Phil Dickson continues our series on Mark by looking at one of the most important moments in Mark 12.
Jesus is asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” His answer? Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength — and love your neighbor as yourself.
Phil reminds us that “hear” (Shema) in Hebrew means more than listening — it’s hearing with the intent to understand, obey, and respond. This is not just religion, routine, or law-keeping, but a personal, wholehearted devotion to God.
Drawing from Peter, Paul, Deuteronomy, and Hebrews, he shows how the old covenant pointed to the new promise in Jesus — one sacrifice for all time, writing God’s law on our hearts. Sin separates us from God, but through faith in Christ, we move from darkness into His wonderful light.
The challenge? Don’t just hear — believe and respond. Love God with your whole being, and love people with the same sacrificial, selfless love God has shown us.
Key points:
• You are God’s chosen people, His special possession.
• There is no distinction — Jew, Greek, Gentile — all are called through faith.
• The wages of sin is death, but God’s gift is eternal life in Christ.
• “Hear” means listen + understand + obey.
• True love for God is active, intimate, and all-encompassing.
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