Watch Out!
Opening Prayer
Dear Jesus, “All of my ambitions, hopes and plans, I surrender these into your hands” (Robin Mark).
Read Mark 12:35–40
For additional translations of the passage, use this link to Bible Gateway.
35 While Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, he asked, “Why do the teachers of the law say that the Messiah is the son of David? 36 David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared:
“‘The Lord said to my Lord:
“Sit at my right hand
until I put your enemies
under your feet.”’
37 David himself calls him ‘Lord.’ How then can he be his son?”
The large crowd listened to him with delight.
Warning Against the Teachers of the Law
38 As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, 39 and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. 40 They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
Is there anything you want to surrender into the hands of Jesus today? Do it now.The point of the conundrum in verses 36 and 37 is to point out that Jesus is not simply the human “son of David,” but that he is so much more—David’s Lord! And look out: the Lord has come to his Temple (35; Mal. 3:1) and those in authority are being called to account (38,39; Mal. 3:3)! Of particular concern is the rulers’ treatment of widows, who were particularly vulnerable (40; Mal. 3:5).
The leaders’ high self-regard, as shown in the length of their robes and prayers (38,40), contrasted sharply with their low regard for the needs of others. They were exemplary breakers of yesterday’s “great command”; claiming to love God, they failed to love their neighbor. Now, suddenly, Jesus bursts into their pomp and posturing. Rather than looking up to them, Jesus warned people to “watch out” for them (38).
If the Lord suddenly came to our religious gatherings (whether house church or high church, in priory or pub) what might he tell us to “watch out for”?
Apply
Jesus asked, “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). How do you respond to that question today?
Closing prayer
God, here I am. All my “righteousness” is worthless to You. Humble my heart, and teach me to walk in obedience.
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