10 Tips on How to Lead a "Live" Chat on Twitter

"The sower went out to sow. ...Some seeds fell on good soil." (Mark 4:3b, 8a)

I've been teaching the Bible on Twitter in recent days via a "live" chat. (For more information, click here.)

I have come to recognize a number of things that are helpful in leading / promoting a "live" chat.

I thought I might share them with you...

10 Tips on How to Lead a "Live" Chat on Twitter:

Tip 1: Write a blog post on the topic prior to. (You really should have a blog as a home base for all of your social media efforts.) Build momentum, anticipation. (To read: 7 Mistakes Christian Bloggers Can Make, click here.)

Tip 2: Have an outline of tweets beforehand. It doesn't have to be comprehensive (though mine always are ~ that's just me). Then you can offer a free download. (To read: How to Create a Free Download, click here.)

Tip 3: During the chat, don't just tweet with your friends. Be humble enough to leave the "clique" and communicate especially with the newbies. Prioritize them via retweets.

Tip 4: Build your own followership apart from the chat time. You will always have them as part of your chat audience.

Tip 5: (Goes with Tip 4) Don't worry about who's there and who's not. (I once taught a Bible study with only one in attendance ~ a large spider on the ceiling.) And always remember: You never know who's lurking (listening in, but not making their presence known).

Tip 6: Promote, promote, promote. And then after you've done all that, promote some more. Tweet your blog post (Tip 1) and the time of your chat often.

Tip 7: Pray, pray, pray for God to anoint (energize) you as a chat facilitator / teacher. Call upon the Lord to move upon those who are supposed to hear what you have to say. Leave the results up to Him.

Tip 8: Do your best to be present on Twitter as regularly as you can aside from your chat time (and the chat hashtag stream). Again, reach out beyond the friends / followers (Tip 3) that you already have.

Tip 9: Capitalize on the popularity of Pinterest. Create a "board" on the topic of your chat, then tweet it with the time of your chat. (To see my Escape from Egypt Pinterest board, click here.)

Tip 10: Add a level of podcasting to further personalize your chat. Use iTalk on the iPad. Keep it under a minute. (To listen to my first try, click here.)

You might also be interested in:

• 15 Social Media Mistakes You Might Make
• 10 Commandments of Blogging

Gospel of Mark Twitter Bible Study eBook (free download)

Gospel of Mark Twitter Bible Study

Resurrection (Mark 16:1-20)

(This is supplement 15 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

The Gospel of Mark can be outlined as follows: 1st 8 chapters ~ "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve"; 2nd 8 chapters ~ "and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

We left off last week with Christ dead and buried. (Mark 15:46-47) But it couldn't end here!

THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK

"And when the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, bought spices, that they might come [to the tomb] and anoint Him (Jesus)." (Mark 16:1) 

Christ's rising from the dead is the most glorious and unexpected event in the entirety of human history. (Mark 16:1-3) The women are coming as an act of love much like bringing flowers to a gravesite. (NLT) They are anticipating a dead man, still dead, with no hope or expectation of anything else. And when Jesus has spoken often to the disciples of His being raised on the third day! Why don't we believe it if God says it?

The tomb isn't opened to let Jesus out. (Mark 16:4-6a) Instead, it's opened to let others in to see He isn't there.

The angel points to the place where Jesus once lay. (Mark 16:6b) The women are then told to go tell the disciples and Peter. (Mark 16:7) We pick up the account of Mary going to tell Peter in John 20:1-8. The place where Jesus lay is highlighted again, but with an added specific detail. It's the grave clothes (the place where Jesus lay) that are really the focal point. (John 20:5-7) It's what convinces John especially that Jesus is risen. (John 20:8)

So what is it that convinces John? The grave clothes are two pieces, one for the body, one for the head. The clothes are in the exact same place that they were when Jesus was lying there. (The face-cloth is not moved over to the side as if someone or Jesus Himself moved it as some suggest.) The clothes haven't been moved a single inch, millimeter, iota, bit, smidge. However you want to say it!

Are you hearing me somebody? Jesus was not unwrapped and the clothes thrown in a corner, shoved aside. Someone didn't come and grab Him and carry Him off with the clothes still on Him. Both pieces are still in the exact same place. They have descended as if air has been let out of a balloon. This is what convinced John!

The Appearances of Christ after rising from the dead:
1. Mary Magdalene. (Mark 16:9)
2. Other women. (Matthew 28:9; Luke 24:10b)
3. Peter. (1 Corinthians 15:5)
4. Two disciples on Emmaus road. (Luke 24:15-31; 36-43)
5. Ten apostles - Thomas absent. (John 20:19, 24)
6. Eleven apostles - Thomas present. (John 20:26-28)
7. Seven disciples fishing. (John 21:1-14)
8. Eleven apostles on the mountain. (Matthew 28:16-17)
9. Five hundred brothers. (1 Corinthians 15:6)
10. James (Christ's half brother). (1 Corinthians 15:7)
11. Eleven apostles prior to ascension. (Acts 1:2-9)
12. Saul on the road to Damascus. (Acts 9:1-6)

VERSES NOT INCLUDED IN EARLIEST MANUSCRIPTS

How do we deal with this unique passage that's not included in the oldest manuscripts? (Mark 16:9-20) How can we accept it as the very Word of God? (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 1:21) One way we deal with it is we recognize that it has solid reference in other undisputed portions of Scripture.

APPEARANCE TO MARY MAGDALENE

Mark 16:9-11 is not included in the oldest manuscripts, but it has solid reference in John 20:1; 11-18.

APPEARANCE ON THE EMMAUS ROAD

Mark 16:12-13 is not included in the oldest manuscripts, but it has solid reference in Luke 24:15-31; 36-43.

APPEARANCE TO THE ELEVEN ~ THOMAS PRESENT

Mark 16:14 is not included in the oldest manuscripts, but it has solid reference in John 20:26-28.

THE GREAT COMMISSION

Mark 16:15-18 is not included in the oldest manuscripts, but it has solid reference in Matthew 28:16-20.

SIGNS ACCOMPANYING BELIEVERS

"'Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.'" (John 14:12)

There is a general application here of our Lord's protection surrounding His people when they find themselves in dangerous situations. (Mark 16:18) This does not mean we should presume upon God. (Matthew 4:7)

ASCENSION INTO HEAVEN

Mark 16:19 is not included in the oldest manuscripts, but it has solid reference in Luke 24:50-51 and Acts 1:9.

ACTS OF THE APOSTLES

Mark 16:20 is not included in the oldest manuscripts. It's solid reference is the entire book of Acts.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Mark includes something unusual in his account of Christ's resurrection that none of the other Gospels record. Read Mark 16:1-8 and see if you can figure it out.

2. "Baptism is a requirement for salvation." (Mark 16:16) True or false? Explain your answer.

3. Unusual signs are to accompany believers in Jesus Christ including the ability to "pick up serpents" and "drink deadly poison." (Mark 16:17-18) What do you think that means?

4. "God has been known to plan a celebration in a cemetery." ("Six Hours One Friday" by Max Lucado) Ponder this quote and think about how it might apply in your own life right now.

Crucifixion (Mark 15:1-47)

(This is supplement 14 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

This is Christ's last week of life prior to His trial and crucifixion. He was born to die. (Selah~pause to reflect) The Gospel of Mark can be outlined as follows: 1st 8 chapters ~ "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve"; 2nd 8 chapters ~ "and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

Jesus talked in Mark 9:43-48 about the radical-ness required to vanquish sin ~ the likes of which He was the One who was going to submit to it! This is what we have in Mark 15:1-47.

BEFORE PILATE

"And early in the morning the chief priests with the elders and scribes, and the whole Council, immediately held a consultation; and binding Jesus, they led Him away, and delivered Him up to Pilate." (Mark 15:1)

So starts Mark 15. Pilate questions Christ. (Mark 15:2-5) He asks, "Are You the King of the Jews?" Jesus answers, "It is as you say." The God-Man (who never lied or could lie) says it Himself!

And it's the last thing we hear from our Lord in this chapter prior to His question from the cross. (Mark 15:34) Pilate is amazed. (Mark 15:5) So the centurion will be amazed at how Christ "breathes His last," also. (Mark 15:39)

Jesus takes Barabbas' place as Barabbas is released instead. (Mark 15:6-15) It's a picture of Him taking our place. "He made Him (Christ) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." (2 Corinthians 5:21)

THE MOCKING

"And they began to acclaim Him, 'Hail, King of the Jews!'" (Mark 15:18)

Jesus is dressed in purple, a crown of thorns is pressed down upon His head and He is mocked. (Mark 15:16-20a) The import of this moment is all the more striking when you realize it takes place after the scourging. (Mark 15:15) Many victims often died from the whipping alone. The "spiritual" aspect (versus the physical): This is the King of the universe being treated like this! (Philippians 2:5-11)

Simon of Cyrene enters the picture as Christ is too weak to carry the cross due to the scourging. (Mark 15:20b-21)

NAILED TO THE CROSS

Jesus is nailed to the cross. (Mark 15:22-36) Keith Maxwell, a medical doctor in Asheville, North Carolina, writes...

Let's talk about Jesus hanging on the cross. When hanging by their arms, as a crucifixion victim's body weight sags down, their diaphragm (that part of the body that's involved in the breathing process) - the diaphragm functions as a billows. As the diaphragm drops into the abdomen it pulls in air, so someone hanging on the cross had no difficulty whatsoever pulling air into their lungs. The tough part for people hanging on the cross was breathing out.

In order for a crucifixion victim to exhale, they would have to pull up against the spikes with their feet, I want to remind you - here's Jesus hanging on the cross, probably naked in front of the whole city of Jerusalem. I've already described His back to you. Every time he took a breath, that tatted, lacerated and riddled back was dragged and scraped across the splinters and the rough knobs and spikes protruding from the cross.

Each time [Christ] breathed out, each time he uttered a word, he would have to pull up with his arms and push up with his legs. That's why I want to remind you just how precious [His] words from the cross were.

That's why he couldn't say more than three of four words at a time. Because when you talk, you only talk as you breathe out, not as you breathe in. Every world Jesus spoke on the cross was spoken as he was pulling up atainst the nails and dragging his back across the cross.

That's why (this doctor concludes) what the Lord tells us - what he spoke from the cross - is very precious to me, because I know what it cost him and how badly it hurt him [to say it].

"And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, 'Eloi, Eloi, Lama Sabachthani?' which is translated, 'My God, my God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?'" (Mark 15:34)

Jesus was abandoned (left alone) so that we would never be. And when you feel like you've been forsaken, two things to remember, #1: Christ knows what you're going through (after all, He's been there); and #2: You're not really alone. God will never leave you, nor will He ever forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5c)

THE DEATH OF CHRIST

Jesus breathes His last. (Mark 15:37) The temple veil is torn in two. (Mark 15:38) The centurion is amazed. (Mark 15:39)

"A heavy curtain hung in front of the Temple room called the Most Holy Place, a place reserved by God for himself. Symbolically, the curtain separated the holy God from sinful people. The room was entered only once a year, on the Day of Atonement, by the high priest as he made a sacrifice to gain forgiveness for the sins of all the people. When Jesus died, the curtain was torn in two, showing that his death for our sins had opened up the way for us to approach our holy God. And it was torn from top to bottom, showing that God had opened the way. Read Hebrews 9:1-28 for a more complete explanation." (NLT 1528)

THE BURIAL

Joseph of Arimathea gathers up courage to bury the body of Jesus. (Mark 15:42-47)

And it can't end here! How could God write a story with a final chapter like this (let alone about the Holy One)? He just couldn't. The end of the story is appropriate to the blessedness of the life lived. So it is with all who believe in Christ. Our stories will end well ~ much more than well! (1 Corinthians 2:9)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. The crucifixion of Jesus begins at 9 a.m. (Mark 15:25) It continues through noon. (Mark 15:33a) It reaches its climax at 3 p.m. (Mark 15:33b) when He cries out to God, "Why?" Have you ever asked that question in the midst of trouble? Are you asking it now?

2. Jesus is referred to as "King of the Jews" (or King of Israel) six times in Mark 15. (v. 2, 9, 12, 18, 26, 32) One of the references is during the Roman soldiers' mocking of Him. (Mark 15:16-20) What does Jesus being "King" of a believer's life mean to you?

3. Joseph of Arimathea "gathers up courage" to make request for Christ's body. (Mark 15:43) Tell of a time where you needed courage to do something for God.

4. The centurion is amazed at the death of Jesus. (Mark 15:39) What is it that amazes him?

Trial (Mark 14:1-72)

(This is supplement 13 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

This is Christ's last week of life prior to His trial and crucifixion. He was born to die. (Selah~pause to reflect) The Gospel of Mark can be outlined as follows: 1st 8 chapters ~ "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve"; 2nd 8 chapters ~ "and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

Betrayal (spiritual warfare, too) is a huge theme in this chapter. The word "betray" (or form of it) appears seven times in Mark 14:1-72. Go through and circle them all in your Bible when you have time.

THE PLOT AND ANOINTING

Satan's role begins here (though he isn't explicitly mentioned). (Mark 14:1-2, 10-11) Jesus said: "'You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth.'" (John 8:44) "When the devil had finished every temptation, he left Him until an opportune time." (Luke 4:13)

Devotion to God is the antidote to a betraying spirit. (Mark 14:3-9) The disciples will abandon Jesus when He needs them most. (Mark 14:50) It's because they have more of "Judas" in them than "Mary." "[She poured] costly perfume [on Christ's] head." (Mark 14:3b)

PREPARATION FOR PASSOVER

Christ gives specific and right down to the finest detail instructions on how to find the place where they are to eat. (Mark 14:12-15) It is Peter and John who are sent. (Luke 22:8) Peter and John obey and it happens just as Jesus said. (Mark 14:16) (Peter passes this test.)

THE LAST SUPPER

Can you just imagine seeing Judas hearing these things? (Mark 14:17-21) Here he is. The plot has been laid. And he has the audacity to sit in his hypocrisy. It's his level of wickedness. Satan will possess Judas. (John 13:27)

During the Last Supper, Jesus takes "two traditional parts of the Passover meal, the passing of the bread and the drinking of wine, and [gives] them new meaning as representations of his body and blood." (NLT 1521)

The old covenant: Sins forgiven through the sacrifice of animals. This is a temporary covering. Requires continual sacrifices. The new covenant: Sins forgiven through faith in the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. This is a permanent covering. No need for any more sacrifices.

MOUNT OF OLIVES / GETHSEMANE

"Strike the Shepherd that the sheep may be scattered." (Zechariah 13:7b)

On their walk to Gethsemane, Peter becomes adamant that he will stand. (Mark 14:26b-31) Christ says he won't. Peter should have said: "Help me, Jesus, not to fall," but he couldn't see his own weakness. (Read Luke's record of Jesus and Peter's conversation to highlight Satan's role again: Luke 22:31-34.) We all have a breaking point. (Selah ~ pause to reflect)

Christ grapples with the will of God. (Mark 14:32-42) The real battle for the souls of men takes place here - in the Garden of Gethsemane.

In John 18:11, Jesus rebukes Peter and after he (Peter) cuts off the ear of the slave, Malchus, He (Jesus) says, "Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?" "'[R]emove this cup.'" "'Shall I not drink this cup?'"

Various interpretations of the "cup" (Wycliffe 1065):
(I don't necessarily accept each of these)

1. The fear of death. (Jesus was born to die.)
2. The "suffering of death."
3. The "possibility of death [happening prior to our Lord's completing] the work on the cross." Many died after the scourging alone. No cross, no salvation.
4. The "burden of the world's sin" He's to carry.
5. (Mine) Maybe it's separation from God the Father that He's talking about. (Mark 15:34b)

Bottom line, the "cup" of Christ ~ it's something our Lord is going to have to face and endure and walk through and deal with. And it's gonna be hard for Him to face and endure and walk through and deal with it.

Every believer has a "cup." (What's yours?) Or multiple "cups" from time to time confront every believer during his or her life.

Two more things about "cups":

1. It is not necessarily a sin to desire or ask for one's "cup" to be removed. (Paul sought to be delivered from his "thorn in the flesh" in 2 Corinthians 12:7-9.)

2. We must not bale out on God's will unless it's God's will we bale out. (Jesus prays, "'Remove this cup,'" in Mark 14:36 and then He waits for God's answer as He subjects His desire to the will of God.)

BETRAYAL AND ARREST

Interesting things happening: (1) Judas betrays Christ with a kiss. (Mark 14:44-45); (2) Peter cuts of Malchus' ear. (Mark 14:47) (He was going for his head?) Jesus heals the ear. (Luke 22:51b); (3) Mark (the writer of this Gospel) escapes the scene naked. (Mark 14:51-52)

JESUS BEFORE HIS ACCUSERS

Note the fulfillment of prophecies here: (1) False witnesses. (Mark 14:56-58; Psalm 35:11); (2) Spitting and beating. (Mark 14:65; Isaiah 50:6; 53:5)

Jesus got what He didn't deserve (spat upon, punched, slapped in the face) so we would get what we don't deserve (righteousness, forgiveness, a relationship with God). (2 Corinthians 5:21)

PETER'S DENIAL

Was there a difference between Peter's denial and Judas' betrayal? (Mark 14:66-72)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. The word "betray" (or form of it) appears seven times in Mark 14. (v. 10, 11, 18, 21, 41, 42. 44) Have you ever been betrayed (or know someone who has)? How did you (he or she) feel? (Luke 22:61)

2. When God tells a person to do something, it is very important to do it. (Mark 14:12-16) Tell of a time when God told you to do something and you did it.

3. As Jesus is being taken into custody, a young man escapes, but only after losing his clothes. (Mark 14:51-52) Would it be proper to use this story as a proof text for "streaking" (from the 1970s)? Why or why not?

4. Peter says he will never deny his Lord. (Mark 14:29, 31) Then he does. (Mark 14:66-72) Have you ever done something that you promised you wouldn't do?

Last Week - Part 3 (Mark 13:1-37)

(This is supplement 12 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

This is Christ's last week of life prior to His trial and crucifixion. He was born to die. (Selah~pause to reflect) The Gospel of Mark can be outlined as follows: 1st 8 chapters ~ "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve"; 2nd 8 chapters ~ "and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

Regarding prophecy: Those who leave little room for mystery leave a lot of room for mistakes. (Chuck Swindoll)

PREDICTION OF TEMPLE DESTRUCTION

"And Jesus said to him (Peter?), 'Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another which will not be torn down.'" (Mark 13:2)

Herod has been reconstructing the temple prior to Jesus' birth into quite an ornate and elaborate edifice. Jesus predicts the temple destruction which will take place in 70 A.D. when the Romans invade the Jewish land.

MOUNT OLIVET DISCOURSE

Four disciples ask a question. (Mark 13:3-4) (One commentary suggests all twelve are there to hear the answer.) The question both points back to the temple destruction prediction ("When will these things be?") and forward to end times events prior to and including Christ's second coming ("What will be the sign when all these things are going to be fulfilled?) Matthew clarifies the latter. (Matthew 24:3b) (Luke 21:7 is the same as Mark 13:4.)

BEGINNING OF BIRTH PANGS / PAINS

The time period leading up to 70 A.D. (approximately 40 years) will be typified by / the dynamics at work will include:

Deception. (Mark 13:5-6)

Wars and rumors of wars. (Mark 13: 7)

Nation against nation; Kingdom against kingdom. Earthquakes. Famines. Beginning of birth pangs / pains. (Mark 13:8)

Christian persecution. (Mark 13:9, 11) (See Acts 8:1ff)

Gospel preached. (Mark 13:10) (See Acts)

Conflict of humanity. Even at the level of family. (Mark 13:12-13) (See Acts)

Each particular challenge typifies any age (to a greater or lesser extent). The issue for us always is: How will we respond?

ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION

The "sacrilegious object that causes desecration" is the way the New Living Bible translation puts it. It is the key anchor point in our Lord's discussion of the end times in the Gospel of Mark. (Mark 13:14)

Antichrist himself is believed to be a future fulfillment of this prophecy as He will declare himself as God according to at least one prophetic system. (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; Daniel 11:32-35)

(To read my blog post: "Abomination of Desolation," click here.) 

TERRIBLE DAYS

"'For those days will be a time of tribulation such as has not occurred since the beginning of the creation which God created, until now, and never shall.'" (Mark 13:19)

There are at least two ways of seeing Mark 13:19-20 (in my mind). Christ is using the literary device of hyperbole, but isn't really talking about an event years in the future aside from the Romans' destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D. -OR- He is talking about an event years in the future and isn't "exaggerating" to make a point.

FALSE CHRISTS AND PROPHETS

Islam is an example. (Mark 13:21-23)

THE SECOND COMING

"'And then they will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory.'" (Mark 13:26)

The Old Testament has 1,845 references to the return of Christ and 17 books give it prominence ("a jutting out"). The New Testament has 318 references to the return of Christ out of 260 chapters; 1 out of every 30 verses; referred to in 23 of 27 books (excluded in 3 single chapter letters and Galatians ~ though implied there).

PARABLE OF THE FIG TREE

Israel reborn?! (Mark 13:28-29; Matthew 24:32-33) Or the dynamic of the events described in Mark 13? (Mark 13:29)

GENERATION WON'T PASS AWAY

A generation is approximately 40 years. (Deuteronomy 1:35; 2:14) The destruction of the temple (by the Romans) takes place approximately that many years in the future (37 or so after Jesus' prediction in Mark 13:2). But there's a second dynamic and event to speak to of the chapter: The "race of men" (generation) won't pass away until Christ appears.

If the Fig Tree parable is about Israel's rebirth, then the "generation" would have to do with the re-establishment of the Jewish state in 1948. One generation would then have been around 1988. (The Arab-Israeli 6-day war in 1967 as the date would push it to 2007-ish.)

NO ONE KNOWS THE DAY OR HOUR

How can the Son of God, whose been predicting many future events in this very chapter, not know the date of history's culmination? (Mark 13:32) Can one member of the Trinity know something that another member of the Trinity doesn't know? One answer is found in Philippians: Christ limited Himself when He became a Man. (Philippians 2:6-8)

EXHORTATION TO ALERTNESS

"So keep a sharp lookout!" (Mark 13:35a; NLT) We are more apt to want to know about the end time than to prepare for it (as if it were happening right now).

The opposite of alert is asleep. We need to be awake in our faith at all times. We need to be giving ourselves wholly and completely to Christ's service. We need to make sure our inner life before God (that secret place where no one sees) is intact and holy. We need to make sure our lamps are trimmed with oil. (Matthew 25:7)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Ask someone you know: "What do you think will be happening at the end of the world?" (Mark 13:4)

2. The conflict of humanity will reach even to the level of family in the end times. (Mark 13:12) Have you ever had a family member/relative react with hostility to your faith?

3. What does Jesus mean when He says, "Be on the alert!" (Mark 13:37)

4. An anchor point in Christ's discourse is what's referred to as "the Abomination of Desolation." (Mark 13:14) Do your own research to find out about it.

Last Week - Part 2 (Mark 12:1-44)

(This is supplement 11 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

This is Christ's last week of life prior to His trial and crucifixion. He was born to die. (Selah~pause to reflect) The Gospel of Mark can be outlined as follows: 1st 8 chapters ~ "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve"; 2nd 8 chapters ~ "and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

PARABLE OF THE VINEYARD

"And He began to speak to them in parables: 'A man planted a vineyard, and put a wall around it, and dug a vat under the wine press, and built a tower, and went on a journey.'" (Mark 12:1)

Hypocrisy is the overarching theme of Mark 12. (See Mark 12:38-40) The very ones meant to point others to God are in it for themselves and reject God. It's been a pattern for Israel. These should have learned from history. Their rejection of Christ turns out to be fulfillment of prophecy. (Psalm 118:22)

They (the religious leaders) don't want to let on that they are who Christ is talking about in the parable. (Mark 12:12) They continue their false persona when they should be falling to their knees, admitting their wickedness and asking Jesus to forgive them. (John 3:19-20; 1 Corinthians 1:18)

QUESTION ABOUT TAXES

Two opposing forces, the Pharisees and Herodians ("a political party that believe[s] in accomodation with the Romans" - Teachers Commentary) now join together against Christ. (Mark 12:13) Their falseness is seen in what they say of Jesus' character. (Mark 12:14) They believe none of it.

Jesus "knows" their hypocrisy. (Mark 12:15a) His question is another opportunity for them to repent. (Mark 12:15b) Christ is trapped. (Not!) If He says give to Caesar, the people will turn their backs on Him. If He says don't give to Caesar, the Romans will come for Him. In His response Christ highlights the image of God in humanity that belongs to God. (Mark 12:16-17) The religious leaders will not give to God their own hearts and will likewise obstruct others who take after their wicked example.

QUESTION ABOUT THE RESURRECTION

The "liberals" of Jesus' day (like ours) do not believe in the authority of Scripture. (Mark 12:18-23) They present a hypothetical situation (another "trap" is set) that has no basis in God's Word.

Jesus believes in the authority of Scripture. (Mark 12:24-27) It is His final rule of faith and conduct. The Sadducees could have the right answer, but choose rather to live in darkness.

QUESTION ABOUT THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT

This is the core of our Lord's being. (Mark 12:29-31) He lives the greatest commandment. He is the embodiment of the greatest commandment. When we look at the Law of God, what we are seeing is Jesus Christ. (Selah ~ pause to reflect)

The man is "not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:34) The last step is: "faith in Christ, belief in Jesus, being born again." (I put it this way in my vlog post: Three Things That'll Put You in Hell and Three Things That'll Keep You Out.)

QUESTION ABOUT THE CHRIST

"The total inability of the religious leaders to understand the Scriptures or its focus [Christ the Messiah and salvation by grace through faith and not works] is now illustrated by Jesus. ...The crowd [is] delighted, not because they [know] the answer, but because Jesus [has] shown up the hypocrisy and spiritual fraud of those proud men who [claim] to be so much better than common men." (Teachers Commentary)

TEACHING ABOUT PRIDE, HYPOCRISY

"And in His teaching He was saying: 'Beware of the scribes who like to walk around in long robes, and like respectful greetings in the market places, and chief seats in the synagogues, and places of honor at banquets, who devour widows' houses, and for appearance's sake offer long prayers; these will receive greater condemnation.'" (Mark 12:38-40)

Hypocrite: "1. a person who puts on a false appearance of virtue or religion. 2. a person who acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings." (websters.com)

Pride: "1a. inordinate self-esteem (conceit). 2. proud or disdainful behavior or treatment (disdain). 3a. ostentatious display." (websters.com)

To take "The Pride / Hypocrisy Quiz" (7 questions), click here.

THE WIDOW'S OFFERING

The rich drop their coins in for a show. (Mark 12:41-42) The sound of many coins being put in brings them much attention. ("Some who were wealthy 'threw in' large amounts. The sound of the heavy coins told everyone how much they were giving, and they threw in their offerings with force to make sure all could hear. They were outwardly religious." Teachers Commentary)

By contrast, no one notices the widow. Except Jesus. (Mark 12:43-44)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Some people don't receive / have a problem with God's messengers. (Mark 2:2-8) Why do you think that is? Have you ever struggled in this area?

2. Jesus said to a scribe who had answered Him intelligently, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (Mark 12:34) In your mind, what more did the scribe need to do to get there?

3. How would you describe sacrificial giving? (Mark 12:44)

4. How might hypocrisy manifest itself in a church person's life? (Mark 12:38-40) Give one example.

Mark chapter 12:1-44 Study Questions [infographic]

Source: Uploaded by user via Pastor Mike on Pinterest

Last Week - Part 1 (Mark 11:1-33)

(This is supplement 10 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

This is Christ's last week of life prior to His trial and crucifixion. He was born to die. (Selah~pause to reflect) The Gospel of Mark can be outlined as follows: 1st 8 chapters ~ "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve"; 2nd 8 chapters ~ "and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

PALM SUNDAY

"And as they approached Jerusalem ... He sent two of His disciples, and said to them, 'Go into the village opposite you, and immediately as you enter it, you will find a colt.'" (Mark 11:1-2a)

Jesus predicts the future again. (Mark 11:2-3) Two disciples obey Christ's instructions. (Mark 11:4-6) (His word is enough to go on.) Prophecy is fulfilled. (Zechariah 9:9)

It's interesting to note how Mark's Gospel indicates the colt as being one "on which no one yet has ever sat." (Mark 11:2c)

If only donkeys could talk. (I think there was one in the Bible somewhere.) And can you just hear this donkey if he could talk? "Oh, woe is me. I'll never amount to anything. What's the use?" Right? And then one second later he's got the very Messiah riding on his back.

And what's just around your corner that you know nothing about and God is going to use you in incredible ways that you've been created for beforehand? (Ephesians 2:10) I get so excited just thinking about it.

FIG TREE CURSED

The entire chapter (Mark 11:1-33) can be summed up in two verses: "He (Jesus) came to His own and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name." (John 1:11-12)

Christ scrutinizes the temple, then leaves. (Mark 11:11) God is hungry for fruit in the lives of His people which displays itself in a relationship with Him and not religious ritual. (Mark 11:12) The fig tree stands for Israel. (Mark 11:13) But Israel has produced no fruit. Christ curses the fig tree for its fruitlessness. (Mark 11:14) Old, empty religion is being done away with and being replaced with a new relationship with God. (Hebrews 8:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Psalm 30:11)

TEMPLE CLEANSED

The Jews trusted that the temple and all that took place there was a sign of God's blessing and presence among them and that they could just go on living however they pleased. Thus, "robbery" (Mark 11:17) was even allowed to exist inside the temple. The poor were forced to purchase "approved animals" for sacrifice which were offered at "inflated prices." (Teachers Commentary)

What a picture of the wickedness of the Jewish religious system ~ that they would plot to "destroy" the very Christ! (Mark 11:18)

THE DYNAMIC OF FAITH

This is the new relationship with God which offers a dynamic that ritual religion can not. (Mark 11:22-26) Forgiveness and walking in holiness are underpinnings of this new relationship and dynamic.

QUESTIONING AUTHORITY

This is what happens when you're more concerned with the crowd versus doing what's right and answering truthfully. (Mark 11:27-33) Ritual religion results in politicking, polling and political correctness.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. The same crowd shouting, "Hosanna," (Mark 11:9) will shout, "Crucify," (Mark 15:13) in a few short days. Why do you think that is?

2. Do you think it's okay to question God? (Mark 11:27-28) Why or why not?

3. How does Christ's cursing of the fig tree relate to his clearing/cleansing of the temple? (Mark 11:11-17; 20)

4. Is there anything going on in your temple/heart (1 Corinthians 3:16) that might be displeasing to God?

"Transfiguration" - Part 2 (Mark 10:1-52)

(This is supplement 9 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

(An explanation of the title) Of course, our Lord is "transfigured" before Peter, James and John to begin this chapter and section (Mark 9:1-13), but really a transfiguring of all of the disciples is taking place (in mind, attitude, perception, purpose, etc). They are being readied for both Jesus' death (Luke 9:44) which they are just hearing about (see Mark 8:31-32a and Mark 10:32-34) and ministry in Christ's place after His departure (ascension). Transfigure: "1. to change or cause to change in appearance; 2. to become or cause to become more exalted; transform." (websters.com)

TEACHING ON DIVORCE/MARRIAGE

Wicked religious leaders try to trap Jesus. (Mark 10:1-9) Jesus uses the opportunity to speak about God's plan for marriage. God's view of marriage elevates women who are seen as property in Jesus' day (to be cast aside) and not as people. (Mark 10:10-12) Marriage is about oneness, male and female, husband and wife, "'til death do us part" ~ special! We need to approach it that way, fight for the relationship, protect it and go into marriage committed to making it work no matter what. Divorce is not an option.

TEACHING ON CHILDREN

Jesus gets mad. (Mark 10:14) He becomes "indignant" over the disciples' rebuke of the children. Indignation is "a feeling, characterized by, or expressing strong displeasure at something considered unjust, offensive, insulting, or base." (websters.com) Do the disciples not hear Jesus the first time on the issue of kids? (Mark 9:36-37)

INTERACTION WITH RICH YOUNG RULER

The rich young ruler calls Jesus "good" because he's "good in his own eyes" himself? (Mark 10:17) Jesus knows the man's issue is covetousness, so He purposely does not pinpoint it at first, but then goes on to nail it later. (Mark 10:19-21)

Jesus shoots down the false thinking that man is ultimately good at his core. (Mark 10:18) "The heart is more deceitful than all else And desperately sick; Who can understand it?" (Jeremiah 17:9)

Riches and wealth were thought to signify God's blessing ~ no wonder the disciples are so distraught. (Mark 10:23-27) Jesus' teaching is that no one is good enough, whether rich or poor. No one can be saved apart from God's intervention.

PASSION FORETOLD YET AGAIN

Jesus is able to predict the future with a preciseness second to none. (Mark 10:32-34) Not only that, He is committed to seeing it through. So our lives are planned and have purpose, too! (Psalm 139:16; Philippians 1:6)

REQUEST OF JAMES AND JOHN

We're always wanting someone else's "glamorous" position (some of us). (Mark 10:37-38) First of all, we don't know what we're asking (like James and John). Would we really want all that responsibility or fame? I suggest "no." We need to be committed to God's plan for our life and pursuing and discovering that. Only in God's plan will we be fulfilled. Not in someone else's.

HEALING OF BLIND BARTIMAEUS

Isn't this just proof that the Bible is full of errors? Jesus heals one blind man in Mark's account (Mark 10:46-52) while in Matthew 20:29-34 He heals two blind men. So which is it? One or two?

Adding insult to injury, the healing is performed by Jesus while He's leaving Jericho in Mark's account (Mark 10:46), but in Luke the healing is performed by Jesus while He is approaching Jericho. (Luke 18:35) So which is it? Leaving or approaching?

The answer to the first dilemma: There are two blind men that are healed. Mark just decides to emphasize the primary character, Bartimaeus.

The answer to the second dilemma: There are two Jericho's. Jericho 1 is the old Jericho in ruins from Joshua's day. Jericho 2 is the new Jericho (of the Gentiles). Mark (and Matthew) highlight Jericho 1. Luke emphasizes Jericho 2 (as his Gospel is written to the Gentiles for one thing).

I like to always say: If you have a problem understanding the Bible, the problem isn't with the Bible, the problem is with your understanding.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1."Man is ultimately good at his core." What is your response to this statement? Agree/disagree? Why or why not? (Mark 10:17-20)

2. Mark's Gospel says Jesus healed one blind man. (Mark 10:46-52) Mathew's Gospel says He healed two. (Matthew 20:29-34) Isn't this proof that the Bible is full of errors?

3. Memorize: "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)

4. Do you usually learn things the first time? (Mark 10:13-16; 35-37; 41-44) Tell of an incident where it took you longer to learn your lesson.

"Transfiguration" - Part 1 (Mark 9:1-50)

(This is supplement 8 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

INTRODUCTION

(An explanation of the title) Of course, our Lord is "transfigured" before Peter, James and John to begin this chapter and section (Mark 9:1-13), but really a transfiguring of all of the disciples is taking place (in mind, attitude, perception, purpose, etc). They are being readied for both Jesus' death (Luke 9:44) which they are just hearing about (see Mark 8:31-32a) and ministry in Christ's place after His departure (ascension). Transfigure: "1. to change or cause to change in appearance; 2. to become or cause to become more exalted; transform." (websters.com)

TRANSFIGURATION

"And Elijah appeared [there] to them, accompanied by Moses, and they were holding [a protracted] conversation with Jesus (They are discussing the cross! ~ see Luke 9:30-31; CEV)." (Mark 9:4; Amplified)

Jesus predicts the "Transfiguration" in Mark 9:1. (Parallel passages: Matthew 17:1-8; Luke 9:28-36) Mark records the fulfillment of the prediction in Mark 9:2-13. Some (Peter and James and John in this case) receive greater revelation because of what's ahead. Peter, James and John will be an integral part in the establishment of the Church after Jesus leaves. They will have a heavy burden to bear. Each will die martyr's deaths. (It can be disputed with John, but tradition has it he was tortured.) They will need the assurance of this moment to carry them through. (Peter and John write about this experience in 2 Peter 1:16-18; John 1:14; 1 John 1:1-3.)

Literally, "Jesus resume[s] the glory which he had left to come to earth." (Wycliffe) (The Humiliation of Christ; Philippians 2:5-11)

It's interesting to note Peter's response in Mark 9:5: "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here (on Glory mountain); and let us make three tabernacles (shelters, NIV), one for You, and one for Moses, and one for Elijah." We're ready to camp on Glory mountain, but rarely willing to submit to Calvary road. (Mark 9:12bc)

HEALING OF THE EPILEPTIC

"And one of the crowd answered Him (Jesus), 'Teacher, I brought You my son, possessed with a spirit. ...And I told Your disciples to cast it out, and they could not do it.'" (Mark 9:17, 18b)

Two thoughts born out of my observations and meant to get your wheels turning...

1. Nine disciples (Peter, James, John are on Transfiguration mountain) can't heal the boy. (Mark 9:18b) They've done many miracles, but they can't pull this one off. (Mark 6:13)

2. Just because someone has been in a bad condition for a long, long time doesn't mean God can't heal him, doesn't want to heal him or won't heal him. (Mark 9:21)

DEATH AND RESURRECTION

Jesus speaks of His death a second time. (Mark 9:30-32) (Selah~pause to reflect)

"But while everyone was marveling at all that He was doing, He said to His disciples, "Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men.'" (Luke 9:43b-44)

Matthew adds: "And they (the disciples) were deeply grieved." (Matthew 17:23b)

The disciples have other ideas of how things are supposed to work out? God's way is always best.
 
THE FIRST SHALL BE LAST

It's interesting to note how Mark includes "The First Shall Be Last" discussion (Mark 9:33-37) directly after Christ's death and resurrection discussion. What a contrast. The disciples are a million miles off!

FELLOW BELIEVERS/MINISTERS

John the "Beloved"(Jesus' favorite, if you will) is the focus. (Mark 9:38-41) He (John) will go on to write of the importance of love and loving your neighbor especially. He's got a ways to go here. John's needing a (quote) "transfiguration" / transforming himself. He's needing his thinking to be changed from wrong to right.

And we can look over at that church over there and we can have wrong thoughts about those folks because, after all, they're not a megachurch like ours is. Jesus only uses megachurches, after all. (I'm being sarcastic to make a point.)

DEALING WITH SIN AND THE TOPIC OF HELL 

The Church Father, Origen, took these verses literally and chopped himself. (Mark 9:43-48) We must get drastic with sin (in the metaphoric sense) and realize its incredibly awful consequences in the next life.

It will be Jesus Himself that will have His body ripped apart for our redemption. (Selah~pause to reflect again)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Describe a time in your life as a Christian (or in the life of someone you know) where Christ was revealed in a very special and unique way. (Mark 9:2-3)

2. How do people measure "greatness"? (Mark 9:33-35)

3. Explain what Jesus means when He says, "And if your hand causes you to stumble, cut it off; it is better for you to enter life crippled, than having your two hands, to go into hell, into the unquenchable fire." (Mark 9:43)

4. Take a few minutes and pray for God to show you any areas of "transfiguration" (/transforming) that are needful in your own life. Then commit yourself to that change with everything within you.

Confession of Faith (Mark 8:1-38)

(This is supplement 7 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

FEEDING OF THE FOUR THOUSAND

"'I feel compassion for the multitude because they have remained with Me now three days, and have nothing to eat.'" (Mark 8:2)

"I feel compassion," our Lord says. (Same word in the Feeding of the 5000 in Mark 6:34 and the Healing of the Leper in Mark 1:41.) Compassion (splagechnizomai; Strong's 4607): "to have the bowels yearn; feel sympathy, to pity." (See also Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15:20.) Compassion demonstrates itself in action to relieve suffering.

You'd think the disciples would have learned their lesson. (Mark 8:4-9) They've seen 5000 fed (not counting women and children). So now why doesn't at least one of them step out and remember as this episode unfolds? (Parallel passage: Matthew 15:32-39) They're just like us (the disciples are). We're just like them. Slow learners.

Notice Christ gives the loaves to the disciples and they distribute to the crowd. (Mark 8:6) Same pattern as the 5000. (Mark 6:41) Why? Two reasons (imho): 1. It's God's pattern to minister through His people to the world and 2. so the disciples themselves would be a part of the miracle and see it up close and personal ~ to not forget it!

PHARISEES SEEK FOR A SIGN

"And the Pharisees came out and began to argue with Him (Jesus)." (Mark 8:11a)

The Pharisees want an "attesting miracle" ~ one that demonstrates beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jesus is the Messiah. (Btw, to this point in Mark, there have been 23 "attesting miracles" recorded including the previous feeding of the 4000.) The problem isn't outward evidence, it's inward attitude/refusal to believe. (Mark 8:11-12)

The Pharisees and Herodians band together against Jesus. (Matthew 22:15-21; Mark 3:6) Jesus warns the disicples: "'Watch out! Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.'" (Mark 8:15b) (Is Judas listening?) Leaven is "a substance added to dough to cause it to rise." (Unger's 651) It has a dynamic to permeate through and through. In the Bible leaven is oftentimes used to represent evil.

The leaven of the Pharisees we learn from the context is commitment to tradition above God's commands (Mark 7:1ff), hypocrisy (Mark 7:6) and dissatisfaction with the signs they already had (they cannot be satisfied). (Mark 8:11ff) "Religious externalism" is how the Bible Dictionary puts it.

The leaven of Herod on the other hand is "worldly compromise." (Unger's 652) King Herod demonstrates this in his adulterous affair with Herodias where ultimately he obeys her request to execute John the Baptist. (Mark 6:17-18, 26-27)

HEALING OF THE BLIND MAN

This is the only place in the Gospels where this miracle is recorded. Or is it two miracles? Or could it be that our Lord's first touch doesn't work?

"[The man] looked up ("gained sight" ~ Open Bible marg. trans.) and [he] said, 'I see men (so his vision is restored at this point) - for I am seeing them (or "they look to me" ~ marg. trans. again) like trees, walking about.'" (Mark 8:24)

The truth here is that the blind man is really healed twice. First, Jesus heals him of his blindness. Then Jesus heals him of what is known as "post-blind syndrome."

Chuck Colson writes about it in a BreakPoint Commentary...

In his book An Anthropologist on Mars, Oliver Sacks describes the case of a man named Virgil, who had been blind since childhood. At the age of 50, Virgil underwent surgery to restore his sight. What he experienced afterward inadvertently confirmed the Bible's accounts of one of Jesus' miracles.

Following the surgery, Virgil suffered from what is called "post-blind syndrome" ~ the inability to make sense of the panorama of colors and shapes that crowd our field of vision. As Sacks writes, Virgil would "pick up details ... an angle, an edge, a color, a movement ~ but he would not be able to synthesize them, to form a complex perception at a glance." For example, when looking at a cat, Virgil "would see a paw, the nose, the tail, an ear, but he couldn't see the cat as a whole."

It took time and practice, but Virgil studied a tree and learned to put it together. As his wife [explained] it, "He now knows that the trunk and leaves go together to form a complete unit."

These words ought to ring a bell for Christians who know their New Testament. The story of Virgil bears an uncanny resemblance to the story of the blind man of Bethsaida.

Keith Mano writes in the National Review ... "A faker, not knowing about post-blind syndrome, would have reported that Jesus had given him perfect vision."

Instead, the Gospel reports that Jesus cured the man twice: once of blindness and then of post-blind syndrome.

PETER'S GREAT CONFESSION

Jesus has been working to establish "faith" in 12 men. This is the climax of the first half of the Gospel of Mark. (Mark 8:27-38) Peter, as representative of the others, verbalizes faith in Christ. (Mark 8:29) This is huge. This is massive. Just think of the impact that will take place later through Peter and the others. This is where it gets its start. Nothing more is said in the verse. Nothing more need be for impact. Jesus goes on to warn the disciples to not reveal His identity. (Mark 8:30) And then Jesus speaks of His death to His disciples for the first time. (Mark 8:31) (Selah ~ pause to reflect)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Look up the definition of "compassion" in the dictionary. (Mark 8:2) Do you remember an experience in your own life where "compassion" was demonstrated?

2. What does Jesus mean when He says, "Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod?" (Mark 8:15)

3. Sometimes we fall into Satan's trap of putting our own interests above God's. (Mark 8:32-33) Why do you think that is?

4. Why doesn't God always heal immediately? (Mark 8:22-25)

Conflict with Tradition (Mark 7:1-37)

(This is supplement 6 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

HYPOCRISY OF THE PHARISEES

"(For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they carefully wash their hands, thus observing the traditions of the elders.)" (Mark 7:3)

The Pharisees and scribes are groups first instituted for a good reason. During the exile, the Pharisees arose to make sure the Israelites never turned from God again. The duty of the scribes was to immerse themselves in the Scriptures and work on communicating it effectively to other Jews (they were the preachers?).

These come down to Jesus for a noble purpose which has become twisted by "tradition." (Mark 7:1-13) It is an "oral" tradition passed down orally and not written down until later. Traditions usually have a good purpose. The problem arises when they are elevated above God's commands.

PARABLE OF THE HEART OF MAN

"'There is nothing outside the man which going into him can defile him; but the things which proceed out of the man are what defile the man.'" (Mark 7:15)

The outside of man is not the issue. (Mark 7:14-19) Another "tradition" is dealt with: "Thus He declared all foods clean." (Mark 7:19b) The Jewish kosher system is eliminated.

Personal Illustration: There are some areas in my yard that are real easy to weed eat. And there are some areas in my yard that are real hard to weed eat. This is the hard stuff in this passage. (Mark 7:20-23) We like to do the easy stuff. We like to set up "tradition" (we like to focus on what is done on the outside), live up to it and then think everything's okay. It's self-deception. It's the inside that matters to God.

THE WOMAN WITH A DEMON-POSSESSED DAUGHTER

This is what I call the "Pit bull model of intercessory prayer." (Mark 7:24-26) (Matthew's parallel account emphasizes all the more the depth of intercession on the part of the woman ~ Matthew 15:21-28.)

The woman is a Gentile/non-Jew. (Mark 7:26a) This is important to understand the conversation later where another "tradition" is dealt with.

"And she kept asking Him (Jesus) to cast the demon out of her daughter." (Mark 7:26b) Intercession requires: (1) keen supernatural discernment; (2) recognition of no real help apart from God; (3) pursuit of Christ regardless of obstacles ("tradition" is the obstacle here).

Illustration: "Pit bulls will bite their victims and literally never let go. They must be killed." No, this gal doesn't bite Jesus, but she's ferocious, tenacious. She lays hold of Him and won't let go until her need is met. (Mark 7:29-30)

HEALING OF THE DEAF MUTE

Initial thoughts:

1. This healing only found in Mark 7:31-37 (though Matthew 15:29-31 suggested as parallel account in Synopsis of the Four Gospels);

2. Prophetic fulfillment of Isaiah 35:5-6;

3. Note the interaction and personal care of Christ at a personal level;

4. Sighing a sign of our Lord's pity? (Mark 7:34a) ~ "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities" (Hebrews 4:15a; KJV);

5. Add "Ephphatha!" to prayers ("Be opened"). (Mark 7:34b)

So many with closed ears to Gospel and impeded tongues to speaking God's praise. (Matthew Henry)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Jesus gives a list of 13 things that defile (make dirty, pollute) a man or woman. (Mark 7:20-23) Have you ever battled any of these in your own life?

2. Name some traditions the church you attend observes. (Mark 7:1-5)

3. It is through unusual means that Jesus heals the deaf and dumb man. (Mark 7:33-35) Have you ever known anyone who was unusually healed?

4. Jesus speaks to a Gentile woman in a rather odd way. (Mark 7:27) She understands what He's talking about. (Mark 7:28-29) What is Jesus talking about?

Ministry Lessons (Mark 6:1-56)

(This is supplement 5 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

MINISTRY AT HOME

"'Where did this man get these things, and what is this wisdom given to Him, and such miracles as these performed by His hands?'" (Mark 6:2b)

Without question Jesus is the Professor here (capital "P") and everyone else is the students. (Mark 6:1-6) He is working incredible wonders. "But He can't be the Messiah. You see, we knew Him when he was growin up." People who know the "real you" will be the hardest to reach.

MINISTRY OF THE TWELVE

Jesus instructs the Twelve on how to approach this particular outreach. (Mark 6:8-11) He gives them power, specific details on what to bring, what to do, how to respond to particular circumstances, etc. How often have I (you) "figured out" the outreach approach and then asked God to bless it?

It is important to evaluate ministry after the fact. (Mark 6:30) Praise reports are a part of it. Asking questions (like: How can we do better next time?) are, too. It's also important to take time to rest/re-energize. (Mark 6:31-32) Ministers can tend to burn the candle on both ends?!

JOHN'S LAST DAYS OF MINISTRY

Some people develop grudges against the minister in their lives (like Herodias). (Mark 6:19) "How dare a preacher say that!" (Mark 6:17-18) They would have the "voice of God" silenced (like Herodias) and will do it. (Mark 6:24-28)

The awakening and pointing out of sin in our lives needs to be welcomed with open arms, longed for, sought out.

FEEDING OF THE FIVE THOUSAND

This is the climax miracle found in all four Gospels. (Mark 6:33-44; Matthew 14:13-21; Luke 9:12-17; John 6:1-14) The feeding of the four thousand in comparison is found in only two. (Matthew 15:32-38; Mark 8:1-9)

Jesus declares, "You give them something to eat!" to the disciples. (Mark 6:35-37) The church is called to meet physical needs, too, along with spiritual (Not the State!)

Alfred Edersheim: "The only reason which can be assigned for the miracle of [Jesus'] feeding the five thousand was that of all His working: Man's need, and, in view of it, the stirring Pity and Power that were in [Christ.]"

Jesus asks, "How many loaves do you have? Go look!" (Mark 6:38) They find a lad's lunch ~ five loaves and two fish. (John 6:9) How do they find it in such a large crowd? I think the young boy finds them. He's a very important boy whose mother used to pack extra in his school lunch box because he always liked to share with the needy kids at school? :)

The significance of the 12 baskets left over? (Mark 6:43) One for each disciple!

HARASSED AT SEA

Is this the same instance as when Peter walks on water with Christ? It is! (Matthew 14:28-31) Peter's "walk" is not recorded in Mark (nor in John, the other parallel account). Why? My answer: Because Peter's a different man as he's dictating this Gospel to Mark. He won't use it to bring attention to himself?

This is a story about a ministry let down. "Harassed at rowing." (Mark 6:48) A time of harassment often follows after ministry success (and before ministry success, too, for that matter!). Feeding of the five thousand, then harassed at sea. Preachers are notorious for not letting on that they have let downs.

HEALINGS AT GENNESARET

The land of Gennesaret was on the west shore of the Lake of Galilee. (Mark 6:53) Sometimes the Lake of Galilee was called the Lake of Gennesaret. (Luke 5:1)

Jesus' physical healings (Mark 6:56) are representative of what He can do spiritually. (See Healing of the Paralytic in Mark 2:9-11.) Jesus still heals both body and soul.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. King Herod's wife, Herodias, holds a grudge against John the Baptist (Mark 6:19) because he keeps telling her husband he is sinning by being married to her. (Mark 6:18) Describe what it means to hold a grudge. Have you ever known anyone who held one?

2. Have you ever been ill received by a family member, relative, friend or someone else because of your faith ~ because they knew the "real you"? (Mark 6:1-4)

3. Jesus feeds the five thousand in Mark 6:33-44. (It may have been upwards of 15,000 counting women and children.) Read the passage and come up with what you see as one of the main truths.

4. It takes some people longer to learn their lessons. (Mark 6:52) Why do you think that is? Do you learn quickly?

Miracles (Mark 4:35-41; 5:1-43)

(This is supplement 4 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

MIRACLES / HEALINGS

Matthew and Luke record 20 miracles. Mark (at half their size) "speaks of 18 specific miracles and refers 10 additional times to miracles that are not described in detail." (TC 601-602) 24 of the total 28 miracles in the Gospel of Mark are done in the first 8 chapters (half of the book)!

CALMING THE SEA

"And there arose a fierce gale of wind, and the waves were breaking over the boat so much that the boat was already filling up." (Mark 4:37)

These experienced (and over confident?) fisherman should be able to handle this trip. After all, they've been fishing here hundreds of times. "You just go ahead and relax, Jesus. When You wake up, we'll be at our destination safe and sound."

And we, too, can become "over confident" if we're not careful. "After all, we've been serving the Lord many years." But there are still things out there we can't handle apart from Christ. We must totally rely on God no matter what our "resume" says.

When Jesus rebukes the storm He speaks to it as a puppy. (Mark 4:39) (Tedeschi) It's not a big deal for Christ to calm the storm. When it comes to men's/women's hearts, it's quite another thing.

DELIVERING THE DEMON-POSSESSED MAN

This is the Gospel story in a nutshell. (Mark 5:1-20) Satan has got this man. And Jesus shows up to take him back. Satan had us, but Jesus took us back. It was nothing on our part that brought it about except for Christ's great love and mercy. It was all God's grace. "We love, because He first loves us." (1 John 4:19)

HEALING THE BLEEDING WOMAN

"A woman who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years." (Mark 5:25)

Sad state. (Mark 5:25-26) Physical bleeding/open wound (nagging issue). Having lasted 12 years. Isolation from relationships. (Leviticus 15; Luke 8:47a) Doctors unable to help her. She's lost her house, retirement, gone bankrupt over it.

Touching. (Mark 5:27-28) She hears about Jesus. This is a hard thing for her to walk through this crowd (she is to be avoided and has been) let alone to touch anyone or be touched. The woman reaches out and touches Christ's cloak. Notice the emphasis on touching in these two verses (Mark 5:30c-31)!

Faith. (Mark 5:29) "A little faith will bring your soul to heaven; a great faith will bring heaven to your soul." ~Spurgeon

RAISING JAIRUS' DAUGHTER

Jesus is "interrupted" while on his way to help Jairus. (Mark 5:21-24; 35-43) Then the news of his daughter's death comes. If Christ would have just gotten there sooner, it might not have happened?

We have our own timetable how God needs to work and what He needs to do and when? The fact remains we don't know anything. God is never late. He is always on time. He does all things well.

Can you be "interrupted"? Are you still at peace when Jesus doesn't operate according to your dictates/preferences?

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Have you ever felt like God was "asleep at the wheel" of your life (so to speak)? (Mark 4:38) If not, do you think the feeling can happen with people?

2. The word "entreat" (or form of it) occurs four times in the story of the Gerasene demoniac and once in the story of Jairus' daughter. (Mark 5:10, 12, 17, 18, 23) Look up "entreat" in the dictionary (or Bible dictionary), then describe what it means in your own words.

3. Why do you think Jesus told the people to leave in Mark 5:40?

4. How could Christ not know who touched Him? (Mark 5:30) Isn't He God? Doesn't He know everything? How might you answer/help somebody who asks these questions?

Sabbath Questions, Chosen Ones, Parables (Mark 2:23-28; 3:1-35; 4:1-34)

(This is supplement 3 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

PICKING GRAIN ON THE SABBATH

"And He was saying to them, 'The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.'" (Mark 2:27)

Jesus never sinned. Thus, at its simplest interpretation (without getting into the particulars) He is not sinning here (in allowing His disciples to pick grain on the Sabbath). (Mark 2:23-28) These actions are allowable according to the law of God and the Bible anecdote Christ alludes to. (Mark 2:25-26)

The Sabbath is meant to be a benefit for man, not a burden. It is for rest, worship. It is not to become an excuse to avoid helping others (which was the case with the Pharisees). (Mark 3:1-6)

CHOSEN ONES

Jesus spent all night with His Father on this one. (Mark 3:13-19; Luke 6:12) "Praying through." I learned this concept when I first got saved, but wonder if it's been forgotten. Invest significant time in prayer when you're making crucial, history altering decisions.

These 12 guys that Christ chooses aren't anything "great." (They're just like us!) "God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise." (1 Corinthians 1:27a)

We're always first choice in God's eyes and on His team. Don't think of yourself as otherwise. (Zechariah 2:8)

WHO ARE MY MOTHER AND MY BROTHERS?

Relationships in the kingdom of God transcend earthly relationships. (Mark 3:31-35) Christian (Graceless) in John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress: "Now he had not run far from his own door when his wife and children, perceiving it, began to cry after him to return; but the man put his fingers in his ears, and ran on crying, Life! life! eternal life! "'If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple.'" (Luke 14:26)

PARABLE OF THE SEED

Only found in Mark, this parable teaches the process of growth in the kingdom of God. (Mark 4:26-29) We mature over a course of time, slowly, but surely, as a plant grows. We are not now what we will be in the future (in knowledge, character, wisdom, love of/for others, etc).

PARABLES AS CHRIST'S PRIMARY TEACHING TOOL

Jesus uses parables to thin the ranks ~ turn away false followers / draw in true followers. (Mark 4:33-34)

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Were you ever a team captain in school having to pick players for a team? How did you decide which one to choose first and which one to choose last? (Mark 3:13-19)

2. Most of us are probably familiar with Christ's parable of "The Mustard Seed." (Mark 4:30-32) But then there's another parable of "The Seed" (no mustard). (Mark 4:26-29) Read it through a few times. Then come up with your own answer as to its meaning.

3. What is the unpardonable sin? (Mark 3:28-29) How would you describe it in your own words?

4. Is it ever okay to break the rules? (Mark 2:23; 3:4-5)

How to Create a Free Download

I want to show you how easy it is to create a free download. The download I'm currently offering consists of tweets I send out during a Bible study on Twitter.

And so to begin with you need to come up with what you're wanting to offer as a download. Is it a list of teaching tweets (like me)? Is it an eBook? (I've done that, too.)

Whatever it is, you can type it up in a Microsoft Word doc (or use OpenOffice.org if you want your hyperlinks to work) or whatever word processing program you might have. It doesn't matter.

Next, you need to print your document to a pdf file. There are other programs, but the one that I like best is PDF995. It's a free download. You can use it to print whatever your doc file is (you can do excel files, web pages, whatever). Just go to print on your computer and choose the PDF995 printer. Click "Print," then voila! You've got your very own pdf file. Coooool.

Next, we need to put that pdf file somewhere on the web so it can be accessed publicly. The way I do it is with dropbox.com. This is a cool program (and it offers a free level) which allows you to upload files that can then be accessed by others.

What you do is, you upload your pdf file to the Public Folder in dropbox. Then you choose the document you're wanting to make public. You click "Copy public link" at the top, then "Copy to clipboard." And then voila again! Now you have the link to your free download. Just tweet it to your followers or post it to your Facebook friends.

See how easy that is? :)

You might also be interested in:

• 15 Social Media Mistakes You Might Make
• The 8 Don'ts of Twitter / Tweeting

Healings (Mark 1:29-45; 2:1-22)

(This is supplement 2 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

MANY HEALINGS

"And the whole city had gathered at the door [of Peter's house]." (Mark 1:33) Wow! This is crazy! This is wild! This is unheard of! Think of the whole of your city (mine is Sonora, California ~ about 15,000 including the surrounding areas) at your church's home Bible study. And this man named Jesus is doing things that have never happened before.

These are Christ's credentials. The healings/miracles show He is the Messiah. No one else prior to Him and no one else after Him has been able to produce such wonders. (John 15:24a)

SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF HEALINGS

One author points out the spiritual significance of each healing: "The healing of Peter's mother-in-law (Mark 1:29-31) tells of the stilling of the restless energy of the flesh, of the feverishness of mortal life. The healing of the leper (Mark 1:40-45) tells of the removal of sin's loathsome defilement. The healing of the paralytic (Mark 2:1-12) tells of the removal of sin's helplessness and disability." (Scroggie 205) Only Christ can still the fever of sin and remove its loathsome defilement, helplessness and disability.

CALL OF LEVI / MATTHEW

The story of the call of Levi (his Hebrew name) / Matthew is a healing passage, too! (Mark 2:17)

Matthew's story is a story similar to our stories. We were living life - weren't we? - and then all of a sudden, for some of us seemingly out of the wild blue, Jesus Christ, M.D., decided to enter in and heal us of our sin-sick spiritual condition and call us to the wonderful life He had in mind of salvation and serving and following God and promoting His cause on the earth. (Parallel passages: Matthew 9:9-13; Luke 5:27-32)

QUESTIONS ON FASTING

My paraphrase: "Why aren't they like us?" (Mark 2:18) Don't measure other people's "spirituality" by whether or not they live up to "yours."

There will be different seasons in your relationship with Christ. (Mark 2:19-20) There will be days when He seems close and other days where you ask, "Where are You, God?" and/or "What are You doing?"

Jesus speaks of the violence of His death in Mark 2:20 for the first time. (Scroggie 591) He was born to die. It is an amazing thing as you read the Scriptures and realize He, Christ, knows exactly what's coming.

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. In the hustle and bustle of a busy life and schedule, Jesus takes time to pray. (Mark 1:35) How's your prayer life? Is it a priority? Why or why not? How might you take prayer to the next level? Take your answer to that last question and "just do it."

2. One author stresses the twofold value of the healings in Mark's Gospel. Sure, there was a physical benefit for the person involved, but there was also a spiritual aspect/teaching as well. What do you think the spiritual aspect was in the healing of the paralytic? (Mark 2:3-12)

3. After healing the leper, Jesus commands him to not tell a soul about what happened. (Mark 1:43-45) The man doesn't follow Christ's instructions. Why do you think that is?

4. Are the types of healings seen in Jesus' ministry long ago available today? Explain your answer.

Ministry Beginnings (Mark 1:1-28)

(This is supplement 1 to the #mkbiblechat study taking place every Friday morning at 9:30 a.m. Eastern, 6:30 Pacific USA. Pastor Mike is teaching the Gospel of Mark on Twitter. Click here for class schedule and links to the notes. Click here to follow Pastor Mike on Twitter.)

A THRILLER

The Gospel of Mark is action packed. It was written to Romans who loved action. It presents Jesus as a servant serving others and meeting their needs. It reads as a thriller. It's John Grisham, Michael Crichton, Stephen King, Frank Peretti and more. It never stops from beginning to end.

PETER'S GOSPEL?

In Mark 1:1-28, we find two references to "Simon." (Mark 1:16) There are three more in the first chapter. (Mark 1:29, 30, 36) So 5x total in 1st chapter, then just two other references in Mark 3:16 (the Twelve) and Mark 14:37 (falling asleep in the Garden).

"Peter" references appear 22x: 3x in Peter's confession of Christ (Mark 8:29, 32, 33); 5x in betrayal sequence and 4x prior to it (Mark 14:29, 31, 33, 37, 54, 66, 67, 70, 72); Resurrection angel interestingly refers to "Peter" when talking to the women in c. 16:6-8: "But go, tell His disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you to Galilee; there you will see Him, just as He told you.'"

The point is this: "Mark" is really Peter's Gospel. Who could have known these things except an eyewitness? (2 Peter 1:16) Mark takes dictation from Peter and that's how his Gospel comes about.

BACKGROUND

Mark is the one who runs away naked among other things. (Mark 14:51-52) Who would have known about that except the one who did it?!

Ezekiel had a vision of four creatures. (Ezekiel 1:10-11a; Revelation 4:7-9) Each had the face of a lion, ox/calf (beast of burden), man and eagle. Some believe they correspond to the four Gospels and character of Christ revealed in each: Matthew~King (lion), Mark~Servant (ox), Luke~Man/humanity (man), John~God/divinity (John).

Whatever the case, Mark's Gospel is the servant story of our Lord: "'The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.'" (Mark 10:45; parallel is Matthew 20:28)

Prayer: Make me a servant, Jesus, just like You! \o/

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Mark's Gospel has many unique characteristics including it's believed that the Apostle Peter dictated to Mark and that's how he got Christ's story. (Mark 1:16, 29, 30, 36) Name one characteristic about yourself/your story that others might be interested to know.

2. Describe the term "servant" in your own words. Is there anyone in your life that lives up to the description?

3. In your mind what does it mean to be "amazed" with Jesus? (Mark 1:22, 27)

4. We can't help but come to the Gospel of Mark with the knowledge of how the story turns out, but those involved had no such knowledge. Do you think it would make a difference if you knew your life's end from the beginning? Why or why not? (Read the following verses to help frame your answer: Philippians 1:6; Jeremiah 29:11; Luke 12:32)

Gospel of Mark #mkbiblechat (Friday mornings, 9:30 am EST on Twitter)

Topics and Passages:
(click titles for notes)

March 9 - Ministry Beginnings (Mark 1:1-28)
March 16 - Healings (Mark 1:29-45; 2:1-22)
March 23 - Sabbath Questions, Chosen Ones, Parables (Mark 2:23-28; 3:1-35; 4:1-34)
March 30 - Miracles (Mark 4:35-41; 5:1-43)

April 6 - Ministry Lessons (Mark 6:1-56)
April 13 - Conflict with Tradition (Mark 7:1-37)
April 20 - Confession of Faith (Mark 8:1-38)
April 27 - "Transfiguration" 1 (Mark 9:1-50)

May 4 - "Transfiguration" 2 (Mark 10:1-52)
May 11 - Last Week 1 (Mark 11:1-33)
May 18 - Last Week 2 (Mark 12:1-44)
May 25 - Last Week 3 (Mark 13:1-37)

June 1 - Trial (Mark 14:1-72)
June 8 - Crucifixion (Mark 15:1-47)
June 15 - Resurrection (Mark 16:1-20)

"'The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.'" (Mark 10:45)