Finding Faith
DESCRIPTION
Mark begins his gospel account by stating his purpose for writing "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God." (Mk. 1:1). Mark informs his readers that this is the account of the Messiah's good news. Jesus, Himself, speaks of Good News (Mk. 1: 14-15). "Now after John was taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the Good News of God's Kingdom, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and God's Kingdom is at hand! Repent, and believe in the Good News." (World English Bible)
We are given descriptions, accounts, parables, and miracles that help us see God's kingdom has arrived in Jesus through the first six chapters. As we enter chapter 7, yes, it is still about the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, but Mark is also revealing the glory of Christ. The teaching and miracles recorded through chapter 10 are accounts, in part, designed to help us understand the glory of Christ.
The glory of Christ relates to the fullness of Christ or the weight of Christ. His divine presence. Glory is a word that describes His honor. He is "the king of glory" (ref. Ps. 24:7-10). Perhaps we can understand this better through a question Jesus asks His disciples.
MARK 8: 27-29 (WEB)
"Jesus went out, with his disciples, into the villages of Caesarea Philippi. On the way, he asked his disciples, "Who do men say that I am?" They told him, "John the Baptizer, and others say Elijah, but others, one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ."
Peter answers, "You are the Christ" - You are the anointed Messiah, the anointed Deliverer, and King. As we continue our studies through Mark, part of the larger story is seeing the glory of Christ.
KEY TAKEAWAY
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God's kingdom is for all people. Jesus is not concerned with our history. He is not concerned about where we live, what we may look like, or the language we speak. Jesus is searching for people of faith, people who believe in Him.
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Jesus wants us to see and hear His words. The grace of our Lord is for those who are willing to see His truth and hear His words. If our eyes are closed and our ears dull of hearing, we will not be ready to receive Christ.
Part of what we see through these accounts are pictures of ourselves. We see people oppressed with heavy burdens. Spiritually, those who are blinded and dull of hearing. The outcast, those brought down, Jesus has come to heal our brokenness. Are we willing to receive His grace and mercy? Is our faith in Him?
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