Sunday 04 March 2012
- Bible Book:
- Mark
"Then he begain to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again." (v. 31)
Background
The term "Son of Man" is Jesus' favourite title for himself andis used only by him in the Gospel of Mark. It is a term rich inmeaning - at its most straightforward it simply means a man, ahuman born from humans. Yet in
The contrast between the meaning of "Son of Man", as it wasunderstood, and Jesus' open prediction of his suffering, rejectionand death is stark and it seems to drive Peter's rebuke (verse 32).In return Jesus delivers a stinging line to Peter, describing himas Satan (verse 33). Peter sees things from a human viewpoint andobjective: God's viewpoint and objective are very different. Tostand in the way of the kingdom of God is to align one's self withGod's opponents.
Jesus calls anyone who would be a follower not to oppose the way ofsuffering, but to follow in this very way. Crucifixion wasconsidered the most terrible way of execution not only because ofits suffering, but also due to the shame and humiliation for thevictim, their family, friends and associates. Jesus calls hisfollowers in to this way for him and for the sake of the gospel,that is the good news about God's loving relationship with humanbeings.
This passage ends with a reference to the end of the present time,the second coming of the Son of Man and judgement, at some time inthe future. Those who avoid the way of suffering, shame andhumiliation with the Son of Man in the present, will cause him tobe ashamed of them at that time.
To Ponder
In some countries denial and suffering is verymuch a part of Christian life, either through devotional practiceor persecution. What does denial and suffering for the sake ofChrist, mean for you in your daily life?
What things do you do personally that may opposeGod's plans? How can you change those things and align yourselfwith God?