"While You Were Sleeping" - a Reflection on Mark 14:32-52

What drama! Let’s see if we can weave our way into this dramatic scene, and sense the emotions and what was at stake here, and respond to the truth that is revealed.

Under the pressure of all that was going to happen to him, Jesus needed to pray. Yes Jesus was and is God, but in his incarnation into the world, Jesus was just as much human as he was God. Here we see the great intersection between God the Creator, and we human beings … human beings that are so loved that God came in human form to identify with our fragility (and the whole complexity that freewill has brought about.)

Jesus, Son of God, would indeed experience human suffering. Jesus here certainly had a sense of the suffering that lay ahead, and just like we would in similar circumstances, felt deeply the need to pray. We read that Jesus was distressed, agitated and deeply grieved. He had feelings of anguish. This is especially vivid as we read that “Jesus threw himself on the ground” (v.35).

Jesus, in need of solid companionship in this time of distress, asked for the disciples to stay awake, not so much for reasons of protection, but just to show that they cared, that they could get beyond their own needs and fears to see the bigger picture, that they could actually show some tangible support for Jesus. This was going to be a most significant moment, the moment when Jesus ultimately committed to go God’s way and not run away from the cross.

Yet the disciples fell asleep! They seemed to not take seriously enough this decisive moment in time, and they just could not stay awake. It was while the disciples slept that a solitary and isolated Jesus made the courageous call before God – “not what I want, but what you want”!

[Maybe the disciples missed Jesus’ words of verse 36 altogether, and that would be bad enough. But Jesus had only moved “a little farther”, and then, having fallen to the ground, prayed in the culturally traditional way … out loud. If the disciples had heard the anguish of these words and still fell asleep, then this is a good deal worse!]

The disciples could not stay awake when Jesus simply asked them to do so in support of him. Then later (in vs.38-40) these same disciples could not even stay awake to pray for themselves in the difficult times they were also facing. You would have thought that with one of their number set on complete betrayal, and Jesus’ words concerning the prospect of Peter’s own denial of Jesus along with the predicted flight of all the others, they would have had an all night prayer meeting planned. Yet they fell back to sleep!

Why did Jesus say that the disciples should “keep awake and pray”? So that they would come into “the time of trial” (or “temptation”)! Even when we have good intentions, our humanity has its weaknesses (the meaning of verse 38b). There are plenty of dangers to do us in, and there are plenty of temptations to undermine us. We have to be actively building our faith against such trials, or we may find ourselves falling away, even abandoning the cause … the most vivid example being Judas who even betrayed Jesus. Yet, three times the disciples fell to sleep in the face of the most critical circumstances. No wonder Jesus confronted them and cried out “Enough [already]”!! These disciples haven’t even sensed the importance of all this yet! This makes them extra vulnerable, and thereby potentially ineffective.

It was not a violent act like swinging a sword and cutting off the ear of the one of the high priest’s gang (in verse 47) that Jesus wanted – what ever would this achieve! [The stupidity of this act leads Luke (in his version of this story) to report that Jesus healed the ear of this man.] Jesus wanted his disciples to take whatever steps they could to avoid the possibility of them deserting.

This really speaks to me about our discipleship i.e. our preparing of ourselves to be ready to respond to whatever circumstances come upon us – both individually and collectively. To stay awake and thus have a chance of knowing how God is leading us, to pray so that we build our resolve and our faith – the sort of faith that will stand the test of time. Then we will be able to act proactively, rather than merely reactively by throwing our sword around chopping at what ever seems to be the opposition.

I want to fight back at times when I feel harshly dealt with, but much better if I spend the time to prepare with God and be at peace within myself and react accordingly (despite living in a world built around conflict and personal agendas). I should be able to respond as a peace-maker (rather than just another combatant) in every circumstance I face. This is what Jesus wanted the disciples to show themselves ready to be … and alas they failed the test. But who of us is going to throw the first stone in their direction? When faced with armed aggression, all the disciples came up with was violent retribution. The question is: how could they, and how could we, do better?

Jesus in complete frustration says ‘Enough already’! But does he walk away from his disciples at this point, or send them away? No, Jesus hangs in with the eleven remaining disciples to the bitter end (and then of course through to the new beginning). Jesus, in verse 42, still considers them to be a collective unit with him. And just as Jesus does not give up on his original disciples, he does not give up on us.

There is a reference in verses 51 & 52 to another person caught up in this drama. There has been much discussion about this verse and the identity of the person involved. It could have well been this Gospel’s writer, this being an admission that yes I deserted too! But isn’t this left delightfully elusive … is this asking a question of us if we had been there … asking a question of all modern day disciples as to whether we are prepared! And when we are left naked and vulnerable by our mistakes, what are we going to do then? I would hope that we too, like the repentant disciples of old, would go and meet the resurrected Jesus in Galilee and be recommissioned for God’s mission.

The Christian life (better put, the Jesus following life) is all about preparation – equipping ourselves now with the tools and qualities and priorities that we are certainly going to need sooner or later. Through prayer, Jesus finds the strength to commit to God’s will no matter where that will lead. On the other hand, the disciples who failed to stay awake and stand in solidarity with Jesus, and didn’t choose to pray for themselves, became deserters. So, this proper preparation obviously revolves around prayer; but also, I would suggest, involves worship, the giving and receiving of encouragement, and studying the bible.

Where I use the word worship, I’m mostly thinking about gathering in a place like this and seeking out God for all God’s worth … seeking out all there is to receive. Whether you like the song or not, or the direction of the prayer or not, or the preacher’s method or not – there must be something that you can learn and apply about God. If not, I would respectfully suggest that you’re not open enough to God’s voice, for God still speaks even through the weakest efforts of his servants.

We need to be increasingly able to think God’s thoughts. We need to increasingly be able to hear God’s voice interjecting into our thoughts, so that our thinking can be more aligned with God’s thinking. This is about individual and corporate transformation. This is about the coming of the Kingdom of God … God’s will being done on earth as it is in heaven. This is one of the reasons we pray. Prayer is not just working through a shopping list, but rather an exploration into the mind of God. If the disciples had just seen things this way, they likely wouldn’t have denied Jesus and deserted.

Jesus (in that great verse 36) addressed God as “Abba”. Now Jesus was certainly not comparing God to a Swedish pop group. “Abba” was an Aramaic word – the language Jesus would have spoken – meaning ‘Father’ in the most intimate, closest of ways … like a little child adoringly addressing their dad. In such a relationship as this Jesus could express his faith – “for you all things are possible”, then openly convey the deepest feelings of his heart … that he was agonising over what lay ahead – “remove this cup [of suffering] from me”; yet at the same time sensed God’s thoughts and heard God’s voice, such that he was able to stay on track – “yet not what I want, but what you want”.

Do you sense the prayer/faith dynamic here? ‘God … I know that I’m in trouble here, but I also know that as You are with me it will be okay in the end’. The part of our prayer that desires to know God’s presence and leading has already been answered. While the disciples were sleeping, the human Jesus still knew that his welfare was safe in God.

"Two Very Different Responses" - A Sermon on Mark 14:1-11

Introduction

When we get to chapter 14 of Mark’s Gospel we have arrived at the point where Jesus is very close to the cross. Indeed we are in the last couple of days of Jesus’ earthly ministry. We should hang on every word and examine every incident, for there is great significance for us here – this should all have a big impact on us as Jesus followers in the modern day.

The setting is the celebration of the Jewish Passover (which will soon be reinterpreted for those who become Jesus followers). This was the annual festival commemorating the people of Israel’s freedom from captivity and slavery in Egypt so many centuries before (as recorded so vividly in the book of Exodus). This had been combined with the harvest “festival of unleavened bread”. We should sense the connection between God’s liberating activity on behalf of the people of Israel being remembered at Passover, and the path Jesus was taking to ultimately bring salvation to all humankind.

The real intentions of the religious leaders are exposed, because they want to carry out their plans with as little publicity as possible. Jesus, following his triumphant entry into Jerusalem, had his supporters, and the chief priests did not want to upset the Roman authorities who were set on keeping the peace. They simply wanted to manipulate events in any quiet way they could, to meet their objective of getting rid of Jesus, who had become so much a threat to their level of power and control. But this had to be done quietly, without any serious disturbance, and Judas of course played right into their hands.

First Response – Worship

What words would you use to describe the first response to Jesus (v.3-9)?

We could easily slip by the identity given to Jesus’ host in Bethany. His name was “Simon the leper”. Now given that this man was not currently an outcast, seemingly back at home with his family and entertaining guests, he was probably a cured “leper” who had been allowed to return to community life. One wonders whether this “Simon” had actually been healed by Jesus sometime over the past three years! His former state of leprosy though, had seemed to stick with him, in that this was how he was known – “Simon the leper”. But this was very significant, because Jesus chose to eat with this person who would have been so absolutely rejected from mainstream society in the past. Mark’s Gospel, in the very first chapter, right at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, records Jesus healing a leper – not from a distance, but by his very touch. Now, as the end approaches, Jesus accepts hospitality from another one who had similarly suffered and been shunned. So any positive response to Jesus that occurs during this incident … happens as Jesus continues to reach out to the marginalised of the local community. This is perhaps something that his disciples (especially one of them in particular) didn’t always appreciate. This very matter forms part of the context of Judas’ betrayal.

Now there was a woman present, and she came forward toward Jesus with an “alabaster jar” in her hand. This was a vessel, made from fine expensive Egyptian marble, which had a rather long neck. This neck would be broken off when the contents were to be used. The content of this “jar” was described as “very costly ointment of nard”, which was fragrant perfume, made from the root of a rare plant found mainly in India. You would understand that this would normally have been used sparingly, for by this description it was likely to have been worth a year’s wages. But this woman tipped the whole lot over the head of Jesus in an act of unbridled and extravagant worship.

This action symbolised the anointing of a king. Prior to Jesus’ arrest, trial and crucifixion, this woman was declaring Jesus’ true identity to all who were witnesses of this remarkable action. And as Jesus points out in verse 9, this would be an act remembered for all time. For the breaking of the neck of the bottle and the pouring of the contents over the head of Jesus implies that none of the perfume was held back.

Would this be our response to Jesus?

What is our response to the one who took all our needs and all our sin upon himself to a cross?

Is our response connected more to our own convenience, or will we embrace this elaborate, whole-hearted, unbridled worship (that we see lived out in this woman)?

There were of course detractors … aren’t there always! These people could not quite cope with this level of adoration being given to Jesus.
It was strange, it was unusual, and it wasn’t completely rational! They raised the objection about the value of the perfume, and if it was going to be ‘wasted’ like this, whether it should have rather been sold (and here they get really pious) and the proceeds given to the poor. It’s my view that they only raised this option to cover their own inability to worship Jesus the way this woman was. They were looking for excuses, rather than the real reason – lack of sincere commitment to follow the way of Jesus, which would in turn lead to a thorough spirit of thanksgiving and worship within them.

These other party guests went to the extent of publicly ‘scolding’ the woman (v.5b), which was no doubt a hurtful experience for her. Jesus immediately called them to account, and declared that what the woman had performed was a “good service” to him. This woman should not be caused to regret in any way something that was so pure, uncomplicated and beautiful! Indeed the greek word here “kalon” from “kalos” translated “good” (in “good service”) could also be translated – noble, excellent, precious, desirable, beautiful; something that rises above mere duty.

This passage should never be used to suggest that we don’t have to worry about the poverty in the world, simply because it is so entrenched. That would be a complete misreading of this text. The statement of verse 7 in no way supports the existence of poverty as an economic necessity or inevitability (as some capitalists or economic rationalists might today). Rather, the whole ministry of Jesus shows active concern for the poor (eg. the cheated, the marginalised, the disabled). Poverty is unchristian and inhuman, especially where it remains unaddressed. Jesus, here, is referring to a reality, albeit a tragic one, that generally speaking, society does not adequately address; and hence can say – “you will always have the poor with you”, meaning, ‘you can give help to the poor anytime’ … and so you should going forward. It’s just that right at this moment another dynamic is happening.

There is a sincere woman seeking to announce her personal commitment to Jesus, and acknowledge that what Jesus is about to endure is on her behalf. And in the very case of this passage, the guests at Simon’s house would literally have very few opportunities left to express the sort of worship that this woman has just expressed.

What this passage does suggest is that acts of generosity or attempts to defeat injustice do not replace the worship of the king of the kingdom of God, but rather should go hand-in-hand. Our acts of brotherly and sisterly love, and any of our attempts to address the poverty of others, are not a replacement for, but rather form part of our love for God.

There was even more significance in this woman’s act of worship, as she had, “anointed [Jesus’] body beforehand for its burial” (v.8). The normal Jewish custom was to anoint a body with aromatic oils in preparing it for burial (just like the women at the tomb were seeking to do when they found that the stone at the entrance had already been removed). However, the body of a person executed as a criminal, as Jesus was going to be, would not normally be so anointed. I think this woman knew exactly what she was doing, and what she was declaring in doing so – that Jesus was no criminal, he was the Servant King and redeemer of his people.

Second Response – Betrayal

What words would you use to describe the second response to Jesus here (v.10-11)?

Was Judas one of those disgruntled guests who didn’t appreciate the woman’s extravagant act? It would seem so! And this consolidates, and even validates in his mind, the action that he is going to take. Judas’ disagreement with the woman’s lavish act seems to be the straw that broke the camel’s back. This would give the religious leaders their opportunity to act quietly, so they seize on this opportunity (and on Judas’ known weakness – which seems to have been money) and seek to close the deal by actually offering Judas money.

There is a really sad note here in verse 10 … “who was one of the twelve” i.e. one of those closest to Jesus, one who had been invested in, one of those who had been on mission with Jesus – and was now being lost!

It’s interesting that Mark’s Gospel knows and says nothing about God manipulating Judas in any way – this was simply the case of a confused vulnerable man being manipulated by strong figures intent on their own way, with that man caving in. This was Judas’ decision, he might have resisted the lesser side of himself, but he didn’t.

What was Judas’ problem?

Perhaps Judas was more interested in the overthrow of the Romans and the possible setting up of a new government in Jerusalem; perhaps he began following Jesus out of the hope that his own personal agendas concerning gaining power might manifest. All this talk of Jesus’ death and burial thwarted all his personal goals. Sure he must have had creditable concerns concerning injustice and poverty that caused him to start out on the journey with Jesus, but he’d failed to completely open his heart to the truth and full purpose behind Jesus’ coming.

When this disappointment got the better of Judas, despite the consideration he had been shown – treachery set in! Despite following Jesus for the best part of three years, and seemingly being on the same side, he had not undergone sufficient personal transformation to go the full journey. It’s like Judas was one of the disciples just in an official capacity, without growing in his personal relationship with (the leader) Jesus. Judas did not really know Jesus for who he was and is … absolutely the opposite of the woman (in Simon’s house) who completely got it!

Conclusion

We have here a stark contrast – two very different responses to Jesus. There was one who couldn’t get past their own personal agenda and greed, so much so that they contributed to the death of someone who had befriended them and loved them (actions which ultimately of course brought Judas himself undone). And then there was the other, one who broke open an expensive bottle of perfume and (unconcerned for its value, or perhaps more to the point fully aware of its value) lavished it over the head of Jesus, denoting that Jesus was her King. It is said that what she did would be eternally remembered, yet her name is not given. This would suggest that it is the act of worship that is mostly in view … and that this type of extravagant enthusiastic worship could be performed by anyone … including you and me.

Any investment of time and resources in the worship of Jesus will never be a waste!

"Playing Inside the Boundaries Lines" - a discussion of Psalm 16

(A) Exercise

A psalm is a sacred song … poetry that comes deep from the human heart, as the ancient writer reflects on the reality of God. Psalms have been written from the depths of human struggle, therefore can reflect deep sorrow or misery; but at the same time, as faith kicks in, reflect a real trust in God.

We trust that God’s Spirit participated in the composition of these psalms, and because of this, there are many lessons to be drawn from them. As we come alongside the emotions expressed in such psalms, from where we sit in life, we can find much insight and encouragement.

The words of the psalms will speak to different people in different ways, yet often there are verses that touch us at our particular point of need. Therefore we should approach such psalms prayerfully and hopefully, expecting God to speak to us afresh.

Now read Psalm 16.

What do you like in this psalm?

What concepts here encourage you?

What challenges did you find?

(B) Application Questions – verse 6

When we can say, like in verse 6, that the “boundary lines” around my life are just right, and that our general experience of life is pleasant, then this is a wonderful thing. We have been able to make certain decisions, and we have been able to come to certain understandings about the Bible and about God, whereby our life has purpose and meaning, and we feel we are on the right track. Even when difficult or troubling or unexpected things happen to us, because we’re living within good helpful boundary lines, we will survive, and then in the fullness of time actually thrive in life.

What are these boundary lines? Think of the ground on which a football match is played. There is an inner circle just inside the fence line that forms the actual playing arena. What are those things that fall for us within the boundary lines, and what are those things that we will leave well enough alone on the other side of the fence? Mainly we would be talking here about activities and life-style decisions and use of resources and beliefs concerning right and wrong. This is something for each of you to work through for yourself, but I could offer some questions to help you along the way. Especially if we are uncertain or hesitant decision-makers, these questions could be very helpful. If we say we want to follow Jesus, then these are the sort of questions above all others that would count.

Will this move me closer to God, or at least do no damage to my relationship with God?
Does this connect well with following Jesus?
Am I becoming a more approachable and relational person?
Does this help me love my neighbour more practically?
Is this in my family’s best interests?
Does this assist my church community’s ministry?

There are alternative questions, like: Will this make me more money? Will this give me more power? Will this make me more comfortable? Will this make me more likable? Will this make life easier? But surely, for the follower of Jesus, these would be far less relevant questions.

Perhaps there is room here to also see the appreciation of our “boundary lines’ in terms of where we live. The psalmist could have had in mind the ‘Promised Land’ and God’s provision of it, or God’s kingship over the nation of Israel. We too can appreciate being part of a community, with all the support we can draw from it combined with the opportunity to make a contribution to it; and see that God has placed or led us here for a reason, and will use us accordingly.

Verse 6 continues with “I have a goodly heritage”. Some of the good that we experience now is as a result of what has been invested in us by others, maybe parents, other family members, teachers, mentors, friends; and of course God has invested a lot into us as well – when God could have easily given up on us, he has hung in and showed us mercy and graciousness over and over. But another aspect of having a “goodly heritage” is what we are able to pass on to others, our children, other family members, friends, people we have responsibility over and relationship with. Because of the good in us, we can help others find pleasant experiences of life.

(C) Other Content

Some of the other interesting facets of this psalm are as follows:

Verse 1 suggests that as we trust completely in God, we can experience protection from those things that are likely to do us the most damage. There are many dangers in life, many things that can undo us. Not only can danger on the road and the threat of violence affect us badly, but also the possibility of ill-health or losing one’s job or loneliness. But God will never let us ultimately sink as we place our trust in Him. God can see us through whatever circumstances come upon us.

Verse 2 suggests that the very best things of life are centred in our relationship with God. The bold statement “You are my Lord” acknowledges that we have a personal relationship with God – we are not borrowing this from someone else, or just copying what someone else is doing … this is undeniably real, and completely transforming. The one who can say to God in a very personal way … “You are my Lord”, knows that their welfare rests comfortably in God (and in God alone).

Verse 3 shows the high regard we can have for those who are shining examples of God’s love in the community and world, those who are so obviously God’s agents on earth, those who might truly be called ‘the salt of the earth’. We want so much to be like them. We observe God’s Spirit working mightily through them and we want to experience this too.

On the other hand, verse 4 reflects on those who take their own direction, a direction which is completely contrary to the direction we’ve chosen … and indeed this other direction is full of increasing misery. Whatever it is that a person worships … makes its mark on that persons character. We know about those who spend their time playing violent video games for instance … what a terrible mark this can make on their character and personality (and what dark results this can bring). Those who worship money, tend to lose touch with everything that is really important. Corruption breeds more corruption. Those who cannot resist pornography pay a terrible price in the depths of their being.

There is the commitment here to steer clear of such a path that leads nowhere, not seeking what these others seek, to the extent of not even considering this for a moment. I will not sacrifice my life to the altars of ultimate uselessness and destruction! I will not invest my time and energies into pursuits of no value! Whereas the names of the “holy ones” of verse 3 come easily to mind, we do not even utter the names of those who follow other gods, for they should receive no credit. This of course, is not to say we forget about them forever, or declare them forever lost, but rather make sure we are not adversely influenced or impacted by them.

Verse 5 acknowledges that we have made our choice amongst all the possible choices, and that choice is God. In our time this means that we have chosen Jesus … to follow him and be guided by the Holy Spirit placed within us … and to participate within a worshipping group of like-minded people, sharing our gifts with each other for the common good of all the community. The content of our future (our “lot” as the psalmist puts it) lies in the providence of God. For the Lord God to be our “cup” means that we are accepting wherever God will lead us. We will be willing to accept whatever circumstances come upon us knowing that God is also dwelling with us in these situations and pressures. Jesus was able to accept his “cup” knowing that God would have the final say and that Jesus would rise from the dead.

Verse 7 reminds us that God is always seeking to communicate with us, give us insight, and develop this divine/human relationship. The “heart” here must refer to the decision-making driver … the “conscience”. We can rely on the conscience that has been first instructed by God’s wisdom. God can keep us awake wrestling (in prayer) … bringing our conscience into line with God’s attitudes and standards, but then allow us to rest safe in mercy and forgiveness.

Verse 8 reminds us of the focus we need to maintain, especially given all the distractions life brings. God is always available to us, just like the radio station is always broadcasting. But if we want to clearly here what’s being said or played, then we have to be properly tuned in. The more we are tuned in to the right frequency, the less we will be shaken by the unexpected or troubling happenings.

Verses 9 & 10 speak of the security there is in knowing God. Whereas we will physically die, our soul/spirit will be safe with God forever. God is eternally faithful to those that love Him, and we are exuberant about this.

Verse 11 shows us that it is possible to be happy and contented and peaceful in this life and actually enjoy the journey. God’s “right hand” is the ‘victory’ hand; we can in God’s strength both overcome the hurdles and bloom like a beautiful flower. Ultimately, through what Jesus has done for us, we have a home in heaven with him. This journey has already begun as we live out the ideals of eternal life here and now, with the promise of a secure future offering us great confidence and peace.

"Keeping Alert" - Teaching on Mark 13:24-37

The world as we know it will not go on for ever. There will come a time when the earth’s degradation and the culmination of God’s purposes will align and Jesus will come again.

Having sought to deflect the disciples from any thought of particular timing, and convict them of the need to be faithful in the midst of anything that happens in life, Jesus returns to their question at the beginning of the chapter, and says here in verse 32: “But about that day, or hour no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father”. What clearer message do we need that we are not meant to know exactly when! Jesus himself (in his human form) didn’t even know, and probably didn’t even want to know! It is enough to know that the day will eventually come, that God has got this perfectly under control, but it cannot be predicted.

Why … because if room was left for us to debate this, it would likely become a major distraction, as it has proven to be for many over the centuries. We have enough to think about with all the demands of life combined with the call to naturally and faithfully live out the Christian life day by day.

And of course there should not be any motivating factor in this. If we need to know that it is coming next week to become urgent about sharing the gospel with our lost friends, then we really have to look at ourselves. If someone doesn’t know Jesus, how could it be any more urgent than it already is!

The earth is fragile, especially when you factor in what humankind has managed to invent to do great harm to it, or neglected to do and thus put the world in danger. In a way the earth has always been fragile, after all it orbits around in space not attached to anything. It continues to spin at just the right distance from the sun only by the grace of God.

So from the time of Jesus’ resurrection and ascension back to God, the end has been nigh. So much so that even Jesus seemed to think that he would return within the same generation of his going. And no wonder, with the advanced level of evil that Jesus had to endure in his life. Other biblical writers viewed the world in similar ways – surely it can’t be allowed to get any worse than this! Yet God’s compassion for humankind is unabated, God’s hope for broad-based renewal continues. God is seeking endlessly to find relationship with each person born, and for them in turn to relate well with their physical and social environment.

Many have tried to specifically put a date to the end, and obviously they have all been proven wrong, often at great embarrassment to the Christian community. The Bible gives very little direct information about the future (just some word-pictures quite difficult to interpret); what it largely commends is living faithfully in the present … and trustingly concerning the future.

So we should continue to take seriously our responsibility for God’s gift of a living environment and seek to look after it. Thus we have grounds for even more concern about climate change, lack of water and nuclear technology than others might, and even more of a mandate to take positive action concerning such matters.

And we don’t send out missionaries to hasten Jesus’ return, we actually want to see the gospel proclaimed simply because we love people and are concerned about their state of being.

We simply do not know when the end will come (and much about what that entails … what ever does "heaven and earth will pass away" mean anyway – "earth" okay, but "heaven" passing away?). We shouldn’t even try that much to unravel such a thing – Jesus simply says: “Beware, keep alert”.

The passage commences with Jesus citing words from Isaiah concerning the destruction of Babylon long before the time of Jesus, indicating that the sinfulness and violence of humanity always has destructive effects on the cosmos; yet Jesus will ultimately seal the victory. There have always been signs, there will always be signs; there are constant crises that come and go; whether it’s tomorrow or in another hundred or another thousand years; next summer or another summer long away – the message is the same … “keep alert”.

Keep alert how? That is the question … which we’ll come back to!

[BTW – I think the phrase “heaven and earth will pass away” refers basically to everything being different than it currently is. This parallels with the “words” of Jesus that “will not pass away”, meaning they will remain the same in their power and relevance always.]

There are some magnificent concepts here to encourage us.

First, there is the picture of Jesus coming with great power and glory, with the angels gathering all his children from all directions on earth and in heaven. This gives us a wonderful sense of our ultimate destination within the community of those who have loved God in life. We can be part of the biggest worshipping congregation ever gathered in one place. I wonder who’ll be leading the service that day and what songs we’ll be singing!!!

Now of course, in a fashion, Jesus is already gathering his children into worshipping communities, into local church groups, that can fully and personally appreciate his presence, power and glory right now. In that sense Jesus is always coming again. Our worship now should be a foretaste of community life with God eternally. And our earthly missional activity should be a means by which that eternal community increases in number. Jesus at the very gate ready to return, you know that he is near. This is like our gate when we lived in the manse in West Melbourne, which let us know by squeaking when someone was coming near the front door. We do get signals that Jesus is near … that spark in another’s eye ... that word of wisdom that comes from our mouth that we had never thought of before … that remarkable change in circumstances ... that incredible moment of peace in God's presence.

Second, following the comment about heaven and earth passing away, we read that “my [ie. Jesus’] words will not pass away”. The wonder and wisdom that brought all creation to be, will exist eternally and unbroken. Jesus will never let us down, or be proved to be insufficient or unavailable. The words of Jesus that we have come to rely upon will never depart from us. Jesus has conquered death on a cross, the closed tomb, and everything that was done to discredit or destroy him. It will be Jesus coming in clouds proclaiming the victory of God over the influence of evil. No matter how fearful and uncertain events become, we may rest assured that Jesus, the ultimate agent of God, will make a decisive appearance in our stead. So these are words of great comfort.

So what should we keep alert about???

In verse 35 are mentioned all four watches of the night in Roman reckoning (evening, midnight, cockcrow and dawn), the times when we might tend to be less alert than any others! So, no time is slack time!! Also, without being alert or awake the “doorkeeper” and the “slaves” in the little parable might just be caught out in surprise – not ready.

· Various dangers that would tend to injure us or take us away from God (including where we have to provide boundaries for our children);
· About our own level of spiritual maturity – where we are at, whether we are growing in an upward direction; so that we won’t just float along;
· Notice what God is doing in our midst, even being expectant concerning God’s redemptive activity i.e. answers to prayer, opening doors of opportunity, speaking to people’s hearts and changing them
· Opportunities to serve, share with others, make a contribution, allow Jesus to be seen.

When the disciples had their first big test concerning staying awake (in the garden of Gethsemane), what happened (14:37, 40 & 41)?

"Staying With the Game Plan" - Teaching Mark 13:1-23

1. Introduction

This is NOT a passage through which to determine future dates and events, this is clear by the way Jesus answers the questions put to him (in the movement from verse 4 to verse 5). This passage seeks to move the reader away from any preoccupation with such distracting matters, toward coping skills in the face of the complexity of what we often find as we travel through life as a follower of Jesus. This passage offers a realistic view of life in a world operating far from God’s plan, and how a disciple of Jesus should live in view of this. When we are so pressured, this is when we will really have to stay with the “game plan”.

If only the Carlton players would stay with the “game plan” every week! Judd out of the centre to Murphy, a hand-pass wide to Gibbs, back into the corridor to Stevens, then a kick down Fevola’s throat 35 metres out directly in front. But the weekend football match is not the same as a training drill, there’s a real opposition out there, and sometimes such opposition is a very daunting proposition … which tends to make you fumble the ball and forget all the rudiments of the game. So it is with the Christian life – it is the basics [of the Christian life] – our “game plan” if you like – that we have to stick with … when faced by a hostile opposition!

2. Visions of the Complexity of Life in the Kingdom of God and Our Response

The opposition that is dealt with in this passage can be categorised into three areas. Firstly – the destruction of the temple; secondly – false teachings; and then thirdly – wars, disasters & persecutions. The Gospel of Mark here gives us some visions of the complexity of life in the Kingdom of God, and some insight into what our response should be.

(a) Destruction of the temple (v.1-2)

It seems that at least one disciple was hugely impressed by the temple in Jerusalem, the big ornate structure that it was (v.1). But a building was all it was! We are rightly impressed by certain beautiful cathedrals we may have visited around the world … as pieces of great architecture, with the many accompanying artworks; but in comparison to the person of Jesus, such structures dissolve into relative insignificance. Such a temple had not generally led to the community of Israel finding closer relationship with God … humanity ultimately only found such intimate relationship with God through a cross and an old empty cave (not through any cathedral no matter how grand).

People of the time trusted that God would not let the temple in Jerusalem be destroyed yet again as it had been centuries earlier; but at the same time had continued to fail to take seriously the true prophets and their calls for justice for the oppressed, and lately also failed to recognise God in their own midst in the person of Jesus. So the temple would not survive the Romans’ response to the 1st century Jewish revolt. But on the other hand, the movement of people who would follow Jesus into building a spiritual church in his name … their work would survive through into the 21st century.

Jesus here wants to let us know what, and what not, to really be impressed with. This is a strong reminder as to where our trust should lie … not in things that are of human construction, material things; but rather in the person of Jesus and the nature of his ministry in the world. Thus Kelber calls this disciple’s attitude (in verse 1), “a case of misplaced admiration”. The stones of this outdated building are nothing in comparison to the great ‘cornerstone’ of the ‘new temple’ … Jesus (12:10-11). Our faith is built on the life of a person, a person who was also God.

(b) False teachers (v.5-6; 21-23)

We have to be careful of anyone who comes to us and says that they have absolute authority or complete understanding over spiritual matters. Our reference point is not the words of man, but rather the person of Jesus as described in the Bible. Anything we are told or taught must stand up to the scrutiny of scripture (particularly the words and attitudes of Jesus as presented in the gospels). Whereas the Bible doesn’t cover all the specific ethical questions or particular decisions we will need to make, there are sufficient guideposts there to set us in the right direction. So if we don’t want to float from proposition to proposition or influential speaker to influential speaker, then we will need a good grasp of the Bible to test each thing we hear.

That is why we start with the Bible in our messages here. The idea is to let the Bible speak to whatever our personal and collective issues are; relying heavily on the Holy Spirit, and then on each other, to get the interpretation and applications right. I open my mouth first and foremost to suggest that the Bible can help, and here are some tools to understand what it is saying. Many people have been lead astray by those promising much and delivering little or much worse. This is because such messages have originated solely within the agenda of the speaker.

As we know especially from (Paul’s letter to the) Galatians, there were many false teachers operating in the period between Jesus’ resurrection and the writing of Mark – deceiving Christians into acting in ways contrary to God’s best. Paul had to challenge such teachers, as well as correct those who had been swayed inappropriately. Thus, we must learn discernment and spend time in the Bible. When we don’t understand what is said, then we need to ask those who have proven themselves reliable to steer us straight. What is the basic teaching of the Bible from which we should not stray? To love God, receive Jesus and his forgiveness, walk with him day by day, and love our neighbour in God’s name > that’s the game plan that will win the grand final this year!

As verse 23 states so clearly, we need to be alert as to where we are and whether we are still on track with Jesus as our leader (more on this next week). [“I have already told you everything” … generally speaking, those of us who have been following Jesus and reading the Word of God for a while, already know basically everything we need to survive … just needing constant refreshers and some good encouragement to flourish.]

(c) Wars, conflicts, disasters, betrayals, persecution (v.7-9; 12-13)

Whereas war and violence never had a part in God’s created order, the moment freewill was abused this was an inevitable result. Person would strike out at another person, even brother would murder brother (as Cain did with Abel), and nation will take up arms against another nation. We live in a world where conflict raises its head every day … in the school-yard, in the workplace, on the road, in the home. People’s differing priorities collide and conflict ensues. We are not going to be exempt from experiencing this, but we are called to respond to it in particular ways, the most basic of which is: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

We have the role of bringing peace, essentially the peace of Christ, to troubled places. Romans 12:18 reads, “If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all”. This would apply to our own personal circumstances, and then extend toward the example we should bring in our neighbourhoods; with 2 Corinthians 5:17-18 reading: “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation … All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation” i.e. bringing people together.

When so-called natural disasters occur, rather than shaking our faith, or coming as unexpected, they should send us to the front-line to help the injured and grieving. As Romans 8:19 puts it, “…the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God”. It will be through adversity that the hope of God will be seen in the followers of Jesus. When faced with all sorts of betrayal and hostility we should seek to hang-in, hang-in and hang-in, for ultimately God will save us and God’s name will be glorified.

When it comes to persecution, this often happens to those who stand up and stand out … against injustice or immorality, upsetting a comfortable and entrenched status quo that works for certain powerful vested interests. You say what persecution! You say that at least in this country being a Christian is safe! Well then perhaps we need to reassess what Jesus might be saying to our culture and politics and get out onto the edge a bit more. This is like in football when instead of hanging outside the pack looking for an easy kick, you have to get your head over the ball, and take the risk of being hit.

3. Necessities of Discipleship

This passage also has some general things to say about necessities in discipleship.

(a) Proclaiming the Good News (v.10-11)

Sometimes we think that we won’t know what to say, especially when under pressure. But we are not alone – we are not left to purely our own devices – God is with us and continually giving us snippets of insight and little ways of communicating with others. We see this clearly in the Book of Acts, as previously unsure and weak disciples, having experienced the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, spoke out with power and effectiveness. We read at Acts 4:13 … “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realised that they were uneducated and ordinary men, they were amazed and recognised them as companions of Jesus”.

(b) Travelling light (v.14-16)

At verse 14 we read about something categorised as “the desolating sacrilege”. This could possibly be regarded as the most unspeakable affront to God imaginable (involving the most shocking of occurrences). When under any such severe oppression or danger, there will be the need to travel light and not be under the weight of a lot of unnecessary material things. The picture in verse 15 is of someone seeing danger from his flat roof (a common place in this time for worship or for the drying and storing of fruit), and using the outside stairs to flee without stopping to collect anything from inside the house.

It’s a blessing to have nice things (good sound equipment, some DVDs, nice dining room setting, lovely garden, a Ford or two), as long as they’re in the right perspective; as long as they don’t weigh us down, as long as we’re not overly attached to them, as long as they don’t own us; as long as we can easily do without them and are ready to leave them behind. Recently many bushfire victims have had to work through what were the most valuable things in life! Despite the possibility of material wealth in this country, we need to be able to travel lightly with Jesus whenever and wherever necessary.

(c) Prayer (v.17-20)

Sometimes under pressure we can forget about God, and forget about the amazing resources that we have in God. God can bring about change in response to our prayers, as these prayers align with God’s will. This means that what otherwise might have been adequate can be transformed toward what will be ideal. We might be able to get on okay with the people at work, but prayer may just mean that we will find unprecedented friendships with those who might have only previously been distant acquaintances. The situation that we’re currently struggling through may be opened up into unthought of resolution and blessing. We can pray that God will be so close that we will cope through whatever comes to us. We can pray that our children will be protected from evil and find helpful companions. We can pray about whatever needs resolution and for the touch of a miracle working God.

4. Conclusion

What were some of the things to be learned from this passage?

· Honouring Jesus above all things
· Knowing the Bible and being discerning about what we believe
· Being peace-makers and making a difference
· Allowing God’s Spirit to speak through us
· Travelling light with Jesus
. Utilising the full potential of prayer.

Discussion on the Implications of Psalm 15 - "We Shall Not Be Moved"

Let us lift up our thoughts and our hearts to the Lord. Let us be attentive for what God may say to us through this ancient psalm! There just may be a personal word for us from our Lord if we are just ready to hear this; and such a word as this may just transform our lives as never before.

1. Intimacy with God

This psalm is about intimacy with God … about a deep friendship with God. Who is it that can dwell where God is? Who can experience that intimate relationship with God? Who can reside permanently with God? Who has free and welcome access to God?

We might answer these days … ‘those who accept Jesus as their Saviour can dwell where God is’. We might otherwise respond that anyone can dwell with God because God loves all and is available to accept all.

Let’s put this question another way. Who do you like having in your home, and who do you keep inviting back? People who you relate well with and share things in common with and find encouragement and support through. These are also the people who can be relied on by you, and also those that when you invite them they have a natural tendency to accept your invitation.

Who is it that receives God’s hospitality … the best hospitality imaginable? Who dwells where God dwells – who is it that has found intimacy with God? It is those that God has found to be:
· Open to a growing relationship
· Seeking after the most important things in life
· Loving and caring
· Consistent and reliable
· Responsive and ready;

Or put in other words:
· Following Jesus closely
· Seeking after God’s agenda in life
· Worshipful
· Faithful to God and Neighbour
· Trusting and Courageous.

Now is that how we would describe ourselves?

2. Good Behaviour Patterns

This psalm goes on to spell out some of the behaviour patterns that you might expect from those who are dwelling (or living) with God. Whereas we are accepted by God through the grace offered in Jesus and our willing receipt of this gift, our sincerity to build a relationship with God is seen through areas of life that this psalm describes.

However such qualities are often hard to manufacture, but these are actually qualities that God has in abundance and perfection, and also qualities that God is available to plant and feed and water in us. These are the basic behaviour patterns … opportunities to comment will follow …

(a) “walk blamelessly” – this refers to living with a sense of connection with God and being a forgiven person … we are not perfect, but God is actively transforming us day by day. So, we are – walking lightly in forgiveness (with an air of assurance and purpose). We are committed to living tomorrow having learned the lessons of today.

(b) “do what is right” – acting rightly … where our personal character comes into harmony with the character of God. We live and act in a sound and wholesome way. We would be reliable and dependable; having an attitude of faith and faithfulness. We study God’s Word, particularly the life of Jesus, and look for worthy examples of discipleship to emulate.

(c) “speak the truth from the heart” – speaking truthfully … this is an important habit to form and maintain. We speak the truth because we care deeply about the consequences of what we say. We understand the power of the tongue. But this is not just about being honest and discerning, but also about building our lives on what is sure and trustworthy.

(d) “do not slander with their tongue” – not slandering others; it’s so easy to run off at the mouth and put down someone (who may have only mildly offended us) and to continue to gossip about them in a negative way. People come from all sorts of different life experiences, and we need to have a default position of tolerance and compassion.

(e) “do no evil to their friends” – it’s interesting that “friends” are in view here rather than ‘enemies’ … why would we do “evil” to our “friends”? But sometimes we unthinkingly do things that undermine our special friendships – we are less than loyal, or deliberately chose to spend time with someone else without explaining, or just forget to return something we borrowed. So, let’s not be destroying friendships.

(f) “nor take up a reproach against their neighbours” – to “reproach” is to ‘express disapproval’ or ‘cast a slur’; sometimes we can find the smallest things that annoy us about our neighbours, and rake these up unnecessarily, which will entirely (and out of all proportion) compromise our ability to relate well with them. We can be judgemental concerning various cultural differences, or just annoyed that they don’t mow their nature-strip as often as we do. But we have to get beyond this … and not be putting up barriers to being a good neighbour.

(g) “in whose eyes the wicked are despised” – what does this mean … surely we aren’t actually to hate anyone; but perhaps we should still be expressing a real and passionate opposition to anything that oppresses or abuses or hurts another person (or any part of God’s creation). So, perhaps we could see this as – hating that which is opposed to God’s ways. So we stand opposed to what is clearly evil, sometimes very directly or at other times with what EM Blaiklock called a “dignified aloofness” (saying in effect, this is not for me/us). Despite our desire to connect, sometimes we are going to have to draw up a barrier.

(h) The complete opposite is described in the second half of verse 4 … “honour those who fear the Lord” – respecting those serving God. These are the ones we want to spend time with … with a view to learning and growing from them. Verse 4 in totality asks the question: ‘who do we stand with’? Whose vision of life is closest to God’s?

(i) “stand by their oath even to their hurt” – where I think “oath” like a ‘vow’ refers to our stated commitment to God; this commitment needing to stand no matter what the level of opposition or how strong the competing interest might be. So, we would be … faithful even under threat. It’s not much good to only stand with God when things are easy, or conversely only call upon God when things are hard.

(j) “do not lend money at interest” – this might come as a shock to bankers, but the people of Israel (under their religious law) were not permitted to charge interest when they lent money to each other. They were to stand out as against the Babylonians charging 33% or the Assyrians charging 50% interest on loans. This was to make sure that amongst God’s people the lot of the poor was not made any worse. So, we are to be – responsive to the needs of the poor (not only amongst our own number, but across the whole of the world). Our call to generosity is based on God’s generosity to us.

(k) “do not take a bribe against the innocent” – to take a bribe would usually indicate providing a secret special favour or covering up for somebody’s unrighteous deed; and this will always lead to someone being hurt or inappropriately judged. So, we need to be … keeping our integrity intact, especially in the area of our finances. We would not want to view money in a way where it takes over our motives and even blinds us to the needs of others.

Comments

Just as the psalm concludes, from these commitments and behaviour patterns, we will not be moved. That is because, this is the person I have become – this is who I am. I am Warren, a Jesus follower who is seeking God’s agenda in church, community and world. These positive attitudes are part of me … or should be! And I will go forward from here. The person fulfilling these conditions will never moved from their residence in God’s “holy hill” and from the hospitality enjoyed in God’s “tent”.

"Is Our Church a Good Neighbour?" (Mark 12:28-34)

(1) Would we be missed?

In an article by Eric Swanson entitled “Is Your Church a Good Neighbour”, the author quotes Bishop Vaughn McLaughlin from the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship in Jacksonville, Florida, when he asks the questions:

“Would the community weep if your church were to pull out of the city?”
And, “Would anybody notice if you left?”

We would continually need to ask of ourselves this type of question in regard to our local community:

“Would we be missed if we ceased to be here?”
Or, “Would there be any tears over our demise?”
Or, “Would anyone notice if we left?”

If there is any negative element in our response to this, then this provides the greatest challenge we could possibly face – the relevance test. For, if we are not being noticed, and if our contribution is not being noted, then collectively we are not working hard enough, and we are in serious danger of irrelevance.

Whereas this passage is normally treated in terms of one-on-one neighbourly relationships, there is room to consider it in terms of a collective group making a solid corporate contribution to its neighbourhood.

Because this pastor and this church fellowship in Jacksonville has taken these questions seriously, and responded appropriately and creatively, the mayor of Jacksonville openly credits this church as one community group that is changing Jacksonville for the better.

(2) Loving God through loving our neighbour

There was one scribe at least who was truly interested in what Jesus was saying. Unlike other recent questions that were loaded to test Jesus, this was an honest enquiry towards understanding the heart of the Jesus message. This scribe must have been impressed with the way Jesus was fielding some very tricky matters put forward by some very devious characters. And verse 33 shows that this particular scribe was well ahead of others in his understanding of what Jesus was on about.

Knowing that this was a sincere query, Jesus gave a complete and straightforward answer. The question was: which of the 613 rules existing at the time was “first” in line? Jesus began (in verse 29-30) by quoting from Deuteronomy 6:4-5.

But this, on its own, was not a complete answer, nor could it stand on its own as the ‘first’ or ‘greatest’ commandment. It has to be proved by more than words. It’s just too easy to simply say that we love God. Any expression of love towards God must include taking responsibility for what God has created. So whereas Jesus has already provided one commandment in response to a question concerning what comes “first”, Jesus now connects a second statement with the first in a way which combines them and sees them as inseparable – “There is no other commandment greater than these”.

Jesus (in verse 31) quotes from Leviticus 19:18. This is a real ethical proposition (especially if we consider the parable Luke uses to demonstrate that the identity of our neighbour should be broadened beyond how we may have previously limited the definition – Luke 10:25-37). This “love” of neighbour involves radical active good will.

We are well aware of our own needs and we consider them to be highly important, a real priority. Well says Jesus, the needs of others should be no less a priority! Believe it or not, our neighbour is just as important to God as we ourselves are!! If we love our neighbours as we love ourselves, we shall want for them the treatment we would want for ourselves (were we in their place).

The call to “love our neighbour” should also cause us to think about what may be appropriate government policies concerning health, education, employment, poverty, welfare, disadvantage, foreign aid, and debt forgiveness, irrespective of the impact this makes on the tax-paying public.

That we love God with everything that we have will be proved by how we behave concerning our neighbour. And that is where this collective interpretation comes in. As a church, we will prove how much we love God, by the concern we show for our local community (and also the world beyond). And so when we sing our songs of worship, and bring our offerings, and participate in the announcements, and listen to the bible, and share in communion, and offer up our prayers – will our sincerity be proved outside this building? Are we trying to grab hold of God simply for ourselves, or are we just as focused on the needs of our neighbour as we are on our own needs? Does our worship of God impel us toward our community – in concern for their well-being? It should, it must!

Why did Jesus say to this scribe, “You are not far from the kingdom of God”? Because he was yet to live it out; the ‘scribe’ was yet to put this teaching into practice. Jesus wanted to commend this “scribe” for his insight, yet Jesus could not let him escape the full import of the matter at hand. To fully participate in the Kingdom of God, to fully be a Jesus follower, one has to put Jesus’ teaching into action. This was the stunning challenge that silenced Jesus’ detractors; for this teaching had come straight from their own Hebrew Scriptures, yet they had not been able to consistently apply it.

(3) Loving our neighbour through loving God

Well of course this is a huge challenge! We have our own problems to deal with, the busyness of life, the needs of our family, work pressures, even the necessary tasks in the church to deal with. We also have our faith issues and our doubts, also our shyness and lack of confidence. And then there is the whole issue of finding some of our neighbours to be downright disagreeable or even unlikable. So where do we go to get through this, and grow, so that we can get to making this impact?? Where will the energy and wisdom come from?? We go back to the first part of these inseparable ideals (verse 30).

Our response to God needs to be from the totality of our being and resources:

· the “heart” is the seat of spiritual life and the inner being
· the “soul” or “life” refers to our feelings, emotions and desires
· the “mind” refers to our understanding and intelligence
· and “strength” refers to our abilities and our capacity to act.

We look to immerse ourselves in God and love God in such a way that allows God to give us everything that we need. Everything about us finds harmony with God’s ways and purposes (as they are seen displayed in Jesus). We find our own acceptance and sense of belonging and value in God, such that we can see others in the same way. If we were to only give God a fraction of our total selves, then God becomes a mere fraction of what He might be to us! We thus rob ourselves … if we push God to the periphery of our thoughts and lives!!

If we want to truly love our neighbour individually and our community collectively, then we will have to know God thoroughly. If we dedicate our whole being to loving God, then God is free to turn us outward towards others. In a nutshell, God requires the sort of undistracted and unrivalled love toward Him that will allow for a genuine love and concern for each of our neighbours (the effective combination of loyalty and compassion).

(4) Being neighbourly

a. practical service, not proud judgementalism

Being neighbourly is not about looking down our nose at the faults of others, but about finding ways of serving their needs. Being a neighbourly church is not about bemoaning their lack of church attendance, or their lack of interest in the ways of God, but rather about finding ways of making a contribution to good community functioning.

b. partnership, not isolation

Being neighbourly is not about trying to do everything by ourselves purely in our own way, but rather about finding ways of partnering with other groups and organisations who are likewise concerned about building good community. This frees us from the burden of thinking we have to do everything for everybody. We should ask ourselves the question … how can we help, what can be our unique contribution?

On a personal level, we don’t build relationships down a one-way street … by only offering help but not being prepared to receive it. We have to allow others to discover our practical needs and to respond to them as they can.

c. inclusion, not self-containment

Being neighbourly is not about being closed or self-contained within boundaries of belief or practice, but rather about being open to the contribution other people can make.

Part of this involves really loving our neighbourhood and relating warmly to all the components of it (especially the coffee shops)!