Adam, Zac, Hayley, Jessica, Cassidy, Micah, Megan & Kati,

Mere Discipleship

Though not quite as long as in chapter 8 or 13, we have here a collection of Jesus’ teachings – something rare for Mark. These teachings are all related to the theme of suffering and humility – a deeper explanation of the way of the cross that Jesus was walking and that He would ask His disciples to follow Him in. Likely, 9:30-41 is chronological, but 9:42-50 aren’t – Jesus likely didn’t say v42-50 all at the same time all in a row, but Mark has collected them and placed them together according to his theme.

The Second Passion Prediction (9:30-32)

This is the second of 3 times Jesus predicts His impending death and resurrection – and again the disciples don’t get it.

…And the Second Misunderstanding (9:33-37)

Clearly, the disciples aren’t getting it. Immediately after each of the three times Jesus predicts His death, the disciples do something stupid. First, Peter rebuked Jesus, now they’re arguing over who’s the most important and lastly James and John will be asking for reserved seats of importance.

So Jesus tries to teach them humility. It’s interesting that the child isn’t the example of humility, but rather hanging out with children is the example of humility. Jews (and most ancient cultures) weren’t child-centric, like the US.

The Kingdom is Larger than our Experience of it (9:38-41)

John still doesn’t get it and is concerned about this guy who “wasn’t following us”. He should’ve said “wasn’t following you”, but John and the others are already placing themselves in prominent places in their minds, especially as they head to Jerusalem and are beginning to see that Jesus is the Messiah. They can sense that something big is happening and are expectant – but they’re still expecting the wrong thing.

Discipleship: Counting the Cost (9:42-50)

There are a bunch of little sayings collected here that occur in different places in the other gospels, but I think the main point Mark is trying to make is his concluding sentence (which isn’t in the other gospels): “Everyone will be salted with fire”. This combination of “salt” and “fire” refers to trials and suffering – and their purifying effect – that Jesus is trying to teach disciples about.

Dear Jesus, please teach us true, selfless, servant-hood. We know these things intellectually, but are so far away from practicing them consistently in life. Please instill in us a depth of compassion – as You had – that would drive us to service and humility. Make us like You, please.

-- peter