In today’s episode, Jesus begins the difficult work of revealing himself clearly to his followers. They now understand that he is the Messiah, but their definition of the Messiah is seriously insufficient. Jesus reveals his that his true mission is to suffer, die, and then to rise again. Not only will he suffer, but his followers will as well. This is far beyond their understanding, and his disciples are in imminent danger of falling away. In order to confirm his divinity and mission, he takes a select three up a high mountain, where his physical body is transfigured to reflect his glorious nature. When they return from the mountain, he previews his resurrection power by casting out a demon which had left a young boy in a catatonic state. As we follow along with the disciples, we too begin to answer our own questions. Why did Jesus come to earth? How can Jesus’ death restore my relationship with God?
00:00 Opening Comments
02:53 Jesus predicts his passion (8:31-9:1)
14:43 Jesus displays his glory (9:2-13)
27:57 Jesus previews his resurrection
36:45 Final Comments
1. In what way does the tone of the gospel of Mark change, beginning with 8:31?
2. What does Jesus prophesy regarding the Son of Man (8:31)? How does Jesus view of his mission differ from the disciples expectations? (8:31-32)?
3. Why did Jesus rebuke Peter so strongly (8:33)?
4. Recently, how has following Jesus impacted your priorities? Your relationships? Your politics? How would you evaluate the cost and benefit of following Jesus (8:34-37)?
5. How would you explain Jesus’ statement in 9:1? What is the connection between this statement and the event which follows?
6. How do you picture this scene of Jesus’ transfiguration (9:2-3)? What is the significance of the appearance of Moses and Elijah (9:4)?
7. What was the significance of the voice from the cloud (9:7)? Why would this be important at this stage of Jesus’ ministry? Why would it be important to the disciples?
8. What did Jesus mean by “Elijah has come” (9:13)?
9. If you had been the father, how would you have felt when everyone else was arguing (9:14)?
10. When have you felt conflicted about your faith, like the father (9:24)?
11. Why does Jesus point his disciples toward prayer, in answer to their question (9:28-29)?
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Episodes released every two weeks on Monday
I am not releasing new episodes during the Christmas holidays. I will return on January 12 with the first episode in our second season on the early chapters of Genesis. I would love to have you join me.
Episodes released every two weeks on Monday
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