An outline of Mark’s references to Jesus’ self awareness of the nature and purpose of his death

2:5-7. Jesus forgave sins. Only God can do that. The Old Testament presents a model of forgiveness of sins associated with a sacrifice. I think Jesus here is foreshadowing the sacrifice of himself for the forgiveness of sins (Hebrews 7:27). 2:20. Jesus expects to be taken away from his disciples, in circumstances causing fasting/grief. 8:31, […]

Continue Reading Icon

1 Kings 11

Despite enjoying peace and prosperity (wisdom, wealth, and wives) as blessings from God, Solomon breaks the covenant with his attitude and actions incurring the just (but merciful) punishment of God. Purpose (my reflections): Consequences for disobedience are real. The stakes are high. God is serious. Sin is punished Attitude and action maketh the man Even […]

Continue Reading Icon

2 Samuel 7

Main pointThe sovereign almighty LORD does not need or want David to build him a house. Instead, God will build his own house (13) through the house he will build for David (11b). Main purposeGod does not need man, but we need God, and he has already done, and will do, all we need (cf. […]

Continue Reading Icon

Mark 13 summary

In verses 1-23 Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple and describes the signs of the end of the age. The disciples ask the obvious question – when will this happen, and what will be the signs beforehand so that we can be prepared? In a parallel passage in Matt 24, the disciples ask more […]

Continue Reading Icon

Hannah’s song: 1 Samuel 2:1-10

Main point Hannah delights in Gods deliverance her from her trials and looks forward to the way God’s anointed king will deliver all that are on the LORD’s side. Main purpose Let the hearer draw nearer to God in praise and thankfulness because God is powerful and purposeful. We are to serve him with humility […]

Continue Reading Icon

God’s kingdom

When does the kingdom come? I understand the kingdom to be God’s activity in the world, and so I think God’s kingdom came with creation. God reigns as king over all (Ps 97:1). However God’s kingship was rejected in the fall and the ongoing sinfulness of humanity ever since. God re-established his kingship with the […]

Continue Reading Icon