Mark 16

Well friends, it's been a fun trip through the Gospel of Mark. I've had fun over the past 15 weeks chatting about this book. In light of the success of "Mark: My Words" we will be doing more blogs in the future...so stay tuned!

Mark 16 is the dramatic conclusion to this biography of Christ. Are there really any better words than, "He has been resurrected!" (v. 6) Our Savior lives! This truly is the Good News. Mark 16 also contains what has become some controversial teaching, especially in our part of the country, Appalachia more specifically (see vv. 17-18). While we often make jokes, there are churches today that still practice snake handling and poison drinking. Depending on your translation however, you may notice something unique about vv. 9-20. These verses may be bracketed, or there may be special footnotes. This is becuase these verses are not contained in the oldest, most reliable Biblical manuscripts. This means that vv. 9-20 are most likely later additions. But why? Some think that Mark ends a bit abruptly. Imagine that Mark 16 actually ended with v. 8. Do you think the story is complete?

Mark 15

"My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?" For many years those words perplexed me. As I've come to a greater understanding of theology, I can now say I appreciate their significance. What do you think about Jesus' words? Do they make sense? Why did Jesus say them? What are your thoughts?

Mark 14

Things begin moving quickly in chapter 14. The Last Supper, Jesus' arrest, and Peter's denial of Christ all happen in this chapter. Post your thoughts and questions. We learn better together.

Mark 13

AND DOWN THE STRETCH THEY COME!! We are on our final reading plan. That's exciting and sad all at once. What a fun journey this has been.

Mark 13 is a prophetic passage and should give us lots of interesting stuff to talk about. I can't preach about all of it on Sunday, so this forum may be useful for answering some questions. I'll leave it at that and let the fun begin. Have a blessed week!