FMBC PASTORS' CORNER A Blog for the Pastors of FMBC Bellflower

Easter Sunday

Read Mark 16:1-20

The resurrection of Jesus is the single greatest event in history. Mark explains the circumstances surrounding the discovery of the empty tomb (1-8). It is not the fact that the tomb was empty in and of itself that brings us hope. It is why the tomb was empty which gives assurance to the believer. God sent an angel to declare not only that “Jesus the Nazarene, who had been crucified” is not here, but that He has risen and is going ahead of you…“just as He told you” (v.6, 7).

The resurrection provides the evidence that who Jesus said He was is true, and also that what He said he came here to do, namely “give His life a ransom for many,” is true, satisfying a just and holy God. Thus the reason for the empty tomb is the basis for the Christian hope. The events that took place on this glorious morning occurred just like He had told them.

• Why do you think it is significant that the angel added the phrase “just as He told you” in verse 7?
• In what ways is the consistency of what Jesus said would happen and what actually did happen important to us? How does acknowledging the reliability of Jesus’ words make an impact in our daily lives?
• In what specific ways would today (or tomorrow) be different if you lived each moment with a conscious awareness of the fact that Jesus Christ is not only alive, but present with you?
• Take time to thank the Lord for the hope we have in Him.

Friday of the Passion Week

Read Mark 15:1-47

Chapters 15 and 16 bring this gospel to its dramatic climax. Throughout chapter 15, Mark vividly describes the horrific events that surrounded Jesus’ death and burial.  Jesus’ kangaroo trial (verses 1-15), His vicious beatings (verses 16-21), and His sacrificial death on a cross are all depicted for others to stand in awe. And in the darkness, after hearing the last cry of Jesus, the answer to the question that has been asked throughout the Gospel of Mark is answered. “Who is this man?”

The question is answered, by of all people, a Roman centurion. “Truly this man was the Son of God” (15:39). This Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. He came “not to be served, but to serve, and give His life for the ransom of many” (10:45).

This Jesus was not a martyr, He was God in the flesh, willfully and sacrificial laying down His life for the sins of the world!

• What do you think the average person thinks about Jesus during Easter? Why?
• In what ways is the confession of the Roman centurion a climax to the entire Gospel of Mark?
• Read once again slowly through the chapter and ask yourself “Who is this Jesus?” What words would you use to describe Him?
• Take time to give thanks to the Lord for His willingness to go to the cross on your behalf.

Thursday of the Passion Week

Read Mark 14:1-72

In this fast paced chapter, Mark describes those who hate the Servant/Messiah and are preparing to destroy Him (verses 1-2), one who loved Jesus and expresses worship (verses 3-9), and one of the twelve who will sell Jesus out (verses 10-11).

The Passover is prepared (verses 12-16) and Jesus celebrates the feast with His disciples (verses 17-21); then he institutes the Lord’s Supper (verses 22-25). After singing a hymn, they depart to the Mount of Olives.  Jesus tells the disciples of their temporary falling away (verses 26-31) and He prays with a troubled heart in the Garden of Gethsemane while Peter, James, and John sleep (verses 32-42).

Finally, the tension reaches fruition.  Judas betrays (verses 43-52), the Sanhedrin try Jesus (verses 53-65), and Peter denies his Lord (verses 66-72). This portion of Scripture is filled with drama as the cross draws near.

• In the beginning of the chapter, Mary expresses devotion to Jesus.  At the end of the passage Peter denies knowing Jesus. Why the difference in responses?
• How is Peter’s denial different from Judas’ betrayal?
• Read 1 Corinthians 10:12. What can we learn from Peter’s experience in this chapter?
• Take time to pray that the Lord will strengthen you in times you are struggling to keep following Him.

Wednesday of the Passion Week

Read Mark 13:1-37

As Jesus was leaving the temple on Tuesday, one of his disciples pointed out the beauty of the grand structure. With the cross drawing near, Jesus used this opportunity to teach the disciples about what was going to take place in the near future (the destruction of the temple) and what would take place in a later time of history (His return).

Throughout His teaching in this passage, known as the Olivet Discourse (13:1-37), Jesus continues to encourage the disciples “to be alert,” “be on guard, and ‘be aware” of deception. As real and historical as Jesus first appearing was so will be the time of His second coming.

• In this passage, six times Jesus warns his disciples to “watch, be on guard” (verses. 5, 9, 23, 33, 35, 37).  Why?
• In what ways are these warnings relevant to us today?
• In what practical ways can we be alert for the return of the Lord? How can you live more consistently with eternity in view?
• Take time to pray that God would help you be alert and ready at the return of Jesus.