September 9, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Mark Chapter 13
1 And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!
2 And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these great buildings? there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him privately,
4 Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled?
5 And Jesus answering them began to say, Take heed lest any man deceive you:
6 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.
8 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows.
9 But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them.
10 And the gospel must first be published among all nations.
11 But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.
12 Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son; and children shall rise up against their parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.
13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
14 But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the mountains:
15 And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the house, neither enter therein, to take any thing out of his house:
16 And let him that is in the field not turn back again for to take up his garment.
17 But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!
18 And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter.
19 For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time, neither shall be.
20 And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh should be saved: but for the elect’s sake, whom he hath chosen, he hath shortened the days.
21 And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not:
22 For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.
23 But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.
24 But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,
25 And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.
26 And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.
27 And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.
28 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:
29 So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors.
30 Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done.
31 Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.
32 But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
33 Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.
34 For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.
35 Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:
36 Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.
37 And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
Mark chapter 13 is a significant prophetic discourse by Jesus, commonly referred to as the “Olivet Discourse” or the “Apocalyptic Discourse.” In this chapter, Jesus speaks about the coming destruction of the temple, the signs of the times, the impending suffering of believers, and his final return. These words were directed at his disciples to prepare them for difficult times and to emphasize the urgency of vigilance and readiness. The text contains elements of warning, comfort, and encouragement for believers who must endure the trials of life.
Commentary
Jesus begins this discourse with a powerful prediction: the magnificent temple, the pride of the Jewish nation, would be destroyed, with not one stone left upon another (verses 1-2). This statement shocks the disciples and prompts them to ask “when” and “how.” Their curiosity is understandable, as the temple was the center of their religious world. However, Jesus shifts their focus from the physical destruction to the spiritual challenges that are to come.
He speaks of false messiahs, wars, earthquakes, and persecutions (verses 5-13), which the disciples should expect. These events, however, are merely the “beginning of the birth pains,” not the end itself. A key point here is that the Gospel must first be preached to all nations before the end will come (verse 10). Followers of Christ will face persecution and betrayal, but they are called to endure in faith, as the Holy Spirit will guide them through these trials (verse 11).
The “abomination of desolation” (verse 14) is a direct reference to the book of Daniel and points to a time of great tribulation that will force people to flee. Jesus describes this period as an unprecedented time of suffering, which will be shortened for the sake of the elect (verse 20). Here, it becomes clear that during the end times, false prophets and false messiahs will arise, attempting to deceive even the elect.
At the climax of this discourse, Jesus announces his own return (verse 26). The coming of the Son of Man will be with great power and glory, and he will gather his elect from the ends of the earth (verses 26-27). This section offers believers hope, that despite all the trials and hardships they must endure, the return of Christ will ultimately be the final resolution.
Finally, Jesus calls for vigilance (verses 33-37). No one knows the exact time of his return, so believers must always be ready. This call to constant watchfulness, illustrated by the parable of the fig tree and the house owner, emphasizes the urgency of being prepared at every moment.
Summary
Mark chapter 13 presents Jesus’ end-time discourse, where he prepares his disciples for coming persecutions, deceptions, and disasters. He predicts the fall of the temple and stresses the importance of being watchful in the face of false prophets and false Christs. At the same time, he gives believers hope with the promise of his glorious return. Jesus emphasizes the urgency of remaining vigilant, as the exact time of his return is unknown. This discourse challenges believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst persecution and suffering, while preparing for the ultimate salvation and the return of Christ.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 61—Zacchaeus
This chapter is based on Luke 19:1-10.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
The story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10 is a powerful narrative of conversion, repentance, and forgiveness. It takes place in Jericho, a wealthy city known for its lush vegetation and economic prosperity. At the center of the story is Zacchaeus, a tax collector who is despised by society for his profession and wealth. However, his encounter with Jesus becomes a turning point in his life, as he experiences a radical transformation through the grace of Jesus.
Commentary:
Zacchaeus, the chief tax collector, was a man who possessed wealth and power but was inwardly dissatisfied and guilty. His profession, often associated with injustice and extortion, had alienated him from his people. Yet, Zacchaeus was open to change. When he heard about Jesus, the teacher who welcomed even the outcasts, a hope for a better life was kindled within him. This shows that in every person, even the most despised, there is a desire for renewal.
The circumstances under which Zacchaeus encounters Jesus are symbolic of his inner state: he is small in stature and cannot see over the crowd. This reflects his social standing, but he overcomes this obstacle by climbing a tree—a sign of his intense desire to see Jesus. This gesture is rewarded when Jesus speaks to him directly and announces that he will stay at his house.
The reaction of the crowd, criticizing Jesus for staying with a “sinner,” is typical of the religious elites of that time who excluded people like Zacchaeus. But Jesus makes it clear that his mission is to save those who are lost, not just the righteous. Zacchaeus’ repentance is deep and sincere; he offers to give half of his wealth to the poor and repay those he has wronged four times over.
This encounter reveals the transformative power of forgiveness and grace. Zacchaeus’ conversion is an example of true repentance, which manifests in concrete actions. It is not enough to confess mistakes; they must also be corrected, just as Zacchaeus does. His decision to support the poor and make restitution shows that he has internalized Jesus’ teachings.
Summary:
The story of Zacchaeus is a narrative about conversion, grace, and the power of forgiveness. Although he was a wealthy and despised tax collector, his encounter with Jesus shows that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. Zacchaeus’ repentance is radical and sincere, as he is willing to correct his wrongs and help those in need. This story teaches us that true conversion is not only visible in words but also in concrete actions, and that Jesus comes to those who seek a new beginning. It reminds us that God’s grace can transform even the hardest hearts.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 62—The Feast at Simon’s House
This chapter is based on Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-11; Luke 7:36-50; John 11:55-57; John 12:1-11.
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
The feast at Simon’s house in Bethany, based on the Gospel accounts (Matthew 26:6-13; Mark 14:3-11; Luke 7:36-50; John 11:55-57; John 12:1-11), is a profound episode in the life of Jesus. This feast, hosted by Simon, a healed Pharisee, shows us the connection between gratitude, repentance, and divine forgiveness. The accounts highlight the tensions between genuine expressions of love and the selfishness present in the hearts of the disciples and other attendees.
Commentary:
The feast at Simon’s house is particularly marked by Mary’s action of anointing Jesus with expensive nard oil. This gesture represents deep love and devotion to Christ, as Mary wanted to thank him for the forgiveness of her sins and the raising of her brother Lazarus. Her act demonstrates how true gratitude is expressed through concrete, selfless actions, regardless of external criticism. However, Judas, who considered the anointing a waste, revealed his selfish nature, which ultimately led him to betray Jesus.
It is interesting to see how Jesus gently corrects Simon’s self-righteous thoughts. While Simon had been healed by Jesus, he had not yet fully understood the depth of forgiveness. Through the parable of the two debtors, Jesus illustrates that forgiveness and love are interconnected. Those who receive great forgiveness also show greater love. Simon’s pride and judgment were exposed, and through Jesus’ gentle rebuke, he recognized his own guilt.
The reaction of the disciples, who initially criticized Mary’s action, reveals their immaturity in understanding devotion. Jesus’ acknowledgment of Mary’s deed teaches us that true devotion and love are never wasted. Jesus recognized the anointing as a symbolic act pointing to his impending death, and he blessed Mary for her prophetic insight.
Summary:
The feast at Simon’s house is a moving example of the contrast between genuine devotion and selfishness. While Mary anointed Jesus out of deep gratitude and love, Judas was driven by greed and self-interest. Through his parable and reaction to Mary’s action, Jesus shows that love and forgiveness are central to faith. Simon’s pride and Judas’ betrayal stand in stark contrast to Mary’s selfless love, which serves as a model for future generations. This episode teaches us the importance of expressing our faith through acts of love and devotion.
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