Mark
The book of Mark is written by the apostle Mark to provide details of Jesus to Christian Gentiles in Rome around 55-65 AD. Like the book of Matthew, the book of Mark chronicles the life, teachings, and ministry of Jesus the promised Messiah and King of the Jews. The book includes Jesus' birth, baptism, temptation, and public ministry, highlighting his teachings such as the Sermon on the Mount and parables. Jesus was a healer, wise teacher, and Son of God. The book also emphasizes Jesus' role as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, his interactions with disciples, and his predictions of his suffering, death, and resurrection. It concludes with Jesus' crucifixion, burial, resurrection, and instructions to his disciples.
John the Baptist Prepares The Way - Chapter 1
John the Baptist proclaimed the arrival of Jesus, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. "I will send my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way... a voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.'" -Mark 1:2-3. John the Baptist would baptize people in the Jordan River and proclaimed "I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit." -Mark 1:8.
The Baptism And Testing Of Jesus
Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River. As He came out of the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit descended on Him. God declared Jesus as His beloved Son. The Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness where He was tempted by Satan for 40 days.
Jesus Announces The Good News
After John's arrest, Jesus went to Galilee proclaiming the good news of God. He declared, "The time has come,... The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!" -Mark 1:15.
Jesus Calls His First Disciples
Jesus saw Simon and his brother Andrew fishing. Jesus called them, saying, "Come, follow me... and I will send you out to fish for people." -Mark 1:17. Immediately, they left their nets and followed Him. Jesus also called James and John, who left their father and followed Jesus.
Jesus Drives Out An Impure Spirit
In a synagogue, Jesus taught with authority, astonishing the people. A man possessed by an unclean spirit cried out, but Jesus rebuked and cast it out. People were amazed not only by his new teaching but the authority by which he taught and drove out impure spirits.
Jesus Heals Many
Jesus and His disciples went to Simon's house where Simon's mother-in-law was sick with a fever. Jesus healed her, and word spread quickly. Many people were brought to Him, and He cast out demons and healed the sick.
Jesus Prays In A Solitary Place
Early in the morning, Jesus went to a solitary place to pray. Jesus's disciples found Him and urged Him to return to the busy crowds. Jesus replied, "Let us go somewhere else - to the nearby villages - so I can preach there also. That is why I have come." -Mark 1:38. Jesus traveled throughout Galilee, preaching in synagogues and casting out demons.
Jesus Heals A Man With Leprosy
A leper approached Jesus, pleading for healing. Jesus, moved with compassion, touched him and healed him. Instructing him not to tell anyone, Jesus told the leper to show himself to the priest and offer the appropriate sacrifices as a testimony. The man disobeyed, spreading the news widely. Because of this Jesus could not freely enter towns so he stayed outside of the towns.
Jesus Forgives And Heals A Paralyzed Man - Chapter 2
Jesus returned to Capernaum, and people gathered in such great numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door. Four friends lowered a paralyzed man through the roof. Jesus forgave his sins, and to prove His authority, He also healed the man physically.
Jesus Calls Levi And Eats With Sinners
Jesus saw Levi, a tax collector, and called him to follow Him. Levi left everything and became a disciple. Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, causing criticism from religious leaders. Jesus responded, saying that He came to call sinners to repentance, not the righteous.
Jesus Questioned About Fasting
Jesus responds to the questioning of the Pharisees and the disciples of John by referring to himself as the bridegroom. Jesus explains that during the presence of the bridegroom, which represents himself, fasting is unnecessary. Jesus implies that his ministry brings a time of joy and celebration, akin to a wedding feast, rather than a somber occasion that would warrant fasting. By using the analogy of new wine and old wineskins, Jesus conveys that his teachings and the newness of his message require a fresh approach, incompatible with the rigid traditions upheld by the Pharisees.
Jesus Is Lord Of The Sabbath
While walking through grain fields on the Sabbath, Jesus and His disciples plucked heads of grain to eat. The Pharisees accused them of Sabbath-breaking. Jesus reminded them of David's actions, saying, "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath." -Mark 2:28-29. Jesus asserted His authority over the Sabbath, emphasizing its purpose to serve humanity's well-being rather than being a rigid legalistic burden. The statement "So, the Son of Man is Lord even of the Sabbath" signifies Jesus' authority over the Sabbath as the Son of Man, a title He often used to refer to Himself. It implies that Jesus has the power to interpret and redefine the laws and regulations associated with the Sabbath.
Jesus Heals On The Sabbath - Chapter 3
Jesus entered a synagogue where a man with a withered hand was present. The Pharisees watched to accuse Him of healing on the Sabbath. Jesus challenged them, asking if it was lawful to do good on the Sabbath. Jesus healed the man, provoking the Pharisees' anger so they began their plot to kill Jesus.
Crowds Follow Jesus
Great crowds followed Jesus from various regions. Many with ailments sought to touch Him, and unclean spirits recognized Him, falling before Him and declaring His identity. Jesus warned the spirits not to reveal Him.
Jesus Appoints The Twelve
Jesus called twelve disciples, appointing them to be with Him and sending them out to preach and cast out demons. Jesus appointed each of the following: Simon (Peter), James, John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot.
Jesus Accused By His Family And By The Teachers Of The Law
As Jesus was teaching, a large crowd gathered, including His family who thought He was insane. The scribes accused Him of being possessed by the ruler of demons (Beelzebul). Jesus refuted their claim, highlighting the illogicality of a divided kingdom. Jesus warned about blaspheming the Holy Spirit, describing it as an unforgivable and eternal sin. Jesus redefined family, stating that those who do God's will are His true relatives.
The Parable Of The Sower - Chapter 4
Jesus taught a large crowd using a parable about a sower. The seed fell on four types of soil: the path, rocky ground, thorns, and good soil. The path symbolized those who did not understand and lost the message. The rocky ground represented those who received the word with joy but lacked depth and endurance. The thorns depicted those whose faith was choked by worldly concerns. Finally, the good soil represented those who heard the word, accepted it, and bore fruit in abundance. Jesus urged them to listen and understand the parable's meaning.
The disciples ask Jesus why He speaks in parables and he replied "The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, 'they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; overwise they might turn and be forgiven!'" -Mark 4:11-12 which is also found in Isaiah 6:9-10. Jesus uses parables to reveal the truths of the kingdom of God to His followers, who are willing to listen and understand. However, for those outside, who are resistant or closed-minded, the parables serve as a way to veil the message and prevent them from comprehending it fully. This approach aligns with the prophecy of Isaiah, highlighting the importance of genuine receptivity and seeking understanding to grasp the mysteries of God's kingdom.
A Lamp On A Stand
Jesus tells His disciples that a lamp is not meant to be hidden but placed on a lampstand to give light. Jesus emphasizes that nothing is hidden except to be revealed and exclaims "whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is conceled is meant to be brought out into the open." -Mark 4:22. Jesus urges them to pay attention to what they hear and warns that the measure they use in hearing will be the measure they receive. Those who have more will receive abundantly, while those who have little, even what they have will be taken away.
The Parable Of The Growing Seed
Jesus describes the kingdom of God as a man who scatters seed on the ground. The man doesn't understand how the seed grows - first the stalk, then the head, and then the full kernel in the head. When the time comes, the man harvests the crop. The growth and advancement of God's kingdom are not solely dependent on human effort or comprehension. Instead, there is a divine process at work, and when the time is right, the harvest, symbolizing the culmination of God's plan, takes place. This passage encourages trust in God's timing and sovereignty in the progress of His kingdom.
The Parable Of The Mustard Seed
Jesus compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which is tiny at first but grows into a large plant. Jesus always taught in parables but explained everything to his disciples while they were alone.
Jesus Calms The Storm
Jesus and His disciples boarded a boat, and a great storm arose. Jesus, asleep, was awakened by the disciples' fear. Jesus rebuked and calmed the storm but questioned the disciples for their lack of faith, leaving them amazed at His authority over nature.
Jesus Restores A Demon-Possessed Man - Chapter 5
Jesus and His disciples arrived in the region of the Gerasenes, where they encountered a man possessed by numerous demons. The man lived among the tombs, tormented, and self-harmed. The demons asked Jesus to let them go into the pigs and Jesus permitted this. The pigs rushed into the sea and drowned. The man, now freed from possession, desired to follow Jesus, but Jesus instructed him to stay and share his testimony of God's mercy and deliverance. The man proclaimed what Jesus had done for him, and people marveled at the transformation.
Jesus Raises A Dead Girl And Heals A Sick Woman
A synagogue ruler named Jairus pleaded with Jesus to heal his dying daughter. As Jesus made His way to Jairus' house, a woman with a chronic bleeding issue touched His garment and was instantly healed. Jesus that her faith has healed her. Upon arriving at Jairus' house, some people said that they were wasting their time because the daughter was dead. Jesus told the them that the daughter was just asleep and commanded her to get up. Jesus refers to her as sleeping figuratively, using it as a euphemism for death. When Jesus arrives at the house, He raises the girl from the dead, demonstrating His power over death and performing a miraculous act of healing.
A Prophet Without Honor - Chapter 6
Jesus returned to His hometown on the Sabbath and began teaching in the synagogue. The people were astonished, questioning His wisdom and the mighty works they had heard of. They recognized Him as a local, the carpenter, and Mary's son. However, their familiarity bred contempt, hindering their faith. Jesus marveled at their lack of belief, unable to perform many miracles there due to their unbelief.
Jesus Sends Out The Twelve
Jesus summoned the twelve disciples and sent them out in pairs, giving them authority over unclean spirits. Jesus instructed them to take nothing for the journey except a staff and to rely on the hospitality of those they encountered. They were to preach repentance, drive out demons, anoint the sick, and shake off any rejection.
John The Baptist Beheaded
Herod heard about Jesus and thought Jesus was John the Baptist raised from the dead. This belief stemmed from his earlier decision to have John executed due to Herodias' grudge. Herodias' daughter pleased Herod with her dancing, so he promised to give her whatever she wanted. Prompted by her mother, she asked for John's head on a platter. Though troubled, Herod granted her request. John was beheaded in prison, and his head was presented to the girl, who gave it to her mother.
Jesus Feeds The Five Thousand
Jesus and His disciples sought rest, but a large crowd followed. Jesus had compassion, taught them, and miraculously fed around five thousand people with just five loaves and two fish, leaving twelve baskets of leftovers.
Jesus Walks On Water
Jesus made the disciples cross the sea by boat while He went to pray. In the evening, the disciples struggled against the wind, and Jesus walked on water towards them. Jesus calmed the storm and they reached their destination, where people recognized and sought His healing touch.
That Which Defiles - Chapter 7
The Pharisees and scribes from Jerusalem approached Jesus, criticizing His disciples for not following the tradition of ceremonial handwashing before eating. Jesus condemned the Pharisees and referred to the prophecy of Isaiah, where God denounced the empty worship and human teachings. Jesus explained that by prioritizing human traditions, they were neglecting the commandments of God. Jesus addresses the practice of "Corban" that was prevalent among the Pharisees. "Corban" referred to dedicating something as an offering to God, essentially declaring it off-limits for any other use. Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for allowing people to use this practice as a means to avoid fulfilling their responsibility of caring for their parents. In doing so, they were disregarding the commandment to honor their father and mother.
Jesus said "Nothing outside a person can defile them by going into them. Rather, it is what comes out of a person that defiles them." -Mark 7:15. Jesus emphasized that it is not what one consumes that makes them unclean, but rather the evil intentions, thoughts, and actions that arise from within.
Jesus Honors A Syrophoenician Woman's Faith
A Gentile woman approached Jesus, seeking deliverance for her demon-possessed daughter. Initially, Jesus tested her faith, but she persistently pleaded for help. Impressed by her response, Jesus granted her request, declaring her daughter healed.
Jesus Heals A Deaf And Mute Man
Jesus healed a man who was deaf and had difficulty speaking. Jesus took him aside, touched his ears and tongue, and commanded them to be opened. The man's hearing and speech were immediately restored, causing amazement and spreading the news of Jesus' miracles.
Jesus Feeds The Four Thousand - Chapter 8
With a large crowd present for three days, Jesus fed them by multiplying seven loaves of bread and a few fish. Afterward, Jesus and the disciples departed by boat, and the Pharisees demanded a sign from heaven. Jesus sighed deeply and refused their demand, stating that no sign would be given to them. Jesus then left and departed to the other side of the river.
The Yeast Of The Pharisees And Harod
The disciples had forgotten to bring enough bread on their journey, and Jesus warned them to beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Herod. Just as a small amount of yeast can permeate and affect the entire batch of dough, the teachings and hypocrisy of the religious leaders and Herod's worldly mindset could corrupt their thinking and faith. Jesus reminded the disciples of His previous miracles of multiplying bread to encourage them to trust in His provision and power. Jesus wanted them to be cautious of false teachings, maintain spiritual discernment, and rely on Him alone for sustenance.
Jesus Heals A Blind Man At Bethsaida
A partially blind man was brought to Jesus for healing. Jesus spat on his eyes, laid hands on him, and asked if he could see anything. The man saw people but they looked like trees walking. Jesus touched his eyes again, and his sight was completely restored. Jesus instructed him not to tell anyone about it.
Peter Declares That Jesus Is The Messiah
Jesus asked His disciples who people said He was. "They replied, 'Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets'. "But what about you?...... Peter answered, "You are the Messiah." -Mark 8:28-29. Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about it.
Jesus Predicts His Death
Jesus began teaching His disciples that He must suffer many things, be rejected by the elders, chief priests, and scribes, be killed, and rise again after three days. Peter took Him aside and rebuked Him, but Jesus turned and rebuked Peter, saying, "Get behind me, Satan! You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns." -Mark 8:33.
The Way Of The Cross
Jesus called the crowd and His disciples, telling them that whoever wants to follow Him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. Jesus explained that gaining the whole world but losing their soul is of no value. Jesus warned that whoever is ashamed of Him and His words, the Son of Man will be ashamed of them when He "comes in His Father's glory with the holy angels." -Mark 8:38. Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God has come with power." -Mark 9:1.
The Transfiguration - Chapter 9
Jesus took Peter, James, and John up a high mountain, where Jesus was transfigured before them. His clothes became radiant, and Moses and Elijah appeared, talking with Him. Peter suggested building shelters, but a voice from a cloud said, "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!" -Mark 9:7. As they descended, Jesus instructed them not to tell anyone about the vision until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. The disciples questioned Jesus about Elijah, and Jesus replied that Elijah had already come, referring to John the Baptist.
Jesus Heals A Boy Possessed By An Impure Spirit
When Jesus and His disciples came down from the mountain, they found a large crowd arguing with the disciples. A man brought his son possessed by a spirit that made him mute. Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, commanding it to leave. The disciples asked why they couldn't drive it out, and Jesus explained that such spirits required prayer.
Jesus Predicts His Death A Second Time
Jesus and His disciples left the region and began to teach them privately, telling them about His impending death and resurrection. However, the disciples did not understand and were afraid to question Him. Later, Jesus asked them what they had been discussing, and they remained silent, for they had been arguing about who among them was the greatest. Jesus then taught them that whoever wants to be first must be the last and servant of all, using a child as an example of humility and welcoming. Jesus also explains that whoever welcomes Him, is welcoming God.
Whoever Is Not Against Us Is For Us
The disciples reported to Jesus about someone casting out demons in His name, but they tried to stop him because he was not in their group. Jesus responded, "Do not stop him, for no one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, for whoever is not against us is for us." -Mark 9:39-40.
Causing To Stumble
Jesus warns about causing others to stumble, saying it is better to have a millstone tied around the neck and be thrown into the sea. Jesus emphasizes the importance of radical self-discipline, urging them to cut off anything causing sin rather than enter hell with unquenchable fire. Jesus speaks of salt losing its saltiness, encouraging His followers to have salt in themselves and live at peace with one another. The phrase "to have salt in themselves" in Mark 9:50 is a metaphor used by Jesus to convey the idea of being a preserving and purifying influence in the world. It means having a character and conduct that reflects the teachings of Jesus, being a source of moral guidance and preserving the truth in a corrupt world. It signifies embodying the qualities of purity, wisdom, and grace in one's thoughts, words, and actions.
Divorce - Chapter 10
Jesus teaches the crowd about divorce, stating that it is not in line with God's original plan. Jesus explains that anyone who divorces and remarries commits adultery.
The Little Children and Jesus
People were bringing children to Jesus, but the disciples rebuked them. Jesus, however, welcomed the children and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." -Mark 10:14. Jesus blessed the children, highlighting their importance in God's kingdom.
The Rich And The Kingdom Of God
A wealthy man came to Jesus seeking the way to eternal life, telling Jesus that he had followed the biblical laws such as the 10 commandments. Jesus told him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man was disheartened because he valued his wealth. Jesus then remarked that it is difficult for the rich to enter God's kingdom. His disciples were astonished, but Jesus assured them that those who leave everything for His sake will receive eternal rewards. Jesus emphasized the reversal of worldly values in God's kingdom, where the last will be first and the first will be last. Jesus is emphasizing that those who are considered lowly, marginalized, or overlooked in society will receive honor and reward in God's kingdom. Conversely, those who hold positions of prominence, wealth, and privilege may not necessarily have the highest standing in God's eyes.
Jesus Predicts His Death A Third Time
Jesus took the twelve disciples aside and foretold His impending arrest, suffering, and death. Despite this, Jesus also spoke of His resurrection after three days.
The Request Of James And John
James and John approached Jesus, requesting seats of honor in His kingdom. Jesus explained that those seats were not for him to grant and that greatness is found in serving others, not seeking power and authority. Jesus emphasized that even He came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many.
Blind Bartimaeus Receives His Sight
As Jesus was leaving Jericho, a blind man named Bartimaeus called out to Him for mercy. Jesus heard him and healed his sight, saying, "Your faith has healed you." -Mark 10:52.
Jesus Comes To Jerusalem As King - Chapter 11
Jesus sent two disciples ahead to find a colt. They brought it to Him, and He rode on it as people spread their cloaks and palm branches on the road, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" -Mark 11:9. Jesus entered Jerusalem, and the crowd hailed Him as the coming King.
Jesus Curses A Fig Tree And Clears The Temple
Jesus cursed a fig tree that had no fruit, demonstrating the consequence of spiritual barrenness. Jesus also entered the temple and overturned the tables of the money changers, rebuking them for turning the house of prayer into a den of thieves. Jesus emphasized the power of faith and the importance of forgiveness, stating that if one believes and forgives, they will receive what they ask for in prayer. Jesus emphasized the necessity of a sincere heart, urging His followers to forgive others so that their heavenly Father may forgive them.
The Authority Of Jesus Questioned
The chief priests, teachers of the law, and elders questioned Jesus about His authority. Instead of directly answering, Jesus posed a question to them about John the Baptist's authority. Fearing the people's response, they declined to answer. Jesus refused to reveal His authority, knowing that they would not accept it.
The Parable Of The Tenants - Chapter 12
Jesus told a parable about a man who planted a vineyard and rented it out to tenants. When the time came to collect the fruit, the owner sent his servants, but the tenants mistreated and killed them. Finally, the owner sent his own son, believing they would respect him, but they killed him too. Jesus concluded that the owner would punish the wicked tenants and give the vineyard to others. The religious leaders realized that the parable was directed at them and sought to arrest Jesus but feared the people's reaction.
Paying The Imperial Tax To Caesar
The religious leaders sent some Pharisees and Herodians to trap Jesus with a question about paying taxes to Caesar. They attempted to flatter Him but ultimately hoped to incriminate Him with His answer. Jesus saw through their deceit and asked for a denarius coin, then said to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God. His response amazed them, as it upheld the importance of both earthly and spiritual responsibilities.
Marriage At The Resurrection
The Sadducees, who did not believe in the resurrection, posed a hypothetical scenario to Jesus about a woman who had married multiple brothers after their deaths. They asked whose wife she would be in the afterlife. Jesus responded by explaining that marriage does not exist in the resurrection, for people are like angels. Jesus then quoted from the book of Exodus, showing that God is the God of the living and that all who have died will be resurrected.
The Greatest Commandment
One of the scribes approached Jesus and asked Him about the greatest commandment. Jesus replied, "'Hear, O Isreal: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" -Mark 12:30. The scribe acknowledged the truth in Jesus' response and commended Him. Jesus praised the scribe's understanding, saying that he was not far from the kingdom of God. From that moment on, no one dared to question Jesus further.
Whose Son Is The Messiah?
Jesus questioned how the scribes could say that the Messiah is the son of David, when David himself called the Messiah his Lord. No one could answer Him, and the large crowd listened to Him with delight.
Warning Against The Teachers Of The Law
Jesus warned the crowd about the teachers of the law who sought honor and recognition but oppressed widows. Jesus condemned their hypocrisy and highlighted the severe judgment that awaited them.
The Widow's Offering
Jesus observed people giving offerings in the temple treasury. He noticed a poor widow who gave two small coins, which Jesus considered to be a greater gift than the larger amounts given by the wealthy because it was all she had.
The Destruction Of The Temple And Signs Of The End Times - Chapter 13
Jesus and His disciples were amazed at the grandeur of the temple, but Jesus predicted its destruction, stating that not one stone would be left upon another. Later, while sitting on the Mount of Olives, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Jesus privately about the signs indicating the end of the age. Jesus warned them about false messiahs, wars, and natural disasters that would occur. Jesus spoke of persecution and the spreading of the gospel. Jesus emphasized the importance of staying alert and faithful in the face of tribulation. Jesus assured them that His words would not pass away and that He would return with great power and glory.
The Day And Hour Unknown
Jesus stated that no one knows the day or hour of His return, not even the angels in heaven or the Son Himself, but only the Father. Jesus emphasized the need for His followers to be watchful, as they do not know when He will come.
Jesus Anointed At Bethany - Chapter 14
At Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, a woman anointed Jesus with expensive perfume. Some criticized her, but Jesus praised her, saying she had prepared Him for burial. Jesus declared her act would be remembered wherever the gospel is preached.
The Last Supper
Jesus instructed His disciples to prepare for the Passover. They found a room and made the necessary preparations. During the meal, Jesus took bread, blessed it, and gave it to them, saying it was His body. Jesus took the cup, gave thanks, and said it was His blood. Jesus explained that these were symbols of the new covenant, and they were to remember Him through this meal. They sang a hymn and went to the Mount of Olives.
Jesus Predicts Peter's Denial
Jesus predicted that all His disciples would desert Him, quoting the Scripture: "I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered." -Mark 14:27 & Zachariah 13:7. Peter confidently declared his loyalty, but Jesus revealed that Peter would deny Him three times before the rooster crowed twice.
Gethsemane
In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus took Peter, James, and John with Him and became greatly troubled. Jesus asked them to keep watch while He prayed, feeling overwhelmed with sorrow. Jesus pleaded with God, saying, "Abba, Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will." -Mark 14:36. Upon returning, Jesus found His disciples sleeping and urged them to stay awake and pray. After finding them asleep again, Jesus had them wake up because He knew his betrayers were close.
Jesus Arrested
Judas arrived with a crowd armed with swords and clubs to arrest Jesus. Judas identified Jesus with a kiss, leading to his betrayal. The disciples fled in fear, abandoning Jesus. However, there was a young man wearing a linen cloth who was also seized by the crowd but managed to escape, leaving his garment behind.
Jesus Before The Sanhedrin
After arresting Jesus, the high priest and the whole Sanhedrin sought false testimony against Him. Many testified, but their statements did not align. Finally, the high priest asked Jesus "'Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?'" -Mark 14:61 to which Jesus replies "'I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.'" -Mark 14-62. The high priest accused him of blasphemy, and the council condemned him.
Peter Disowns Jesus
After Jesus's arrest, Peter was sitting in the courtyard when a servant girl accused him of being with Jesus. Peter denied it. The accusation was repeated, and Peter denied it again. A while later, those standing nearby accused him, and Peter vehemently denied knowing Jesus. Immediately, a rooster crowed, and Peter remembered Jesus's words about his denial. Peter wept, realizing his betrayal.
Jesus Before Pilate - Chapter 15
Jesus was brought before Pilate, the Roman governor, who questioned Him about claims of being the King of the Jews. The chief priests accused Jesus of many things, but He remained silent. Pilate offered to release a prisoner as a Passover tradition, giving the people a choice between Jesus and Barabbas, a murderer. The crowd, influenced by the chief priests, demanded the release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus. Pilate, wanting to satisfy the crowd, handed Jesus over to be crucified.
The Soldiers Mock Jesus
The soldiers took Jesus into the governor's headquarters and gathered a group of soldiers around Him. They dressed Him in a purple robe, placed a crown of thorns on His head, and mocked Him as the King of the Jews. They struck Him and spat on Him before leading Him away to be crucified.
The Crucifixion Of Jesus
As Jesus carried His cross, a man named Simon of Cyrene was forced to help Jesus carry the cross. They arrived at Golgotha, where Jesus was crucified between two criminals. People passing by mocked Him, challenging Him to save Himself. Even the religious leaders and soldiers taunted Him, saying if He was the Son of God, He should come down from the cross.
The Death of Jesus
As Jesus hung on the cross, darkness covered the land for three hours. In His agony, Jesus cried out, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" -Mark 15:34. Some who stood by thought Jesus was calling for Elijah. Jesus took His last breath and the temple curtain was torn in two from top to bottom. A centurion, witnessing all this, proclaimed, "Surely this man was the Son of God!" -Mark 15:39. Women who had followed Jesus from Galilee were also present, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and Salome.
The Burial Of Jesus
After Jesus' crucifixion, a man named Joseph of Arimathea, who was a respected member of the council, went boldly to Pilate to ask for Jesus' body. Pilate granted his request, and Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a tomb cut out of rock. The tomb was sealed with a stone. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses witnessed the burial.
Jesus Has Risen - Chapter 16
Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome brought spices to anoint Jesus' body. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb entrance and saw a young man dressed in a white robe inside. The man told them not to be alarmed and said, "He has risen! He is not here... But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee'" -Mark 16:6-7. The women were astonished and afraid, fleeing from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, for they were trembling and overcome with fear.
The ending of Mark's Gospel, specifically verses 9-20, is a subject of scholarly debate and variation in ancient manuscripts. Some early manuscripts of Mark's Gospel do not include these verses, leading some Bible translations, like the NIV, to omit them. However, other translations, such as the King James Version (KJV) and the New King James Version (NKJV), include these verses based on other ancient witnesses. The verses 9-20 in Mark's Gospel describe various appearances of Jesus after his resurrection, commissioning his disciples to preach the Gospel and perform miracles. They also mention Jesus' ascension into heaven.