New Testament Studies: Mark (16): Chapter 14 v1 to 52 -- David Pawson

Summary

The video script provides a detailed narrative of events from Mark Chapter 14, focusing on the final days of Jesus Christ leading up to the Passover. It describes the anointing of Jesus by a woman with expensive nard, the criticism of this act by Judas and others, and Jesus' defense of the woman's pious gesture. The script delves into the plot to arrest Jesus, his Last Supper with his disciples, the prediction of his betrayal, and the emotional turmoil Jesus experiences in the Garden of Gethsemane. It also touches on the themes of disciples' denial and flight, the arrest of Jesus, and the poignant moment of Judas' kiss of betrayal. The narrative emphasizes the human and divine aspects of Jesus, his ultimate sacrifice, and the spiritual lessons and opportunities for reflection these events present for believers.

Takeaways

• 📜 The narrative from Mark chapter 14 is a focal point, detailing the events two days before the Passover, leading to Jesus' arrest and the Last Supper.
• 🕯️ A woman's act of anointing Jesus with expensive nard is highlighted as a beautiful, timely, discerning, and memorable deed, symbolizing preparation for Jesus' burial.
• 💰 Judas Iscariot's betrayal of Jesus for money is contrasted with the woman's selfless act, underscoring the theme of greed and the moral choices made by those around Jesus.
• ✝️ The Last Supper is portrayed as a new covenant, with bread and wine symbolizing Jesus' body and blood, and is a meal that looks forward to the Kingdom of God.
• 😔 The disciples' failure to stay awake with Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, despite their willingness, demonstrates the human struggle between spiritual commitment and physical weakness.
• 🗣️ Peter's adamant denial of Jesus, despite his earlier assurances of loyalty, is a poignant example of the frailty of human nature and the stark contrast to Jesus' unwavering commitment.
• 🙏 Jesus' prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane reveal his deep anguish and the weight of the impending sacrifice, as he faces the prospect of being forsaken by God.
• 🔪 The arrest of Jesus is described, with references to the use of force and the irony of Judas' kiss as a sign of betrayal, highlighting the depth of the spiritual conflict.
• 🏃 The flight of the disciples, including a young man (believed to be John Mark) who follows and loses his clothing, illustrates the fear and the human instinct for self-preservation.
• 🕊️ Jesus' rebuke to the arresting party for their show of force and the subsequent healing of the high priest's slave's ear demonstrate his authority and compassion.
• ✍️ The Gospel of Mark, attributed to John Mark, is presented as a first-hand account, inviting readers to personally engage with the events and reflect on their spiritual significance.

Q & A

What is the significance of the alabaster jar of ointment in Mark chapter 14?

The alabaster jar of ointment represents a significant act of devotion and sacrifice, as it was very costly. The woman, believed to be Mary, breaks the jar and pours the ointment on Jesus' head as an act of worship and preparation for his burial, signifying the imminent sacrifice Jesus was about to make.

Why did the disciples criticize the woman for using the ointment?

The disciples, led by Judas, criticized the woman for what they perceived as wastefulness. They argued that the ointment, worth a year's wages, could have been sold and the money given to the poor, not recognizing the symbolic importance of her act of anointing Jesus.

What was Jesus' response to the disciples' criticism of the woman's act?

Jesus defended the woman's action, stating that she had done a beautiful thing for him. He emphasized the importance of her deed, saying it was done to prepare his body for burial. Moreover, he noted that while the poor would always be present, he would not, highlighting the unique and timely nature of her act.

How did Judas Iscariot's actions contribute to the plot of Mark chapter 14?

Judas Iscariot's actions are pivotal as he decides to betray Jesus to the chief priests for money. His betrayal sets in motion the events that lead to Jesus' arrest and crucifixion, making Judas a central figure in the unfolding drama of Jesus' final days.

What does the preparation of the Passover meal reveal about Jesus' control over events?

Jesus' detailed instructions for preparing the Passover meal demonstrate his foreknowledge and control over the events leading to his crucifixion. He orchestrates the timing and location to ensure that his final meal with the disciples happens without interruption from Judas or the authorities.

What is the significance of Jesus' prediction about Peter's denial?

Jesus predicts that Peter will deny him three times before the rooster crows, which underscores the theme of human weakness and fear. Despite Peter's protests of unwavering loyalty, Jesus' accurate prediction highlights his divine insight and the inevitable fulfillment of prophecy.

What does Jesus mean by referring to the 'cup' he wishes to pass in Gethsemane?

The 'cup' Jesus refers to symbolizes the suffering and divine wrath he is to endure on the cross for humanity's sins. His request to let this cup pass, yet submitting to God's will, illustrates his human vulnerability and obedience to his divine mission.

Why did Jesus choose to go to Gethsemane after the Last Supper?

Jesus goes to Gethsemane to pray, seek solitude, and prepare spiritually for the ordeal of his crucifixion. It is a place of deep anguish where he confronts the full weight of what he is about to endure, highlighted by his intense prayer and the emotional support he seeks from his closest disciples.

How does the narrative of Mark chapter 14 contrast the reactions of different characters to Jesus?

The narrative contrasts the deep devotion and understanding of the woman with the alabaster jar against the betrayal of Judas and the misunderstanding and eventual denial of Jesus by his disciples. These reactions highlight the range of human responses to Jesus' mission and character.

What does the scattering of Jesus' disciples after his arrest signify?

The scattering of the disciples after Jesus' arrest fulfills the prophecy that the shepherd will be struck and the sheep will scatter. It signifies the profound fear and confusion among the disciples, illustrating their human frailty and the disintegration of the group in the face of crisis.