst of the two men. Gaderenes are from Gadara, capitol of an area 8 miles southeast of the Sea of Galilee. Mark and Luke call this the area of the Gerasenes, from Gersa, a town a little north of Gadara. Mark and Luke mention only one of these two men. One of them was totally uncontrollable, breaking chains with which he was bound. They were not sick, but demon possessed, and apparently not allowed in the city, so lived in the cave tombs. In answer to Jesus, the demons were so many they were called Legion. Demons desire to live in a body, so expecting to be cast out, they asked to enter swine. When they did, the hogs ran off a steep place into the sea and drowned. Instead of being thankful that the men were released, (One was sent to tell others.) the people looked at the economic loss of the hogs and asked Jesus to leave.

v 21-42. Luke adds that the man’s name was Jairus. His only daughter was 12 years old, and he could scarcely get to Jesus for help because of the crowd. Other Gospels say she was dying, Matthew omits the part about others reporting that to him. On the way, Jesus was interrupted when a woman with female bleeding 12 years sneaked up to touch His garment (probably just the tassel) and was healed. She probably lived in isolation and was forbidden to touch Him or Jesus and anyone else in the crowd she jostled against, would be ceremonially unclean, Lev. 15:25-30. Jesus knew healing power had gone out, and of course He knew who it was, but asked for confession. (The disciples belittled His request due to the large crowd.) She was no doubt in great fear, because she could be stoned for making the others unclean. Realizing she was caught, she told her story publicly. Jesus told her that her faith had saved her, so to go in peace. (She would still be unclean seven days and would need to bring two turtle doves or two young pigeons for ceremonial cleansing.)  By now word arrived that the girl was dead, but Jesus told Jairus in the other Gospels to believe and she would be well.  Jairus was probably encouraged by the other incident. Musicians were already playing for the mourners, so He was laughed to scorn, but taking only Peter, James and John, He went into the house and healed her and ordered food to be brought to her, proving her health was restored. He had become so popular He asked them not to tell this to others. He didn’t want to be proclaimed as Messiah until the proper time at Jerusalem. 

Mark 06

About a year after the visit recorded in Luke 4:16-30 this was his second visit to Nazareth also recorded in Matthew 13:54-58

V 1-6  After these teaching lessons Jesus returned to home town, Nazareth, for the last time and preached in the synagogue. On His first visit they rejected His teaching and tried to throw Him over a cliff, Lk. 4:16-29. This time they were impressed by His power and teaching, but Him they rejected as a home town boy. They took offense at Him and He didn’t do many miracles there because of their unbelief. The three half brothers mentioned are not the twelve disciples by the same names.

V 7-13 The Twelve Sent Out (Matthew 10)

V 7-13 After the command to pray for laborers, 9:36 the disciples are named by two’s and that is probably the order in which they were sent out, Mk. 6:7. Bartholomew is also called Nathaniel. Thaddaeus is also called Judas not Iscariot, Judas son of James, Jude or Lebbaeus. Simon is also called Canaanite, Mk. 3:17 (or “Kananian”), meaning Zealotes or the Zealot, a group that favored revolt from Rome. Simon Peter is also called Cephas or Simon Barjona (son of Jonah). James the son of Alphaeus is also called James the less. Matthew is called Levi. The twelve were sent forth as heralds of the legitimate offer of coming kingdom with the identical message of John and Jesus and it was authenticated by miracles. This message was to Israel only, later to all the world because the eternal kingdom is coming. They were to travel extremely light, Lk. 9:3,4. Shaking dust off their feet symbolized rejection of those people by God at the great day of judgment. They told Jesus all they had cast out demons and healed the sick, Mk. 6:13, Lk. 9:10. Herod knew John was dead, but hearing what was done through Jesus wanted to see Him.  

Chapter 6:14-29 John Beheaded (Luke 3:1-20)

v 14-29. Herod Antipas was son of Herod the Great, ruler or tetrarch of Galilee and Perea (a fourth of Palestine) and was the one who judged Jesus at His trial. He heard of the works of Jesus and assumed He was John the Baptist raised from death. John had publicly rebuked Herod for marrying, Mk. 6:17, his sister-in-law, Herodias. He put John in prison for her sake and would have killed him, but he liked to hear John, Mk. 6:20, and the people thought John was a prophet. Herodias’ daughter, Salome, gained Herod’s favor by dancing at his birthday celebration and he foolishly offered her up to half the kingdom. Her mother had told her, v 28, to ask for the head of John the Baptist. Herod didn’t want to do that, but rather than find a way to deliver, he kept his oath. The disciples of John gave him proper burial and then told Jesus.

Chapter 6:30-44 The 5,000 Fed (John 6:1-14)

v 30-44. Jn. 6:4, This was about Passover time. Jesus withdrew east privately with his disciples, which Lk. 9:10,11 says is near Bethsaida, and He was speaking of the kingdom of God. Mk. 6 adds that this was not only after John was beheaded, but after the disciples first tour of preaching. Mk. adds they sneaked away by boat, but people anticipated their move, even outrunning them. There was such an incessant crowd, they kept too busy to eat, and Jesus’ compassion was not just for the sicknesses He healed, but because they were like sheep without a shepherd. Evening caught them in this deserted place and Jn. 6:5-7 add that Jesus tested Philip by asking where they could buy food for the people. Philip was a native and protested that 200 denarius, or two hundred days wages would not buy enough food. Also, there was no place to get supplies, so the disciples wanted Jesus to send the crowd away. Jn. 6 says it was Andrew who located the lad with 5 barley loaves and two small fish. It was a large grassy area so Jesus told the disciples to have them sit down. Mark says by hundreds and fifties and that Jesus looked to heaven when he blessed the food. There were 5000 men, so with women and children there were probably 10-20,000 total. Jesus commanded them to pick up the fragments that remained after everyone was filled, and there were 12 (bushel size) baskets full. This is the only miracle recorded in all four gospels, and it showed the disciples that in the future Jesus would provide spiritual food, but it was the disciples who would have to do the feeding. Jn. 6:14. Many people did not realize “that prophet” = Messiah. This was the high point of Jesus’ popularity as the people, after seeing the miracle by “that prophet”, wanted to make Him king by force. People wanted a king who would give them (1.) Medicare-free healing; (2.) Welfare-free food; (3.) Military- defeat Rome. From this point on, Jesus said little to convince people He was Messiah, and spent more time instructing His disciples. 

Chapter 6:45-52 Jesus Walks on the Water. (John 6:15-21)

v 45-52. Jesus had the disciples get in a boat and cross over to the other side, about seven miles, while He sent the people away, then He went up into the mountain to pray alone. One of the sudden storms of Galilee came upon the disciples and the boat was tossed by the waves. This is an example of being in trouble yet being in God’s will, cp 1 Cor. 16:9. Between 3 and 6 in the morning they had only gone three and one half miles against the west wind, and (facing to back) saw Jesus walking past on the water. They thought He was a ghost, but he told them not to fear, it was He. Peter wanted assurance, so he asked if it was Jesus to ask him to come on the water to him. When Jesus said “Come”, he started walking on the water, but taking his eyes off Jesus and looking at the fearful waves, he began to sink. At his call for help, Jesus reached out His hand and caught him, but rebuked him for the lack of faith that caused him to sink. When they got into the boat, the wind stopped, and (Jn. 6:31, they were at land immediately). Mk. 6:51,52 adds their amazement at this miracle because they hadn’t considered the miracle of feeding 5000. This was because their hearts were hardened, but Mt. 14:33 adds that they then worshiped Him as the Son of God, or Messiah.

V 53-56 When they got west to Gennesaret people recognized Him and brought their sick, and if they only touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, they were healed.

Mark 07

v 1-13. Jewish leaders were disturbed by the glowing reports about Jesus and sent a delegation to Galilee, which attacked his disciples for not following Rabbinic (not Mosaic) tradition of hand washing and other extensive cleansing, Mk 7:4. Jesus rebuked them for obeying the commands of men and not obeying the fifth command to honor father and mother. They set aside “gifts” devoted to God, which should have gone to parental support. Then they kept them for their own use. This was hypocritical and Jesus compared it to Isa. 29:13. They honored with lips, not heart. Exodus 23:2 illustrates how the Pharisees abused the Torah in the Talmud (If not stated otherwise it is the Babylonian Talmud) by taking words out of context. By saying not to decline after many, verses 1-3 clearly indicate that you are to give honest testimony regardless of what the majority may say. However, the rabbis isolated three words, “decline after many”. This gives them the authority to change and add to the Torah if the majority decides to do it. For instance, saying a specified prayer while pouring water from one hand to another before a meal. Jesus upheld the Torah, but rebuked their tradition of men in doing this, Mk. 5:5-7.

V 14-23. Jesus called the multitude and told them not what went into the mouth defiled, but what came out. The disciples were concerned because the Pharisees were offended, but the Pharisees had not been “planted” by God, so Jesus just called them blind leaders of the blind and they would fall (be judged). Peter asked the meaning of the parable. Rebuking them for lack of understanding Jesus explained that what was put in the mouth passed on through, but out of the mouth, from the heart, came evil deeds. We have the potential of bad things from our hearts. God’s thoughts are greater than our thoughts. A similar portion in Mk. 7:14-23.

v 24-28. Jesus immediately left the hostile Pharisees and went into Canaan near Tyre and Sidon for rest in a private house. Even so a Greek Syrophenician woman found out and came asking Him to cast a demon out of her daughter. Jesus had earlier sent the disciples to Jews, not Gentiles, so He refused, saying it wasn’t right to give the bread of the children (Jews) to dogs (Gentiles). Persistently she begged for just some crumbs from the table, so He commended her faith and told her that the demon was gone out of her daughter. She returned home to find it true and the girl resting. Some of these details are in Mk. 7:24-30.

v 31-37. The healing of this deaf mute is only in Mark. Matt. 15:29-31 just report many people being healed. Jesus left Tyre and went 20 miles north through Sidon, and avoiding Galilee, He came to the 10 city area on the east side of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus took the man aside and used sign language, touching the man’s ears and tongue, Jesus showed him how he would be healed. The man could read His lips on “Ephphatha”, revealing that his ears would be opened. This fulfills Isa. 35:5,6.

Mark 08

v 1-9. After this massive three days of preaching and healing, people were fasting, weak and food supplies were down to seven loaves and a few small fish. Like in the feeding of 5000, Jesus had compassion on them, had them sit down, blessed the food and had the disciples distribute it to them. This time there were 4000 men plus women and children and 7 baskets full of fragments were left over. In the first feeding, the baskets were :1 wicker and of the size to carry some personal belongings. In this one, the original word is such that they were rope or mat baskets, sometimes large enough to carry a man, so there was more left over this time. Since this was east of the sea, there may have been many Gentiles among them. After the multitude was sent away they got in a boat and went to the west side near Magadan near Tiberias, or as in Mk. 8:10, Dalmanutha.

V 10-13 When Jesus got into Galilee the Pharisees were waiting for Him. They demanded a sign from heaven, though they had been surrounded by signs of Christ. They were rejecting all His miracles and wanted something more spectacular. Jesus condemned their being good readers of weather signs but not of the signs relating to Him. He had given them the sign of Jonah, Matt. 12:38-42. They would get no more.

v 14-21. When Jesus told the disciples to beware of the leaven etc., they thought it was because they had neglected to bring bread. (The seven baskets full had probably been given away.) He reminded them of the feeding miracles and in Mark asked them in each case how many baskets full were left over. So they were not to be concerned about bread, but the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Then they understood.

v 22-26 This is the only miracle recorded in Mark alone, and the only recorded two stage miracle Jesus performed. Christ had abandoned Bethsaida to judgment, Matt. 11:21-24, so he led the man outside the town, showing that He still accepted an individual believer. Incomplete healing at first may have been to show the disciples their incomplete understanding, but if they continued in faith, it could be complete. The man probably lived elsewhere, so Jesus was avoiding publicity in that rejected town.

Chapter 8: 27-30. Peter's Confession (Matthew 16:13-20)

v27-30 As they approached Caesarea Philippi Jesus asked his disciples who men thought He was. Some thought John the Baptist (resurrected), Elijah, Jeremiah or one of the prophets. When He asked their opinion, Peter quickly called Him the Christ, the Son of the living God, that is Messiah. In Mk 8:30 and Lk. 19:21 He told them not to tell anyone that.

Chapter 8:31-33 Passion Foretold (Mark 9:30-33)

v31-33This is Jesus’ first mention of His death and resurrection in Matthew, but Peter rebuked Him, thinking that couldn’t happen to Messiah. Jesus turned to Peter and rebuked Satan directly for using Peter as an instrument to have Him avoid the cross. Peter was led by his own emotion and had not been able to see God’s plan. 

Chapter 8:34-9:1 Cost of Discipleship (Luke 14:25-35)

v 34-38. The cost of discipleship is giving up all one’s own ambitions, even losing his life, because he will gain a better life. All the possessions of the world would be meaningless if it meant we lost our soul. Jesus spoke prophetically of His second coming in the glory given by the Father and with angels. Those ashamed to unite with Christ will have judgment at that time. Actually the rewards will be at the first stage of His coming when He catches Church Age believers up to be with Him. Three would not see death before seeing Christ in glory.

Mark 09

Mark 9:12 Gabriel tells Zacharias that His son would preach in the style and spirit of Elija

v 1-13. This is six days after Jesus said in 16:28 that some of those standin;9, 12g there would see Him coming in His Kingdom before He died. (Luke’s 8 days figures in the day before and after.) They were north of the Sea of Galilee near Caesarea Philippi, so this was probably Mount Hermon. Transfigured means Jesus was “changed in form” into His glory, and He appeared in glistening white. Moses and Elijah appeared from heaven, proving there is life after death. Lk. 9:31 says they talked with Jesus about His coming death. This should have alerted the disciples about Jesus’ coming death, but they were heavy with sleep, Lk. 9:32. (Probably got sleepy while Jesus was praying, Lk. 9:29.) The same three later slept while Jesus prayed in the garden, Mt. 26:40-45. It is suggested that the disciples represent those living on earth when Jesus comes; (1.) Moses those who have died and gone to heaven; (2.) Elijah those believers who are raptured, caught up live to heaven. Peter perhaps sensed this as fulfillment of the Feast of Tabernacles, which looked back to the wilderness wanderings and forward to the kingdom, so he offered to have tabernacles (shelters) built for each of the three glorified. While he was yet speaking a cloud came over them and the voice of God from it told them to listen to Jesus, His Son. This caused the disciples to fall on their faces in fear. Jesus touched and spoke to them to quiet their fears, and they saw no one but Him. v 9-13. Jesus told them not to tell anyone until He was risen from the dead, as He had told them not to tell anyone He was the Christ, 16:20, but again they did not understand rising from dead, Mk. 9:10. They questioned why some were saying Elijah must come first, Mal. 4:5. Jesus said Elijah had already come (Zacharias had been told John would go before Christ in the spirit and power of Elijah, Lk. 1:17.) They had killed him, and Jesus would also suffer death. The disciples understood Jesus meant John the Baptist, but still didn’t comprehend His death. John the Baptist did not fulfill all of Mal. 4:5, since it was after John’s death that Jesus made the statement Elijah will come and restore all things. This part can refer only to Elijah or one like him in Rev. 11. 

Chapter 9:14-29 The Epileptic Boy Matthew 17:14-19 Luke 9:37-42 Mark 5:1-20 What baffled the disciples was a bad case of demon possession.

v 14-29. Returned from the mountain, they found a multitude, Scribes questioning the disciples, and a man upset because the other nine disciples had not been able to cure his only son. He knelt before Jesus explaining that the son had a dumb spirit and gnashed his teeth, foaming at the mouth, Mk. 9:17,18. He was epileptic, falling into fire or water, also bruising him, and causing him to cry out, Lk. 9:39. The “if thou canst do anything” was probably he lost faith when the disciples could not help. When Jesus told him all things were possible if he believed, he did believe but recognized his weakness and asked Jesus to help his unbelief. Mark and Luke add that Jesus told the man to bring his son, and while he came, he had another violent seizure. People came running so Jesus commanded the deaf and dumb spirit to come out and never to return. When the evil spirit left, people thought the boy was dead. Jesus picked him up and he arose.Privately the disciples asked why they couldn’t cast out the demon, and Jesus told them that kind could not be driven out without prayer and fasting. On the mountain Jesus prayed while the disciples slept, Lk. 9:28-32, and these surely did no better. Matthew only records Jesus words that if they had faith as small as a grain of mustard seed, they could move a mountain, and all things would be possible for them. Keep in mind we are not told to pray that a mountain be removed, but there are large obstacles to service, and we can confidently ask for their removal if it is in God’s will. Jesus is instructing them in the need of prayer and fasting after He leaves them.

Chapter 9:30-32 Between Peter's confession and their arrival in Jerusalem Jesus tells His disciples five recorded times that He would be killed and Rise from the Dead. (1). After Peter's confession Matthew 16:21 Mark 8:31 Luke 9:21. (2). After Transfiguration Matthewe 17:9. 12 Mark 9:9,12 (3). AfterHealing of the Epileptic Luke 9:44 (4). While passing through Galilee Matthew 17:22-23 Mark 9:31 (5). Near Jerusalem Matthew 20:17-19 Mark 10:32-34 Luke 18:11-34.

Chapter 9:30-32 Passion Again Foretold.

v 30-32. Jesus is more specific than ever before, that he will be betrayed before He is killed, and rise on the third day. They were sorry, but they didn’t understand and were afraid to ask, Mk. 9:32; Lk. 9:45. (Read the Mark and Luke portions with all this.)

v 33-37. From Mk. 9:32-34 and Lk. 9:46-48 we learn that the disciples were disputing on the way to Capernaum about who would be greatest in the kingdom of heaven, or what great positions they would have. When Jesus questioned them, at first they were reluctant to tell Him. For illustration, he called a little child and took him in His arms in their midst. Then he taught them that they must be converted, and those who were humble as a little child would be the greatest. Instead of thinking about positions, they should have been thinking about serving others. Children were overlooked in that day, so Jesus stressed them as an important need. He even warned the dire consequence of causing one of the little ones to be offended, to stumble. Mark adds that those who receive a child in my name receives me. This led to further comment, or perhaps they tried to change the subject to one casting out demons in Jesus’ name, see Mk. 38-41. He told them even one giving a cup of water in His name is worthy of reward. Narrow denominationalism is to be avoided. See Mk. 9:42-50 for related comments regarding giving up all for Christ (but not self mutillization) and salt in believers.

v 38-41. After hearing Jesus say that one who received a little child received Him, John was prompted to infer another question. They had seen one who was not a follower with them casting out demons in Jesus’ name and they rebuked him. Was that right or wrong? Jesus’ reply was that if someone cast out demons in His name, not to forbid him, because if he was doing this in Jesus name, he wasn’t against them, he was for them. He would have been a disciple but not one of the twelve, and he had cast out a demon where the nine had failed. Even giving a cup of water in Jesus’ name was worthy of reward. We should avoid narrow denominationalism.

v 42-48. Matt. 18:7-14 Continues a thought of not offending little children using some of the same things Mark uses in a more general way. Matthew adds a shepherd leaving the ninety nine to search for one lost sheep. Mark adds it would be better for a millstone (very heavy) fastened to ones neck and him drowned than to offend one of the little ones. As in Matthew, Mark is not talking about self mutilation, but importance of removing those things in our lives which cause others to stumble. It is better to give up the things of this life than to be an unbeliever trying to get to heaven on his own terms and ending up in hell. 

v 49. Salt is a preservative, and unbelievers will be preserved to endless torment. Old testament sacrifices were all seasoned with salt. As believers present our bodies a living sacrifice, we will be seasoned with purifying trials. 

v 50. In salt flats salt may lose its savory quality and be worthless. Believers

Mark 10

v 1-9. We see from Lk. 16:14-18 that Jesus was using divorce to show the Pharisees that they were not keeping all the law. They viewed divorce loosely, but Jesus gave only one exception for this, unfaithfulness in marriage, Matt. 5:32; 19:1-12 . (Views on this may be a one time affair; repeated offenses; pregnancy discovered in the betrothal stage; a situation in which the couple discover they are related) Jesus did not take part in the divisions, but emphasized God’s plan was for marriage between a man and woman to be permanent. Jesus called marriage among divorcees adultery. Matthew and Mark 10:1-12 imply that Jesus considered even those who did not want divorce but had it filed against them and remarried to be living in adultery, unless there had been unfaithful. Moses permitted the divorces to prevent greater sin. In our class we will not become involved with any of those views, but stress marriage as a permanent bond requiring faithfulness from this point on , regardless of the past.) See note in Mark 10:6 regarding creation. 

v 10-12. The disciples thought this was too strict and said that if a man couldn’t get a divorce for any reason it would be better not to marry. That was not Jesus’ point. Marriage should deter lust and unfaithfulness, but to some that would not apply. v 6 This not only answers the question of the Pharisees, but is proof that man did not evolve, over millions of years, but male and female were created from the beginning of creation, the sixth day.

v 13-16. Luke places this incident in his record, 19:15-17, to follow up on the teaching of humility. The disciples were trying to shield Jesus from having to take time to mess with little children, but He not only cared for and blessed them, he pointed out that those who come to God must come in the humility and dependence of a child. v 17-27. This rich young man wanting eternal life recognized Jesus as good, but not God, so Jesus made another claim to Deity. Jesus told him to keep five of the six commandments of relationship to man, and he claimed he had kept them. Then Jesus followed up with the instruction to sell all he had and give to the poor, which would apply to the 10th commandment of coveting. It would also show whether, he loved his neighbor as himself. This proved he could not keep all the commandments to be saved, but had to humble himself and follow Jesus. Mt. 19:25 and Mk. 10:24, 26 stress the amazement of the disciples at that teaching, because like the other Jews, they thought temporal prosperity was a sign of divine favor. Unlike Zacchaeus who volunteered to give to poor, Lk. 19:8, this young man went away sadly, more interested in possessions than eternal life. So Jesus used the hyperbole of the impossibility of a camel going through a needle’s eye. (This was a true needle, not the small gate which might be gone through with difficulty.) This was impossible for man but possible with God for men to be saved. v 28-31. The incident prompted Peter to comment that the disciples had left all to follow Jesus. He responded that though they lost family, they would gain an hundred fold larger family of believers through their ministry, plus eternal life. (Mark 10:30,31 adds receive an hundred fold and includes houses and lands, but with persecution. Mt. 19:28 says in the kingdom the disciples will sit on 12 thrones judging the 12 tribes of Israel . (Judas will be replaced.) Perhaps these are some of those mentioned Rev. 4:4.

v 32-34. Jesus tells the twelve how he will be betrayed into the hands of the priests and scribes and the treatment he will receive. He will be condemned, crucified and raised the third day. Gentiles will also be involved. Luke 18:31-34 adds that all things written by the prophets about the Son of man will come to pass. Also that he will be spit upon, but the disciples understood none of these things that were hidden from them or the things spoken. They expected the kingdom. Similar in Mark 10:32-34.

v 35-45. See notes on Mt. 20:20-28. v 20-23. Motivated by mention of the renewal in 19:28, the mother of James and John asked special favor for her sons in the kingdom. Even though they had just been told of Jesus’ suffering and death, they apparently urged her to do this and were with her, because Mk. 10:35 states that they came to Him. So he spoke to them, not her, asking if they could share His coming trials. They said they could, and history proves they died martyrs, but Jesus told them favors was in the hands of the Father.
The other 10 were indignant, no doubt jealous, but Jesus gave them all a lesson in humility. Greatness comes not from ruling, but from service. Then He gave Himself as an example, coming to give His life a ransom for sins. 

v 46-52. Jericho, city of palms, in the desert 1,000’ below sea level. Jerusalem about 15 mi. west, several thousand feet above sea level. It was King Herod’s winter home, similar to Palm Springs, CA. Matthew mentions two blind men, but Mark and Luke only the one that is most important to the story. Mark identifies him Bartimaeus, son of Timaeus. (“Bar”- son of -Timaeus) We don’t have record whether or not Bartimaeus was blind from birth. Timaeus in Strong’s is “highly prized” but some say “one who honors God”. If the latter, that is where Bartimaeus, his son, got his spiritual training so that when Christ came along, he recognized Him as Messiah, “Jesus, Son of David”. Both were healed and followed Christ, but he cast aside the garment on which coins were tossed to come to Jesus, Mk. 10:50. He not only received his sight, but Jesus said his faith had saved him. He followed Jesus and all the people praised God, but if the Jews as a nation had honored God, they could have been saved as a nation and the kingdom come.

Mark 11

v 1-11 . Coming from Jericho in the east, (Jesus Probably spent the Sabbath at the home of Mary Martha and Lazarus.) Jesus arrived at Bethphage approaching Jerusalem Sunday, and sent two disciples to procure a donkey and her colt. (Mark and Luke only mention the colt.) This was not pre arranged, but He knew the owner would allow it for the Messiah. Several versions on Mk. 11:3 indicate that Jesus will soon send the colt back. Messiah would not come on a war horse, but a donkey as a sign of peace, as some other kings had done. This fulfilled the prophecy of Zech. 9.9, but the disciples did not remember about this until after Jesus was gloified, Jn 12:16. The disciples put coats on the colt and set Jesus on it, and the crowd made a carpet of coats and branches. They were probably mostly pilgrims from Galilee who were coming to the Passover and knew of Jesus and His miracles, but also some who had witnessed the resurrection of Lazarus bore witness, Jn. 12:17. 

v 12-14. Early Monday morning, v 12-14, Jesus was hungry and went to a fig tree which had leaves and should have had fruit but did not, so He cursed it. It began to wither immediately, but not recognized by the disciples until next morning.

v 15-19. (Monday morning Jesus cursed the fig tree, v 18 and proceeded to cleanse the temple.)This was the second cleansing of the temple, cp. Jn. 2:14-16, as Jesus drove out the merchants from the court of the Gentiles, denouncing them as thieves in what should be the house of prayer. As soon as He had done this, the blind and lame came to the temple and He healed them. Chief priests and scribes were angry over what Jesus had done and the shouted praise of the children, Son of David being a title of the Messiah. Again they tried to rebuke Jesus, but He quoted from Ps. 8:2 that praise would come from babes. Jesus then left them and walked the two miles over the Mt of Olives to Bethany where He probably spent the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus.

v 20-26. Among the songs they sang or shouted as they escorted Jesus was Ps. 118:25,26. See Mr 11:9 And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord: At the time Jesus was entering, the priest was entering from an opposite gate with a sacrificial lamb, and that is what the people were supposed to be singing there.
There was confusion. People of Jerusalem did not know Him, but the pilgrims kept answering that this was Jesus, the prophet of Galilee. Their praise became so loud, Lk. 19:39,40, that the Pharisees among them asked Jesus to rebuke them. They wanted the people to be shouting at the entrance of the lamb. But the real Lamb of God said if He did, even the stones would cry out. The Pharisees could do nothing because of the crowds, but though the world had gone after Him, Jn. 12:19, many did not believe. This would have completed Sunday, and Jesus returned to Bethany. Coming by on Tuesday morning, the disciples were amazed that the tree had withered, Mk. 11:13,14,20. Jesus used this to teach that greater things than this could be done, even to moving mountains, if they truly had faith to believe. Mark 11:25,26 adds that we must ask forgiveness if we have anything against someone or the Lord will not forgive us. This implies that He will not answer our prayers. Jesus may have also had another lesson in mind. The fig tree is a figure of Israel, and He was showing that they were rejecting Him, so they would bear no fruit but come under judgment. This began with Rome’s attack in AD 70.

v 27-33. Jesus as confronted by the religious leaders as to where He got authority to do what He had done the last two days, He had not received it from them. Jesus answered that He would answer only if they answered a question from Him, was the baptism of John from heaven or from men. They dare not say of men because the people believed John, or of heaven or Jesus would say why didn’t you believe him. They refused to answer so He refused to answer them.

Mark 12

v 1-12. Jesus gave another parable of a landowner who made a vineyard at great expense and leased it to tenants, but when he sent servants to collect the income, the tenants beat and killed the servants. Last he sent his son, thinking they would revere him, but they killed the son so they could get the inheritance. They answered that those tenants should be killed and the vineyard leased to worthy tenants. Predication of the Savior concerning setting aside of Israel Mt 21: 43, 44 This illustrated how Israel had beaten and killed prophets and were now about to kill the Son, so the kingdom would be taken from them at that time, but will be given back to future generations when they truly repent and turn to God. These leaders had rejected Christ, the Stone, but, quoting from Ps. 118:22, He would become head of the corner (more correctly the capstone). This made them want more to kill Him, but they dared not for the people believed Him a prophet. Lk. 20:18 adds that those who fell on that stone, often pyramid shaped, stumbled over and rejected in building, would be broken, but the one it fell on would be crushed to powder. The leaders knew He spoke of them.

v 13-17. The Pharisees hated Rome while the Herodians supported it, but they were called upon for support in trapping Jesus. They used flattering hypocrisy before asking him if it was lawful to give tribute to Caesar. However He knew their hypocrisy, and however He answered, one of the two groups would condemn Him.
Jesus asked for a coin which would have Caesar’s image on it. Showing that they were under Rome, they were obligated to pay, but they also had spiritual responsibility to God. The answer amazed and silenced both groups.

v 18-27. The Sadducees did not believe in resurrection, angels or spirit, and thought they had the perfect question to make Jesus and resurrection look ridiculous. Jewish law required the next son in line to raise up an heir for the one who died childless, so which of the seven brothers would she be wife to in heaven? Jesus bluntly told them they erred. Mk. 12:25 adds that in heaven they will neither marry or be given in marriage, but are like the angels (whom Sadducees deny, Acts 23:8). He did not say they were sexless, but being immortal they have no need to perpetuate their race. Then he showed from Scripture that God was still God of Abraham and others. Even though they had died they yet lived. The Sadducees were silenced, but the crowds enjoyed it.

v 28-34. The Pharisees returned to the attack with one who had the most skill in the Law, and he asked what was the greatest commandment. Jesus summed up the law with the command to give total love to God, Deut. 6:5, and to love man, who was created in God’s image, as himself, Lev. 19:18. All else hinges on or amplifies them. Mk. 12:31-34 adds that the lawyer, or scribe, acknowledged Jesus had given a correct answer, and Jesus replied that in knowledge, he was close to the kingdom of God. Fearful that some might be persuaded by Jesus, they stopped asking questions.

v 35-37 See notes on Mt. 22:41-46. v 41-46. Jesus used this to take the initiative and asked the Pharisees a doctrinal question, “Whose son is Christ?” They quickly replied Messiah would be Son of David. Jesus then asked how Messiah could be just an earthy son of David, because David called Him Lord. They were stumped, and unwilling to acknowledge the deity of Jesus by admitting He was David’s Lord. So they would not ask Him any more questions.

v 38-40 Jesus described the actions of the scribes and Pharisees and gave the multitude gathered warning about them. They taught the law of Moses hypocritically, not following it correctly themselves. They made the rules a burden and made their phylacteries larger than normal and put long tassels on their prayer shawls to attract attention (See comments on borders, v 5 in Mal. 4:2., where they are expressed as wings.). They sought prominent seats in the synagogues, titles and positions. Jesus warned against calling religious leaders Father and Rabbi, because only Christ was their master. One who humiliates himself to serve is the greatest. Mk. 12:38-40 and Lk. 20:45-47 add that they exploit generous, but poor, widows and make long prayers.

v 41-44 Coming from Jericho in the east, (Jesus Probably spent the Sabbath at the home of Mary Martha and Lazarus.) Jesus arrived at Bethphage approaching Jerusalem Sunday, and sent two disciples to procure a donkey and her colt. (Mark and Luke only mention the colt.) This was not pre arranged, but He knew the owner would allow it for the Messiah. Several versions on Mk. 11:3 indicate that Jesus will soon send the colt back. Messiah would not come on a war horse, but a donkey as a sign of peace, as some other kings had done. This fulfilled the prophecy of Zech. 9.9, but the disciples did not remember about this until after Jesus was gloified, Jn 12:16. 

Mark 13

v 1-4. Jesus abandoned the temple to destruction, but the disciples could not see how this could be or fit in with the coming kingdom, so they call His attention to the magnificence of the temple. Some of the foundation was blocks of white marble 67.5’ long, 9’ wide and 7.5’ high and ornamented with gold, both inside and out. As Jesus foretold, they were all torn apart in AD 70 when the temple was burned and the Roman soldiers pried blocks apart to get to the melted gold.
When they got to the Mount of Olives, His statement of desolation, 23:38, prompted four disciples, Peter, James, John and Andrew, to ask Him privately: (1.) When shall these things be? (2.) What shall be the sign of thy coming and the end of the age? ( Mk. 13:4 And what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?) The discussion that followed is called the “Olivet Discourse”. There is nothing to do with the Church in Mt. 24 and 25. The disciples questions relate to Jerusalem, Israel, and the Lord’s second coming in glory to establish His kingdom. Matthew did not record the answer to the first question, but Lk. 21:20 does. Jerusalem will be compassed with armies. The disciples thought from Zech. 14:1-3 that the destruction of Jerusalem would usher in the kingdom. This would not be AD 70 but yet future. (The Church has been raptured before these things take place, but we will see preliminaries.) Some point out that coming can be translated here, “Thy full presence”, as they expect Him to usher in the Kingdom on earth.

v 5-13. Tim LaHaye makes a good point that war and rumors of war have long existed, but v 6. “the end is not yet”. Some of this refers to the destruction of Jerusalem, AD 70 and the events that followed. However it has a longer term meaning. A conflict, v 7, just between two nations, and then becoming world wide fits World War 1 and no other conflict in history. Then v 8 these are just the beginning of birth pains listed below. They all took place immediately after that war and continue in the present. These were signs of the latter days, not the last days. “The Beginning Of The End”. However, these verses can also refer to events of the first half of the Tribulation, which is the Seventieth Week of Daniel. There is Silas comparison to the seven seals of Rev. 5 and 7. cp. Rev. 6:3,4, Antichrist False Christs compare Rev. 6:3,4, Warfare Wars and rumors of wars Rev. 6:5,6 Famine Stresses including famine Rev. 6:7-11 Death and martyrdom General problems Rev. 6:12-14 Earthquakes Earthquakes Mark 13: 10-12 adds that before then the gospel will be preached before all nations, the Holy Spirit will teach them what to speak, and family members will betray one another to death. Similar in Lk. 21:12-19. Many of these things were suffered by the Apostles and continue to be by believers before the start of Daniel’s 70th week. . Verses 1-14 seem to be a general overview of the Tribulation, the troubles in 9-14 refer to the second half of the Tribulation, and indicate the end is near.

v 14-18. Verse 15 is definitely the mid point of the Tribulation. The Antichrist will break the treaty of peace with Israel at that time and he will establish his own center of worship in the temple. This is the abomination of desolation spoken of in Dan. 7 and 8. Those in Judea are warned to flee without thinking about taking belongings, even to return for a coat. It will be especially difficult for those pregnant, with babies or in cold.

v 19-23. This describes some of the Great Tribulation, the last half of the 7 years. In mercy for the sake of the elect, God will shorten the days so people can survive. Many will be deceived by false Christs, false prophets and miracles performed. So they are not to be deceived into going to look for Christ, because when He comes it will be with great splendor and suddenly. After the Tribulation birds will flock to the carcasses, so this verse can be simply explained that wherever moral corruption exists, divine judgment will fall. Predication of the Savior concerning His second coming Mt 24: 29-41

v 24-27. Immediately after the distressful days of the Tribulation there will be unusual phenomenon in the heavens. Lk. 21:25,26 adds perplexity in the seas and men’s hearts failing them for fear. We don’t know what the sign is, but Christ will come with power and great glory. It may be that the brightness of His coming will be such that the light of the sun becomes as insignificant as a match when the light is turned on. The unsaved mourn because they know judgment is coming, (The final victory of ArMageddon immediately takes place) but a trumpet will sound to gather the elect from wherever in the world they have been scattered by persecution. It is not stated to where the angels will gather them. It may also involve resurrection of O T. Saints to join in the kingdom. The content of preceding verses applies primarily to the generation that will be living in that day. As many believe the Church is not involved in this at all, it is a reminder that we too should be watchful, prepared and waiting for the Rapture.

v 28-37. As leafing out of a fig tree is a sign summer is near, all the things in v 4-28 are a sure sign to the generation living then (not in Christ’s day) that the coming of Christ is near. Some believe that the word generation as used here means that the nation of Israel, though scattered by Rome, will, as a race, still be rejecting Christ, and will not pass away till all these things are fulfilled. Of course they do not pass away even then. Christ’s word is sure, and shall not pass away.

Mark 14

v 1,2. This marks a turning point in Matthew with Jesus removing Himself from public appearances. He told the others that the Passover was two days away and the Son of Man would be handed over to be crucified. (This was Tue. eve-Wed so the passover is Thurs. eve-Fri.) Meanwhile all the religious leaders plot to kill Jesus, but wait until after the feast so most worshipers and His supporters would be gone. 

v 3-9. It appears from Jn. 12:1-8 that six days before the Passover in the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus, (Saturday evening after the end of the Sabbath) Mary put some of the ointment on Jesus’ feet, wiping them with her hair. However, combining. the Gospels, it is better understood that they arrived that evening, but there was just one feast later, Tuesday evening (Wed), in the home of Simon the leper, and she puts some ointment on Jesus feet first, then the rest on his head that same evening. In that case, Martha had insisted on going to Simon’s house to help serve. If Mary did not have insight, the Spirit may have moved her to this act of love without her realizing it was for Christ’s burial. She “broke” the alabaster box of ointment, Mk 14:3, and poured the remaining content over his head. It would be very difficult, even foolish, to break a rare alabaster box. Even more difficult to handle the contents, sometimes liquid. “Break”, as used here reverts to a root word, to break a seal or to rub or scrape. What Mary did was break the wax seal which held in the aroma, then used her fingers to scrape out every bit of the ointment that remained in the box and wiped it on Jesus hair. This went beyond ordinary courtesy as she was apparently led to anoint His body for burial. Judas got the other disciples upset about waste, exclaiming, “This was worth a year’s wages! Why wasn’t it sold and the money given to the poor?” Mr. 14:5. Jesus came to her defense and told them to let her alone, because she had done a wonderful thing for him. He added, “You have the poor with you always and you can help them any time you want, but you won’t always have me. She has done what she could beforehand, to anoint my body for burying.” This has been told in memory of her everywhere the gospel is preached. (Again He indicates His death.)

v 10,11. Judas was a thief, and he was angry, not just over losing the money he hoped to gain, but for the rebuke Jesus had given him. Satan entered him to a degree, Lk. 22:3 (He took final control of Judas in Jn. 13:27), and he went directly to the priests to make a deal to turn Jesus over to them. They were glad, and told him they would give thirty pieces of silver, the price of a slave, Zech. 11:12, providing he could find a time to turn Jesus over to them when there was no crowd. Though this was a standard price for a slave Judas probably expected more. The inference is that he received the money then, to hold him to the bargain.

v 12-16. Other than the things of Tuesday evening, activities of Jew’s Wednesday are not mentioned. The time was probably spent on the Mount of Olives with Jesus teaching and trying to prepare the disciples for His death. It is Thursday when Peter and John, Lk. 22:8, ask, and Jesus instructs them to prepare for the Passover. Lk. 22:7-13 tells how they were to identify the place by following a man carrying a pitcher of water. He would stand out because this was usually woman’s work, and men carried it on their head, women on their shoulder. This was not prearranged, but the owner no doubt at least knew of Jesus, maybe even a disciple. There is absolutely no proof for some speculation that this was the home of John Mark’s parents. Preparation included purchasing a lamb which would be slain before a priest. He would catch the blood, sprinkle some toward the base of the altar and burn the entrails on it with incense. It could have been slain between 1:30 and 6:00, but more likely between 2:30 and 3:30 on the first Day of Unleavened Bread, and the Passover meal would have been that evening, start of Jewish Friday.

v 17-21. From Lk. 22:14-18 we see that Jesus great desire to partake of this Passover was because it was the last time He would eat and drink it with them until He did it in the kingdom. When He told them one of them would betray Him, they were saddened, but instead of accusing others, all asked. “Is it I?” All asked “Lord” except Judas, who only asked, “Master” When Jesus affirmed to Judas that he was the one, the others didn’t catch it, or they would not have let Judas go. Jesus had already washed the feet of Judas, and he must have shuddered when Jesus said in Mk. 14:21 that it would be good if that man had never been born. It was only moments after this that Jesus told Judas to leave, and do his task quickly, Jn. 13:21-30. That chapter should be read now for further details.

v 22-25. This phase of the supper being ended, Jesus changed the order of the feast by instituting what we know as the Lord’s Supper. He called the bread His body and the unfermented wine His blood, and the disciples partook as bidden. This was not transubstantiation when they presume to become His body and blood as some teach, but were representative of it. We do not crucify Christ each time we partake. His blood is the New Covenant, salvation directly by His blood instead of the Mosaic rituals which looked for a future Redeemer.

Prediction of the Savior concerning His being frosaken by his disciples Mt 26:31
Predication of the Savior concerning Peter’s second three denilas Mt. 26: 33-35

(Lk 22:24-30 inserts that right after the question arose over who would betray Jesus, the disciples again revert to arguing over who would be greatest. He reminded them that the chief would serve, and that he was not among them as one that dined but as one that served. Jesus then promises all of them reward. They will eat at His table in the kingdom and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.) (Luke also adds, 22:35-38, contrast to the way the disciples were sent out in Mt. 10:9-13. Now they are to take purse bag and sword and prepare for coming conflict. Similar thought is in Jn. 16:1-5, and it is not certain if this was spoken while they were relaxing after the supper, or on the way to the Garden before the brook, Jn. 18:1.)

v 26-31. After singing a hymn they went to the Mount of Olives with Jesus talking to them all the way? John 14-17 should be read for His messages to them. He warned them they would be scattered as sheep with no shepherd, but He would be raised and meet them in Galilee. Jesus warned Peter Satan would attack but He would pray for him, Lk. 22:31-34. Peter said he would not be offended because of Jesus, but Jesus told him that before the cock crowed twice in the early morning, Peter would deny Him three times. He replied he would die with Him rather than deny Him, and all the others said so too.

v 32-42. When they got into the Garden of Gethsemane, the other disciples were to stay at the olive press while he took Peter, James and John farther. He was in deep depression, so they were to watch (pray), if it was in the Father’s will the cup might pass. The cup could hardly be merely death, but the weight of the sin of the world and separation from the Father.
. He found all three sleeping, but only addressed Peter to pray he would not enter temptation. Peter’s later denials proved he needed it. A second time Jesus prayed about the same thing, but when He found them sleeping again, He did not talk to them. Jesus’ third prayer was the same, but an angel came and strengthened Him and He was so intense, He sweat great drops as of blood, Lk. 22:43,44. This shows us that Christ was fully human because when the human body is under great stress it will sweat drops of blood. This time He awakened the disciples with word that sleep would now be proper, except the betrayer was already approaching and they needed to arise and go meet him. Gen 9:6

v 43-52. The crowd sent by the elders and chief priests to follow Judas included 600 Roman soldiers and perhaps hundreds of others, with swords, clubs (torches and lanterns, Jn. 18:3). As prearranged, Judas called Jesus “Master, master” and kissed Him, but Jesus called him Friend, or partner, still offering him time to repent. (It was possibly at this point that Jesus asked them who they wanted, and when He told them He was the one they fell backward to the ground like a bunch of dominoes. He offered Himself to them again and told them to let the disciples go, Jn 18: 4-8.) When they laid hands on Jesus some asked if they should use their swords, Lk. 22::49 (they only had two against the Roman soldiers and huge mob, Lk. 22:38). Without waiting for answer, Peter cut off the ear of Malchus, servant of the high priest, Jn. 18:10, but Jesus healed it, Lk. 33:51, and told Peter to put away the sword, because God could have readily sent 72,000 angels to rescue Jesus if that had been the plan. Jesus shamed the multitude for their show of force, saying that He had been daily in the temple and they had not taken Him, but this was done to fulfill Scripture. With that the disciples scattered as He had told them, Mt. 26:31. One young man who was grabbed, fled naked, Mk. 14:51.

v 53-65. The first place the soldiers took Jesus was to preliminary hearing,1 before Annas, father-in-law of Caiaphas the high priest, giving Caiaphas time to summon some of the Sanhedrin. The trial probably started as soon as at least the twenty three required to hear a capital case were present. John had followed into the court yard of the high priest’s home and arranged for Peter to come in, Jn. 18:15,16.

Predication of the Savior concerning His second Coming Mt. 26:64

Trial 2 before Caiaphas was very illegal, (1.) being held at festival time, (2.) being at night and (3.) being held in the palace of Caiaphas instead of in the regular meeting place of the Sanhedrin. They possibly at least had the minimum 23 present. (See 27:1 for trial 3). Judas had left, so false witnesses were sought to accuse Jesus. Finally two recalled that (about 3 years before) Jesus had said if they destroyed the temple He would restore it in three days, but misunderstood Him speaking of His body, Mk. 14:58, destroy temple built with hands, build one in three days without hands.) Asked if He was the Christ, He said “If I tell you won’t believe, and if I ask you, you won’t answer or let me go, Lk. 22:67,68. Jesus was not required to answer their illegal questioning, but when called to answer under oath if He was Christ, the Son of God, He not only affirmed it but added they would see Him seated at the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven. The high priest put on a show of tearing his clothes at this “blasphemy” and called for agreement to put Him to death. Then they began, again illegally to torture, spit on and taunt Him.

v 66-72. This portion with Mk. 14:66- 72; Lk. 22;55-62; and Jn. 18:15-18, 25-27 indicate that the maid at the door later saw Peter sitting, warming himself with the guards, and confronted him as being one of the disciples. Peter denied saying, “Woman, I know Him not.” The cock crowed once, but in his frustration, Peter may not even have noticed. Then he went out onto a porch where several had gathered and another maid, probably in conjunction with some men, saw Peter standing to warm himself at the fire and mentioned that Peter had been with Jesus of Nazareth and was one of them. To this Peter said, “Man, I am not”. About an hour later, others, including a relative of the man Peter had cut an ear off, said, “Surely you are one of them for your speech betrays you as being a Galilean (Galilean accent). This might pose danger, so Peter began to curse and swear and deny he knew Jesus. At this point, the cock crowed the second time and Jesus looked around and made eye contact with Peter. At that, he remembered the warning of Jesus and realized what he had done, and in deep remorse, went out and wept bitterly. 

Mark 15

v 1-5 Jewish trial 3 was held in the morning, a trial in name only, to make legitimate the illegal trials held in the night. Even yet most of the populace still slept. Mainly those known to oppose Jesus were present. *This was probably the first time all 70 were present, we know Joseph of Arimathaea and probably Nicodemus objected, Lk 23:51, but it would not have changed the outcome. In fact, one was required to volunteer to vote no on a capital punishment decision. Among the many illegal things they did, they were not allowed under their law to pronounce guilt on the same day the evidence was heard, but they pronounced guilt and went right to Pilate. They put Jesus inside the Gentile building but did not go in themselves, making them ceremonially unclean to attend the remainder of the feast days. (They had already had the Passover the night before.) Since they had no legitimate charge, they first simply said that if he wasn’t a criminal they wouldn’t have delivered Jesus to him. Pilate then told them to judge Him according to their own law, but they protested they weren’t allowed to execute anyone, Jn. 18:28-30. Realizing they weren’t getting anywhere, they had to make charges that would indicate conspiracy against the Roman government, so they resorted to vicious libel in Lk. 23:2-12. “We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes paying taxes to Caesar and claims he is Christ, a king.” Pilate questioned and Jesus admitted to being King of the Jews, but His kingdom was not of this world. Pilate found no fault in that, so they said He stirred up people in Judea beginning in Galilee. At mention of Galilee, Herod’s jurisdiction, Pilate sent him to him as he was in Jerusalem at the time to make sure no riots developed while the crowds were there for the feast. Herod wanted Jesus to put on a miracle show, but Jesus wouldn’t even speak to him. So Herod and his soldiers put a gorgeous robe on Jesus, mocked him as a king and sent Him back to Pilate, causing the two rivals to become friends. Matthew stresses the kingship of Christ, so he merely reports that Jesus admitted to Pilate that He was King of the Jews. Jesus didn’t answer other questions because He was on trial for saying He was king of the Jews.

v 6-15. Three times in Lk. 23:14-22 and in Jn 18:38 Pilate declared that he found no fault in Jesus at all. Pilate’s wife warned him of her dream that Jesus was innocent and both he and Herod declared him innocent, so he sought to release him under the custom of releasing a prisoner at the time of the feast. He knew the leaders were envious of Jesus, and thought the people certainly wouldn’t want to release Barabbas, a murderer and insurrectionist. However, the leaders no doubt put on a big show that Jesus had blasphemed God, and persuaded the people to cry for Barabbas’ release instead. They inflamed the people to insist on crucifying Jesus. Comparing this with John 1, it appears that Pilate finally decided he must placate the Jews somehow without ordering an execution. Therefore he took Jesus, and had him scourged (It was illegal to do both). Jewish scourging is a beating with a rod, thirteen times on each shoulder and thirteen times on the loins. Scourging by the Romans is much more severe. A victim’s arms are drawn around a pillar and tied together. The instrument of torture is a whip with metal or other sharp objects fastened in it’s many strands. When this is cracked over a victim’s back or wraps around a chest it tears out pieces of flesh. It only lasts about three minutes and one man watches to make sure it is stopped and the prisoner untied while he is still living. Even so, the beating is so traumatic that some do die. Those who live are scarred for life.
Their answer, “His blood [be] on us, and on our children”, came back to haunt them, when they complained in Acts 5:28, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. They have paid in persecution throughout the years. 

Chapter 15:21-41 The Crucifixion. To see more go to Matthew 27:32-60; Luke 23:26-29 and John 19:17-30 Chapter 15: 42-47 Burial of Jesus see John 19:38-42

v 16-23. See notes on Mt. 27:27-32. .v 27-31. Six hundred soldiers gathered around Jesus in the praetorium court, and knowing Jesus claimed to be a king, after the beating the soldiers made sport of him. They stripped him, put on him a scarlet robe, and crown of thorns, mocked Him as King of the Jews, spit on Him and beat him on the head repeatedly with a staff. He was probably beyond recognition (Cp. Isaiah 52:14) Pilate then went out and getting the attention of the people, stood Jesus before them and said he found no basis for a charge against him. At about 6:00 in the morning, Jesus was a bloody, unrecognizable staggering mess, and Pilate said, “Here is the man, your king.” When the religious leaders saw him they only shouted the more, crucify him, crucify him!” Pilate said, “You take him and crucify him. I don’t find any basis for a charge against him.” At this the Jews insisted, “We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die, because he claims he is the Son of God.” That frightened Pilate, and he questioned Jesus more, but He would not reply. When Pilate threatened his power over Jesus, Jesus calmly told him that his power was controlled from above, so Pilate tried harder to release Jesus. At least the Roman trials had been more fair than the Jewish ones, which had at least 26 illegal procedures. Pilate had four times declared Jesus innocent, but when the people told him they would report to Caesar that he had released a rival king, he caved in to their demands. He washed his hands in front of the people declaring himself innocent, but of course he was still guilty. The people yelled in their frenzy, “His blood be on us and on our children.” Months later, after an angel released the apostles from prison and they continued preaching Jesus as Messiah, the frustrated high priest and council protested, “You intend to bring this man’s blood upon us”, Acts. 5:28. This began to come true in the destruction of AD 70.

By this time Judas had probably seen what was happening and hanged himself.

At this point, they put Jesus’ own clothes back on him and led Him away to be crucified. Lk. 23:26-32 adds that on the road to Golgotha women were weeping and Jesus told them not to weep for Him but for themselves and their children for the troubles ahead (destruction of AD 70). The statement about green tree and dry meant that if the Romans condemned one who was pronounced innocent, what would they do to those later who were pronounced guilty? Luke also mentioned the two other malefactors to be put to death with Jesus.
Simon, from Cyrene in north Africa, was probably a black man forced to carry the crossbeam of Jesus’ cross, the upright was usually already in the ground. (Simon’s sons, Alexander and Rufus are believed to later become believers, Rufus being with Paul in Rome.) The cross piece was no more than five inches square, six feet long and weighed some thirty pounds. Sometimes it was nailed to a notch in the upright, but usually the upright was trimmed as a tenon. Then the cross piece was mortised and lifted over the top of the upright so it could be slipped down over the tenon. In most cases the upright was about six feet tall, so with the knees buckled, the feet were nailed a short distance above ground. Even on the tallest uprights, the feet were never more than three or four feet above ground, and those high ones were only used for the most notorious national criminals. The shorter uprights made it more convenient for the soldiers to secure the cross piece in place.
According to the Commonly accepted time table Jesus was placed on the cross on an April Friday at 9 A.M. Suffered and gave up the Spirit about six hours later at 3:00 in the afternoon.

v 24-47. When they arrived at Golgotha, they offered Jesus a wine, gall mixture to lesson the pain, but He refused. He was stripped and either left naked or covered with a brief cloth, a concession Rome came to make for the Jews. Nails were driven through the wrists, not palms, (At this time period in history the palm was from the finger timps to the arm) and drug by the crossbeam up onto the tenon upon which the crossbeam was dropped. The knees were bent, one foot placed on the other sideways and a five - seven inch spike driven through them both just above the heels. Bones are found which verify this, with the spike clinched against a knot. Similar treatment was given to the thief on either side, and when the purpose of death was fastened above each victim, the one over Jesus read, “This Is JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS”. In disgust at being “used” by the priests, he had it written in Hebrew, Greek and Latin, so that Jews and others passing from all areas could read it. After a crucifixion the crime over the top of a cross was taken down indicating that the crime was now wiped out. So when Jesus’ heading was taken down the Romans were blotting out the crimes Christ was suffering for us, just as God had already blotted out the handwriting of ordinances against us, Col. 2:14.
Soldiers divided up His garments, casting lots for the under piece with no seam in fulfillment of Ps. 22:18. Jesus’ garments would have been 1 turban, 2 sandals, 3 girdle, 4 outer coat, 5 inner robe, seamless, like a high priest’s robe, or long undershirt. (Coat was under garment. In Lk. 6:29, (Greek) if one takes your cloak, outer garment, forbid him not to take your coat, inner garment.) Soldiers were accustomed to dividing up the clothing, but were gambling for Christ’s garment because it was luxurious. They may have heard it had healing power by touching the fringe, and His disciples might pay well for it if left intact. They then sat down to watch Him, but there was much taunting Him to come down from the cross etc.

The Site of the Crucifixion

The crucifixion took place outside the city, John 19:17, 20 Hebrews 13:12 which was called "The Skull" Matthew 27:33; Mark 15:22 Luke 23:33 John 19:17. "Golgotha" is Hebrew for skulls and "Calvary" is Latin. The sight around Jerusalem is still call "Skull Hill". On the North wall, near the Damascus gate of Jerusalem. It is a rock ledge, some 30 feet high with the wall having a striking resemblance to a human skull.

45 - 56 The Death and Its Accompanying Signs

57 - 61 The Burial

62 - 66 The Sealed Tomb

In verse 15:34 Mark uses Aramaic, while in Matthew 27:46 Hebrew is used.
Jesus suffers a sense of being abandoned by God. Jesus had all of man kind’s sin placed on Him, 2 Cor 5:21 God can not look at sin and Jesus experienced the divine judgment of all of our sins. He was our substitute.

Mark 16

V 1-8 The woman visit the tomb: see Matthew 28:1-8, John 21:15-19 Later in the day Luke 24:34 Jesus appeared to Peter, this meeting sealed a devotion that never again would be broken, with Peter's martyrdom. Peter was in bitter numiliation until the meeting with Jesus and then there was tears burnign shame on Peter;s part and great loving forgiveness on Jesus' part.

The woman run to tell the disciples, Peter and John run to the tomb (Joh 20: 3-10

MARK 16: 19-20; LUKE 24: 44-53 ACTS 1:8 JESUS' ASCENSION

v 1-20 While it was still dark Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene, Salome and Mary the mother of James, Joanna and others were bringing sweet spices to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body when an earthquake hit. They proceeded, wondering how they would roll away the stone from the tomb.
At the same time as the quake, an angel rolled the stone away from the tomb to show that Jesus had risen. The angel appeared white as snow in such dazzling brightness that the soldiers shook in fear and fainted. After their initial fright, the soldiers decided to leave and leaders reported to the priests what happened. No conversation with any of those coming to the grave is recorded, so the soldiers may or may not have been gone before any of the women arrived. Though Jesus was dead, they could be put to death for allowing their ” prisoner” to escape. The chief priests and elders devised a plan to pay them a lot of money to say disciples stole Jesus away while they slept. That was also a serious offense, but the priests would buy off the officials if there was a problem. For a long time it was reported among the Jews that was what happened, but it defies common sense. Justin Martyr says this report was sent by the Jews to every country. Critics of resurrection can be refuted with Scripture:

THE LAST 12 VERSES OF MARK

V 14-18 Jesus appears to the Eleven

V 9-20 Verses are not in the Vatican or Sinaitic manuscripts, but were early accepted as a genuine part of Mark's gospel. Most thought likely that the last pages of the original copy was lost and add later. However, it doesn't seem that verse 8 could be a proper ending for the book.
False Theory Answer 
Wrong tomb:  Jn. 20:5-7,12, Eye witnesses
Swoon:  Jn. 19:33-35, Blood and water satisfied officials
Vision:  Jn. 20:13-28, Several personal contacts
Pious Fiction:  Jn. 20:28, Words of Christ Himself

Appears to Mary Magdalene see John 20:11-18; and to the other women Matthew 28:9-10; and to the Two Mark 16:12-13; see Luke 24:13-32

Between Chapters 18 and 19 there is a elapses of 40 days in which Jesus appears to the Eleven, then a week later (John 20:26-31

Mary Magdalene was so anxious she ran on ahead. The angel had apparently withdrawn temporarily, and seeing the stone rolled away she panicked and ran to tell Peter and John that someone had taken the Lord out of the sepulcher and she didn’t know where they had laid Him. At that, Peter and John left her and raced for the tomb.
Before they arrived, the other women had come and met the angel in his shining garments, then bowed to the ground in fear. He knew the women looked for Jesus and told them not to be afraid, but chided them for seeking the living among the dead. He reminded them that Jesus had told them in Galilee that He would be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and rise again. Then they remembered His words. At that they were told that Jesus had risen, and to come see the place He had lain. As the stone was already rolled away, they entered and saw an angel that appeared like a young man in a long white garment sitting on the right side. They were to go tell the disciples, specifically Peter, that Jesus had risen, and He would see them in Galilee. They fled in fear, and at first would not say anything to anyone.
John outran Peter to the tomb, and stooping down, he looked in and saw the linen clothes lying. Peter dashed right in and saw the linen cloth collapsed without the body in it, and the head piece above it by itself in folds, just as it had been wrapped about the head of Jesus. John was perceptive and realized by the position of the grave clothes that Jesus had risen right through them and this was not a robbery. But they still did not understand the Scripture Jesus had taught that He would rise again. They went back to their home in a perplexed state of mind, wondering at what had come to pass.

Mary got back to the tomb to find all others were gone and she was sorrowing alone. As she wept, she stooped down to look into the tomb and saw the two angels in white sitting at the head and feet of where Jesus’ body had lain. They asked her why she was weeping, and without entering for fear, she replied that someone had taken away the body of the Lord and she didn’t know where they had laid Him. She saw the figure of Jesus in a glance through tear filled eyes without recognizing Him. When He asked why she wept and who she sought, she supposed it was the gardener and said if he had taken Jesus to tell her where, and she would take Him away. She had no thought in her grief how she would do this. Jesus spoke her name, and recognizing His voice, she turned fully to Him and said, “Rabboni”, Master, or honorable Rabbi. Her response to His voice reminds us of Jn. 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice”. She was about to touch Him , but He told her not to because He had not yet ascended to the Father. Specifically stated, to His Father and her Father, to His God and her God. He probably just disappeared, and she went to tell the disciples what had happened.
(Not touch. She was about to cling to Him and not let Him go. She would have more opportunity to see Him before He ascended, so now it was more important for her to tell the other disciples.)
2 The other women, meanwhile, finally got up courage to do as bidden, and ran with joy to tell the other disciples. On their way to the disciples, Jesus met them saying “All hail” (a joyful greeting), and they held Him by the feet, worshiping Him. Jesus also told them not to be afraid, but go tell the brethren they would see Him in Galilee. The apostles and others thought the women were over emotional, speaking nonsense, and didn’t believe them.
Explanation is in order at this point as to why Mary was not allowed to touch Jesus but the others held His feet.

View 1. Jesus was a High Priest fulfilling the Day of Atonement as in Lev. 16. He had completed the sacrifice and was on His way to present the sacred blood in heaven. Only because of Mary’s deep grief and devotion did He stop to speak to her first. After speaking to her, He ascended to heaven and returned to talk to the other women. Then they were free to touch Him. This view seems true to type and has some sound supporters, but has a couple of major problems. His blood was offered at Calvary, so what need to be brought to a heavenly altar. Also, Jesus would have had time to ascend to heaven and return even before any of the people arrived at the tomb, and would have had no need to interrupt any of His presumed high priestly duties.

View 2. Some think He just meant not to detain Him at the moment, He would see them all before He ascended, but that is inconsistent with the other women.

View 3. Probably best is that He meant, “Stop clinging to me”. “Touch” is used several ways in Scripture, and in the case of the hemorrhaging woman, Mk 14:36, it was simply to touch. Here it probably has the sense of clinging. She had lost Him once and was not about to let Him go again. He was emphasizing a new relationship. She was not to try to keep Him on earth, but to become His messenger. In contrast, the women in Mt. 28:9 seized and held Jesus feet with as much strength of force, but not with the personal emotion, intensity of Mary. Their object was holding Him in worship. Part of view 2 could be involved in this.
(This far Mark 16:1-8. Lk. 24:1-12, and John 20:1-18. The account of Mary with Jesus is told only in John. Soldiers bribed is told only in Matthew.)
3 Peter, Lk 24:34; 1 Cor. 15:5 had a visit from Jesus, perhaps in the afternoon, That evening the eleven gathered gave this report to the two Emmaus disciples.
View 4 The Emmaus disciples, Lk. 24:13-32; Mk. 16:12,13, were walking home late in the afternoon when Jesus joined them. They did not recognize Him, and he feigned ignorance of what had happened the last three days, to the surprise of Cleopas. They told Him of the condemnation, crucifixion, their hope He was the Messiah, and the report of the women. Jesus explained the Scriptures concerning Himself, but they still did not understand until He came into their home and broke bread with them. As soon as they recognized Him as Jesus and Messiah, He vanished, and they realized their conviction on the road. They immediately walked the 7.5 miles back to Jerusalem, told the others, and were told the Lord had risen and appeared to Peter. 
View 5 The eleven except Thomas, Mk. 16:14; Lk. 24:33-49; Jn. 20:19-23, were gathered eating in Jerusalem Sunday evening behind locked doors for fear of the Jews, (Emmaus disciples and others were present) and Jesus suddenly appeared in their midst and pronounced peace. They thought they saw a ghost, so He told them not to be afraid and showed them His hands and his feet. This gave them joy, but they still didn’t believe until He asked for food, with the explanation that a spirit didn’t have flesh and bones like He had, and He ate some broiled fish and honeycomb before them. He again pronounced peace and recommissioned the 10 disciples, but breathed on all others present, imparting the Holy Spirit. This was a creative act, just as He breathed and created life in Adam, Gen. 2:7, He breathed into them spiritual quickening and all believers would soon become a new creation, Eph. 2:8-10. This act was a limited preliminary to the out pouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, like a down payment on a house. They could not forgive sins, but could announce the Scriptural terms on which people could be forgiven, or that they were not forgiven if they rejected. Compare discerning of sin in Ananias and Sapphira. 
View 6 Thomas present with the other disciples Jn. 20:24-29. (Also called twin or Didymus) He had not believed their report and said he wouldn’t believe unless he saw and put his fingers into the nail prints in Jesus’ hands and feet and put his hand into the sword wound in His side. Jesus appeared the next Sunday night and told Thomas to feel his nail prints and side, and believe, but he had the faith to believe just by seeing, saying “my Lord and my God”. Jesus took note and did not rebuke Thomas, but added blessing for those who would not see but still believe, like those of us today. Disciples needed to learn to accept the word of eye witnesses. We need to accept the word of the eye witnesses as recorded in the Word of God.
(John 20:30,31 expresses multiple signs not recorded, but the things written are so we can believe that Jesus is Christ, Son of God, and have life in Him by believing.)
View 7 Seven disciples beside the Sea of Galilee, John 21.
John 21 has a full explanation of this and completion of John.
View 8. The eleven and others 
The Great Commission in Matthew, Mark and Luke: Matthew 28:16-20. Matthew did not record the first two visits to the disciples or to the seven at the sea, but this is some time later. The mountain where Jesus told them to meet is not named. Perhaps others had joined the eleven. At one point 500 were gathered at once. Considering the doubts of Thomas and the others at first, it is understandable why some would have doubt, v 17. They did not doubt the resurrection, but some wondered if this was really Jesus with them. He expelled their doubts, telling them that all authority had been given to Him. On the basis of that authority, He gave the great commission, the challenge to all of us, to go to all, teach, baptize and disciple them. To keep reminded of the Trinity, baptism is to be in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Jesus’ promise is to be with us always, not physically but His spiritual presence.
Mark 16:16 does not imply baptism is necessary for salvation, but it is expected of believers to be baptized. Baptism has no part in those who are damned, but lack of belief. Mk. 16:17&18 list five supernatural events that could authenticate the faith of the early believers. It is not normal for those to be present after the apostolic age. Some had already cast out demons. New tongues were intelligible foreign languages not known to them, which eliminated the need for an interpreter. If they were forced to pick up snakes or drink poison they would not be harmed, but this does not approve snake handlers. God still heals in answer to prayer, but the general healing ministry declined, Paul’s thorn in the flesh was not healed, and he left Trophimus at Miletus, sick.
Luke 24:44-48. Either this portion was spoken to the disciples the first time risen Jesus appeared before them all, or Luke chose to insert it just before the ascension. To the two on the road to Emmaus, Jesus told the Scriptures concerning Himself. To these, He opens their understanding to the Scriptures He had previously taught, so they knew it was necessary for Him to suffer and rise the third day. Because of that, they could preach repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations. The starting point of their witnessing was to be at Jerusalem, working out to all parts of the world, Acts 1:8.

The Ascension in Mark and Luke. (Matthew does not record this. )

Luke 24:49-53. Jesus told them to tarry in Jerusalem until they received the Holy Spirit. He did not command prayer, as that was not a condition for receiving the Holy Spirit. Certainly they must have prayed, but the command was to stay together. If they had not, they could not have fulfilled the command of Acts. 1:8. He took them to the vicinity of Bethany, the Mount of Olives, Acts 1:12, for the ascension. While He was blessing them He ascended, and they worshiped Him. Acts 1:9-11 gives details of the angels telling them to stop looking up, but return to Jerusalem. They returned with joy and praised God in the temple daily. Mk. 16:19.20 adds Jesus is at the right hand of God. They did preach, and confirmed the message with the signs of Mk. 16:17,18.

It happens in about an hour’s time and if you attempted to put the puzzle of the four gospels together it would look something like this.

1. ) Jerusalem or Bethany or both being just a mile or two apart had two or more groups of women heading toward tomb.  This would have been around the first break of dawn.
2. ) At about the same time the angels rolled the stone away and neatly fold the shroud. Yes, Jesus had the power to move the stone, but you never had a king or king of kings severing himself.
3. ) Guards, who had been placed by the priest, frightened and dazed, fled to report to the priest.
4. ) As the women approached the tomb about sunrise. Mary Magdalene seeing the tomb empty, but failing to see the Angel or hear his announcement that Jesus had risen, because she was ahead of her group, (John 20:13, 15 ) turns and runs to tell Peter and John.
5. ) Hurrying away by another route, to tell the main group of disciples of what they had seen and heard from the angels when they drew near the tomb.
6. ) Peter and John reached the tomb by this time and entering it see the empty shroud. Upon departing John believing and with Peter wondering.
7. ) Meantime, Mary Magdalene following hard after Peter and John returns to the tomb. Mary was alone, weeping, and sees the angels.  And Jesus Himself appears to her.
8. ) Shortly thereafter, Jesus appears to the other women, not sure if they  were on their way to tell the disciples, or, as having told the disciples, were returning to the tomb.

copyright © 2012 Christ Is Alive Ministry
www.christisalive.net
All Rights Reserved.  

In the early 90's I started studing the bible by taking college courses, because I believe the Lord wanted me to become a pastor in a Nazarne Church. My goal has changed with all my studies. My wife and I have both joined the Catholic Church. I have read and compared numerous translations and commentaries in my many years of studying the bible. Some of these authorities disagree with each other. I come across information on studies and classes that I have taken 15 to 20 years before and I have no documentation of where it came from. Plus I have given away or returned many books for college classes that I have taken. So if I have failed to give someone the credit that is due them I ask for their forgiveness. The following is a list of translations and commentaries that I still have and use.

1. Apocrypha
2. Confessions of St Augustine
3. Divine Comedy of Dante (Henery Carytr)
4. King James Bible
5. LDS (Mormons)
6. Martin Luther
7. St John of the Cross
8. Budhist
9. Christian-King James
10. Hindu
11. Islam
12. Judaism
13. Sikh
14. Tao
15. Zoroastrian

OUR ETERNAL HOME by Richard W. Dehaan,
PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE by Tim Lahaye
READER'S DIGEST JESUS AND HIS TIMES by the Readers Digest Association Inc,
REFLECTING GOD STUDY BIBLE By Zondervan Corporation;
SAINT JOSEPH EDITION OF THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE by Catholic Book Publishing Co.
SEVEN KEYS TO FAMILY POWER by Billy Joe Daugherty,
SIX HOURS ONE FRIDAY by Max Lacado,
THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE by the Zondervan Corporation;
THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD by Jocyce Meyer,
THE BIBLE PROMISE BOOK by Babbour Publishing Inc,
THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER by Charles Mortimer Guilbert
THE BOOK OF HOPE by Tyndale House Publishiers, Inc,
THE BORN AGAIN CATHOLIC by Albert H. Boudreau,
THE CASE FOR CHRIST by Lee Strobel,
THE CATHOLIC ANSWER BOOK by Peter MJ Stravinsiasi
THE COMPLETE BOOK OF BIBLE KNOWLEDGE by Mark D. Taylor;
THE DAY CHRIST DIED by Jim Bishop,
THE GREAT BIBLE QUESTION AND ANWERS BOOK by Playmore Inc
THE HOME BIBLE STUDY COURSE by Dr. Harold L. Wilmington;
THE KING JAMES BIBLE ARCHAIE WORDS DEFIND by David W. Daniel
THE KING JAMES BIBLE COMPANION by David W. Daniels;
THE KING JAMES STUDY BIBLE by Thomas Nelson Publishers,
THE LAYMAN’S BIBLE  DICTIONARY by George W. Knight and Rayburn W. Ray;
THE LAYMAN’S PARALLEL NEW TESTAMENT by Zondervan Bible Publisher
THE LAYMAN'S LIST by Calance Stucup
THE MESSAGE BIBLE by Eugone H. Peterson,
THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE by World Catholic Press;
THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE Saint Joseph Edition;
THE NEW STRONG’S EXHAUSTIVE CONCORDANCE OF THE BIBLE by James Strong LL. D S.T.D.;
THE RISKS AND REWARDS OF INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE by Cardinal Francis Arinze
THE TRINITY by Rose Publish
THE VERY FIRST ESTER by Paul L. Maier,
THE WAY CATHOLIC LIVING BIBLE by Tyndale House Publishers;
UNCHRISTIAN by David Kennan and Gabe Lyon
UNDERSTANDING GOD’S LOVE by Ronald Greib
VINE’S EXPOSITORY DICTIONARY OF OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT WORDS By W. E. Vine;
WHAT’S SO SECRET ABOUT THE RAPTURRE? By Christian Record Services, INC
WHEN GOD WINKS AT YOU by Tomas Nelson
WILLMINGTON’S GUIDE TO THE BIBLE by Dr. H.L. Willmington,
WOMAN OF FAITH STUDY BIBLE by Zschech/Heillsong
YESTERDAY TODAY AND FOREVER by New Leaf Press
YOU WERE BORN FOR THIS by Anthony Wilhen

08/19/2011