Observations:

• What is "lee"?
• Paul had favor in the end of this chapter - why? Fear? Leadership?
• What does the "fast" refer to? Which Jewish celebration? How is relevant to the context? (time of year?)
• Seems to be soldiers and hired sailor crew
• An angel? Has Paul encountered this before - angels?
• The centurion saves Paul - didn't listen to him at first but becomes a friend (Daniel-like)

Meaning:

Luke continues to move the story concerning the sovereignty of God. Paul will get to Rome.

Tragedies happen but God has plans - the gospel is in view here...there was a need to get to Rome for the gospel's sake.

God evades obstacles to complete his work but allow humans to face them - all of which develops men to be what God needs to carry off his plan.

Application:

Inward: Do I trust God's work and will during the storms?

Outward: Do I lead during the storms?

Upward: Praise Jesus who cares for the world and follows through on his promises.

Follow all of our podcasts on www.newhopenow.cc

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Bold words for Paul in front of Agrippa? Possibly because Agrippa understood Jewish theology and customs?
• Did prison end up being a saving grace for Paul since the Jews wanted to kill him?
• Would this be a good reason for his appeal to the Emperor - basically having Rome protect him?
• Was Agrippa a practicing Jew?
• The discussion with Agrippa and Festus seems so short - no real conclusion it seems other than to send Paul on with no actual reason for his imprisonment.

Meaning:

Luke seems to be summarizing how God puts us into positions to speak the gospel. Trouble always comes, the question is how much trouble comes our way due to the gospel and not our own foolishness?

Application:

Inward: Do I desire for others to know the gospel more than I desire absence of conflict?

Outward: Do I run into trouble due to my work in the gospel?

Upward: Praise Jesus who gives us the ability to live, die and experience adventure for the best reasons.

Check out all of our other podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Who is Festus, exactly?
• Who is King Agrippa? Relation to Herod?
• What is the significance of Bernice being mentioned?
• Festus seems to be concerned about Proper Roman Law - is this true? In contrast to Felix?
• Did Festus know that the Jews in the case wanted to kill Paul?
• Festus seems to parallel Pilate - he didn't think Paul did anything to deserve death
• Agrippa comes with great pomp - why is this mentioned?

Meaning:

God is Sovereign. We can see God's plan unfolding in these details, including putting Paul in front of so many key people to proclaim the Gospel.

Application:

Inward: Do I trust God's sovereignty?

Outward: Do I act in confidence when I feel led by the Holy Spirit?

Upward: Praise Jesus, who still makes ways for the gospel to be heard!

Check out all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

Ty:

• Who came up with calling a group of people who have had a come to Jesus meeting the Way?
• Why did Felix keep paul in custody? Was it for entertainment? How long?
• If Felix hated the Jews why did he marry a Jewish woman?
• Why bring up that all people will rise from the dead to be judged?

Darin:

• Who is Tertullus? Is he mentioned anywhere else in the NT?
• Sect of the Nazarenes? Only time mentioned?
• Why the discussion on the resurrection in particular? Theological issue between Jewish leaders or pertaining to the difference accepting Jesus as resurrected?
• Felix wanted a bribe - is that the sole reason for all the convos with Paul?
• Doing the Jews a favor? Motivation?

Meaning:

Ty: I could say again here we see luke showing Pauls life mimicking Jesus' life. Which is true. But here we see Paul tie it all together by stating that Jesus is the fulfillment of prophecy in a little more of a clear way to the Gentiles than Jesus just saying He is the son of man. Since I am unlikely in the USA to be as persecuted as Paul its simply becomes hard for application.

Darin: (I'm not convinced that Luke has an intended meaning for the reader, but giving it my best shot) Paul was unfairly accused and suffered much while maintaining the truth and preaching the gospel.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) How do I continue to follow the way in my daily actions? (Darin) The example of Paul gives me courage to defend myself against the lies of the opposition.

Outward: (Ty) How do I continue to follow the way in my daily interactions with others? (Darin) Am I bold enough to call out lies when I hear them and speak the truth?

Upward: (Ty) Prasie be to the God of our fathers for His self sacrifice to create THE WAY so I dont have without Him ever again! (Darin) Praise Jesus for the Holy Spirit who gives us the words to say when we need to defend ourselves against the world.

Check out our other podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Paul addressed the council, Sanhedrin?
• High priest - did Paul not recognize him? Why or why not?
• Did Paul stir up the Pharisee vs. Sadducee debate on purpose? Why or why not?
• Whitewashed wall - close to Jesus' words, any other references What does it mean exactly?
• Who is really wanting to kill Paul?
• Paul's nephew - any other mention of him, what do we know about him?
• Seemingly lots of parallels with Jesus' accusers, trial, etc.

Meaning:

Take courage and testify to the facts about Jesus.

Application:

Inward: Do I want to be bold?

Outward: How do I become more bold - what am I afraid of physically?

Upward: Praise Jesus for giving us courage when we do his work and testify to the facts of Jesus.

Check out all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Context? Paul on the steps of the barracks wanting to talk with the violent Jewish crowd who were just beating him...why?
• Why did the tribune think Paul was the Egyptian insurrectionist?
• What does citizen of no obscure city mean?
• The Hebrew spoken by Paul shushed the crowd - why? Did they not think he was a Jew? Was the crowd influenced without knowing exactly what was going on?
• Gamaliel - pretty big credentials
• Why are they so upset with him? Misleading Jews? Greeks in the temple? All these things?
• v 22 - sen to the Gentiles - is this the phrase that really set them off?
• What significance is there to the tribune admitting he bought citizenship? Is Paul somehow higher than him in the social caste at the time?

Meaning:

Paul's testimony sought to save persecutors, as he once was, to bring them to the truth. The world needs to know...despite the objections.

Application:

Inward: I have fear when it comes to opposition - paralyzing and I don't want to engage.

Outward: I don't engage the angry lost.

Upward: Praise Jesus for the martyrs, who faced opposition so that the world might know the gospel.

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Everyone along the way seemed to warn him about Jerusalem, divine message or did word just move that fast?
• Philip, one of the 7 - assuming deacons from Acts 6?
• significance of mentioning Philip's daughters?
• Agabus - ever mentioned before?
• Into the hands of the Gentiles - like Jesus? Parallels on purpose?
• Why were the brothers in Jerusalem so concerned about "not forsaking the law of Moses"? Protection from other Jews? Are they explaining what everyone else had been hearing as to why he might be in trouble in Jerusalem?
• The vows? What kind? 7 days? 4 men? Significance?

Meaning:

Following and preaching Jesus challenges all traditions - piety or salvation?

Application:

Inward: Do traditions mean more than the cross? Do they mean too little that I'm unwilling to care for a weaker brother?

Outward: Do I disrespect the law by my actions?

Upward: Praise Jesus for sparing Paul as long as he did to give us incredible wisdom in learning how to live in this tension we call the world.

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Church Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• What are the similarities between Paul in Acts 20 and Jesus in Luke 22?
• Verse 6 -Is Paul saying it's okay to leave it up to each of our disciples to turn from sin at a specific point?

Darin's Observations:

• What uproar?
• V6 - "we"? Meaning Luke is with them?
• Is there any significance to the Passover being celebrated in Philippi?
• Lams in the room? Signficance?
• Taken up dead? What does that mean exactly?
• Why did Paul sail past Ephesus entirely- could there be more of an explanation seeing how the violence swelled there recently?
• In his final words to key leaders - did Paul think he would die in Jerusalem? His words seem defensive and/or serve as an example to the elders.

Meaning:

(Ty)  Luke shows that Paul has been so “constrained” by the Holy Spirit that his life events begin to mimic those of Jesus Christ. I.E. Paul's message here and Jeus in the garden of Gethsemane. 

(Darin) Leaders in God's church have special responsibilities but also should wield special motivations led by the Spirit in humility and authentic caring for people and God's Word.

Application:

• Inward: (Ty) Be constrained by the Spirit, not knowing what will happen to me, that I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus. (Darin) Do I love the people I work with - the ones I disciple?
• Outward: (Ty) to testify to the gospel of the grace of God, what it means to be a follower of the way, and how change is possible because His grace saved a creepy, disgusting, vile person like me. (Darin) Do I spend time comforting/encouraging those who I disciple?
• Upward: (Ty) Never stop working on all of us, constrain us with the spirit the way Paul was. I dedicate and Surrender our hearts to you in The name of Jesus, God with us, show us your way, today, Yaweh. (Darin) Praise Jesus for raising up shepherds who seek to continually care for his flock!

Listen to all of our podcasts in the New Hope Church podcast network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• What's next in the evolution of the story?
• What's the deal with using Paul's clothing, even those handkerchiefs and aprons?
• The people who John had baptized...were they believers at the beginning? Did they know who Jesus was?
• Who is Sceva? Signficance?
• Where was the hall of Tyrannus? Signficance?
• 2 years of teaching - reaching all of Asia?
• Signficance to divulging their magic practices?
• Nothing much came of the riot it seems - what was Luke's intention of including this scene?

Meaning:

(Ty) Real last power can only come from the Trinity. Typically from the renewing of the Holy Spirit to a pure heart. A heart who above all else knows the Joy of Salvation through the way of Jesus Christ. It's not about the words it's about the heart.

(Darin) Jesus is still delivering people and using the church to do his work.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) When this world wants to drag me down and just wear me out with all their words, thoughts and unwritten rules, may I allow the creator to lift me up and up again be the prevailing voice in my life. Inspire Joy in me.

(Darin) Do the demons know me?

Outward: (Ty)  Care enough about people to show them the way is all about the heart.

(Darin) Am I committed to the teaching of the gospel?

Upward: (Ty) Psalms 51:10-12

(Darin) Praise the name of the Lord Jesus who owns total authority.

Check our our podcasts at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Who exactly is Aquila and Priscilla?
• Cripsus, ruler of the synagogue - significance?
• Why the direct words now? Compassion? Was Paul gun-shy?
• pretty long stay of 18 mos
• Who is Sosthones - same guy mentioned in 1 Cor 1? Same as Crispus?
• Where is Cenchrae? Under what vow?
• Left who in Ephesus? Why? Priscilla and Aquila?
• Apollos comes to Ephesus - same guy mentioned in 1 Cor 1
• What was explained to him better? Being of the baptism of John?
• Seems like God is directing Paul's travel in line with Apollos

Meaning:

God directs the church.

Application:

Inward: Trust God for direction, He cares for me too not just ministry.

Outward: Do I strengthen disciples in my work?

Upward: Praise Jesus the Christ, who grows and defends His church.

Check out our other podcasts at http://www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Darin just shares some extra insight specifically on Paul's speech on Mars Hill in Acts 17.

Check out all of our podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• The motive for the Jews to cause issues was jealousy - but no other explanation? What exactly were they jealous of?
• Why follow them? Defending the faith?
• The authorities only seemed to care about money?
• "not a few" phrase - used w/women - why so popular with women and mentioned as prominent in particular?
• Paul never intended on Athens?
• Provoked? Meaning?
• Epicurean and Stoic philosophers - main beliefs?
• Areopagus history?
• Interesting comment by Luke in vers 21, spend their time in nothing except telling or hearing something new (good or bad thing? cultureal comment? Paul used this as opportunity?
• Why the altar to the unknown god?
• Reason for the quotes from the greek scholars...where was Paul going with it?
• Is Paul teaching truth comes from their philosophies or is he seeking to convert?

Meaning:

God seeks to unite His family, bringing salvation to all thorugh Jesus.

Application:

Inward: My heart needs to move on to others who want to hear when frustrated by those who do not.

Outward: Do I engage and challenge popular secular religion enough?

Upward: Praise Jesus for the smart men and women who have gone before us doing incredible apologetic work like Paul.

Check out all of our podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• What was Timothy's body language when Paul said I'm going to circumcise you? Is this the same Timothy from the bible books?
• How is Paul in charge and not central leadership from Jerusalem? Did Jesus not say that He will build His church on Peter? Why Isn't 1 person clearly in charge of the church?
• Verses 6 and 7, Why did God choose these 3 instead?
• Where are all these places listed geographically?
• Why did Paul not use his Roman citizenship earlier to avoid a beating and imprisonment?
• Why was Paul annoyed with the demon telling people about the "Most High God" and "way of salvation"?
• Was the persecution about the gospel or money?
• The jailer, how true was his conversion at first?
• Did the jailer get let off for the event?

Meaning:

(Ty) Growing mutually (Darin) The gospel is worth suffering for - the message is too important to be tainted with skewed views of the messenger or wily misrepresentations by the enemy.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Let the Holy Spirit be the leader of my life, not men. (Darin) Does my heart find joy, sing and praise during suffering?

Outwrard: (Ty) No matter Who God puts in front of you whether it's a believer, those tortured by the devil (even the ones who annoy you), or God shakes the earth an opens the door to a prisoner of his own sin, introduce everyone to the Tomb Raider Jesus Christ by telling the story of how He brought you back to Life! -Grow mutually (Darin) Do things like money and comfort ever stand in the way of the gospel message and my presentation of it?

Upward: (Ty) Praise God that He sent dozens of strangers into my life before I opened the door to my heart and allowed Jesus to bring me back to life. (Darin) Praise Jesus for passionate followers who carried the true message before us.

Check out all of our podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Came down from Judea? from Syria - why down? and then up to Jerusalem? Signficance?
• Pharisees who are Christians?
• Is this the only time "party" is used in the gospels referring to the Pharisees?
• Yoke - requirements from a rabbi?
• They all feel silent - the HS brought silence possibly?
• Why does James sound like he is imposing things on the Gentiles when he just warned against it?
• His decree seems odd - what is the connection between the elements of the decree?
• What exactly was Paul upset with concerning John Mark?

Meaning:

Luke is leading his readers through a crux in time concerning the church's future. Acts 15 shares the historical defense of the gospel and its step toward being all about Jesus, not Judaism. Jesus is enough.

Application:

Inward: Reminding myself that Jesus is enough, hard on myself.

Outward: Abstain from idol worship. Do not expect extras from people.

Upward: Praise Jesus for your grace to accept me and receive me out of my pagan ways - and for rescuing me out of legalism.

Check out all of our podcasts at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Thank you for listening to the Soma Bible Studies Podcast - normally we have our observations, meaning, and application notes here but due to some unfortunate circumstances, these notes where lost. We will update later if possible.

Ty and Darin

Check out all of the New Hope Podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations

• Herod the tertrach? Which Herod? Significance?
• Where is Selucia? Cyprus? Salamais? Paphos?
• The Holy Spirit said - discernment? Audible?
• They went to the synagogues first
• John - meaning Mark?
• Jewish false prophet - very specific - Bar-Jesus? Meaning?
• Sergius Paulus - proconsul - who? What?
• Perga? Pamphylia? Anticoh in Pisidia?
• Do synagogue leaders always ask newcomers to speak?
• 7 nations in Canaan? PS 2:7 - context and other scriptures - like IS 55:3, PS 16:10, IS 29:14, IS 45:22
• Almost the whole city? Jealousy is what sparked the resistance not content?
• Were appointed to eternal life? meaning? Is "appointed" correct?
• Iconium?

Meaning:

Luke shows clearly the plan of God in the expansion of the gospel. First to the Jews and then to the Gentiles. The readers see the Holy Spirit working freely and openly in the broad world now, touching and saving many lives.

Application:

Inward: How do I stand in the way of the truth of the gospel?

Outward: When rejected, do I walk away filled w/ joy and the Holy Spirit?

Upward: Praise God for His arranging of the good news to seek and save the world.

Check out all of our podcasts at http://www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tys Observations:

• Was Herod intending to kill Peter at the same time of year as Jesus? 
• Why mention the prayer?
• Were the disciples not earnestly praying? If they were why did they not believe Rhoda?
• Did God kill Herod for calling himself a god? Was that the last straw?

Darin's Observations:

• Which Herod? King?
• James was beheaded? Wasn't that Roman practice?
• 4 squads? How many? Any significance?
• Earnest prayer? Why qualify?
• Wakes Peter up - sleeping like Jesus in the storm? sleeping like in the garden?
• Antonia Fortress? On the main street?
• Gates - hilarious he can't get through the garden gate after escaping from prison - only God can do some stuff
• Peter's angel? Signficance? They didn't have faith in prayer?
• Herod and Tyre and Sidon - what is going on here? Any significance to his oration?

Meaning:

• (Ty) The schemes of man will not stop our God.
• (Darin) Nothing stops God...no imprisonment, executions, powerful kings, etc. (vs 24)

Application:

Inward: (Ty) I pray about it constantly if it matters to me. Or do I forget who's really in charge? (Darin) Does my heart need to come to its senses sometimes and see the reality of God in everyday life?

Outward: (Ty) You are not your own God give God the Glory, that is the only reason you exist anyway. (Darin) Do I pray fervently?

Upward: (Ty) Praise be to Yahweh that He sets the captives free! (Darin) Praise be to Jesus who uses us despite our weak prayers and weak faith to further His purpose.

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Apostles and brothers? Were they surprised?
• Criticized by the circumcision party - interesting title - Galatians?
• Peter remembers John the Baptist words - were John the Baptist's words to the Jews?
• God moved - they followed - they rejoiced
• God has granted the Gentiles repentance leading to life
• More evidence of God moving w/ the Gentiles
• Watching the works of the Lord
• Why send Barnabas?
• Why does Barnabas take Saul? Beginning of Paul's ministry?
• Disciples first called Christians in Antioch - tongue in cheek?
• Prophecy of famine - Christians helping Jerusalem Christians? Weren't they also under the famine?

Meaning:

Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.

Application:

Inward: Do I tend to recognize the works of God or blaze my path?

Outward: Preach the Lord Jesus. Don't let other subjects get me sidetracked.

Upward: Praise Jesus for the Holy Spirit who still works to bring men and women to the cross.

Check out all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Significance of Caesarea?
• Why the explanation of the Italian Cohort?
• Why is Peter in Joppa? Context?
• Significance of the hours listed - 9th hour, etc.?
• Cornelius explained his vision and everything to the solider and servant - why?
• Trance? Has this happened elsewhere in the Bible?
• 3x same vision - repetition - any ties to 3 denials?
• What God has made clean - we assume Gentiles right?
• The men coming seem to be the answer to the meaning of the vision.
• Even though God said go, Peter still asks them why they are there...
• Why did the Spirit direct Cornelius to fetch Peter to hear what Peter had to say? Why not reveal to him directly?
• The gifts and then baptism - what was the link?
• Why would Peter say why not baptism right away?
• Commanding - strong emphais

Meaning:

• God shows no partiality. But in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.

Application:

Inward: How partial is my heart?

Outward: How many opportunities do I pass on due to partiality?

Upward: Praise Jesus for making the common clean. Your grace is truly amazing!

Listen to our other podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tys Observations:

• Saul wasn't alone
• All the parallels Jacob, Zechariah, Jesus
• Is following Jesus referred to as the Way anywhere else? Why is the W in "the way" capitalized?
• When God or Jesus spoke to someone were there witnesses? Why are there witnesses? 
• Why didn't Saul eat or drink?
• Why exactly 3 days?
• Ananias responds to the Lord “Here I am, Lord” _ isn't that how Abraham responded?
• Who can stop a God who takes his enemy's greatest weapon and uses it to impose His will?
• Is it possible the story of the 99 and the lost sheep was specifically referring to Saul
• Barnabas – One of Saul's disciples? Is this the guy from Acts 4:36–37
• Miracles = faith builders for others
• The Tabitha/Dorcas story reminds me of the little girl Jesus healed, Peters mother in law

Darin's Observations:

• The Way - first mention? Why does Luke assume readers would know?
• Letters?
• Street called Straight, significance?
• God's answer to Ananias - interesting - I will show him how much he must suffer
• Laying on of hands - filled?
• In the synagogues Paul proclaims after missing these letters - does he fall under the same letter now?
• Proving that Jesus is the Christ - reasoned in Scripture?
• Jews plotted to kill him - under the letters? Irony.
• Barnabas - first or second time mentioned in Acts?
• The Hellenists - same as the Jews?
• Why give Aeneas' name? Tabitha? Dorcas? and areas like Sharon, Lydda, Joppa, etc.?
• Simon the Tanner - odd...what about the unclean?

Meaning:

• (Ty) The Lord will provide.  When you're being persecuted to the ends of the earth
• When you are desperate for healing, When your sin is so great everyone knows your name because of it and you need saving, When your a dead and you need to be brought back to life 
• The Lord will provide. 
• (Darin) God is in control and makes a way for the Gospel door to be opened to the Gentiles. The Gospel brings life wherever it goes!

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit (Darin) Ditto.

Outward: (Ty) You never know whom the Lord might bring to your door, when the Lord calls you to be there for someone else answer His call with “Here I am” (Darin) Is my testimony a basis for the Gospel presentation?

Upward: (Ty) only you turn mistakes into miracles - Only you make prophets out of prodigals - Only you deserve the glory for it all- 'Cause nothing is too far for you to rise again - Come and make these dead bones live - Taken from graves by–KB

(Darin) Praise God for taking back Paul from the enemy and using him for His glory!

Check out all of New Hope Podcasts at www.newhopechurch.cc//listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• How does Saul go from being just in approval of Stephen's stoning to being in charge of all the persecutions?
• Does the scattering of the Jerusalem Jesus Jews help further kingdoms throughout Judea and Samaria? Did the Holy Spirit lead it?
• Were they all scattered except the disciples who were dragged off to prison the disciples? The Talmud?
• Is this the first we hear of Philip that he has become this master pastor and is performing miracles with the Holy Spirit because of Jesus?
• When do we receive the gift of the Holy Spirit?
• For the listener– What is a eunuch? 
• I am nicknaming the Ethiopian eunuch Easy E because he needs a name.
• How far was Ethiopia from Jerusalem in ancient times and were they largely pagan? –sometimes when I read the bible I feel like I'm in national treasure. Because 2050 years ago the borders and even the enforcement would have been so much different.

Darin's Observations:

• City of Samaria? Significance of calling it the city - it wasn't around then, right?
• Apostles didn't scatter - significance?
• Why the coming of Peter and John? Is anything here concerning when the HS comes on someone?
• Could God be leading Peter and John for their sake more than the Samaritans?
• Simon the magician, was he a convert or not?
• Peter's harsh rebuke led Simon to apologize, right?
• The angel of the Lord - synonymous with the Spirit? Any OT reference here?
• Candace - a title, not a name right?
• IS 53 - significance?

Meaning:

• (Ty) Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” but those who make excuses, not one of those men who were invited shall taste God's Banquet. Luke 14 Philip is taken to Azotus - where is Azotus, why was he led there? Reasoning?
• (Darin) Luke demonstrates the faithfulness of the disciples of Jesus as they seek to continue to be His witnesses in Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. I believe his purpose is to show his readers that historically things were playing out as Jesus predicted.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Have the Joy that Easy E the Eunuch had when we were baptized every day. Be joyful because of Jesus. I feel like I have peaks and valleys in my faith and I lose some joy or hope at times. I want to have the Joy I had when I was baptized for the first time at age 34 every day. I pray for it. The Middle East is at war, the economy is bad the news has us worried, who cares I have Jesus let's be joyful Let's go! (Darin) Do I boldly proclaim the gospel like Philip? Where is my passion?

Outward: (Ty) Pray to have an opportunity like Philip had with the Eazy E and listen to the Holy Spirit throughout the entire process sharing the Truth of the Joy of Jesus. (Darin) Peter's strong rebuke of Simon possibly shakes Simon into obedience, do I defend the gospel so vehemently with others whose hearts are obviously in the wrong place with God?

Upward: (Ty) Praise God that He made room for me at His table and continues to fill with people who love Him just as much as I do, even though none of us are worthy of it. (Darin)

Praise the Lord for guiding, leading, and giving strength to so many who have gone before us with great sacrifice to make sure we have heard the gospel of Jesus Christ!

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network - www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• What does he mean by Uncircumcised in Heart and ears? 
• Who is stephen?
• Is Stephen saying the Holy Spirit was always available to all Jewish people?
• 54 Now when they heard these things they were enraged, and they ground their teeth at him. Why does Luke use gnashing of teeth in verse 54? 
• Does God answer Stephens' intercessory prayer for those killing him or as I like to call them the stoner

Darin's Observations:

• Chaldeans, Babylonians?
• History of Haran? Significance?
• God told Abraham of the 400 years of Egyptian slavery. wow - Gen 15
• Why does Stephen need to go over Israel's history with this audience?
• There seems to be lots of Exodus imagery - even the application of stiff-necked people
• Why were they so mad? Enraged? Gnashing of teeth? Stopping the ears?
• So many parallels to Jesus
• What significance is there in mentioning Saul here?

Meaning:

(Ty) Come to Jesus, who is the way to God Almighty. Why are you deceiving your ears and heart by rejecting what you already know to be true? (Darin) God transcends any place, His Spirit is with us. People will go to great lengths to defend their "religion".

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Create a plan for following Jesus the way Stephen did (Darin) Am I stiff-necked? Uncircumcised in heart? Do I resist the H.S.?

Outward: (Ty) Make 1 intercessory prayer for 1 person or people group once a day who either seems to not be a Christian (Darin) Do I witness in the H.S.'s power? What am I afraid of?

Upward: (Ty) Praise be God for taking persecution and making it a moment that leads to the repentance of the person doing the persecution. (Darin) Praise be to God who paid the price so He could be present with us.

Check out all of our New Hope Podcasts at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• Why didn't the disciples see the feeding of Hellenistic women as a way to preach the word of God? 
• How did they know Stephen was full of the Holy Spirit and what did he do previously to this that made Luke write Stephen is full of the HS and not the other 6?
• Is the writer trying to show us the similarities between Stephen's stories and that of Jesus?
• Did Stephen shine in his new role of feeding the Hellenists? What got Stephen to this level with the HS?

Darin's Observations:

• disciples increasing, not Christians or any other name?
• Hellenists? Who are they exactly?
• pick from among you - the church selected 7 - any significance?
• are all the guys chosen - Greek names?
• Stephen was mentioned as full of faith and the Holy Spirit - is this to be assumed of the other men on the list as well?
• Priests come to the faith - significance? What priests?
• Synagogue of Freedmen? What is this exactly? Relation to the other areas/regions listed?
• Stephen's story is very similar to Jesus' story - how many parallels?
• The face of an angel - ECC 8:1 somewhat an explanation?

Meaning:

Ty's Meaning: This is what Jesus meant in Luke 9:23 when He said If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily* and follow me. Luke illustrates Stephen showing us this is the way to follow Jesus.

Darin's Meaning: The world hates Jesus and will hate anyone who proclaims the same truth. (added one) The church should attend to it's community in social and economic ways. Attended to by wise and spiritual people.

Application:

(Ty) QUESTION None of my applications are seek and follow the Spirit. They are all things that were done by these men who were full of the Holy Spirit. Since the Holy Spirit was the influencer of their actions, Shouldn't my application seek and discern clear and direct guidance from the Holy Spirit instead of the actions themselves?

Inward: Be open to honest criticism/correction when it's the truth and address the issue. Even if it's from outside your group. (Darin) Do I pursue His wisdom enough in my life? Is his grace and power in me with I speak, etc.?

Outward: (Ty) Follow Jesus the way Stephen did. (Darin) Do I serve others economically? Do I serve with the Word?

Upward: (Ty) Thank God for sending His Spirit to be our helper. If I have a problem He will solve it, all I have to do is ask in heartfelt prayer and be open to receive his answer instead of validation for what I want to do. (Darin) Praise Jesus for moving the church forward even amid crisis. Thank you, Father, for those who have gone before us, martyred for the faith, so we may know You.

Listen to all of our New Hope Church podcasts at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations: (Ty)

• Isn't Ananis lying to Peter and the other apostles and not the Holy Spirit? 
• Is the penalty for lying to the Holy Spirit more severe?
• What is the role of satan in all of this?
•  Is it possible Peter was reluctant to complete this? 
• Who are none of the rest? 
• How did we get to this point in the story, where these “sinners” are now healing immediately in the name of Jesus? Amazing
• In the words of OMC in 1995, How bizarre this story is.
• It is the theme of acts and why the quote NONE OF THE REST from verse 13 even went to Solomons's portico around the apostles. That theme is:
• Those in power tell the apostles to quit teaching the gospels, which leads to Peter preaching the gospel to them
• Is this the first time Peter speaks about Obeying the Holy Spirit?

(Darin)

• "Why has Satan"? Is this a valid question for Ananias?
• Filled your heart to lie - awkward statement, v 4 you have contrived the deed - confusing about who is at fault here, Annanias or Satan?
• Great fear - mentioned twice
• agreed together to test the "Spirit of the Lord"?
• Why would God want fear to come to the whole church at this particular time?
• Verse 12-16 - by the hands of the apostles...meaning no one else?
• Who is "none of the rest"?
• Peter's shadow - seems very specific to be Peter and the apostles as far as these miracles are emanating from
• Verses 17-42 - Jealousy is their motive?
• Is the High Priest a Sadducee? It seems like he is...
• Why were they afraid of the people?
• What is the council? Sanhedrin?
• Gamaliel's advice seems logical but is not necessarily a statement of belief.
• Why beat them, though, after that argument?
• Is "dishonor" a key word here?

Meaning:

• (Ty) When you believe the truth of Jesus to the point that you allow that truth to become your identity, you aren't just given access to the Holy Spirit. It becomes the air you breathe, pneuma.
• (Darin) If it is God, you will not be able to overthrow them.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Obey God and His Holy Spirit rather than men. (Darin) Am I ok with dishonor?

Outward: (Ty) DO NOT cease teaching and preaching that Jesus is the Christ. (Darin) How do I seek to take care of the needs of others?

Upward: (Ty) Praise God that He not only sent Jesus but also sent a helper in the Holy Spirit to obey and encourage us as we fight off the schemes of men led by the supernatural forces of the devil himself. (Darin) Praise the unstoppable God - his movement - He is still at work in this world!

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tys Observations:

• Should I read this passage, sell everything I have, and give it to the church?
• Psalm 2 reference, Why Does it Stop? I am particularly interested in Psalm 2 about 
• Who is the Captain of the temple? A guy with the Sadducees? SO Darin might call him a mob boss
• 5000 total?
• Is the kingdom only significantly advanced when the Holy Spirit is in charge?
• Why was Barnabas' field mentioned and where he is from significant? Was he the first one? Was it because he was an encouragement?

Darin's Observations:

• What is the significance of the list of rulers?
• Who are these guys listed precisely - what do we know about them? (Annas, Caiaphas, John, and Alexander)
• Filled with the HS? Meaning?
• The builders? Significance? Is there temple stuff going on here with the builders and cornerstone, etc.?
• Recognized that they had been with Jesus - best compliment ever
• Why were they afraid of the crowds?
• Is there a significance to the man being over 40 years old?

Ty's Meaning:

• Psalm 2, Acts 4:11-12 – To reject Jesus is a rejection of God and will be your downfall.
• Community It takes all of us working for the kingdom to make the church work properly.

Darin's Meaning:

• verses 29-31

Application:

• Inward: (Ty) The kingdom of God is what matters most (Darin). I need a bold heart, a desire to be bold regardless of the situation.
• Outward: (Ty) to be an encourager like Barnabas and the Holy Spirit (Darin) Bold actions.
• Upward: (Ty) Praise God that He would send us His Spirit to encourage us to speak and teach the truth to others so that they may be reconciled with God through Jesus Christ. (Darin) Praise Jesus, for he is resurrected, still healing today, and still saving today.

Check out all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• ninth hour?
• Beautiful gate? Significance?
• entered the temple with them - 1st time? to pray?
• v 10-11 - amazement, wonder, astounded - different words in the Greek?
• by our own power and piety - manner of teaching to many who believed in the power of piety?
• Men of Israel - same start as Acts 2
• murderer - Barabbas justifiably a murderer
• acted in ignorance as did your rulers? not an excuse, right?
• by his name...faith in his name...the lame man's faith? Peter and John's faith?
• what does v 21 mean?
• v23 - from the people? what did Moses mean? what does Luke mean?

Meaning:

Jesus is Lord. The servant who is the only hope. Listen to him, do what he tells. you. Turn from your wickedness.

Application:

Inward: Do I believe he has authority in my life? Do I want his authority to rule my life?

Outward: Piety brings power - do I believe this evidenced in the way i live day to day or do I walk in surrender

Upward: Praise Jesus who is the Author of Life despite my wickedness and saw fit to save me - a child of pagan culture - all due to his goodness and grace.

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at http://www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• All together meaning the 120?
• Sound like a wind - -not a wind? as a fire? not a fire?
• baptism by fire - is this the event as spoken by John the Baptist?
• all filled? all 120 spoke in tongues?
• v5 - are they in the streets now?
• miracle of tongues as in language spoken or heard?
• the regions listed - the 70 from the table of nations in Genesis?
• v12 - what does this mean? some searching for meaning in the miracle and others are cynical?
• why Joel?
• on all flesh? being lived out in this moment?
• prophecy, visions, dreams - all 12-? fulfillment in this moment?
• the wonders in heaven - possibly the crucifixion and resurrection times?
• v21 significance of the men of Israel?
• predestination verses?
• Ps 16 quote - were the Jews anticipating the Messiah to conquer death?
• v22-36 the gospel with v37-47 the response to the gospel
• you and your children and all who are far off?
• save yourselves? free will?
• reversal of Babel event on multiple levels

Meaning: The Spirit has come to infiltrate us, the whole world, Jews and Gentiles, restoring and reclaiming the nations. Jesus brings salvation to the world allowing all to choose Abraham's family in a new covenant with God. The mission continues.

Application:

Inward: Does my heart want family? (v42-47)

Outward: How do I live out the ideals of the kingdom?

Upward: Praise Jesus for bringing us to yourself back home where we belong!

Check out our other podcasts in the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Who was Theophilus?
• Wait, in Jerusalem? Why there?
• What does baptism in the Holy Spirit mean?
• What does their question mean, and what is the significance of "restoring the kingdom to Israel?"
• 1:8 sure seems like a built-in meaning
• Why do the angels say., "Men of Galilee?"
• Any connection to Elijah? Double portion? etc.?

Meaning:

Acts 1:8 is at the crux of this passage. Be my witnesses all over the world. Do not concern yourselves with the times or seasons, but spread the gospel.

Application:

Inward: Is the mantle passed in my heart? Do I see the urgency/importance of the commission?

Outward: Witness to the resurrection - does my life reflect what I have experienced with Jesus?

Upward: Praise Jesus, who continues ministry all over the world 2,000 years later. He is alive and working!

Check out our other podcasts in the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Ty and Darin as they dig into the fundamental questions surrounding the Book of Acts. We will tackle the book's author, audience, dating, and purpose before diving deep into Acts 1-5.

Check out our other podcasts in the New Hope Podcast Network on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Also, suffer once for sins? Context?
• v19 - "in which" what is the significance? Translation? Why is this a transition? What is the meaning?
• The spirits? What spirits? Human? Non-human?
• Prison? What prison? Is this hell for sure? How does it differ from the gospels - with Gehenna, etc.?
• Did not obey - only evil spirits?
• When the ark was being prepared - any typology here?
• Does this have anything to do with the patience of God?
• Baptism - meaning from the flood? Being brought safely through water - what does this have to do with evil spirits in prison?
• The resurrection - connected directly w baptism?
• Power and authority - back to speaking to spirits - very confusing as to the overall point.

Meaning:

Jesus suffered and was victorious over death and evil. We, too, can overcome despite suffering.

Application:

Inward: Is my heart prepared to be strengthened in suffering?

Outward: Do I speak the language of victory often?

Upward: Praise Jesus! The resurrected One! The victor over pain and death who led the way for our victory!

Listen to all our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast network by clicking HERE

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• The context is Christian behavior overall, or is it specifically worship services in the early church?
• What is the significance of the repetition of the word "head"?
• What is meant by 'prophesies' in this context?
• What is the significance of the shaven head? Is it about mourning? Shame?
• Is Paul saying that men are superior to women?
• A symbol of authority because of the angels? What does this mean?
• Judge for yourselves - makes it sound so obvious, why?
• How does nature teach us about hair length?
• Why is long hair the glory of a woman?
• Paul must be resourcing something his audience understood, right?

Meaning:

When we gather in worship, we must examine our hearts and actions and rid ourselves of anything that smacks of arrogance.

Application:

Inward: Is my heart haughty? In what ways?

Outward: Do my actions, words, and contributions to the Christian Community bring glory to God or others/myself?

Upward: You are the One we worship! You alone are worthy! To You alone do we bow!

Listen to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Why is this story here? Seems to interrupt the Joseph story - significance?
• Adullamite - turned away from his brothers to this guy - who was Hirah exactly? Significance? Idol worshipper? 
• Caananite wife - this was against God's law, correct? 
• Tamar - safe to assume that she is Caanaite too? If so, why did she care about the command to multiply - did she convert?
• Onan - why have sex with her at all? Just flat-out selfish? Apparently evil dude
• Judah's deception - send her home - Tamar wasn't the only one who deceived - he never intended to give her his other son, right?
• Did Judah believe that Tamar was cursed? Did he not see the evil his sons were doing? 
• Enaim means two springs or eyes - ironic that Judah doesn't recognize her, and she disguises herself in a place called eyes
• she knew where she sat, right? A wayside, a common place for prostitutes? 
• She knew he was a man not to be trusted - but didn't care about the goat, right? only used stuff to frame him
• Twenty-two days 'cult prostitute,' so she disguised herself as a cult prostitute of a fake god? and Judah went to her anyway? Judah was messed up
• and burned to death - was this normal? I thought stoning was the main execution
• Judah acknowledges Tamar's righteousness. I have a hard time understanding how this is righteousness - maybe because she went to lengths to carry out the command of multiplying - but with deception and cult prostitution? confusing
• Twins with the younger getting ahead again - Jacob and Esau (heel grabber) - significance w Jacob and now with Perez? Through Perez comes the Davidic Dynasty

Meaning: A stay in Egypt was God's grace to keep them from destruction by intermarriage and false gods. The story demonstrates God's grace and faithfulness to his promise, ultimately coming in Jesus.

Application:

Inward: Do I even think about building community? How much zeal do I have regarding seeing God's will play out among his people? 

Outward: What do I practically do to encourage the community to bring about God's will?

Upward: You are so faithful, Father! Thank you for using us, even in our sins and schemes, to bring grace to a broken world.

Check out all of our podcasts in the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• What is going on here?
• Who is Balaam exactly? Is he a prophet from Israel? Why is a Moabite asking him things?
• Seer - could he have his hand in many types of spirits? God-fearer?
• Why does God tell him to go and then is angry w/ him when he does?
• Why doesn't Balaam react to a talking donkey?
• What is the significance of this story to Israel's history?
• Why would the Angel of the Lord be involved here in this story with an apparent foreigner?
• Balaam was greedy, right? He kept inviting these guys to stay when God already said no.

Meaning:

God announces even to pagans how He is going to bless Israel and ultimately will bring the Messiah who will crush all other gods. The lesson learned, Yahweh is the Most-High, faithful to His people, His promises, and His legacy.

Application:

Inward: Am I lured by greed for anything other than Yahweh?

Outward: Do I speak and act what God teaches?

Upward: Praise the Lord! For You have been and will always be faithful to Your people!

Check out all of our podcasts in the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join the guys as we discuss the new series called, Difficult Bible Passages. In the next four weeks, we will apply SOMA to 2 Old Testament passages and 2 New Testament passages. The passages are as follows:

Numbers 22:22-35- Balaam and his Talking Donkey

Genesis 38 - Judah and Tamar

I Corinthians 11:2-16 Directions concerning head coverings

I Peter 3:18-22 Did Jesus go to hell?

Jump right in with us!

Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Stephen Anderson

Join the guys as we discuss, in testimony fashion, how SOMA helps anyone to deepen their study and understanding of the Bible.

Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

Ty:

• Why is location important? Belonged to Judah in the southern kingdom? 
• 6 cubits and a span. Is that Greg Sperry tall?
• 9 feet 9 inches - 3 foot taller than Greg Sperry
• He was wearing a helmet? I thought Goliath got hit in the head?
• Was a 1 on 1 warfare common practice? I think of gorilla warfare used by smaller armies now.
• Did Jesse know David would want to fight? 
• Why didn't Saul lead or fight himself?
• How did David know to do all this?

Darin:

• Was a champion challenge normal for ancient battles?
• Why does it mention Gath? Significance?
• Shekel weight?
• Why were they so afraid?
• Goliath connected to Anakim, Nephilium
• Why was Saul ok w David fighting?
• Why five stones? Signficance?
• David goes in dressed like a shepherd
• Why take the head, sword, and entries as to what he did with them?
• Saul didn't know who David was? Explanation?

Meaning:

(Ty) God uses what the world considers weak to humble the proud. The proud enemies of God and the proud people of God. (Darin) The Lord saves not with sword and spear. For the battle is the Lord's, and He will give you into our hand.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) In the hard times, David remembers what God has done for him and seeks His guidance. (Darin) Arrogance brings spiritual death.

Outward: (Ty) Be a man after God's own heart, just as David was. Have a close personal relationship with God at your core. That starts with time in prayer. (Darin) How many things in life do I fight on my own?

Upward: (Ty) Praise God for what He's done. What He's done the few and far between times I listened to Him should be sufficient enough for me to listen to Him all the time, but I don't, and I have to ask myself why I don't. (Darin) Father, you raise up the faithful and courageous at just the right times to remind us of who You are…You fight for us if we let you.

Check out all of our podcasts in the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

Ty:

• Who is Elisha?
• How does Sally know Elisha as a man of God? What does that phrase mean in English? (The Shumanite woman is affectionately named Sally for my purposes).
• Why did Sally set aside a room for a prophet? What is the significance of that? It makes me think of the movie the War room.
• Too many parallels to mention
• It didn't seem like she asked for a child why a son?
• How much are children like a gift in the old testament in particular?
• The boy hurts his head, and the father seems not concerned for his son.
• How clueless is Sally’s husband? Why doesn't she tell him the truth? She also lies to Gehza.
• How does Sally know Elisha as a man of God? What does that phrase mean in English?

Darin:

• Where is Shunem? Is it a Jewish community?
• It seemed that he frequented the location. Why? What was special about it geographically for Elisha?
• Why is Gehazi being used to talk to her one time but not another?
• Did she distrust Gehazi? If she did...why would she?
• It seems confusing with all of the pronouns used in this passage.
• She shows faith by laying him on the man of God's bed - interesting how Elisha's name is not used by the 'man of God.'
• New moon or Sabbath? Why would the husband assume going to the man of God only at those times?
• Elisha and Elijah both had episodes of resurrecting someone...what are the similarities? Differences?
• Why didn't the miracle work the first time? Gehazi's fault? The woman's? Elisha's? Anyone's?

Meaning:

• (Ty) Elisha is her means to salvation. The woman made room for God or at least His prophet, and she was blessed without asking for it. It is a Foreshadowing of Jesus.
• (Darin) God is faithful. Yahweh is the only true God. He gives life.

Application:j

Inward: (Ty) What's amazing about Elisha is he has such a great relationship with God that others will go to great links to be around him. I want a relationship with God like that. (Darin) I need faith to wait at his feet even when I'm in anguish.

Outward: (Ty) Be intentional about making friends or showing extra hospitality to everyone. See each relationship you have and make a vessel for the truth of Jesus to spread. (Darin) I need to go....stretching myself out on the dead in prayer. Eyes to eyes, mouth to mouth, and hands to hands.

Upward: (Ty) Praise God that He brings us closer together by giving ourselves or possessions when we do so, asking for nothing in return. (Darin) Father, I praise you for your compassion, faithfulness, and willingness to pay attention to us.

Check out all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

Ty

• Has God ever asked for a sacrifice besides this story? In which the end, God did not make Abraham sacrifice Issac.
• Setting up the coming of Jesus
• Was Issac not enough of a sacrifice? 
• We parallel this story with the sacrifice of Jesus. Was it simply that the sacrifice of Issac could not atone for the sin of the world?— God provided the sacrifice like Abraham said he would
• Reminds me of Mark 9:14, where the man cries out help my unbelief. Where usually, healing requires faith, but in this instance, Jesus also provided faith. Just like in this story, the Lord provided the sacrifice.
• Why is it not recorded what Issac said or did after being bound
• Does God ever ask for a sacrifice?
• Why did God test Abraham?

Darin

• After these things? What things in particular?
• Here I am - said 3x in this chapter
• No talkback from Abraham? Why the silence?
• Moriah - significance?
• Abraham and his servants bring the wood, and Isaac carries it up the hill - God will provide the lamb.
• Now I know - the Angel- is this God?
• A ram provided - substitution - instead of his son - parallels?
• God repeats the covenant always meant through Isaac
• Was Abraham giving up the covenant too?
• Abraham says, 'we will be back' - are these words of faith?

Meaning:

(Ty) “The Lord will provide”-- Moses or Genesis writer - Not your son but mine - God. (Darin) God is incredibly faithful. He is the Sovereign and Provider.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Fear God. (Darin) Do I listen to the conventional wisdom of the age more than the Holy Spirit?

Outward: (Ty) Listen to God. (Darin) Do I seek to be gracious like God is gracious to me? How do I provide for others in my relationships?

Upward: (Ty) Praise God that when we fear Him, He builds wisdom in us; when we listen to Him, we get to be a part of His kingdom to come on earth as it is in heaven. (Darin) God is sovereign - no one has a right to question him. God is gracious - no one is his equal. Praise you, Lord, for your tests and provision!

Listen to our other podcasts at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

Ty:

• Was Cain the older brother? Are older brothers always jealous of their younger brothers?
• Was Cains's offering an afterthought?
• This echos writing is similar to adam and eve—--- where are you? What have you done?
• God warned Cain
• The forgiveness- God lets Cain live and protects him
• Who does vengeance belong to?

Darin:

• gotten?
• In the course of time ...just fast-forwarding to when they are older? How old? Do we know?
• Why did the Lord 'have regard' for Abel and his offering but not Cain? Does the 'firstborn' have anything to do with it?
• Cain is angry - just out of jealousy; any other reason? His face fell - what does this mean? Anything implied?
• If you do well - do what well? Lazy in the field? Is his laziness what is in question?
• Cain spoke to Abel - why did the author not tell us what was said - why include it?
• Killing him - I always thought there was a rock involved - but it doesn't say
• What have you done? Why is this the 2nd question?
• Cursing the ground - the serpent - possibly the first burial meaning death in the ground?
• The whole mark thing - why, what, and significance?
• Cain went away from the presence of the Lord - significance?

Meaning:

Ty: You are in charge of your salvation. Offer your will up as a sacrifice, and doing the will of God draws you closer to him, and sin draws you further away, but He still loves you like a son.

Darin: Sin desire to have us and will master us if we do not master it. Even so, God is faithful...choose His ways.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) I become angry when things don't go how I want them to. Then it's harder to rule over my sin when it is crouching at the door. So don't become angry; when I am presented with sin, I see it as false joy that I will regret if I sin. (Darin) Oh, how much the lusts of life are aggressive in me. We can feel defeated, but God has made way for us to overcome - are we lazy? Am I lazy?

Outward: (Ty) If I sin against my brother, The voice of your brother's blood is crying to God - Look at all costs not to sin against or grievance with my brothers and sisters. - Hard for me, especially when I am right. (Darin) How do I treat my brother? My sister? Is it obvious I love them?

Upward: (Ty) Forgive the way I expect to be forgiven. Do not go scorched earth on someone who wrongs me or who does something I view as wrong God seemed to hold back His wrath despite the murder of someone He cherished; can I forgive in that way? (Darin) Praise Yahweh for confronting me - where are you he asks - what have you done? Heb 12. Praise Him for His discipline.

Listen to all of our podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Ty and Darin as they discuss the basis for a new 4-week SOMA Series in the Old Testament! We pick out 4 of our favorite stories in the Old Testament to dig into SOMA style!

Listen for which stories we will be studying and join in studying with us into these incredibly rich and multi-layered texts! You will definitely hear something you have never heard before concerning these famous Bible characters, their stories, their context and the always present foreshadowing of Jesus!

Listen and Subscribe to all of our podcasts on the New Hope Podcast Network - www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Epilogue Part Two - Join Ty Griffith and Darin Hansen as they discuss Ty's and Darin's takeaways from the Gospel of Mark Series - Season One!

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Epilogue Part One - Join Kenny Calame and Darin Hansen as they discuss Kenny's takeaways from the Gospel of Mark Series - Season One!

Epilogue Part Two is coming!

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Note: We will not be covering 16:9-20 for reasons discussed in this episode. This episode is the last of the text of Mark, but a couple more episodes will follow for us to wrap up this study in the Gospel of Mark.

s1e58 Mark 16:1-8 The Resurrection of Jesus

Darin's Observations:

• Same women?
• First day of the week - Sunday, we assume?
• Was this the first time the women came back to the tomb?
• What does 'alarmed' mean - negative connotation?
• Were they alarmed thinking bad things were going on?
• See the place - they had known, saw before
• Going to Galilee again - point of emphasis to Mark, why?
• They said nothing to anyone, it records, but we know they did... Afraid to tell what they had seen?

Ty's Observations:

• How heavy was this stone?
• Who was in the grave?
• Did they not believe Jesus would do what He said he would do?
•  But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.”
• So they didn't tell Peter and the disciples? Why not?

Meaning: (Darin) Jesus has risen; go and tell. (Ty) He did what He said he would do in Mark 8:31. Then He went home to Heaven, which is where our home is.

Application:

Inward: (Darin) Trembling but astonished! Amazed! (Ty) Be intentional about the things you do. Slow down; seek to follow the will of God as closely as you can because if you do, it will affect not just you but the entire world around you.

Outward:(Darin) Go and tell! (Ty) Listen to angels or the Holy Spirit when they tell you to do things; do it. Don't be afraid like the Marys; do what you're told to do. This world is not our home; Heaven is. It's time I act like it.

Upward: (Darin) The RESURRECTED JESUS and ALL it means! (Ty) God's grace is so unending that He would sacrifice His only son for the sin of all mankind and that Jesus could endure the torture that all of our sins causes. God loves us.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e57 Mark 15:42-47 The Burial of Jesus

Darin's Observations:

• Mark explains the Day of Preparation and mentions the Sabbath but not Passover. Is there any significance?
• Who was Joseph of Arimathea - do we know much about him? Was he at the "trial"?
• "looking for the kingdom of God" - an odd way of describing him, significance?
• Pilate double-checked to see if he was dead. Was it the same centurion?
• What is the significance of mentioning the linen shroud twice?
• Cut out of the rock? Like a fortress?
• Mark mentions 3 Marys 3x (v40,47, 16:1). He mixes Mary, mother of Joses/w/James - seems to be the same woman, right?

Ty's Observations:

• Who is Joseph of Arimathea?
• Why did he do this?
• Looking for the kingdom of God? Was he a closet follower of Jesus?
• Is this the same centurion that had a soft heart toward Jesus?
• Is the centurion now a follower?
• Did Joseph roll the stone in front of the tomb by himself?

Meaning: (Darin) Jesus was dead. There was no disputing it. (Ty) Truly, Jesus is the Son of God.

Application:

Inward: (Darin) I love Jesus because He became obedient to death on a cross - Php 2. (Ty) Last week, I talked about how I wanted my heart to constantly be as soft as the centurion when he declared Jesus the son of God. When my heart is hardened like it was when he was in front of Pilate, I remember when my heart was softened and why it was softened to surrender it.

Outward:(Darin) Do I have the courage in the world for Jesus? (Ty) Model, from what I can tell, is the willingness of Joseph of Arimathea to break away from the world around him to be a known follower of Christ.

Upward: (Darin) Praise Jesus for the humble and brave followers who watched and stayed with him. (Ty) Jesus was such a blessing to all those around Him; He had such a heart for them that they did things like deny the world around them for Jesus. 

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e56 Mark 15:33-41 Jesus' Death on the Cross

Darin's Observations:

• 6th hour, noon?
• Darkness - the whole land meaning Jerusalem, Judea, or the world?
• Eloi - Aramaic? Greek? Hebrew? What about Elijah?
• PS 22 - Forsaken - what happens here between Jesus and the Father?
• Why did the crowd think he was calling Elijah? Significance?
• Mark includes one saying on the cross out of the 7 in the gospels. Why is this statement central to Mark's purpose, or is it?
• Sour wine on a reed - generous or mocking? Are they trying to keep him alive long enough to see Elijah?
• Mark includes the temple curtain - which curtain? Do the bystanders or centurion see this event?
• Is the centurion's comment due to belief or just a statement of astonishment?
• Mark does include the list of women with specific names -is there a reason for his audience?

Ty's Observations:

• Does Mark include the centurion's statement because of his audience?
• Why was there darkness? Why did it start 3 hours before Jesus cried out?
• What is the significance of the tearing of the curtain?
• If women could not watch the scourging, why could they watch a naked Man be crucified?
• Didn't Jesus say it is finished?

Meaning: (Darin) Jesus suffered a horrible death, even forsaken by God; he is the Son of God. (Ty) Truly this man is the son of God! From the mouth of a roman soldier, line 39 is the meaning.

Application:

Inward: (Darin) I can't fathom Jesus' sacrifice, not really. His love is ineffable. (Ty) I learned that Jesus could endure such torture and was always thinking of others and being about joy.

Outward:(Darin) What do I sacrifice in love for the sake of others? Do I, without complaint? (Ty) If Jesus can go through all that, surely I can stop whatever sin(s) I am wrestling with.

Upward: (Darin)Praise Jesus for enduring the cross, despising the shame! (Hebrews 12:2) (Ty) For His perfection. Only the son of God could have been that perfect!

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e55 Mark 15:16-32 The Mocking of Jesus and the Crucifixion

Darin's Observations:

• The palace - Herods? Somewhere else?
• How public is all this mocking - say inside?
• Proving some point with all of this?
• Simon of Cyrene - Mark is specific with his family -do the other gospels do this? Why not?
• Golgotha - parenthetical notes - original to Mark?
• Wine mixed w/ myrrh - expensive? Cheap? Significance?
• Why would they want his garments? Mockery? Income? Both?
• The 3rd hour - 9 am? Day of the Passover? What is the significance of these times that Mark gives?
• Mark records the accusations of the temple - which seems to be a theme. Why were they so upset with this?
• The thieves reviled him? Both? Were there more than 2?
• Chief priests and scribes mocked - just like Jesus' predictions.

Ty's Observations:

• Are the Jews or Gentiles mocking Him? Why would the roman soldiers care to mock Him? How ceremonial is this?
• Who was Simon of Cyrene, and why did He carry Jesus' cross? The irony of another Simon being with Jesus at the end and carrying His cross. Why would Mark mention Simon of Cyrene's children?
• It seems odd to take someone's clothes that they value. Psalm 22:18?
• Mark emphasized the King of the Jews; why? – in John, it says the chief priest asked pilate to put the man who thinks he's the King of the Jews, meaning

Meaning: (Darin) Jesus is the Son of God who takes away the sins of the world. The true King of ALL!

(Ty) Mark continues the story of Jesus. He compares and contrasts the earthly kingdom of the Romans and the Heavenly kingdom of Jesus. Showing how Jesus would follow God's will even if it meant His death.

Application:

Inward: (Darin) Jesus withstood insults, mockery, spitting, beatings, torture, betrayal, and denials, all for God's will. (Ty) That Jesus never called out this whole mockery of a trail and public murder of Himself

Outward:(Darin) How do I mock him in my life and words? (Ty)Treat the Holy Spirit and God's will as my best friend, my wise counsel, and follow it as closely as possible because God's will is perfect and mine is not.

Upward: (Darin) Praise Jesus for winning! He defeated the enemy at the cross and gave us freedom! (Ty). He defeated death and sin and put Himself through an unimaginable amount of pain to do so.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e54 Mark 15:1-15 Jesus Before Pilate

Darin's Observations:

• What's the significance of Jesus' answer to Pilate?
• Pilate is amazed at his silence. Why?
• IS53 in play here?
• The feast proposal - what is the history here w/ releasing a prisoner?
• Mark tells us Barabbas' crimes - do the other gospels?
• The King of the Jews is def mocking, right?
• Pilate thought the leaders were envious of Jesus; how right was he?
• The chief priests stirred up the crowd - how did they do this? Did they have that much influence?
• What evil has he done...they never answered...just yelled louder. (sounds like our culture)
• Why would Pilate care about this at all?
• Allowing Jesus to be crucified...what was Pilate's motive? Keeping the peace? He didn't sound convinced he was treasonous.

Ty's Observations:

• Was the crowd Barabas friends or possibly those who were part of the insurrection?

Meaning: (Darin) Jesus, rejected by everyone, took our place.

(Ty) Jesus, the son of God who was without sin, was given up to be killed to set free a captive who did not deserve to be set free but deserved death. Jesus took his place.

Application:

Inward: (Darin) His silence was the loudest. I love his focus on putting aside his defense. (Phil. 2) (Ty) Jesus relied on the Holy Spirit to give him the words or keep Him silent. 

Outward:(Darin) Do I know the will of God enough to set a path of action? Can I be quiet when I would typically be defensive when led by the Lord? (Ty) I don’t know that Barabbas turned his life around, but I believe the truth of Jesus Christ and knowing that He took my place just as He took the place of Barabbas should change the trajectory of my life.

Upward: (Darin) Praise Jesus for his incredible love. Only love kept him silent like a sheep led to the slaughter (IS 53) (Ty). I praise that Jesus knew that I would continue to mess up, which is why He chose to die for my sins.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e53 Mark 14:66-72 Peter's Denials

Darin's Observations:

• Where is the courtyard? Caiphas' house?
• The servant girl - same girl 2x it seems, in Mark- was it?
• I never really noticed a girl was the one who cowered Peter while Jesus was facing the powerful enemies.
• Mark includes detail of the rooster crowing 2x?
• What is Mark's purpose in the comparison/contrast of Jesus and Peter?
• They could have taken Peter back when they were in Gethsemane if they wanted, right?
• Invoke a curse on himself and swear - 2 different things? Culturally significant at all?
• Weeping - because of failure, fear, repentance?

Ty's Observations:

• Why is Peter so scared here? Didn't he cut some dude's ear off in defense of Jesus earlier?
• Isn't this what I do? What do we do? 
• A curse upon himself? 
• If Peter had supported Jesus, would they have killed Him?

Kenny's Observations:

• What was the servant girl’s opinion of Jesus? (14:66-69)
• Why did Peter move “out into the entryway”? (14:68)
• Who else besides the servant girl confronted Peter? Why? (14:70)
• Why do you think Peter denied knowing Christ?

Meaning: (Darin)Mark compares Peter to Jesus, showing the readers that failure, even its worst sense, can come to all. Grace and restoration for all.

(Ty) To me, Mark is asking the reader: Do you believe the claims of Christ enough to carry your cross even if it means a horrific death? Or will you deny that even knowing Him when costs you something? (Kenny) A lie, once told, must be backed up with another. Each time we deny Jesus, we are pushed further into the darkness. Each of our denials tends to be worse than the one before. There is a denial we should make, but it is of ourselves and never of Jesus.

Application:

Inward: (Darin) Jesus eventually reinstates Peter even after these denials. There is hope for me. (Ty) Be known as a Follower of Jesus. At least Peter had that. (Kenny) Jesus bore the penalty you and I deserved, and my usefulness for God begins when I recognize how broken I am. I need to be diligent about bringing my brokenness to Jesus...that’s all I have to offer Him anyway...and He will restore me fully.

Outward:(Darin) Why do I weep when I fail? Is it for repentance? (Ty) Be as bold to share my faith amongst those who would hate me for it as I am in a church full of people. (Kenny) In what way will I consciously identify with Christ publicly this week? Profess He is my Savior, and I have an eternal home with Him.

Upward: (Darin) He stood fearlessly revealing himself to us so we might also stand fearlessly in this world. (Ty)Because Jesus is who He says He is, I should be who I was always meant to be. I am thankful for the scars because they show me the difference between His will and mine. (Kenny) Remember in Luke when Jesus looked at Peter after his third denial and made eye contact? How do you think Jesus looked at Peter? With condemnation? No, Jesus looked at him with compassion. Jesus loved Peter, even when Peter didn’t love Jesus...that’ll break a person. I believe Peter’s life was drastically changed because of this brokenness.

PLEASE NOTE: Unfortunately, two mistakes were made in this - the passage with Jesus looking at Peter after the denial is in Luke, not in John. The second mistake was that the greek word for light (phos) was used in Mark 14:54, not in Luke's use.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e51 Mark 14:53-65 Jesus Before the Council

Darin's Observations:

• The high priest (Caiaphas, Annas, both?)
• All the Sanhedrin groups listed here?
• Was the courtyard of the high priest's house always this busy?
• Seeking testimony? Why? Didn't they have any ready?
• It seems like a ploy to get him to talk and "incriminate" himself
• The false witnesses disagreed? Did they use them?
• The witness quote about the temple - 13:2 - did he say that?
• He asks directly if he is the Christ and Son of the Blessed? Used in other gospels?
• The high priest tore his garments - what about Leviticus?
• Was he actually "blaspheming"?
• Was it common to abuse a prisoner like this before he was found guilty?

Ty's Observations:

• Why couldn't the witnesses agree?
• Jesus never actually said that. Read Mark 13:2
• Why didn't Jesus answer the first time? Was He consulting the spirit?

Kenny's Observations:

• Why was Jesus' answer so shocking? (14:63-64)I mean, it's not like they were not expecting it.
• What testimony did some witnesses bring against Jesus? (Mark 14:57-58)
• Why do you think Peter followed Jesus “at a distance”?(Mark 14:54)
• What emotions do you think Peter felt as he was following Jesus?
• Why do you think Jesus kept His identity as Christ hidden until He answered the high priest (Mark 14:61)?

Meaning: (Darin)Mark sets up Jesus as a contrast to his accusers and to Peter, his denier. The secret is now made known loudly before his enemies; He is the Son of God. (1:1) He wants his readers to believe this fact. (Ty) Jesus is the Christ, not the Christ they were expecting, and Sanhandrian can not handle the truth of Jesus Christ. (Kenny)We are often critical of Peter, but I’m sure we, too, have found ourselves distant from the Lord at times. There have even been times when we have denied our Lord. This is a tragic place to be! Jesus is Christ; that’s who He is. We’re not free to believe that Jesus is anything other than our Savior. Jesus came to solve our number one problem: sin. Nothing and no one else can solve this problem. Peter wrote, “He bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed” (1 Peter 2:24).

Application:

Inward: (Darin) He purposely submitted to evil to defeat it for us. He was determined and steadfast with restraint. (Ty)I can not have it all; I can only have the truth, which is beautiful. Can I handle the truth of Jesus Christ? (Kenny) Jesus' silence is pretty profound; He gave His love precedence over His wrath. All I think is how can I be more silent like him instead of trying to respond

sometimes in a negative way instead out of love.

Outward:(Darin) What is power in my life? Influence? Is it about the impact on our society or day-to-day living in His grace, quietly assumed of victory and vindication in the end? (Ty) Pause, take a deep breath, and seek the leadership of the Holy Spirit in as many moments as possible. (Kenny)I have a choice between wrath or love. Always put or convey love first as Christ did.

Upward: (Darin) Praise the Son of Man, seated and coming! (Ty) That Jesus chose to pay the price for my sin despite the fact that I constantly listen to lies instead of seeking the truth. (Kenny) Yes! Jesus delivers us from the wrath to come! How amazing,

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e51 Mark 14:32-52 Gethsemane, Betrayal and Arrest

Darin's Observations:

• Did all of the disciples witness the arrest, or just the three?
• Remain and watch - what are they "watching" for?
• Jesus' prayer isn't answered? The only time in Scripture?
• Temptation of what exactly was he warning them against?
• Hands of sinners - ironic use of "sinners"?
• Why the kiss?
• Is the naked man Mark?

Ty's Observations:

• What is the significance of Gethsemane? Is it close to the mount of olives? Did Jesus go there to pray often?
• What cup is Jesus referring to?
• Why are the disciples always sleeping or eating? Is Jesus just hard to keep up with?
• Was Judas Possessed at this point?

Kenny's Observations:

• What time of day is this/in Mark’s Place/ 10-11 pm?
• What caused Jesus the amount of agony that He experienced on this day? Was
• it the fear of death?
• Could the disciples have prevented this?
• Vs. 35-37, could this be compared to Isaiah 38:1-5? But in contrast to Hezekiah, who appears to have insisted on having his way, our Lord Jesus submitted to His Father’s will.

Meaning: (Darin)Jesus chose to drink the cup. God's will is more important than all the agony. (Ty)Picture one of your children being marched to their death and crying out to you; you have the power to stop it. However, you choose not to stop it to save millions of others. That is how much God loves us! (Kenny)I think this passage shows us Jesus ' humanity clearly. We remember to be determined to fulfill our duty to God no matter the cost and to be compassionate to others even if they don’t deserve it and we are in the middle of a tough time.

Application:

• Inward: (Darin)I love his determination; he agonized and pleaded but then set his face to the task anyway. (Ty)Total surrender even until death. (Kenny)Two things stand out to me about Jesus’ arrest, or this passage in general: His determination and compassion. He knew what would happen in the garden, yet He still went there. He allowed Judas to kiss him. Compassion stands out. If anyone had cause to be bitter, it was Jesus. Here His friend, whom He had blessed and been kind to, was betraying Him. The people He had given His life to help and serve were killing Him.
• Outward: (Darin)Do I take temptation seriously? Do I stay awake to its presence and avoid it? (Ty)Jesus seems never to lose that closeness with God. (Kenny) I think learning that crying out to God in prayer is the proper response when my emotions threaten to overcome me. I learned that I should be honest in asking God what I hope He will do for us. I learned that I need to submit to God and obey even if the answer to my prayer is not what I had hoped. Compassion needs to be shown to others when they don't deserve it.
• Upward: (Darin)Praise God; Jesus fulfilled the Father's promises. (Ty)Even when I don’t listen to His warnings, He protects me. (Kenny)Jesus defeated sin and death on the cross. He didn't have to, but wow, what praise.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e50 Mark 14:22-31 The Last Supper and Prediction of Denials

Darin's Observations:

• Mark doesn't seem to give much detail as the other gospels, what significance?
• Is Judas at the meal? Mark doesn't tell us.
• Is this the Passover meal? As in rabbinic traditions?
• Is Jesus re-fashioning the covenantal meal?
• Weren't there multiple cups in the traditional meal? Why one?
• What does the greek for covenant mean? Any connections to the old covenant?
• Is there Jewish marriage imagery here? Especially with not drinking wine again until the Kingdom.
• Mt of Olives - significance with the same place as the temple's judgment?
• Where does he quote from? Context?
• Why does he go back to Galilee, and why predict this?
• Peter has some moxie here - why so confident after other events?
• Do the other gospels take focus on Peter's denials?
• They all said the same - ready to fight zealously? Why did they scatter? Is he arguing the prophesies?

Ty's Observations:

• Why does Mark leave out the part in the other gospels about doing this in remembrance of me?
• Is He referencing the blood of the covenant in at least two old testament passages?
• Was the singing of hymns common? Was it a Psalm? 
• What is Jesus referring to? “You will all fall away, for it is written, ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ Where did this come from?
• Why hasn't Peter fully surrendered at this point?

Meaning: (Darin) We can share in God's blessings despite human failures. Despite death, we can live. (Ty) There is a refuge for repenting sinners that the blood of Christ is shed for everyone. Jesus' blood is shed for a new covenant. Everyone is invited to a come-to-Jesus meeting, even those who deny Him several times. 

Application:

• Inward: (Darin) He speaks boldly and firmly but gives hope in the end. (Ty)That Jesus relied Heavily on the Holy Spirit, whether it was treating Judas respectfully despite his betrayal or the disciples knowing they would deny Him.
• Outward: (Darin) I have hope to share with others despite my denials and betrayals. (Ty) Before I eat, I usually pray for the food it will provide for my family and me, but now I will also say thanks to Jesus and what He did for me.
• Upward: (Darin) Praise Jesus for the new covenant, for walking the blood path for me. (Ty) I used to be a lot like Judas. I had the devil's mindset. I thought if God loved me, He would make me rich. I praise God that He's making me more like Jesus and less like Judas.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e49 Mark 14:10-21 Judas and the Passover

Ty's Observations:

• Why did Judas do it? - Mark makes money seem secondary, but luke says
• How did Jesus know all of this? It reminds me of how He got the donkey to ride in on.
• Why did the disciples ask if it was them? Did they think they were all that vulnerable to the devil's schemes?

Darin's Observations:

• Judas went to the chief priests, not the other way around?
• What was Judas' motive? Was he disappointed at the lack of political fervor Jesus seemed to display?
• Why would the chief priests need Judas?
• The first day of unleavened bread - runs together w/ the Passover, correct? Day of the sacrifice? I thought Jesus died on the same day the sacrifice of the Passover lamb was made at the temple. Isn't this a day early?
• The setup to find the room is so specific...was there any significance to this location? Do we know where this room was?
• One who is eating w/ me - PS 41:9 - John sees this as scriptural fulfillment.
• So he was calling out Judas as he was dipping his bread simultaneously? Any significance to Passover at all?
• Woe - like Mt 23 and the woes to the hypocrites is what I'm reminded of when I read this curse Jesus has for Judas.
• Mark doesn't mention Judas leaving or even reacting at all - did Judas stay around for the communion part of the Passover?

Meaning:

(Ty): This is a warning. When we don't go all in the way Mary did in the last passage, we can find ourselves betraying our own beliefs or the things we say we believe. (Judas)

(Darin): Why we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Jesus chose to be sacrificed even w/ the knowledge of some of his best friends forsaking him) Even Mark's readers could easily be traitors.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Allow God to define His identity even though it will cost Him everything on earth. His followers, His family, His life, even the clothes on His back. I want to be like that and not just say it but do it. (Darin) Despite personal hurt and foreknowledge, Jesus willingly goes along.

Outward: (Ty) Pre-Decide how I will act so that when the world comes at me with things like betrayal, I react in a heavenly way and not in the way the world is expecting.(Darin) In what ways do I betray Him?

Upward: (Ty) For choosing God's will, despite what it would cost Him. (Darin) Our Passover Lamb!

Check out the New Hope Underground podcast on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e48 Mark 14:1-9 Jesus is Anointed

Ty's Observations:

• Who was this woman? Who objected to the use of the nard?
• Why was the use of the nard so controversial?
• Was Jesus a feminist in a world ruled by Misogyny?  
• How tightly or what weight should we give the four gospels vs. all the other books in the bible?

Darin's Observations:

• How do the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread differ? How do they work together?
• Chief priests - Sadduccees? Are the scribes also Sadduceean?
• Not during the feast? Didn't it happen during the feast?
• Simon the leper - Luke 7 talks of Simon the Pharisee. Is it the same guy? Maybe a different occurrence?
• The woman - some say Mary - where do we get that again?
• "There were some who said to themselves" - we know Judas from another gospel, right? Who were the others? The twelve? The crowd?
• Jesus took it as an anointing for burial - significance? Was it her intention?
• What about the priority of the poor? Is it always a priority, then, in the Kingdom of God? It doesn't seem so...what is Jesus saying here?
• What she has done will be told in memory of her - why is this event central to the gospel?

Meaning:

(Ty): The woman's total surrender of giving up generational wealth to Jesus is a direct contrast to the betrayal of Jesus by Judas Iscariot, who will give up Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.

(Darin): What men meant for evil, God meant for good. Jesus was always in control and willing to die.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Treat women the way Jesus treated them. In a world where women were property and treated like dirt, Jesus honored women and treated them as equals. He respected them. He earned their love and trust. (Darin) Calm. Confident and looking to the future...I love this about Jesus. I wish I would trust the Father like this...

Outward: (Ty) Act in a way that would get your name mentioned in the gospels for total Surrender to Jesus the way the woman/Mary did. (Darin)Do I worship him, even prioritizing it over the good things I do for the kingdom?

Upward: (Ty) Jesus, the defender of women. The feminist is a world that is ruled by misogyny. (Darin) A willing sacrifice, Jesus is to be celebrated and worshipped!

Check out the New Hope Underground podcast on the New Hope Podcast Network at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

(Darin)

• Parallels Mt 24:36-51 and Lk 21
• v32 - "But" is used to contrast this occasion to the events to take place before this generation passes away
• v32 - concerning that day or that hour - isn't the "day of the Lord" used for the end a lot in the OT
• Is Lk 21 a parallel for vs 32-37 or not?
• Imperatives used here? Be on guard? Keep awake?
• Stay awake seems to be a theme - used 4x
• Maybe a parallel to Mt 25 as well with the 10 virgins story?
• Hard to believe Jesus doesn't know when he is coming? Surely, not a lack of divine attributes?
• Evening, midnight, rooster crows, morning - any relation to Peter's denial or just Roman watches of the night?
• Stay awake -also reminds me of the garden scene to come.
• Say to ALL - stay awake - with everything Jesus could have talked about when it comes to the end - why is this the central theme?
• Mt seems more drastic with the master of the house story. He also adds weeping and gnashing of teeth. Not pleasant.

NOTE: We also discussed the judgment motif in Matthew 24's parallel verses 36-51. These verses do not speak of a "rapture" but instead of the unexpectedness of the 2nd coming and swift judgment. This insight is helpful as we look at these verses in Mark.

Meaning:

Stay Awake! He could come any time! (Mark's readers should understand that Jesus isn't pulling any punches...he predicted the actions to take place by 70AD, and all of it happened. Many readers should fully expect his 2nd coming to be just as sure.)

Application:

Inward: His words echo into the future. Scripture has come back o help me at times, haunted, convicted, and encouraged me.

Outward: Be consistent in conversation, mission, and prayer.

Upward: He has perfect timing and will show justice and grace when He comes.

Check out our New Hope Underground podcast as well on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• Why does it say (let the reader understand)?? 
• Is this dictation from Jesus?
• Is this referring to how the sky went dark during the crucifixion?
• Who is the elect?
• 14-16 reminds me of sending out the disciples 2 by 2
• And Lot's wife being turned into a pillar of salt
• Is this a message of where our hearts will be at the end of days?
• Joyful or scared?

Darin's Observations:

• The abomination of desolation - Daniel 9 mentioned by Matthew...significance?
• Why (let the reader understand)?
• Images of being rushed? Is Doom coming in a hurry?
• Why so specific - house, field, pregnant women, nursing infants?
• Tribulation - is it a particular word at all or just times of trouble in general?
• God cut short the days? What does this mean? The tribulation doesn't last long?
• False Messiahs and prophets - do we have some historical evidence for these leaders?
• After that tribulation - all this stuff about the sun, moon, and stars - figurative or literal?
• Angels - messengers? What is meant by elect? Spread of the gospel to all lands?
• Son of Man on the clouds - Daniel 7 - how is Jesus using this exactly? Meaning
• Fig tree - he is near, not it is near?
• This generation will not pass away - it seems like all these verses up to here then must deal with things in the lifetime of the apostles, right?

Meaning:

• (Ty) Since Israel (leadership) rejects Christ treating him as an abomination and therefore are left to desolation. Which is the fulfillment of prophecy ( Daniel 9:27) Since the disciples would naturally equate the destruction of Israel with an end of days, Jesus responds with verses 28-31, which are a warning for the destruction of Israel, which will not be the end of the world.
• (Darin) Mark was warning his readers with the words of Jesus and confirming Jesus' prophecies. Many readers may be seeing or experiencing much of this in real-time.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) Jesus' attitude about the temporary nature of this world. He focuses on God's works, constantly pointing out the stupidity of fighting over worldly things. (Darin) He is on the throne.

Outward: (Ty) Know the words of God through Jesus or specific prophets so well that we can bring those words up and their meaning not just in our lives but in the lives of others. Constantly pointing others to the words of God. - Verse 14 references Daniel 9:27. (Darin) Be on Guard.

Upward: (Ty) Despite my constant rejection and love for the world, Jesus never gives up on me He calls my name as His despite all of my baggage. (Darin) He is on the throne.

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Church Podcast Network.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• What is the impact, or what does the destruction of Herod's temple mean to the Jewish people?
• What and when is Jesus talking about?

Darin's Observations:

• Judgment talk. Why now?
• Mt. of Olives overlooked the temple area, right?
• Is Mark the only one who mentions which apostles asked him these things?
• Did they question out of curiosity only or fear as well?
• Private discussion but asking over some very public comments about the temple.
• Why does Jesus begin his answer with - see to it that no one leads you astray? Astray? Meaning what? Astray from a proper understanding of the times or signs? False Messiahs? Did he think his apostles would fall for a false Messiah? Or did he mean they shouldn't pay attention to all the talk concerning these false leaders?
• They will lead many astray - do we have any historical evidence of false messiahs, etc., between 30AD-70AD?
• Be on your guard - they will deliver you - who is they? False Messiahs? Jewish leaders? Romans?
• The gospel must first be proclaimed...first meaning priority? Does "first" mean done first before the end?
• Promises the Holy Spirit to speak for them...I wonder if they understood what He was talking about at this time?
• Persecutions? Family giving up family? Speaking of Neronian persecutions?
• Endures to the end - meaning death?

Meaning:

The gospel is now the way to God, not the temple. Disciples do not get distracted from the gospel.

Application:

Inward: (Ty) God's will gave Jesus Joy despite everything. Since I know how the world ends, I don't need to get angry, for things in this world don't matter, so I will do my best always to be joyful because I have eternal life with God because of Jesus. I'll have to endure until the end and not fall prey to false teachings instead of heeding the warning of Jeremiah 7:1-15. (Darin) He transcends life's circumstances and gives us hope.

Outward: (Ty) Jesus lived every day like it was His last, Therefore, I should live every day like it's the Last Day. Constantly allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through me. (Darin) I do not want to be distracted from making the gospel the most essential thing in my life. Endurance is key.

Upward: (Ty) Jesus is the true temple. (Darin) He will see us through to the end!

Check out New Hope Underground on the New Hope Church Podcast Network!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• What does it mean to devour widows' houses?
• Who will punish them most severely?- answered in Ty’s meaning

Darin's Observations:

• v38-40 Seem to be put together w/ v41-44...on purpose? Significance?
• And in his teaching...may signal this isn't chronological but arranged material on purpose.
• People must be very familiar w/ these things concerning the scribes
• Long robes, like greetings (titles?), best-seats, places of honor at feasts, but yet they devour widows, pretense, and long prayers - tied to widows?
• What is he referring to with widow's houses?
• Receive greater condemnation - levels of hell? Like rewards in heaven? Could it mean greater condemnation in this life somehow?
• vs 41-44 - opposite the treasury? Where is that in the temple? Court of the Gentiles? Court of Women?
• Many rich people - Passover feast - an unusual amount of people in the temple prob, right?
• 2 small coins - what kind? Worth?
• Was He praising the widow? What is aimed at the Scribes here? All of it?

Meaning:

• (Ty) By giving her last 2 coins, the widow surrendered everything she had to God, and the Sanhedrin would then, in essence, steal from God to elevate their own status. For this, God will punish them most severely.
• (Darin) Jesus condemns pretense. Jesus condones humility.

Application:

• Inward: (Ty) Here, we see Jesus observe both sin and surrender. He doesn't approach those sinning or the ones surrendering about their actions. Instead, he uses sin and the surrender of others to teach His students. Those whom He has influence over. What would happen if we taught others this way? (Darin) I love His passion for the weak.
• Outward: (Ty) I want to model the poor widow - Remove the barriers between myself and total surrender to good God almighty, Whom I both love and fear. (Darin) Do I exploit the weak or defend the weak?
• Upward: (Ty) That my status doesn't matter to Jesus. (Darin) PS 146:9, "The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin."

Check out New Hope Underground at www.newhopechurch.cc/listen or search for it on your favorite podcast platform.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ty's Observations:

• Why does Mark, who is normally brief, feel the need to write this scribe's statement?
• How many scribes and Pharisees became followers of Jesus?
• David said The Lord said to my Lord— Is David referring to Jesus? After all, David is speaking in the Holy Spirit.
• King David was excellent at the first one, not so much the second, but he was described as a man after God's own heart

Darin's Observations:

• Heard disputing - I assume the exchange w/ the Sadducees?
• Scribe - probably not Sadduceean in view? It said He answered well so probably believed in the resurrection.
• Jesus answers from Deut 6, any other OT passages directly related here? Does Deut 6 mention neighbor?
• The scribe commends him and then repeats everything but adds "whole burnt offerings and sacrifrices", what is he quoting here?
• Is mind or understanding in Deut 6? If not, why the inclusion?
• You are not far from the kingdom of God? What did he mean?
• No one dared - why so intimidated? Meaning because he put everyone in their place with his answers?
• Mark seemt to just be jotting down certain teachings. Peter is remember during these days in the temple.
• v 35-37, Isn't the same passage quoted in Acts 2 in Peter's sermon?
• Why does Jesus take issue w/ this "Son of David"?
• A challenge to the way people think about the Messiah? Jesus is stating He is David's Lord.
• MT states Jesus is directing this question to Pharisees who are gathered around - the Pharisees say He is the Son of David (the Messiah)
• Is there a great issue here than what is on the surface considering the 'Son of David' title?

Meaning:

• (Ty) To exist is to Love God and we are to spread that unconditional love God shows us onto others. Love God, Love people.
• (Darin) Mark seems to emphasize to his readers of who Jesus is and his mission. He has authority and is prclaiming a coming fulfillment of true worship.

Application:

• Inward: (Ty) Take the greatest two commandments as serious and as literal as possible. To live them out. (Darin) He is wisdom - no one can compete.
• Outward: (Ty) To love God is to trust God. Trust God by Inviting the Holy Spirit in my decision making process everytime. When I do that I see myself saying yes more than I say no. (Darin) WE should challenge incorrect stereotypes of Jesus especially within the church.
• Upward: (Ty) Praise Jesus that He came as a servant for all, always putting others over Himself. He loved God and Others over Himself. (Darin) Praise the Son of God who is the Lord of everyone, even David!

Check out our other podcast, New Hope Underground on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen or search your podcat platform.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Pharisees and Herodians together? Don't they hate each other?
• Sadducees - is this an official group or view?
• Calling him Teacher - customary or is this sarcastic?
• We know you are true? Don't care about opinion? Not swayed? Teach the way of God? Do they believe these statements? Is this insincere flattery, or what?
• Is it lawful? What is the question here - one of Moses' law or Roman law?
• Knowing their hypocrisy - what exactly were they being hypocritical about? Their slick tongues? Their attitude toward taxes? Not wanting answers but just trapping? All of the above?
• Likeness - this term means in the Greek?
• Render - again what does this term mean in the Greek?
• I'm not sure I understand his answer - they got it and marveled.
• The book of Acts states that the Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection or angels. Mark explains this too.
• Teacher - the same address as the Pharisees and Herodians...
• 7 brothers - sounds so hypothetical it's almost absurd.
• Law question? Pointing out inconsistencies if there is a resurrection? Why the assumption of marriage in resurrection anyway? Doesn't seem like too smart of an argument - must be more to the story.
• Jesus' answer - the power of God? Angels? In what ways, like angels? Not in relationships? Sexless? Eternal?
• He flat-out tells them they are wrong about resurrection...why the bush story? Significance to the Sadducees?

Meaning: Jesus came to make things right even though the world fought him. He revealed God to us.

Application:

Walk/INWARD: I love how He went to the heart of the matter with his opposition.

Model/OUTWARD: He was not afraid to challenge religion and religious leaders when they disagreed with God.

Praise/UPWARD: He is God of Power and Grace! There is Hope in Resurrection for us!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Who is "them"? The crowds? The religious leaders?
• Does this tie the previous section and the next section together? Sandwiching?
• Vineyard? Meaning? Creation? Israel?
• A fence? Makes me think it is Israel
• The vineyard is used a lot in the OT - how is it used metaphorically?
• Tenants - Israelites? Religious leaders specifically?
• Servants - Prophets?
• Beloved Son - Jesus?
• They will respect my son - did God think this, or is this a literary device?
• Why would they think the inheritance would be theirs? Legally or illegally?
• Give to others - Gentiles? Generations?
• PS 118 is quoted here - Peter loves it, Acts 4:11 and I Peter 2:7
• Seeking to arrest him - why are they so angry at this parable? Mark tells us - he was talking about them - or so they perceived...was it possible that he wasn't talking about them?
• These guys seem like cowards - always afraid of the people. They finally do arrest him in the dark garden, alone.

Meaning: Jesus, the beloved Son, will give access for all to God. Even though mankind rejects him, he will get his way!

Application:

Walk/INWARD: Knowing He would be rejected, he came anyway.

Model/OUTWARD: Speak boldly when arrogance needs to be called out.

Praise/UPWARD: He gave the vineyard to us! We are Israel because of Jesus!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• Almost identical story in all 3 synoptic gospels (not John)
• He came again to Jersusalem - I assume from Bethany?
• Walking in the temple - returns to the scene? Mark never explains his reason for returning...maybe customary during the Passover to gather in the temple?
• Chief priests, scribes, and elders mentioned here...differences? Significance?
• Authority - the cleansing scene bringing this up?
• Who gave you authority - looking for some answers concerning man giving authority? Rome? Possibly questioning his loyalty?
• Why the question? What does it point out?
• The baptism of John - significance?
• Interesting that they have to discuss this - not about the truth but about having the upper hand possibly?
• From heaven - why not believe (admitting they did not believe him)? From man - the people would be upset.
• Did the leaders all then hold this balance all the time? Silent on John but not believing?
• Why was "We don't know" an answer that the crowd would be okay with? If they thought John was a prophet, then the unbelief of the leaders would be offensive, right?
• Jesus says that neither will I tell you (significance?)
• The word "authority" is used 4X - the right to rule, control

Meaning:

Jesus' authority is straight from God and is linked w/John the Baptist. He does not bow to human constructs of religion, politics, or men or women in authority. He transcends.

Application:

Walk/INWARD: (Darin) He was not afraid to challenge religion; I love that about him! (Ty) Jesus' motivation was to let the dead bury their own dead. He didn't allow the chief priest to control the conversation; he flipped the script on them. I love that about him!

Model/OUTWARD: (Darin) Asking questions - we are always on the defensive...we should ask questions of people like Jesus did. (Ty) Stay focused on helping others receive salvation. Don't let others steal your Joy. In the words of Sutton Griffith "You just have to listen to God, Daddy" Stay Focused. Don't let the world creep in.

Praise/UPWARD: Jesus is the ultimate authority! Praise God, his authority declares us free in Jesus!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• He was hungry - the humanity of Jesus
• Is he angry because he was hungry?
• Why is he angry when it wasn't the season for figs?
• His disciples heard it - like kids overhearing their parents.
• Didn't John record 2 cleansings - did this take place in Mark's chronology?
• Came to Jerusalem - day after the Triumphal Entry and after he looked around in the temple - thought about this action for a day?
• Who where the money-changers exactly?
• House of prayer for all nation? Significance? - IS 56?
• The chief priests and scribes - embarrassed by the temple scene? Destroy - what is the greek word here?
• Feared him because of the crowds - where they cheering him on in the temple? Why?
• Mark loves the word - astonished.
• Matthew's order is a bit different - why?
• Jesus uses the fig tree to teach in Matthew about faith, mountains, etc.
• v25 seems out of sorts - forgiveness? Connection?
• Doubt - to judge carefully after detailed information - coming from the word to judge?
• vs 25 - stand praying? Customary in the temple? What does Jesus mean by this teaching? My experience doesn't tend to match this teaching.

Meaning:

Jesus is now the temple, and we have access to God and His power.

Application:

Walk (INWARD): Zeal for true worship.

Model (OUTWARD): Pray more confidently and take forgiveness seriously.

Praise (UPWARD) : He is the judge - he will get his way! Praise God!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• All four gospels record this; Jn and Mt use the Zec 9 quote directly, probably for different reasons; Mk doesn't include it; why?
• Mt and Lk also include Bethpage and Bethany with the Mount of Olives
• Jn includes Lazarus before this event - why does Mark skip this event?
• Is there any significance to the cloaks and leafy branches? Luke doesn't mention branches, and Jn is the only one who mentions palm leaves.
• Those who went before and those who followed - seems like the crowd did come with him.
• Hosanna? Meaning? Similar words to Bartimaeus, it seems.
• He looked around the temple and then left the city - later cleanses - this has to be significant - were the people expecting a more kingly or priestly takeover?
• The picture of the conquering hero is very underwhelming in Mark - Jn says - the world has gone after him.

Meaning:

Jesus is King even when the world doesn't understand or recognize Him as King.

Application:

Walk: Jesus was humble but didn't deny his kingship. Humble confidence - I love this about Jesus; this fact motivates me to follow Him.

Model: The blind man's meaning of Hosanna, save me, I pray - remember to emulate this truth, not the emptiness of the crowds who cry out in religion or selfish motivation.

Praise: Hosanna! Blessed is He - the Messiah - the King!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

s1e38 Mark 10:46-52 Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus

Observations:

• Where is Jericho in relation to Jerusalem?
• Was he leaving with a great crowd? Were all these people following the whole trip? Did He bring the group with him to Jerusalem?
• Bartimaeus - anything special about his name - means son of Timaeus - is it his name?
• Mark is the only gospel to give his name - why would Peter remember his name?
• When Bartimaeus heard it was Jesus, he cries out, "Jesus, Son of David..." - why this title? Isn't this a Messianic title? How would he know?
• "many" rebuked him - the crowd? The disciples? Both?
• Mark includes details like Jesus saying, "Call him." and "Take heart..." and "...threw off his cloak" and "sprang up" - all great descriptions...significance?
• Each gospel account includes, "What do you want me to do with you" - the exact phrase in greek - why would Mt, Mk, and Lk all agree to the word on this statement? Could it have been a common question Jesus would ask people?
• Jesus tells him to go his way, yet Bartimaeus follows him - a contradiction? Disobedience? Did Bartimaeus stay with him through the cross?

Meaning:

The blind beggar models true discipleship, so we should follow his example.

Application:

Walk: Jesus' humility and concern for the humiliated urge me to follow Him.

Model: Bartimaeus is to be modeled. His faith, belief, and announcement of Jesus being the Messiah and complete abandon to follow him right away.

Praise: Jesus gives the blind sight. I was blind, but now I see! Amazing Grace!

Group Questions:

• What is the meaning behind the title of Jesus that Bartimaeus shouted?
• How does this account compare with the preceding account of the requests of James and John?
• Simplify your answer the best you can...what does it mean to be a disciple of Jesus?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• "Road" - same word as "journey" in vs. 17. Is Mark eluding to a "destiny" of sorts? i.e., the cross? Up to Jerusalem - significancea fantasticeographical? City on a hill?
• v32 is an amazing art to me - great picture of action, quick walk uphill, amazement, dermination on the trip to the cross is amazing. Those who followed were afraid...
• Judas is hearing this? I wonder if it phases him at this point. Maybe he will recall later? So plain - after 3 days, he will rise.
• The words delivered, condemn, deliver, mock, spit, flog, kill - a lot of action to happen in a very short time...didn't the Jews break like 12 of their own laws to rush him to the cross?
• Matthew 20 includes the mother of James and John; why not Mark?
• Did James and John grasp what "in your glory" meant? Earthly kingdom of Heavenly one? Are they saying they are ready for death or troubles before earthly glory?
• Cup? Baptism? Signs of trouble? Metaphors of tribulation?
• The 10 became indignant - why? The 12 talking about status again - why is this such a factor? Why the competition?
• Jesus' response - the Gentiles, Mark didn't want to use the word Romans here? Their "great ones"?
• Servant, slave - diakonos and doulos - why the servant to slave in v44?
• Ransom - lutron, specifically payment given as a ransom - are there theological, "atonement" connotations here? Or is it a response to doulos? Buying freedom?

Ty's observations:

• Jesus keeps retelling what is going to happen on the cross; why? Is Jesus saying this again because they just don't understand? Has Jesus revealed where it will happen? Is it because of the obvious importance of the event?
• For context, Luke 18:34 "But they understood none of these things. This saying was hidden, and they did not grasp what was said."
• This answers my questions but then begs the question, why was this hidden from them?
• Why do the disciples want to be on the same level as God? Is this not the same sin as the original?
• Does slave to all apply to us, or is Jesus talking about Himself again?
• Is Jesus pointing out that the disciples have a worldly desire to be great and leave a legacy?

Meaning:

(Darin) Mark sums up the whole ministry purpose of Jesus in verse 45. Mark means for the disciples of Jesus to mimic what Jesus did, do not be lords but servants and sacrifice for the many.

(Ty) Jesus had the right to Lord His power and authority over us but didn't do that He came to serve. He will choose to be taken on the cross to be mocked and spit on him like a thief, to be flogged and killed like a murderer. He will do this as a ransom for us. Don't try to be equal with God; instead, take the lowly position of a servant, for that is what it takes to be great in God's eyes.

Application:

Walk: (Darin) Jesus doesn't shun these faulty requests of struggling men but challenges them in truth. (Ty) Being a servant to all is a stark contrast to a world that, to this day, is still telling us that our goal should be to be equal to God. We were made in God's image, not to be our own gods. We exist solely to glorify good God almighty, not indulge ourselves.

Model: (Darin) Be a servant. (Ty) He came to serve. Jesus took an unselfish servant's heart to everything He did every day with the leading of the Holy Spirit. What would the world look like if I did the same thing?

Praise: (Darin) Jesus endured the cross...we live because He gave up his life! (Ty) Praise Jesus that He came to serve and give himself as a ransom for us who daily deserve death, but through His grace and Him can receive salvation.

Check out New Hope Underground Podcast on any podcast platform or www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Journey - still making his way towards Jerusalem?
• Good teacher - flattery? Why does Jesus take issue with "good"? Is he taking issue?
• Jesus doesn't wait for a response to his question - purpose of the rhetorical?
• Inherit eternal life - why does Jesus answer with what seems like works? i.e., keeping the law
• Selling everything, however, is not the law - a departure from the first answer.
• Jesus loved him - love tells the truth, love calls to discipleship...you lack one thing? Does this mean this is his one idol?
• What do "disheartened" and "sorrowful" fully connotate in the original language? What other contexts are used in the NT?
• Why are the disciples amazed at his words? Does this presuppose some dominant idea at the time about possessions? As if those who had more were blessed more because of their righteousness? Jesus seems to blow this away.
• Camel - figurative? Literal? The disciples were exceedingly astonished; why did they assume no one would be saved?
• Jesus' answer about w/ man things are impossible, but with God it is possible - is a bit confusing for me - what did He mean?
• Peter's statement - are we worthy of salvation? Jesus' answer is encouraging but confusing - in this time? Persecutions? This seems to throw everything in this text into chaos - at first, it seems if you follow and learn things, you will gain more back physically in this life but then, persecutions?
• First and the last motif again - status, possessions all the issue it seems with the disciples possibly?

Ty's observations:

• New covenant vs old Jesus omits commandments but were possibly omitted. Did Jesus think it was redundant to mention them in this conversation because Jesus says you know all the commandments? Did the ruler simply just cut Jesus off? Are they incorporated in Love your neighbor as yourself
• V24 Jesus calls them children again
• Jesus said it would be difficult but not impossible for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven and said with God, all things are possible.
• Are there different levels of those who will make it into heaven?
• Do our possessions own us? Are they barriers that keep us from a deeper relationship with God?
• Did Jesus just create minimalism?

Meaning:

(Darin) Eternal life is only possible with God, through Jesus...it requires following Him, not anything that can be acquired by our own works.

(Ty) We are to put our love of God, and we are to love everyone else more than we love money and ourselves.

Application:

Walk: (Darin) Jesus loved him. He loves me despite my idiocy. (Ty) To open the eyes of those blinded by the light of money

Therefore I am to help others and myself realize that I should trust in God about all things, including money, and do so in the least judgmental way possible.

Model: (Darin) Jesus anticipates the question and sets the framework for the discussion early...this needs to be mimicked by us in conversations. (Ty) As Jesus is on His way to the cross, He takes His most valuable asset, time, to explain to the rich guy how to get into heaven. I want to model life like that, to sacrifice my desires so that others can choose to know good God almighty.

Praise: (Darin) Praise be to Jesus who makes all things right - the last shall be first. (Ty) Praise Jesus that He didn't need vast wealth to finish His ministry.

Check out New Hope Underground Podcast on any podcast platform or www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Region of Judea beyond the Jordan? East side?
• "Crowds" - plural, unusual for Mark, usually 'crowd'
• His custom - teaching - makes me wonder how many teachings we don't have recorded
• To test him? What was the test? Stay true to the law as they saw it?
• Moses allowed - Deut 24, only Torah passage on Divorce?
• The hardness of heart - the word used for the disciples at the 5,000 event?
• Jesus responds w/ Creation instead of Torah? Gen 1:27, 2:24, God's plan all along
• Question concerning Moses' intention - Deut 24 doesn't seem like a defense for divorce but a concession
• Pharisees use the noun, Jesus uses divorce in verb tenses only - context, but the focus of intention seems to be in play, right?
• Sexual immorality - porneia, fornication, prostitution, engaging in illicit sex
• Divorce - made up of 2 words, loose and from, away from
• vs 10 - adultery - sexual intercourse
• interesting that Mark here uses the woman divorcing here too (not Jewish) - Roman audience? Also, flying in the face of Herodias? MT - does not include this element of the woman being the one to divorce.
• Was divorce prevalent? Expected? Common? If Deut 24 is interpreted as it is here, then that makes sense.
• v13-16 - seems a repeat; why here? Placement between divorce and a rich young man on purpose? Status - Pharisees? Rich Young man? Lesson for the disciples again?

Ty's Observations:

• Is Jesus saying divorce is not allowed in the kingdom of heaven? In Matthew 19, Jesus says divorce is allowed in the case of sexual immorality. Since marriage is so final, should we wait for divine intervention before we marry?
• In Matthew, is Jesus saying to become a Eunuch made by themselves is giving up marriage and sex and children as a sacrifice to God? However, Jesus also says, “Not everyone can receive this saying but only those who it is given.” Makes me think of John the Baptist - from what little we know
• Is Jesus redefining the role of women again?
• Is Jesus saying that the main reason for divorce is that married couples harden their hearts for each other?
• In Verse 7: -Jesus says they will become 1 flesh to let no one separate. Well, if they are one flesh, it separates half of your body from your flesh from the other what happens to both halves? Death!

Meaning: (Darin) Jesus challenged man's "wisdom" and status claims while upholding God's ideal for mankind. (Ty) Have an open soft heart. For your GOD, your wife/husband, family, to everyone, including the word of God. Allow the truth to be told. We often overcomplicate things as humans because we don't like the truth. We believe lies to justify our actions to ourselves.

Application:

Walk: (Darin) He saw through justifications and go the heart of the matter. (Ty) Jesus is motivated to help us to understand. When the Pharisees ask Jesus about Divorce, He points them back to scripture. The best way for me to help someone get an answer to a question they seek is to point them to God. It may be His word or in prayer.

Model: (Darin) Jesus talked to the disciples privately and was always teaching. (Ty) Submit to God's will for our marriages and, dare I say, our sexual desires. If Jesus made himself a eunuch for the kingdom, I could give God control of my marriage and sexual desires despite attempts to justify bad choices.

Praise (Darin) He gives grace to the broken w/o condoning or justifying sin. (Ty) Praise Jesus opens His heart to us and has so much compassion even on the Pharisees who seek His demise. 

Check out New Hope Undergound Podcast on any podcast platform or www.newhopechurch.cc/listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Little ones - is the context referring to children or children in the faith or disciples?
• What is a mill stone?
• Why all the seemingly drastic language? Does He mean all of this literally?
• Hell - first time mentioned in Mark?
• Unquenchable fire - a problem for annihilationists?
• Hand, foot, eye - same body language as Paul for the church
• what does salted with fire mean? Switch to salt is good? It gets confusing.
• So odd last verse considering the context...have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another - what does this mean?
• Could all of this be talking about removing false teachers from your midst?

Ty's observations:

• How do others cause us to sin? And How do we cause others to sin?
• Does Jesus really mean to cut off my body parts that have caused me to sin? 
• If I were to do that would there be anything left of me?
• What's with the salt?

Meaning:

(Darin) True discipleship comes at a great cost. It is made stronger and purer through suffering. True discipleship brings peace among disciples as they strive for the same goals.

(Ty) Don’t put stumbling blocks in front of others on their way to Jesus. Identify the things that cause you to sin and use extreme measures to eliminate the things that cause you to sin. 

Change your heart, change your life. This message would likely have been meant for unbelievers or new believers but can be applied to all.

Application:

Walk: (Darin) I love Jesus' defense for the weak. (Ty) He doesn't cast the first stone. He doesn't place a stumbling block in front of the blind because He wants to reach all that are willing to receive the kingdom of Heaven like a little kid. Even Though they made mistakes in the past and continue to sin. That's His motivation.

Model: (Darin) Am I salt? Do I help preserve the kingdom of God in others? Do I ever block anyone from the kingdom?

(Ty) I can model Jesus by doing as He says to be “be salt”

• Be Salt - a preserver of peace - be a peacemaker preserve the good things; don't let them decay
• Be Salt be a seasoning - be an encourager of others, serve them on their walk toward Jesus
• Be Salt - a medicine - Sit with others in their trials and help show them Jesus is the real solution to all that ails them.
• Be Salt - a sacrifice - Glady sacrifice our will to the will of God and the lead of the Holy Spirit

Praise: (Darin) He hates sin. He is life. (Ty) He has compassion for those who struggle because He knows that struggle produces fruit and Fear of God produces wisdom!

Check out New Hope Underground Podcast on any podcast platform or www.newhopechurch.cc/listen

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's Observations:

• 2nd time Mark records Jesus' prediction - last time in chapter 8
• The trip through Galilee, coming back from Caeserea? The 2nd prediction seems chronologically close to the 1st one.
• Jesus did not want anyone to know what? The location? What he was saying to the disciples?
• He loves using the Son of Man designation; why?
• It seems so plain - delivered, killed, rise - they did not understand. Luke 9 entices it was kept from them - why?
• What was their fear based on? Did they think he might get angry? Think they are stupid? Afraid of what he might say?
• The argument between the disciples comes up again in Mark 10
• Jesus asks them what they were discussing - a setup? It seems so...because they kept silent and still addressed the issue.
• First-last, proud-humble, be served or serve - he connects the child to serving; why? Children are dependent on others to serve them, regarded as precious, not enemies, do not know what they are doing, are sons and daughters...
• Jesus questions the disciples' attitude and their perception of others.
• Cup of water - compared to Mt's context of inclusion w/kids.

Ty's Observations:

• Why don't the disciples confess right there?
• Luke says Jesu knew their thoughts which are implied in Mark.
• Is this not a lesson in humility?
• What does Jesus mean about welcoming and becoming like children in HIs answer to the disciples' debate of who is greatest?

Meaning:

(Darin) Jesus turns the world's values on its head. His disciples must emulate His sacrificial service, humility, and inclusiveness.

(Ty) One thing Mark could be emphasizing is how Jesus says, comes to me like a child; he means vulnerable. When we are afraid, scared, anxious, or in danger, we should come to Him. And not just when we are in trouble but even with the smallest of things. We should be so happy to be in the presence of Jesus that it becomes a priority in our lives and not an afterthought.

Application:

Walk: (Darin) I love Jesus' heart for inclusion - not wanting cliques or status seekers. (Ty) Jesus is always trying to get others to understand. I love how he is patient, seeking for the disciples to get it.

Model: (Darin) Jesus sat down and called the 12; we too must seek to "get on the level" of others and not expect them to just "understand". (Ty) We should have hearts like servants. I am not good at this at all, but it is interesting as a human. It is more rewarding to serve than to be served.

Praise: (Darin) Philippians 2 - the humble servant who became obedient even to death on a cross! Praise God! (Ty) He is the G.O.A.T. He is the gamechanger. He is the Uniter!

Listen to New Hope Underground today! Check it out on any podcast platform or www.newhopechurch.cc/listen.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

(Darin)

• Do the scribes pick on the disciples deliberately as a strategy?
• "they came" - who is "they"? I'm guessing Jesus and the three disciples coming off the mountain? So the disciples mean the other nine?
• Immediately and amazed are used again - these words seem big-time Markan words. Odd placement in the story for people being amazed - usually happens after an event, etc.
• Why was Jesus so harsh with his words - faithless generation? To whom was he referring?
• Jesus struggled with the man's words, "If you can" - why? He must know the man's heart. It seems the man's desperation outweighed his need to be right (skepticism). Does the man repent? Because it is so sincere about helping him with his unbelief!
• Convulsions and foaming - epilepsy?
• Jesus asked how long this had been going on - a very pastoral question, right?
• He waited until the crowd came running or he wanted to do it before the crowd got there?
• Like a corpse - interesting - so he wasn't dead? Could he have been dead?
• takes him by the hand - reminds me of the little girl who was dead
• the disciples have a good question here about why they couldn't throw out the demon - because they have done it before and after the binding and loosing discussion (Mt 16)
• "this kind" - does this refer to a super demon? Maybe it just means a demonic type of being?
• Some manuscripts add "and fasting" after the word "prayer" - see footnotes in most translations as to why it is added or not
• was the demon seeking to destroy - trying to kill him?

(Ty)

• Verse 18:Is, Is it possible that some of those conditions that have seizures like this that we have today are demonic possession, and instead of exorcizing, we medicate?
• 14-18 Were the scribes and the disciples arguing because the disciples could not drive out the demon?
• 20-24 Was this man and his son Jewish? How much compassion did Jesus show to perform the healing despite all the unbelief?

Meaning:

(Darin)

• Our reliance on God in all humility is vital! We do not control things but follow, asking God to take control.

(Ty)

• Times will come when our faith is tested, and we will lack faith. This lack of faith will make it hard for us to defeat the evil one. However, when we lack faith, we can lean on God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit and say, just as this boy's father did, "help my unbelief!" All things are possible for one who believes enough to put faith in God above faith in themselves.

Application:

• Walk - (Darin) Amazed at Jesus himself - just his presence and not in the moment of something He does. (Ty) No matter who he is speaking to, Jesus finds to relate the material to the person no matter who it is. Whether it's a parable, scripture, or healing, Jesus constantly does this throughout scripture.
• Model - (Darin) the regime of prayer, James 4, (Ty) I need to constantly look for ways to build that blind faith in believers and nonbelievers because that's what Jesus does.
• Praise - (Darin) Never to come back - Jesus said to the demon - total freedom for those in Jesus! (Ty) That Jesus is so compassionate that even if we lack faith, the one thing that seems to be required of us, if we lean on Him for the faith He will provide that as well.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• After six days? Why is Mark so specific? Is the timing important?
• Mt says six days, but Luke says eight days; why?
• What does transfigured mean in this context? Luke does not use the term "transfigured" - Luke says his face was altered, Mt says his face shone like the sun - mark only mentions his clothes; why?
• Elijah and Moses appear, and they are talking; how do the disciples recognize them? I wonder about the content of that conversation. (never answerable)
• Peter said to Jesus - all three gospels mention Peter as the spokesperson
• Does Mark seem to give Peter an excuse? (terrified) - Did he not know what to say? Why did he feel he had to say anything?
• God speaks - reminiscent of the baptism of Jesus.
• What was the purpose of this event for only three guys?
• Why did he tell them to tell no one? Even the other disciples?
• Why were they wrestling with what rising of the dead might mean - hadn't Jesus been plain with them?
• Why were people comparing Jesus to Elijah, John the Baptist, and Jeremiah? They don't say that anyone is saying that he is the Messiah.
• How did John the Baptist "restore all things"?

Meaning:

• Mark uses the events at Caesarea Philippi and the transfiguration to strongly point the reader to who Jesus is and his mission. It is not what is expected by many.

Application:

• Walk - His secrecy shows restraint and love.
• Model - We must be willing to go through suffering if called.
• Praise - Jesus followed through on the humble and sacrificial plan of God.

Check out the New Hope Underground Podcast - we have some great interviews with New Hope Church people! Listen to www.newhopechurch.cc/listen or search for New Hope Underground on many podcast platforms!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• says it so plainly to the disciples
• 2 major reveals to his disciples, the Christ, and the plan
• did they start to question? weren't their impressions of the messiah not this at all?
• Peter took him aside and rebuked him?
• Jesus hides nothing from the other disciples and openly rebukes Peter
• What was Peter's rebuke? Does it seem this could be out of loyalty?
• doesn't this seem a bit harsh?
• is Jesus teaching in a way?
• Jesus' questions to the crowd - don't they reflect Peter's possible intention? Maybe wanting to offer his life for his? it makes you think that Jesus took Peter's statement as arrogance not denial
• sake of the gospel could be the clincher here?
• ashamed? Peter pulling aside - shame in some way?
• coming of the kingdom? must refer to Pentecost right?
• however, he says some will not taste death - all except for Judas would have experienced Pentecost right?

Meaning:

Mark turns a corner here as we head into the 2nd half of the gospel. Preparation has now started in Jesus' teaching concerning how this is all going to go in the near future. Jesus desires radical surrender to Him, the gospel, and rebellion against the hold of the world.

Application:

• Walk: Jesus is so open to his followers and honest about the road ahead.
• Model: Do what he says...seeking denial of self - am I growing in this?
• Praise: He denied his own desires to save us.

Group Questions:

• What did Peter do that was so wrong? How do you think Peter felt after the rebuke?
• How do you think the disciples took these words? Reactions?
• Discuss what you think Jesus is commanding here with these statements in verses 34-38.
• How do you think you are doing when it comes to obeying these commands?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Bethsaida and then to Caesarea - how far?
• Begged him to touch the blind man - associated his touch with healing, the centurion - is this why his faith is praised?
• Led the blind man out of the village? wouldn't people follow? privacy? what was the reason?
• Spit on his eyes, laid hands on him, why is Mark so specific? significance?
• His question seems unusual for Jesus - Do you see anything? didn't take? what the? Do not enter the village - why?
• The most confusing healing account for me - can't figure out why it wasn't immediate and what Mark's purpose is in recording this without more explanation
• seems like a short account with the Caesarea event, Mt adds a bit
• Caesarea - all intentional setting right? literal gates of hell there and pagan worship of Pan, Mt adds the rock, gates of hell, keys, etc but not Luke or Mark
• John the Baptist? (like Herod), Elijah (feedings and healings?)
• you are the Christ - title, not name - anointed one, messiah

Ty's observations:

• The symbolism of healing the deaf and blind
• Is Mark Saying it didn't work the first time completely? or is it like when you first wake up things are hazy so you rub your eyes and you can see clearly?
• Why point this out. It's pretty obvious that Jesus is the messiah and that the disciples believe that as fact at this point. What's the significance?
• Is this like a baptism for the disciples? 
• A public or out loud declaration of naming who Jesus is?
• Is it a teaching point for the next passage in which Peter rebukes Jesus?
• Is it because of all the questioning from the Jewish leaders?
• If Mark is writing Peter's Gospel why does he leave out the part in Matthew 16

Meaning:

(Darin) Mark seems to be seeking to bring his readers from the question of who is Jesus to giving some answers to that question. Just like the disciples, we too are now being faced with the reality of who He really is.

(Ty)

• It makes sense that Jesus would ask the disciples who they say He is because of all of the doubt raised by the Jewish leaders.
• Two stories are linked
• The blind man is like the disciples before Jesus. Jesus touches the blind man and his vision is better but still hazy. Much like the disciples who despite having the presence of the Messiah are still hazy on God's plan for them moving forward.

Application:

• Walk: (Darin) Always teaching, patient attitude with stubborn hearts. (Ty) In this passage we see Jesus open a man's eyes physically, and opening eyes to God's will. Jesus wants us to see God's will for our life.
• Model: (Darin) Wanting others to discover the truth instead of just being told. God is the one who reveals. (Ty) Say and do like in vs 25.
• Praise: (Darin)Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God! (Ty) That Jesus never stops rubbing the junk from my eyes so I can see clearly what God has planned for my life.

Group Questions:

• Mark is the only gospel that includes saliva in the healings of Jesus. What could possibly be Jesus' reasons do you think for using saliva?
• Why do you think Jesus took the blind man outside the village to heal him?
• Describe when Jesus led you alone for a time in order to heal you spiritually.
• People around you - what do they say as to who Jesus is?
• Who is Jesus to you? Describe the best you can...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations:

• compassion on the crowd - same event as the 5,000???
• 3 days - makes you think it is not the same event
• come from far away - how does the word spread like that?
• disciples question? after the 5,000? odd.
• 7 loaves they have - not the same as in John with the 5,000 and boy's lunch
• where is Dalmanutha? Significance?
• The Pharisees came? were they part of the 4,000? or at Dalmanutha?
• why a sign? was not this feeding a sign? what are they asking for exactly?
• no sign will be given - what? what just happened?
• they must mean something else by "sign"
• this seems disjointed chronologically
• forgotten to bring bread? where is their faith? short-term memory?
• hardening of hearts over the bread again, both feedings give the disciples issues
• Do you not yet understand? Why are they having such a hard time with this in particular?
• Jesus is obviously frustrated and for a good reason

Meaning:

• Jesus is the bread from heaven and is misunderstood even by his closest followers. Cynicism and hypocrisy drive people away from Jesus.

Application:

• Walk - He is able and willing to take care of us.
• Model - Jesus doesn't play up to people but is about the truth period.
• Praise - Jesus can heal the hard-hearted, and Jesus can heal the cynic.

Group Questions:

1. What does having a hard heart mean?
2. What common issues tend to harden the hearts of people in our culture toward Jesus?
3. Have you ever asked for a sign from God? Explain.
4. What experiences have you had with Jesus that have grown your faith?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Tyre and Sidon - where at geographically? How far away from the Sea of Galilee? Significance of these locations?
• Now the woman as a gentile, Mark explains - significance to his audience?
• Syrophoenician - significance? Why does Mark get this specific?
• His response in 27 seems so arrogant, elitist, etc., 'dogs'? Is this Jesus' true feeling? Quoting leaders of the day? What's his main point?
• It reminds me of John 4 - a little antagonism brings out conversation - sees how she is going to respond
• she calls him Lord - did she know what she was saying? or honorary title?
• Statement in vs. 29 - curious to the Greek here
• doesn't touch or see the girl - like the centurion's faith - he just does it upon her statement
• difference culturally/ tribal - between Tyre and Sidon? Decapolis - where? Demon with pigs story
• first healing of a deaf man recorded, they brought to him - who were they?
• Deaf and speech impediment - no demon activity recorded here
• fingers in ears, spitting and touching his tongue - odd, unusual even, or Jesus, significance?
• Ephphatha - Aramaic? Mark uses these terms and translates them like Talitha cumi and now this one meaning be opened, i assume as an imperative
• Jesus charges them to tell no one, but they do the opposite - Mark seems to get caught up in this aspect,
• astonished beyond measure - a new phrase

Ty's observations:

• Matthew included more than Mark. Did Mark leave parts out because of his gentile audience?
• Jesus was trying to be alone with the disciples and went to a gentile territory
• Parents desperate for their children's healing come to Jesus. What is the significance of begging Jesus? In the next passage, Mark uses the word beg.
• Was Jesus testing her/rejecting her until her response? Frustration? Seems like a good chunk of Jesus's healings are female.
• Jesus is establishing a new covenant. Is He establishing a new role for women?  always amazed when it says Jesus spoke a specific word. Jesus using earthly language vs. the Holy Spirit would be an internal language or understanding. I find the language barriers created since babel fascinating.
• Did Jesus already know when He told the healed not to tell anyone that there's no way that was going to happen.
• I talked last passage about how I believe submission to Jesus and complete and total faith that Jesus would heal them or someone they were interceding seemed to be the reason they were healed. 

Meaning:

(Darin) Mark wants his audience to know Jesus does not ignore anyone but seeks faith and loyalty. We should be astonished beyond measure.

(Ty). Jesus came to earth as a man using the powers and showing dependence on heaven to heal and save others.

Application:

• Walk: (Darin) He is so personal, caring, touching, saliva even - he cared. (Ty) Jesus reliance on God in heaven to heal so the deaf will hear and the mute will speak. He seems to do it in a confident prayerful way, knowing God will use Him to heal without doubting it for 1 second.
• Model: (Darin) My teaching methods need to challenge people as he did. (Ty) I up my prayer game. 
• Praise: (Darin)He is the God over everyone, not a select few. (Ty) That Jesus Christ: found a way to open my ears to the Truth and my tongue to tell others about what Jesus has done for me so that they may be Ephaphata or be open to the life God intended for them.

Group Questions:

1. What do you find surprising in the dialog between Jesus and the woman? Why?
2. How has Jesus shown compassion to you?
3. Describe the possible emotions of the deaf man during this process, before and after.
4. How has Jesus been personal to you?

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Mark makes a lot of explanations - defiled means unwashed and explains their cleaning traditions
• The Pharisees assume that the disciples' hands are 'defiled' due to their own traditions - pushing the traditions and their conclusions on each other
• Jesus goes right for the jugular quoting Is 29:13; Isaiah uses, "Their fear of me is drawn from commandments of men"
• Do they reject God's commands in order to establish their traditions?
• Honor parents vs revile (curses), but the Pharisees have a way to escape these commandments - Corban? Significance? What are they really saying here?
• Making void the word of God by your tradition - void? What does that mean exactly?
• He called the people - did they hear the exchange with the Pharisees and scribes?
• It takes exception to what defiles a person. This seems to be the main point - Mark records this as the only saying in front of all the people. The explanation follows with the disciples.
• Parable? Was this a parable?
• Jesus seems frustrated...why?
• Mark explained again (all foods clean) how does he arrive at this?
• What is the difference between sexual immorality and sensuality?
• Defile -one is done to you (Pharisees), and that other is your fault (out of you)

Ty's observations:

• Why is it so important for those who honor God with their lips to have a heart that is close to God?
• What damage does “teaching as doctrines the commandments of men” do?
• Is this Isaiah? Where? I know it's a commandment in exodus.
• My earthly father seems to think this verse means I should do what he asks of me
• How we listen to our parents' changes. It changes as you get older. It did for Jesus if you look at His life on earth.
• It can mean physical or financial support when the child is older
• What does it mean to be defiled?
• How does it pull our hearts far from God?

Meaning:

• (Darin) Jesus hates hypocrisy, and he is interested in the reader's heart, not his ways.
• (Ty). Jesus doesn't want meaningless Traditions and rituals. He doesn't want you to talk the talk if you don't walk the walk. He wants your heart.

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: (Darin)I love Jesus' passion against hypocrisy. (Ty)Jesus speaks the truth even though others can’t handle the correction. 
• Modeling Jesus: (Darin)I need to be more concerned with the commandments of God rather than my own traditions. (Ty) Jesus is genuine and authentic. Jesus does the will of God.
• Praise Jesus: (Darin)He showed us the way to save us from ourselves and the law. (Ty)because of Him, I have access to my Heavenly Father. God is the ultimate example of what a Father should be. Just, but gracious. Stern but loving. God is the type of Father that always seems to find a way to forgive even though I don't deserve forgiveness. Despite God having the whole world in His hands, He wants to spend time with me. I praise Jesus for making that possible through unimaginable sacrifice.

Group Questions:

1. What is hypocrisy exactly?
2. Share a story when you encountered hypocrisy.
3. Describe some modern traditions of men that some try to make out to be from God himself.
4. How might hypocrisy affect a non-believer? What do you say to a non-believer who has been soured due to hypocrisy?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's observations:

• Immediately is used again - right after the feeding of the 5,000 - 3 gospels record this right after the feeding
• this time he has the disciples leave in the boat, but he stays on the land - going up to the mountain to pray
• Which mountain? Any significance?
• He dismissed the crowd - they took direction? Maybe it signifies that he met many of their needs?
• evening meaning after sunset - the disciples already on the sea - interesting that Jesus notices the boat in the wind - slow going
• 4th watch of the night? What time? How are the 'watches' set up? How many 'watches'?
• He meant to pass by them - what does that mean? Why? How does this make sense? For fun?
• But they were scared - how strong is the word, 'terrified'?
• Was it a ghost? Seems odd - common to their experiences and ancient superstitions?
• v50 immediately used again - shows Jesus' intention of not trying to terrify them - but instead saying words of comfort
• Take heart, do not be afraid - seems like an oft-used phrase in the bible by God, Jesus, Angels, etc.?
• 'utterly astounded' - how is this a different phrase than amazed, marveled, etc.? even more emphasis?
• v52 - FOR they did not understand about the loaves? Why harden their hearts? They went from utterly astounded to hard hearts? Why? What is Mark trying to convey here?
• Matthew talks about Peter going out on the water, but Mark doesn't - and Mark is Peter's gospel? Why was it left out?
• Matthew includes - they worshiped him saying - indeed you are the Son of God - how different from Mark
• v53-56 woman touching reminder - did she set a precedent?

Ty's observations:

• "They did not understand about the loaves.”
• Could it be that when we lack faith, it starts to harden our hearts, and when we trust in Jesus, it softens it?
• Could our lack of faith be why we experience trials?

Meaning:

• (Darin) Mark wants his readers to see Jesus as God. He was no ordinary man.
• (Ty) Due to the unfaithfulness of the disciples, Jesus allowed them to go through another trial. This time Jesus was not in the boat. Yet then Jesus sees them struggling and intercedes for them yet again.

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: (Darin) His patience...as much as he has shown his power, he is patient with his unbelieving friends - he is patient with me. (Ty) I am going to keep saying it because it keeps happening. Because He's my old brother, always talking dad out of the punishment I deserve.
• Modeling Jesus: (Darin) Prayer times (retreat after stress and prep before 'events') (Ty) His willingness to give into His compassion. Every story shows how compassionate Jesus was to everyone, and I want to live like that.
• Praise Jesus: (Darin) He is the I Am. (Ty) that He wants to provide, but I have to be faithful enough to give Him all I have. He can't bless something that I am not offering to Him.

Group Questions:

1. What would have been your reaction if you were one of the 12 to Jesus walking out on the sea?
2. Why do you think the disciples responded the way they did?
3. Why hard hearts?
4. When in life do you feel you struggle with a hard heart toward Jesus?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's Observations/Questions:

• Only miracle in the ministry of Jesus recorded in all 4 gospels
• v30 - the apostles return - no elaboration on what they said or what happened on their mission?
• "desolate" is used three times to describe their retreat...significance?
• doesn't sound like they managed a retreat - people got there ahead of them - rock star type fame
• v34 - great line - saw the great crowds, had compassion on them, they were like sheep without a shepherd - his response to his was to teach - Mark doesn't mention healings as the other gospels do
• because the crowd followed them to the desolate place - there wasn't anywhere for people to get food
• the disciples want Jesus to send them away - could have the disciples been longing for some peace and quiet?
• Jesus states - YOU give them something to eat - they respond with what sounds like sarcasm...as if they had it - this has to be tongue in cheek
• Mark doesn't mention the little boy - only John
• groups of 100s and 50s - any significance?
• broke the loaves and blessed - a foreshadowing of the upper room?
• 5,000 men - what about women and children? reason for this description?

Ty's Observations:

• significance of a “desert” place. Early it was a remote place where Jesus went to pray. Now after being sent on a mission it's where the apostles go with no one else around to rest.
• Jesus has compassion for crowds who do not know him. Luke says about the crowd “and was moved with compassion toward them because they were as sheep not having a shepherd.” 
• How does this passage compare to the feeding of the 4 thousand?
• Jesus in comparison to sleep. How is finding rest in/with Jesus different from sleeping
• Two passages ago Jesus sent the disciples out 2 by 2 on a mission telling them to bring nothing extra for the journey. Essentially, saying that everything they need will be provided. Now we have this scene of provision for 5,000 hungry people. Was this a lesson for the apostles?

Meaning:

• (Darin) Messianic - He came to teach, heal, provide, make whole - to all! Marks also seems to be emphasizing God's heart for his sheep in the compassion of Jesus.
• (Ty) Bring all that you have to Jesus and watch what He does with it.

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: (Darin) I have experienced this same compassion from Jesus. (Ty) My application is to bring everything to Jesus and watch the great things He will do in my life. My particular focus is stewarding the relationships Jesus has put in front of me.
• Modeling Jesus: (Darin) He acts though tired and seeking retreat - to teach, feed, care. So should we work as tirelessly? (Ty) Jesus took the outcast, the hated, criminals, sinners and He shared the truth with them about the God He knows. The next time someone is set before me that I perceive as being below my social station.
• Praise Jesus: (Darin) Jn 6 - He is the Bread of Life - bread that never spoils! (Ty) When I was 20 I lost my best friend and my older brother to single-car drunk driving accidents. Jesus has filled that gap becoming my best friend and my older brother. My relationship with Jesus has become the most important relationship in my life and I praise Him for it.

Group Questions:

1. Discuss a time you were the most tired you have ever been.
2. What does a compassionate person act like?
3. Do you have a desolate place? Describe.

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's Observations/Questions:

• King Herod - Herod Antipas - son of Herod the Great? Herod is a title right?
• Marks starts with Herod's reaction to Jesus after the death of John and then explains the scenario that led to John's beheading
• John the Baptist's possible resurrection in Jesus is linked with the miraculous powers of Jesus...did John perform miracles?
• There was an idea that Jesus was Elijah - which reminds me of how the disciples answered him when he asked them who do people say I am and also his comments on John the Baptist being Elijah
• Herod is scared it seems, John coming back to haunt? punish?
• Herod Antipas marries Herodias (title too or her name?) who was his brother Philip's wife, Herod seemed scared of John and the people, Herodias wanted him dead
• Herod's view of John is interesting - v20 thought of him as righteous and holy, heard him - perplexed but gladly listened
• Salome - where do we get her name - Mark doesn't mention it
• Always a sexual temptation it seems that brings men to their knees, reminds me of so many others including Samson and David - was he drunk?
• Why was this "vow" so important to follow through on?
• This whole section seems odd intervening between texts concerning the sending out and return of the 12 - Mark's reasoning for this sandwiching of material?

Ty's Observations:

• Herod worshiped false gods and Rome lusted after power and money destroying whoever he needed to keep power.
• Herod had John the Baptist imprisoned for John the baptist correction of his sin
• Herod had John the Baptist beheaded because of his lust for a woman who was not his wife.
• Why are they trying to figure out who Jesus is and don't see Him for what He is?
• John the Baptist called out Herod. Calling out others for sin in public is almost faux-pas in our Christian world. Should it be?
• Is there a significance of John the Baptist being beheaded?
• Would it have been a huge deal for Herod to say I was just kidding I'm not going to have someone killed for you?
• Significance of John the baptist being martyred before Jesus.
• Did John the baptist disciples become Jesus’ disciples after this event?
• How powerful is lust? How powerful was Herod's lust for Herodia's daughter that he would be willing to give up have of his kingdom?

Meaning:

• (Darin) - I think Mark was foreshadowing Jesus' mission and future death for the readers. John the Baptist, the work of the disciples, and ultimately Jesus' work - are all linked together.
• (Darin) - Mark also shows a contrast between the rich and powerful and the lowly and good

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: (Darin) I'm attracted to Jesus' lowly estate - no haughtiness or pomp and circumstance. (Ty) Be a David not a Herod. Seek to have relationships with people who know and give Jesus authority in their own lives.
• Modeling Jesus: Speak the truth and allow God to do what He wills even if it means sacrifice. (Ty) Be faithful, always seeking God's will.
• Praise Jesus: God's heart for us is of eternal value not just concerning the here and now. (Ty) Despite the fact I was king over my life for many years, God chased me down and pointed me to Jesus.

Group Questions:

1. What's one thing that you have been holding onto refusing to give Jesus authority over?
2. When things go wrong, what stops us from praising God?
3. What stops us from accepting God's will when things do not go our way?
4. What can we learn from John the Baptist as we seek to follow Jesus?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's Observations/Questions:

• The 12 - Mt says only to Israel territory not Samaritan or Gentile territory
• Significance of the 12 vs the 70/72 later? Israel's tribes vs table of nations Gen 10?
• Gave them authority? One time kind of thing? Always? (3:13-15)
• Why take nothing? Significance?
• Only a staff in Mark, MT no staff or sandals, Luke says no staff - why the differences? Does it mean much?
• Enter a house - Stay there until you leave? confusing
• Odd hospitality considerations due to this culture?
• Shake of the dust? Why is this significant? (as testimony against them)
• Proclaiming repentance and casting out demons, annointing with oil (why these 3 things?)
• Matthew adds about staying in someone's house - find out who is worthy - peace on a house if it is worthy but if it is not - let your peace return to you - meaning of worthy? peace?

Ty's Observations:

• Who were the disciples that Jesus would give them authority over unclean spirits?
• Jesus wants to show the how the unsupernatural (humans) could be greater than the supernatural (the devil) if we put all of our faith in Jesus and truly follow Him.  
• This happens because we go all In for God and don't turn our back on Him and think we know better than God like the devil did.
• This embarrasses the devil

Meaning:

• Jesus is here to change the world, shaking up traditions, seeking to bring life to the world. Mark is showing the origins of the reader's present reality. The Holy Spirit is at work, the gospel is relevant now as it is preached through Jesus' followers.

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: (Darin) - It motivates me to want to walk closer to Jesus because he has full intention of allowing his followers to lead authoritative lives over evil. He gives us power. (Ty) - The knowledge that with Jesus I can be greater than the devil. But I have to wholeheardely put my faith in Jesus. to quote bethel music :  I put my faith in Jesus My anchor to the ground (my hope and firm foundation) 'Cause my hope and firm foundation (He'll never let me down)
• Modeling Jesus: (Darin) - Not much here to directly model Jesus in - except to obey this great commission in our day. (Ty) - To push for disciples to disciples almost immediately after coming to Jesus.  To foster and and push for that and to Follow up. With this I am going to spend more time Following up on Brothers and Sisters in Christ than I do on social media everyday.
• Praise Jesus: (Darin) - He continues to exorcise, heal and speak today through us. Amazing! (Ty) - In Luke 22:31 Jesus says  ““Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift each of you like wheat.” I praise Jesus that He doesn't allow the devil to sift me like wheat but instead gives me a mere human the ability to be greater than the devil, if I choose to put my faith in Jesus wholeheartedly.

Group Questions:

1. What emotions and thoughts do you think the disciples had once Jesus told them what He wanted them to do?
2. When it comes to the Great Commission in your life, how Jesus wants you to Go and Make Disciples...do you feel you are obeying this call? Why or why not? What holds you back?
3. How might any of this passage apply for us today? For instance, authority, taking nothing, stay if wanted, shaking dust off our sandals, etc.
4. What is the message Jesus wants his disciples to bring to the nations?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's Observations/Questions:

• Hometown? I assume Nazareth.
• Disciples? How many people, I wonder?
• How much of an impact would that have on the Nazareth synagogue...the crowd alone?
• How well did the hometown people know him? Is there a marked difference in him? Did he teach at the synagogue before this?
• What is the wisdom given to him? An awkward question - what did that mean?
• How are such mighty works done? Assumes doubt from the beginning - impossible because he is 'one of us'?
• Wouldn't his followers pose some credence to what he is doing while away from home? Indeed they have heard, and some have even seen?
• They question because they know him and his family - why is this an issue? Why is it a barrier to acknowledging that there is something unique to him?
• It says they took offense at him? Meaning? Why offense?
• Jesus seems to be quoting a Scripture, or at least an adage - what is it? Is a prophet not without honor?
• He could do no mighty work there - seems like it was impossible? Maybe God wouldn't allow it? What's the meaning?
• He marveled - Mark loves this word but usually uses it with how others marveled at him.
• Their unbelief - what about the sick he healed? Who is "they"? The general population? Synagogue leaders?
• He went to teach among the villages... assuming in Galilee?

Meaning:

• Jesus is looking for faith from those who hear. Gentiles included. (important to Mark's readers)
• Do not be stubborn to the point of spiritual blindness.

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: Jesus' boldness makes me want to walk closer to Him.
• Modeling Jesus: He wasn't intimidated by his family or past circles of relationships - it didn't keep him from saying and doing what He was sent to say and do. How often do I let these influences keep me from doing what I am called to do?
• Praise Jesus: 1 Cor 1 says that the foolishness of God is wiser than men's wisdom and the weakness of God is strong than men's strength...I praise God that He is a stumbling block to the "wise" and uplifts the humble. He rebukes the stubborn and praises the desperate.

Group Questions:

1. How do you think your "hometown" sees you?
2. Is it more difficult to influence those close to you than others? Why?
3. Luke's version of this story includes how the hometown crowd was so mad with Him that they drove him toward a cliff to throw him off...and he just passed through their midst. Why do you think they were this mad? What was he actually saying to them?
4. How does stubbornness affect spiritual life?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Darin's Observations/Questions:

• while he was speaking - to the woman?
• reminds me of Jn 11 - waiting for Lazarus to die
• "Your daughter is dead" so direct. Is Mark just getting to the point?
• Jesus overhears and says, "Do not fear, only believe" (belief is continual) - is this comforting to this man? Does he think Jesus is crazy?
• Vs. 37 seems to fast forward a bit, skipping the man's reaction
• the girl, being dead, cannot touch him in faith, cannot seemingly have faith
• why did Jesus only allow the three disciples in with the parents? Significance?
• Commotion - family? actually, paid mourners? It reminds me of Jn 11 again
• weeping and wailing loudly to laughing in v 40 - odd emotional swing considering what's happened
• Jesus said she isn't dead but sleeping - could she have been in a coma?
• They laughed, and he put them outside - wouldn't it be better if these critics watched?
• Talitha cumi - why does Mark include the Aramaic here? The other gospels do not. use - are these unique words in Peter's memory?
• immediately - there is that word again - overcome with amazement there again too
• give her something to eat - an interesting detail
• Luke says that her spirit returned - not a coma seemingly at all.

Ty's Observations/Questions

• Either the child is dead, or everyone thinks the child is dead. To the point when Jesus says the child is sleeping they laugh. I wonder if this is a nervous type of laughter.
• Is the kid dead or just sick and sleeping? In today's world, I would most people would know to check the vital signs. I took an emergency management class once, and I know how to perform what's called head to toe. This is determined if a person is alive and the scope of their injuries. In the ancient world, I wonder how even a doctor, much less the public, would determine someone was dead. I think the girl was near death and would have died if Jesus didn't heal her or at the very least wake her and tell them to feed her.

Meaning:

• Jesus has authority even over death
• Jesus was not about showmanship but genuinely cared for people.

Application:

Darin's Application

• Walk closer to Jesus: His tender words remind me of the Father's love for me.
• Modeling Jesus: Do I model his compassion amid the world's laughter?
• Praise Jesus: He holds the keys to death itself - the elements, dark forces, death (I Cor 15) - He is Lord over all!

Ty's Application

• Walk closer to Jesus- When the chips are down and things seem impossible I need to put my faith in Jesus. Not that he is going to automatically fix the situation but that the situation will be used for the glory of God if I am willing to believe that God's will is at work in my life.
• Modeling Jesus: The next time I see the world give up on someone, I won't give up on them because thats what Jesus would do. 
• Praise Jesus: Jesus came to save the little girl when the world left her for dead. Jesus could have left me the way I was too but He didnt and I praise him for that.

Group Questions:

1. What is it do you find odd in this story? Why?
2. What is your favorite part of the story, and why?
3. What do you think the discussion was like among the people after the event when the little girl walked out?
4. What do you think Mark emphasizes in this story to his readers the most?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions:

• Mark makes it seem like the crowds in Galilee were there waiting for Jesus to get back from his trip
• Jairus - who was he? Any significance to his role in the synagogue? Could he have been there at the Capernaum synagogue during the exorcism and/or healings?
• fell at his feet - is this an act of worship? desperation? showing faith in him as a healer at minimum
• Jesus went with him - didn't have to, could have said the word only, the scene when He gets there may give us some insight into why He went (type of Lazarus scene)
• Mark inserts the story of the woman as Jesus is on his way to see Jairus' daughter - the interruption gives a great picture of a scene from Jesus' life at this time. Crowds around Him and the "demand" of his attention and time
• MK 6 says people were healed when they touched him - what makes this incident special to write about? the power element? the type of healing? a woman? act of faith?
• "thronged" - what is the meaning here in the Greek? a word that is used often?
• 12 years of discharge of blood - so specific, shows the desperation, nothing else was working...all these doctors, no hope, no money, nothing left
• she knew she would be healed just by touching him - desperation either leads one to hope or despair it seems, some would see this as a superstitious and foolish hope
• she is healed immediately
• power had gone form him? odd phrase - I wondered if he said this out loud or talked about it later with the disciples?
• who touched me? the disciples are bewildered because of the throng of people pressing in, odd question to them, is he upset?
• he looked around - kind of baiting the woman in a way to come forth w/ admission
• the woman must have been healed instantly and knew it...fear and trembling...as if she stole something...what can she be thinking here?
• my little daughter - very intimate, cares for her a great deal
• your faith, go in peace, healed, and be healed? what does that mean?

Meaning:

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: Jesus notices the least. This fact motivates me to want to walk closer to him.
• Modeling Jesus: Do I notice the least of these as I have been noticed by Jesus?
• Praise Jesus: He heals more than the symptoms of sin...gone for good.

Group Questions:

1. What strikes you the most in the passage and why?
2. Describe the woman in the story...especially all of her possible emotions and thoughts.
3. If you touched Jesus...what healing would take place?
4. Spend some time thanking Him for the healing and forgiving He has done in your life.

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions:

• Gerasenes, Gergesenes, Gadarenes? What is the difference? Is there? Location? Significance? Matthew uses Gadarenes
• the tombs - just flat our eerie, no one could subdue him and people are living there?
• divine appointment - like Jn 4? Didn't have to go through Samaria moment...
• no one could subdue him but yet he immediately falls at the feet of Jesus in total submission
• Jesus doesn't stop him from saying who he is...unlike other events. Why? location? Matt or Luke do not mention Jesus quieting him either
• torment - what could the demon be referring to?
• Legion - only time used here, this word, in the NT - demons plural, the legion is a roman group of fighting men of about 6,000 - true to the number of demons?
• why did the horde of demons not want to be sent out of the country or region?
• they ask for the pigs - not Jesus' idea
• why drown the host? they tormented the man, cut himself, naked but didn't kill him...maybe not allowed to?, now the hosts (pigs) are dead - a way to get back at Jesus?
• the man clothed and in his right mind - (the people ignore this...seems like the religious leader in 3:1-6
• beg Jesus - beg is interesting...cared? mad? both? motivations?
• He doesn't want the man to follow, seems unusual, due to his ethnicity? witness? like Jn 4 again - also doesn't mind him talking - he calls him Lord (Most high God? like the demons)
• marveled - Mark loves this word

Meaning:

• Writing to the Gentiles, Mark seems to intended to show Jesus' ministry to others outside of the Jewish population. He shows Jesus as one who loves all people, is compassionate, works miracles for Gentiles too, Savior of the Gentiles as well.
• Authority - it is hard to ignore Mark's insistence on this theme...He is the Most High God as confessed to by the demons and they are under his power.
• Discipleship - the demoniac is saved and set free to witness, you don't have to be one of the twelve to be a witness for the kingdom

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: Jesus is the light in the darkness just by being who He is...it motivates me to want to walk closer because I'm attracted to Light
• Modeling Jesus: He didn't preach to everyone. He didn't battle the people in this story but left - left the preaching to someone else.
• Praise Jesus: Jesus is the ultimate strongman. Most High God. Winner. He cares more for us than animals, even his own physical life...our Savior from the demons of this world!

Group Questions:

1. What strikes you the most in the passage and why?
2. How would you have reacted if you witnessed this event firsthand?
3. Why do you think the pigs were allowed to be destroyed? What could Jesus' possible motive be?
4. How do you relate to the demoniac? Can you relate?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions

• On that day - why did Mark make note of this? Is he trying to connect the earlier events and discussion with this scene?
• Other boats? Who was with them? Other apostles? Other followers? Part of the crowd that stuck around? vs 34?
• Did they question going to the other side of the Sea? Decapolis? The windstorm arose quickly...common? Supernatural?
• Peter remembers - where Jesus was in the boat and how he was on a cushion...do the other gospel writers include these details?
• Their question, do you not care? Kind of harsh?
• We're dying - dramatic or actual? The others in the other boat...experienced the miracle as well right? Curious about their perspective.
• Jesus' words to them - why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith? (still no faith - curious about the Greek here)
• Filled with great fear - reminds me of seeing him walking on the water when they cried out, Ghost!
• What does fear mean here? Actually scared or awe or both?
• Who then is this? What a question for guys who have been following for quite some time and witnessing what they have already. However, this is the first time they have seen him directly control the weather...no one can control it - no possible trick, no explanation at all.

Meaning:

• Once again Mark wants his readers to wrestle with the identity of Jesus - Who is this?
• Jesus is God, others in Jewish history a description of an invader, Antiochus Epiphanes tried to "divinely" control the weather to no avail, mentioning only God is capable.

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: He has calmed our seas before...His power is reason enough to follow.
• Modeling Jesus: Faith - "sleep during the storms" - because God has it.
• Praise Jesus: Nothing is comparable to Him. He is invincible! We can have total confidence in Him!

Group Questions:

1. What strikes you the most in the passage and why?
2. How would you feel in this situation watching Jesus sleep?
3. Describe how you normally handle crises...emotionally, spiritually, maybe even physically?
4. How should faith change you when it comes to handling crises?
5. What decision can you make today about how you will handle things in the future when a crisis inevitably comes?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions

• 3 parables - all seem very similar
• use of "secret" connection w/ v. 11?
• anyone who has ears... possible transition? on to something else?
• v24 - acting on the gospel?
• what is the word for "measure" here? Significance?
• v24-25 Sounds like the parable of the talents...does Mark include the parable of the talents in his gospel?
• what connects all of these parables - kingdom talk?
• the harvest - significance in this context? eschatological?
• mustard seed - one of the smallest...significance?
• Are all these things like branches, birds, etc. supposed to represent anything in particular like the dreams in Daniel?
• is there anything to him wanting to see hearers pursue? to stick around and ask more? etc.

Meaning:

• Don't underestimate the proclamation of the kingdom or the kingdom itself
• Jesus has an interest in how we hear - do we want to listen?

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: Jesus promised and it happened. I trust in Him.
• Modeling Jesus: Boldness and passion for the kingdom, is it good news to me?
• Praise Jesus: He has chosen to reveal the good news to us because He wanted to - his love is amazing.

Group Questions:

1. How are the parables in this section similar?
2. In what ways are the parables in this section different?
3. What is the overall message Jesus seems to be trying to get across to the listeners?
4. Do you view the gospel as good news? What is the gospel?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions

1. He gets in a boat to preach, which seems to happen often to get away from the crowds; how pressing were they?
2. Why does Mark not seem to record many parables? How does he use the word "parable"?
3. "Listen" in v. 3 seems commanding; Mt and Lk don't include this...
4. Four types of soil, and the focus seems to be on the soils, not the sower,
5. the deficient soils - 3 types; the good soil also seems to have three types
6. would this story be confusing to those who did not hear the explanation?
7. What is meant by secret?
8. What is the significance of IS 6?
9. The discussion with the disciples and others - what is his purpose in this?
10. The explanation seems obvious - is there something we are missing?

Meaning:

• Jesus came to reveal the kingdom of God
• Everyone has a response to the Kingdom of God/ to accept or reject

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: He spells out responses to the message - what is the soil of my heart?
• Modeling Jesus: Living ministry with his understanding - and not become disheartened when running into different soil types.
• Praise Jesus: He has revealed the kingdom of God to us!

Group Questions:

1. Describe the four types of soil and expound on each one - give examples of how hearts reflect this teaching.
2. What did Jesus mean by secret?
3. What soil does your heart relate to and why?
4. What strikes you the most in this text and why?

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions

1. vs. 20-21 don't seem to fit too well in context. Is Mark sandwiching v22-30 in between v20-1 and v31-35?
2. He is out of his mind? did they think he was insane?
3. Scribes came down from Jerusalem (but Galilee is north) - why down?
4. Mark loves the word "and" in this passage.
5. Beelzebul - different than Satan? Same? what's the meaning
6. Jesus called the scribes over - why would they go if they thought he was possessed?
7. Parables - how is this a parable?
8. What is the significance of "kingdom" and "house"? Is there any?
9. Why strong man? Who is the strong man?
10. Hard verse 28 - blasphemy - what is it? Is v 30 an explanation?
11. Vs. 31-35 - is he saying he doesn't care about his actual family? What does he mean?

Meaning:

• The Kingdom of God is here in Jesus and will defeat the Kingdom of Satan
• Jesus is not insane, not possessed, and has all authority.
• Will we do the will of God and believe and follow Jesus as Lord and Savior?

Application:

• Walk closer to Jesus: I don't want to be on the wrong side. His goodness attracts me to follow, and His authority compels me to follow.
• Modeling Jesus: Jesus dealt with accusations head-on and fought with logic and truth. Sometimes even your family is wrong regarding what God's will is in your life.
• Praise Jesus: He is Yahweh, creator of all things and more powerful than any demon or created being. Salvation is why he came - ultimate victory over Satan - Christus Victor!

Group Questions:

1. What would Jesus' family think he was insane?
2. Describe the scribes...why do you think they are saying such things?
3. What are the meanings of a kingdom divided and a house divided? Who's kingdom? Who's house?
4. What is blasphemy?
5. What is blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
6. Describe all the things you were feeling while reading this passage.

Tune in to New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Observations/Questions

1. withdrew - what is the meaning exactly? How often does Mark use it?
2. Where is Idumea?
3. Wanted to touch him not wanting to be handled by him
4. they unclean spirits- whenever they saw him - often?
5. Are these possessed people? If so -there isn't any talk of casting them out? Assumed?
6. Mountain - do we know which mountain?
7. What do we know about each of these disciples listed?
8. Zealot - is this a faithful political zealot?

Meaning:

1. It seems to be a transition - showing context and connecting passages
2. Authority is still an issue - it seems to be the closing of the introductory hook for Mark

Application:

1. Walk closer to Jesus: God is so gracious; I want to be gracious even in my weakness or while working with others in their weaknesses.
2. Modeling Jesus: Boldness - helping others just by being around
3. Praise Jesus: he is the Son of God; I praise Him for choosing to use humanity to carry out His purposes

Group Questions:

1. Describe the possible thoughts and feelings that the disciples possessed when the crowds pushed in from every side on Jesus.
2. Describe the possible thoughts and feelings that the crowds possessed when they pushed in from every side on Jesus.
3. How did Jesus handle the overwhelming crowds?
4. What about this text teaches you about how to walk closer to Jesus? Model Jesus? Praise Jesus?

Tune into New Hope Underground - it's back! Check out our other podcasts on www.newhopechurch.cc/listen!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.