Matthew 26:57 – Mark 9:13
Overview
The Gospel of Mark is our second book of the New Testament. While this book shares many of the same facts as Matthew, it is written to a different audience. The author seems to be writing to the Gentile (Non-Jew). Mark takes the time to explain some of the Jewish customs to his readers. Unlike Matthew, who was Jewish and wrote to the Jews and quoted may Old Testament scriptures, Mark only refers to the Old Testament a couple times in the entire Gospel. Mark isn’t directly named as the author of this Gospel, but tradition holds that it was most likely John Mark. Mark was converted by Peter (one of the original 12 disciples) and he followed Paul on his first missionary journey. Mark is the shortest of the Gospels and his writing style is direct and to the point. Mark does proclaim Jesus is the Messiah in the very first verse of his Gospel and seems to emphasize Jesus as the Servant throughout his book. This was foreshadowed by the Old Testament prophet Isaiah we read only about 2 weeks ago.
Scripture Mark 8:38
38 If any of you are ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son of Man will be ashamed of you when he comes in his Father’s glory with the holy angels.”
Observation
Jesus had just finished talking to his disciples and the crowd about living the crucified life. He explained to them that they must die and carry their cross and follow Him. Their old life must die and they are to give their lives to our Lord. Jesus then goes on to say that we should not be ashamed of Him and the new crucified life we live for Him. If we are ashamed of Jesus, He will be ashamed of us when he returns in Glory with the angels.
Application
When we surrender our lives to Christ and carry our cross, Christ now lives in us. His priorities become our priorities. If we love him, we will obey him and give ourselves fully to him. Paul’s letter to the Galatians says “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” When he comes for us he will examine our hearts/motives and know if we truly love him or if we are ashamed of him. How can we be ashamed of the one who gave His life for all who believe. If we are ashamed of him, he will be ashamed of us. We should stand up for Jesus who is the way, the truth and the life. He is our hope and our joy. Let us not be ashamed of our Lord and speak boldly of Him to the world around us.
Prayer
Lord give me the confidence and strength to tell others about the salvation you offer to each and every one of us. Remind me to carry my cross daily as I live for you.
