SCRIPTURE BY JANICE HALL
Scripture Lesson Text: Mark 1:4-13
Related Scriptures: Matthew 3:1-17; Luke 3:15-22; Matthew 17:1-7; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9: 28-36
In today’s lesson text, the gospel of Mark introduces the ministry of Jesus, as introduced by John the Baptist. John the Baptist preached the call to repentance. John also proclaimed that the Messiah would perform a greater baptism, that of the Holy Spirit. In Luke 3:15-22, shows a brief explanation of the ministry of John the Baptist. John’s message to the people is to repent and turn from their sins, yet he was careful to say that he is not Christ.( reference..Isaiah40:3-5).
In Matthew 3: 1-17, is the first chapter relating to the ministry of Jesus, the focus of John the Baptist preaching, and the Baptism of Jesus. Many came to hear John preach in the wilderness. Jesus arrives, baptized by John, and as Jesus emerges from the water, the heavens break open and the Holy Spirit rest on him. It is noteworthy to mention that the gospel of Matthew records detailed accounts of the teachings of Jesus, more so than the other gospels.In Matthew 17: 1-7, Jesus takes three of his disciples ( Peter, James and John) upon a high mountain and is transfigured before them.
Mark 9: 2-8, speaks of the disciples seeing Jesus in ‘ divine glory’ , known as the Transfiguration. This occurred six days after Jesus promised that some of the disciples would see God’s kingdom with power. Once again in Luke 9:28-36, we see Jesus praying and showing his love for his Father in heaven. He having confidence his prayers and worship are heard. His body was glorified…!!!
SYNOPSIS BY BRITTENNE BOYKIN
In this week’s lesson we have a front row seat for a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus and of John the Baptist. John the Baptist is the cousin of Jesus, and a fiery preacher who has rejected the hypocrisy of the day and taken his ministry into the wilderness. He even rejected the attire of the day preferring to clothe himself in camel’s hair (Vs.6). John was preaching a message of repentance urging the people to repent from their sins and be baptized. (Vs.1) People were coming from near and far to see this fervent preacher declare the kingdom of God is at hand!
John preached with a fervor and passion that was unmatched in his day! He heralded the coming of the promised Messiah, one who was mightier than him (Vs.7) The one who Israel longed and hoped for. The champion that would rescue them from Roman oppression. He was clear to let the people know that he was not that Messiah and he spoke of a new baptism, not just with water but with the Holy Ghost (Vs.8)
Jesus himself, comes from Nazareth to be baptized by John. Imagine what John must have felt like when upon Jesus coming up out of the water and John sees the very heavens open up and the Spirit, resting on him like a dove (Vs. 10). John the Baptist, a man just like us, walking in the ministry God gives Him lays eyes on the Messiah and partakes in a heavenly exchange. God himself speaks from heaven and declares, ” Thou art my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased” (Vs.10). Jesus who certainly did not need to be baptized publicly affirms His identity not only with the people but with God.
PRACTICAL APPLICATION BY JANICE HALL
The lesson in Mark 1: 4-13, highlights John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth when they were called by God for unique leadership in their ministry. We learn of preparation, plans, purpose, and pleasing the Father. In preparation of His earthly ministry, the Saviour was “ led up of the Spirit, to fast, to pray, and to be with God.”
“Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.”(I Samuel 3:9b) So as we enter this year of 2023, we offer up this prayer for those who are searching and seeking the ‘ call’ on their lives. Heavenly Father, help us to know that we are on Your path for our lives, and may our hearts grow more like yours. Strengthen us by your Holy Spirit to carry out the plans You’ve placed before us. We ask, to show us who we need to serve, how to serve, and why we need to serve in this manner.
Lord, help us to lean into the talents and gifts you have given us, so we can better ourselves in work for Your kingdom. We pray especially for those you’ve called into ministry to be teachers and leaders in your church. We pray, the call remain fresh in our hearts, and to seek your godly counsel, guidance and wisdom. We thank you Lord for your faithfulness towards your people, keeping them with peace, patience, and joy, because you have equipped us with your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
