Mark 14:5 The ointment was considerably valuable. The idea here was based on a pretended piety. Indeed, many ungodly things have been done in the name of piety. Giving to the poor is not, by itself, of utmost importance. Glorifying God is the chief end. It just so happens to be that giving to the…
Mark 14:4 Now we know from the other gospels that it was Judas who said this. But, apparently others agreed with him when he voiced his opinion. We can immediately see that this is a case where agreement stemmed from the existence of an argument. This happens quite frequently. Humans tend to want to align…
Mark 14:3 Though not a popular or common scent today, spikenard is still expensive. I found one pound worth online for sale for over $500. Thus, this is a very valuable scent, and is not to be used carelessly. This was a very special gift and it carried with it great significance and love. This…
Mark 14:2 The Jewish leaders were interested only in maintaining their power. This is how worldly politics works. It is based on fear and public opinion. These men had to maintain a very careful balance, staying in the people’s favor while at the same time keeping Rome happy. Heavenly Father, we smile as we think…
Mark 14:1 This is not the first time that this planning had occurred. These men had been trying to resist the ministry of Christ, and John the Baptist, from the beginning. We get the idea that they were finally successful becuase they figured out how to go about it. But, really, Jesus prevented their success.…
Mark 13:37 This is what we like to call a fair warning. This world will be going along as if nothing devastating is about to happen, when something devastating will indeed occur. The world system steams on, largely oblivious to the warnings of Scripture. And, that is a dangerous course. This old Book is nothing…
Mark 13:36 What would be the implication of finding a person sleeping? Well, though we do all individually need to be aware and alert, I think he is speaking of the nation of Israel, and the world as a whole. Jesus will very likely catch most people off guard. This is a warning not to…
Mark 13:35 It seems from Scripture and early Christian literature that the early believers thought the Lord Jesus would be returning fairly quickly. Were they wong to have that perspective? Absolutely not! What Jesus is saying here is that we, as they, should expect him to come just any time now. But, unlike them, we…
Mark 13:34 Jesus is giving us an idea of what we should do in this age. We should be prepared for his coming, and be busy about the work he has given us to do. And, we see here something that we tend to forget. By the power of the Spirit, Jesus has given us…
Not feeling well today, no post.