The Annointing at Bethany and The Betrayal: Mark 14:1-11

 

In Mark 14:1–11, two key events are described:

 The Anointing at Bethany (Mark 14:3–9)

Jesus is in Bethany at the house of Simon the Leper. During a meal, a woman comes in with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume made of pure nard. She breaks the jar and pours the perfume on Jesus’ head, anointing him. Some of the people present criticize her, saying the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus defends the woman, saying she has done a beautiful thing in preparing his body for burial ahead of time. He says that her act will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached.

 Judas’ Betrayal (Mark 14:10–11)

After this, Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' twelve disciples, goes to the chief priests and offers to betray Jesus to them. The chief priests are pleased and promise to give Judas money. From that point on, Judas looks for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them.

Contrasting the Two People

In Mark 14:1–11, the anointing of Jesus by the woman and Judas' betrayal present a sharp contrast between two distinct actions and attitudes.

 The Anointing by the Woman (Mark 14:3–9)

 Devotion and Love: The woman shows deep devotion to Jesus by using an expensive perfume to anoint Him, an act of great personal sacrifice. The perfume, likely worth a year’s wages, symbolizes her wholehearted love and reverence for Jesus.

Selflessness: She pours the perfume without concern for its cost, focusing solely on honoring Jesus. Her act is pure, uncalculated, and driven by love.

Recognition of Jesus’ Mission: Jesus commends her, explaining that she has prepared His body for burial, recognizing that her act aligns with His impending death and sacrifice.

Eternal Legacy: Jesus declares that her act of devotion will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached, highlighting the significance of her love and sacrifice.

 Judas' Betrayal (Mark 14:10–11)

Betrayal and Greed: Judas, one of Jesus’ closest disciples, chooses to betray Him for money. His decision contrasts with the woman’s sacrifice, as Judas seeks personal gain at Jesus' expense.

Selfishness: Unlike the woman, who gives freely, Judas takes advantage of his relationship with Jesus for financial reward. His motives are driven by greed and personal ambition.

Rejection of Jesus’ Mission: While the woman honors Jesus and acknowledges His path to the cross, Judas rejects Jesus' mission and aligns himself with His enemies. His betrayal paves the way for Jesus’ arrest and eventual crucifixion.

Eternal Infamy: Instead of being remembered for devotion, Judas is remembered for his act of betrayal, becoming a symbol of treachery and moral failure.

The anointing by the woman reflects devotion, love, and sacrifice, while Judas' betrayal exemplifies greed, selfishness, and treachery, highlighting two vastly different responses to Jesus.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 11 Book of Mark

Christians Should Avoid Getting Caught Up In Predictions About The Return of Jesus

 

"What signs of Christ’s coming especially stand out to you in 

the present world?" (pg. 86, The Book of Mark, 3rd qtr. 2024)

Some have been telling people signs of Jesus' return for hundreds of years. Some people alive 180 years ago thought the signs pointed to the return in 1843, then 1844. Then every couple of  years after that.

We have been preaching a Sunday Law for more years than Noah preached the flood. (That is a paraphrase quote from Danny Shelton, 3ABN is his sermon We are not the True Church:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5YauNeRt00&t=3595s

That does not mean it's not going to happen, but we need to stop crying wolf for every world and local event.

Christians can avoid getting caught up in predictions about the return of Jesus by focusing on the core teachings of their faith rather than speculating about future events. 

Trust in God's Timing

Jesus himself emphasized that no one knows the day or hour of His return (Matthew 24:36). Christians are encouraged to trust in God's perfect timing rather than attempting to predict it.

Focus on Living Faithfully

Instead of focusing on signs and predictions, the Bible encourages Christians to live faithfully each day—loving God and their neighbors, following Christ’s teachings, and seeking to grow spiritually (Luke 21:34-36, Matthew 24:42).

Avoid Fear-based Thinking

Fear and anxiety about the end times can detract from the peace and joy that Christ offers. Instead of dwelling on crises or prophetic speculation, Christians can focus on trusting in God’s sovereignty and goodness in every season of life (Philippians 4:6-7).

Be Watchful but Not Obsessed

The Bible calls Christians to be spiritually vigilant and ready for Christ’s return, but without being consumed by speculation (1 Thessalonians 5:2-6). Living with hope and readiness is different from being caught up in every prediction or crisis.

Engage in Meaningful Service

Many teachings of Christ emphasize serving others and making a positive impact in the world. Rather than being distracted by signs and predictions, Christians can focus on serving others and living out their faith in practical ways (Matthew 25:31-46).

Interpret Scripture Wisely

Understanding Biblical prophecy requires humility and discernment. Historically, many predictions about the return of Jesus have been inaccurate. A wise approach is to study scripture carefully while avoiding sensationalism.

By keeping their eyes on Christ and living out their faith each day, Christians can avoid being distracted by the uncertainties of the future.

Beware of False Prophets Jesus Warned us about in Mark 13:22

 

To be a Christian and avoid false prophets, it’s important to be grounded in your faith, understand biblical teachings, and be discerning. 

The Adventist Church at the moment is proliferating with self-appointed prophets. The pandemic helped usher in a new wave of conspiracy theories and false teachings.

Sadly, many of them remain popular in Adventist circles. You see them on youtube and they peddle a variety of seminars, promising to give you the latest and greatest. Everything in the news is ripe for a new prophecy.

We will not name names, but hope you know exactly who we are talking about. None of what they say ever comes true, and they only comment on an event AFTER it happens.

A well-known Adventist author once said that they do this because they need to keep the money flowing in.

Here are some principles to guide you.

Know the Bible

Study Scripture: Knowing the Bible helps you recognize teachings that contradict its core messages. False prophets often distort or misinterpret Scripture. Familiarize yourself with key biblical truths about God, Jesus, salvation, and Christian living.

Test Everything: Scripture encourages believers to test the spirits to see if they are from God (1 John 4:1). Compare teachings with the Bible to ensure they align with sound doctrine.

Stay in Prayer

Seek God’s Guidance: Regular prayer helps you stay connected to God and receive wisdom and discernment. Ask God to guide you and give you clarity when you encounter teachings that seem questionable.

Pray for Discernment: Specifically, ask for the ability to recognize truth from falsehood. The Holy Spirit can give you insight into deceptive messages or intentions (James 1:5).

Be Aware of the Characteristics of False Prophets

Look for Deceptive Practices: False prophets may claim to speak for God but often distort or twist Scripture for personal gain, power, or fame. Be wary of anyone who teaches in ways that contradict the gospel or promote self over Christ (Matthew 7:15-16).

Check Their Fruits: Jesus said that “by their fruits, you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:20 NIV). Examine the character and lifestyle of teachers. True Christian leaders exhibit love, humility, and a godly character, while false prophets often lead lives that contradict Christian values.

Stay in Community

Engage in Church Fellowship: Surround yourself with other believers who are committed to studying Scripture and holding each other accountable. Church leaders, elders, or trusted Christians can help you discern questionable teachings.

Submit to Sound Teaching: Stay connected to a church that faithfully preaches the Bible. Avoid ministries or individuals who teach isolated, out-of-context, or novel interpretations of Scripture.

Watch for Key Red Flags

Focus on Self or Money: If a prophet or teacher emphasizes personal gain, material wealth, or themselves rather than Christ and the gospel, this could be a red flag (1 Timothy 6:3-5).

Contradicting the Gospel: Be cautious of teachings that deny or distort core elements of the Christian faith, such as the deity of Christ, the need for repentance, or the sufficiency of grace through faith.

Manipulation or Fear: False prophets often use manipulation or fear tactics to control or influence others.

Trust in God’s Protection

Rely on the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is your guide and will lead you into truth (John 16:13). Trust in God’s protection and remain open to His leading as you navigate various teachings.

Remain Humble and Teachable: Always remain open to correction and teaching. If you're ever in doubt, return to the Word and seek counsel from godly, wise people in your life.

Remaining grounded in biblical truth, prayer, and community will protect you from falling prey to false prophets while allowing you to grow in faith and understanding.

Sabbath School Lesson 11: Taken and Tried

 

The Book of Mark

Sabbath School Lesson 11

Taken and Tried

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 11 video here.

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> Download  Mark (3rd qtr) Sabbath School Lessons Here

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The Great Tribulation: Mark 13:19

 

The Great Tribulation: Mark 13:19

What tribulation is Jesus referring to? Many believe this was the persecution during the Middle Ages and during the early church. Or the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70.

Both of those fall short of what the Bible text says. In Mark 13:20, Jesus shifts to times that are clearly not AD 70 nor the Middle Ages. We know that because of verse 22.

 Mark 13:22 NIV "For false messiahs and false prophets will appear and perform signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect."

This parallels the narrative of Revelation shortly before Jesus comes.

Mark 13:24-26 NIV “But in those days, following that distress,

“‘the sun will be darkened,

    and the moon will not give its light;

the stars will fall from the sky,

    and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’

“At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory."

It is easy to understand this is a future event that has not happened yet. These things will take place immediately before Jesus appears in the couds on His return.

The sun, moon, and stars references are to a worldwide event, not something local. They are not due to an eclipse, smoke from a fire, or anything that man can explain.

The writers of The Bible knew the difference between stars and other heavenly bodies, such as meteors. A meteor shower is not stars falling.

If you are thinking of earthquakes, like the one in Lisbon 1755, realize that there have been greater earthquakes before and after. it does not even rank in the top ten as most deadly.

We have one final clue in Revelation as to this Great Tribulation. 

Revelation 7:14 NIV: I answered, “Sir, you know.” And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb."

The reference is to the 144,000. No matter how you look at it, that clearly is pointing the time just before Jesus returns.

The tribulation that will be at the end will be one that humans have never seen. They will be filled with supernatural events that science cannot explain. They will also be worldwide, not just to a few.

Beware of false prophets today, as Jesus warned. Read and study your Bble so you will not be deceived.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark

The "Anointed One" and the "Prince who is to Come: Daniel 9:26-27

 

In Daniel 9:26-27, the identities of the "anointed one" and the "prince who is to come" have been the subject of various interpretations, depending on theological perspectives. Here's the passage:

Daniel 9:26-27 (ESV):

"And after the sixty-two weeks, an anointed one shall be cut off and shall have nothing. And the people of the prince who is to come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary. Its end shall come with a flood, and to the end there shall be war. Desolations are decreed. And he shall make a strong covenant with many for one week, and for half of the week he shall put an end to sacrifice and offering. And on the wing of abominations shall come one who makes desolate, until the decreed end is poured out on the desolator."

Interpretations:

The Anointed One:

Traditional Christian Interpretation: Many Christian scholars identify the "anointed one" as Jesus Christ. The term "anointed" (which translates to "Messiah" in Hebrew and "Christ" in Greek) is seen as a reference to Jesus, who was "cut off" (crucified) and had "nothing" (his death was seen as a moment of apparent defeat).

Jewish Interpretation: Some Jewish scholars see the "anointed one" as a reference to a high priest or a king, possibly someone like the High Priest Onias III, who was killed around 171 BC.

The Prince Who Is to Come:

Traditional Christian Interpretation: The "prince who is to come" is often interpreted as a future ruler or leader associated with the Roman Empire, which was responsible for the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 70 AD. Some believe this refers specifically to Titus, the Roman general who led the siege against Jerusalem, while others see it as a reference to an antichrist figure in the end times.

Alternative Interpretations: Some view this "prince" as a more symbolic figure representing any ruler or power that opposes God's people, leading to destruction and desolation.

 Summary:

Anointed One: Generally interpreted as either a reference to Jesus Christ in Christian theology or as a significant priestly or royal figure in Jewish history.

Prince Who Is to Come: Typically seen as a reference to a leader associated with the destruction of Jerusalem, possibly linked to the Roman Empire or an eschatological figure in Christian interpretations.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark

The Abomination of Desolation:Mark 13:14–18

 In Mark 13:14-18, Jesus provides a clue about the "abomination of desolation" by referencing a specific prophecy from the Book of Daniel. Here's the passage:

Mark 13:14-18 (ESV):

“But when you see the abomination of desolation standing where it ought not to be (let the reader understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let the one who is on the housetop not go down, nor enter his house, to take anything out, and let the one who is in the field not turn back to take his cloak. And alas for women who are pregnant and for those who are nursing infants in those days! Pray that it may not happen in winter.”

 Key Clue:

Reference to Daniel: The phrase "abomination of desolation" is a direct reference to prophecies found in the Book of Daniel (specifically Daniel 9:27, 11:31, and 12:11). In these passages, Daniel describes an event where something sacrilegious would be set up in the holy place, causing desolation.

Implication:

Historical Context: In the historical context, this phrase is often interpreted as referring to events like the desecration of the Jewish Temple by Antiochus IV Epiphanes in 167 BC, but most likely the destruction of the Temple in 70 AD by the Romans. Both events involved significant sacrilege and devastation.

Understanding the Sign: Jesus' instruction to flee when this event occurs emphasizes the severity of the situation. The "abomination of desolation" serves as a sign for the disciples and others to recognize that a catastrophic event is imminent, prompting urgent action.

The reference to Daniel and the emphasis on the urgency of fleeing when this sign appears provide the clues needed to understand the "abomination of desolation."

More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark

Not One Stone on Another: Mark 13:1-13

In Mark 13:1–13, the disciples' response and Jesus' answer carry deep theological and prophetic significance to the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem.

The Disciples' Response (Mark 13:1-2):

As Jesus and His disciples were leaving the temple, one of His disciples remarked on the magnificence of the temple, specifically its large stones and impressive buildings. This reflects their awe at the grandeur of the temple, which was the center of Jewish worship and national identity.

Disciples' Statement  

"Look, Teacher! What massive stones! What magnificent buildings!" (NIV)

Jesus’ Response (Mark 13:2):

Jesus responds to the disciple’s admiration with a prophetic statement.

"Do you see all these great buildings? Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." (NIV)

Significance of Jesus’ Response

Prophecy of Destruction: Jesus predicts the destruction of the temple, which historically occurred in AD 70 when the Romans destroyed Jerusalem and the temple. This prophecy emphasizes the transient nature of earthly structures, no matter how grand.

Judgment: The destruction also symbolizes judgment on the religious establishment that had rejected Jesus and clung to a corrupt system.

Further Inquiry by the Disciples (Mark 13:3-4):

Later, as Jesus sits on the Mount of Olives, Peter, James, John, and Andrew privately ask Him about the timing of this destruction and the signs that would indicate its approach.

Disciples' Questions

"Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?" (NIV)

Jesus’ Extended Answer (Mark 13:5-13)

Jesus gives a discourse that combines the immediate future (the destruction of the temple) with events that will unfold at the end of the age. He warns the disciples of several things:

False Messiahs: Many will come in His name, claiming to be the Messiah.

Wars and Rumors of Wars: They should not be alarmed by wars and conflicts, as these are not the immediate signs of the end.

Persecution: The disciples will face persecution, betrayal, and hatred because of their allegiance to Christ.

Endurance: Despite these hardships, Jesus encourages them to stand firm, as salvation is promised to those who endure.

Significance of Jesus’ Extended Answer

Preparation for Hardships: Jesus prepares His disciples for the challenges they will face, both in the near future and in the end times.

Dual Fulfillment: Jesus' words have a dual application—first to the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, and second to the events surrounding His second coming.

Call to Faithfulness: Amid trials, the disciples are called to remain faithful and not be deceived by false prophets or discouraged by suffering.

The disciples' awe at the temple leads Jesus to teach them about the impermanence of earthly things and the importance of being spiritually prepared for the trials ahead, emphasizing endurance and faithfulness as they await God's ultimate plan.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark

Lessons from the Widow's Offering: Mark 12:41-44

 

In Mark 12:41–44, the account of the widow's offering is described as follows:

 The Widow's Offering

Amount Given

The widow gave two small copper coins, known as "mites" or "lepta." These were of very little monetary value, equivalent to a fraction of a penny.

Jesus' Response: Jesus observed people putting money into the temple treasury and noticed the poor widow's offering. He called His disciples and said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on." (NIV)

Lessons from the Passage

True Generosity

The widow's offering demonstrates that true generosity is measured not by the amount given, but by the heart and sacrifice behind it. Jesus commended the widow not because she gave a large sum, but because she gave all that she had, showing complete trust in God.

Sacrificial Giving

The widow's act of giving all she had is an example of sacrificial giving. It reminds us that the value of our giving is not in the quantity, but in the level of sacrifice it represents.

Trust in God

The widow's willingness to give all she had indicates her deep trust in God to provide for her needs. This teaches us to rely on God rather than on our material possessions.

Humility

The widow's offering was given quietly, without seeking recognition or praise. This highlights the importance of humility in our acts of worship and giving.

The Heart Matters More Than the Amount

Jesus' teaching here challenges the notion that only large gifts or contributions are valuable. He emphasizes that God values the intention and heart behind the offering more than the monetary amount.

This passage encourages believers to give with a generous heart, trusting in God’s provision, and to understand that true value in God's eyes is not tied to worldly measures of wealth.

More: Sabbath School Lesson 10 Book of Mark