Mark 16:1-8 Jesus Christ’s Resurrection (The Empty Tomb)

Mark 16:1-8
1 Now when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, that they might come and anoint Him. 2 Very early in the morning, on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. 3 And they said among themselves, “Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?” 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away—for it was very large. 5 And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed. 6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. 7 “But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.” 8 So they went out quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Devotional
If the cross signaled to the disciples of Jesus seemingly the end; the empty tomb will usher in the future of endless hope because of the resurrected Life, Power, and Person of Jesus Christ. That is where we begin, Jesus Christ having been placed in the tomb, and it being sealed, and the disciples having spent the Sabbath in a solemn state. For having heard the jeers of the crowds, the priests and scribes who mocked the Savior of the world as He was dying for all our sins. There now seemed little left to do but go about some formalities. And so with the Sabbath past Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, that they might come and anoint Him (vs. 1-2). A gesture of respect and honor by two of the many women who followed Jesus, who themselves had come to experience the restoration of personal dignity by the Jesus’ Person to their Person and gender. In this Mary Magdalene had come to experience this most profoundly. For she was a women of no reputation, accept that she once had unclean spirits, along with some undisclosed infirmities, whom the Lord cast out, and healed her of (Mark 16:9). And having healed her, Mary's loyalty to Jesus ran deep. And so it is no surprise of her presence at Christ’s crucifixion (John 19:25) and now along with Mary the mother of James and Salome to be the first of all the disciples seeking out the Lord after that dreadful event was completed (John 20:11-18). Dreadful in what Jesus suffered for us all; Glorious in what it accomplished.

And so she along with Mary the mother of James, and Salome also being a disciple of Jesus, having observed where Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus had laid the body of Jesus, in an newly hewn tomb, together they bought spices that they might come and anoint Him. And having come to the tomb they encounter it sealed, and with that their hearts likely sink. Yet their journey from the cross to the grave does not end there. Instead by a supernatural work of God the stone is rolled away (Matt. 28:2-4).
Understand this then there is no barrier to the resurrected Christ and the glories that await us all who believe that we must overcome in of ourselves. For whatever barriers are put before us. God Himself, who has covenanted with us, because of our faith in His Son Jesus Christ, will move for us. Now these are barriers to our faith and life with Him, not barriers to our own desires when these fall outside of the will of God for us (James 4:2-3). Therefore as we trust and obey Him and seek to honor Him. He will move them for us. Just as the Mary’s were intending to do here; for it’s not in our own strength or resources we prevail; it’s God’s. All things then are possible to the one who has faith in Jesus (Phil. 4:12-13). And so God who knows all things sent His angel to roll away the tomb’s large stone; which the Mary’s could by no means move themselves. And having scattered the guards, God makes the way for the Mary’s to enter the tomb. God then having made the way for them, the Mary’s enter the tomb, fully expecting to find Jesus’ body so that they might anoint it. It is a poignant moment where they take one last gasp of fresh air before entering, anticipating death, not life. Instead as they enter, they are alarmed to see a young man clothed in a long white robe, sitting on the right side of the tomb, (vs. 5). The young man himself being an angel sent by the God to greet them and tell them of Jesus’ resurrection!

And with their being flabbergasted by his presence, the angel says to them: …“Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. 7 “But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.” 8 So they went out quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid. Vs. 6-8

Now the angel having calmed the Mary’s then declares to them Jesus of Nazareth’s bodily resurrection, telling them to note the place he once lay (vs. 6). They then are the first eye witnesses to Christ’s empty tomb and Mary Magdalene will be after leaving it the first eye witness to Jesus Christ’s resurrection, Jesus appearing to her later (Mark 16:9-11; John 20:11-18). With that the angel wastes no time and tells them to go and tell the disciples; and Peter; that Jesus is risen and “…that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.” Vs. 7

Notice then within the promise of Jesus going before them is also a specific word of reconciliation for Peter, since he was devastated for denying Jesus three times during His trial. Now that is the first act of post crucifixion grace that the Lord Jesus Christ extends to one of His own who fail Him. Yet it will not be the last; for the resurrection of the crucified Lord Jesus Christ is the Living Message of grace, hope and new and everlasting life to everyone who believes (John 3:16-17; Rom. 3:23-24; 2 Cor. 5:17). I pray then that is the message you are hearing this Easter Sunday. For the angel does not tell the Mary’s to go and tell the Good News to the disciples, but shun Peter for his denying Jesus. Instead the angel says go and tell the disciples, yes, affirm their faith, but also tell Peter, make sure you reaffirm him, by telling him that Jesus lives and loves him and is going before you all, and will meet with you all soon. By the way do you know any Peter’s who need to be reaffirmed in their faith this Easter Sunday? Who maybe by word or deed have likewise denied Jesus in some way? If you don’t your probably living in a religious bubble that needs to be burst, for there is no one if they are honest about themselves that can stand up and declare their unfailing faithfulness to the Lord Jesus. If they do, then I would suggest calling them to account, because nobody who is truthful about themselves or those around them can honestly pretend or assert such things about themselves or others.
For we all fail, though our desire is not to, we all fail at being the kind of disciple we want to be: Loyal, faith filled, righteous, just, holy, Godly, merciful, loving, kind, prayerful, service filled and fruitful beyond ourselves. We all have disappointments about ourselves and our journey with Jesus as we move away from our old sinful nature into the new holy nature within us.

Nonetheless failure on our part does not mean our defeat. That is the message the angel declared, and I want you to take with you this Easter, the Lord Jesus Christ’s Resurrection and thus His victory over death and everything else that could possibly keep us from God and the life of Christ. For Jesus Christ wasn’t crucified because of our inherent righteousness, goodness, faithfulness or holiness, but our universal sinfulness. Yet that is how much God loves us; for though the Law universally places us all under sin and thus under the judgment of God. Nonetheless the Good News is that Jesus Christ was crucified for us all, then He rose from the dead on the third day so that we can all attain to the Righteousness of God simply by faith in His Person (Rom. 3:19-28; 2 Cor. 5:21). Hence Jesus Christ’s cross justifies us all who believe in Him regardless of what one has done or not done in the past (John 3:16-21; Rom. 5:1; Gal. 2:16, 19-21). Therefore what one once was does not enter into it when it comes to being justified in the sight of God; and thus being useful and fruitful for His purposes; for being declared righteous by God is simply by faith in Jesus Christ’s Person (Rom. 3:19-28).

Have you then come to the place of repentance towards God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as the sole means and Person for our salvation; because after our bodies yield their life, strength and beauty back to earth, there is no chance for reconciliation with God. We must make our decision for the Lord Jesus Christ here and now while our breath is within us. The Mary’s had a right focus and priority, for they followed Jesus right to the cross, then to grave. How far are you willing to follow Jesus? For the Scripture says: “And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, 28 so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation.” Heb. 9:27-28

Are you eagerly waiting for the Lord Jesus’ Return? As those whose lives are being built upon Jesus Christ and pursuing His Kingdom’s purposes. Or are you spending your life on pursuing your own pleasures, dreams and treasures? In essence where is your faith? For if it is isn’t built upon the Solid Rock Christ Jesus and faith in His Person as the sole means for salvation then whatever your pursuing and hoping to satisfy you will not only leave you unsatisfied in this life. It will leave you at the end of your life empty and barren before Him at the judgment to come (Mark 8:36). For Jesus Christ having been crucified for our sins, He has risen from the dead and ascended back to the Father waiting till all His enemies are made His footstool (Luke 19:27; Heb. 10:12-13). That is what the angel is declaring to the Mary’s, Jesus Christ’s resurrection (vs. 6) and thus His victory over death and everything and anything that could keep us from God.

If you would like to receive the Lord Jesus Christ and truly celebrate Easter in the love and joy of the Lord. Simply pray a prayer of faith inviting Jesus Christ into your heart and life to be Lord and Savior. Simply pray this: Dear Lord Jesus I believe in You that you were crucified for my sins and You rose from the dead three days later so that I could have everlasting life with You. Therefore I want You to be My Lord and Savior. And I now ask You to come into my heart and life to be my Lord and Savior, in Jesus' Name amen.

Scripture Quotations
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Word Studies
Vs. 5 alarmed (STR 1568, GK 1701), page 240-241, under title heading thauma G.K. 2512
in the New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology (Abridged Edition) Verlyn D. Verbrugge, Editor

Mark 15:42-47 Jesus Christ's Burial

Mark 15:42-47
42 Now when evening had come, because it was the Preparation Day, that is, the day before the Sabbath, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, coming and taking courage, went in to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 44 Pilate marveled that He was already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him if He had been dead for some time. 45 So when he found out from the centurion, he granted the body to Joseph. 46 Then he bought fine linen, took Him down, and wrapped Him in the linen. And he laid Him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock, and rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. 47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses observed where He was laid.

Devotional
Jesus having been crucified according to the Will of God in fulfillment of the Scriptures and His eternal redemption plans through them is now to be taken down from the cross out of the sight of men, blooded and broken and bearing the worst shame of all, humanities sins and punishment in His own body, so that we might all have God's salvation from sin and death when we believe. Thus it is only through Jesus Christ's death on the cross that we find our redemption and life everlasting (John 3:16); thus Jesus having born the wrath of God and suffered the reproach of sinful mankind must now be buried according to the Scriptures, so that rising again according to the Scriptures He might bring His everlasting life, by the Holy Spirit, into all who believe in Him.
Now the Preparation Day was on a Friday, the day preceding the Sabbath; Saturday, the day on which all Jewish religious festivals began (Nelson’s). And since it was the Preparation Day when Jesus died on the cross, the Jews not wanting the bodies to remain on the cross during the Sabbath, asked Pilate that their legs might be broken and that the bodies might be taken away (John 19:31-37). The point of breaking their legs was that it would speed up their death’s, if they were not already dead, for they would no longer be able to lift themselves up and thus prevent the slow suffocation death that was crucifixion. With that then Pilate dispatches some soldiers who came and broke the legs of the first of the two criminals who were crucified with Jesus. And having done so they did the same to the other one as well, however when they came to Jesus and saw that He was already dead they did not break His legs. Instead one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear and immediately blood and water came out. The significance being, that in doing so, they fulfilled the Scriptures which state: “Not one of His bones shall be broken.” 37 And again another Scripture says, “They shall look on Him whom they pierced.” (See John 19:36-37; quoting from Exodus 12:26; Num. 9:12 and Psalm 34:20). Now with Jesus’ side being pierced and blood and water running out. Any notions of a Christ who was simply Spirit, and not fully Man, are fully placed to rest. For the Lord Jesus Christ literally died on the cross as a Man for our sins. That reality is crucial to the gospel’s fulfillment and essential to our being saved by faith in His Person (John 3:16).

This then brings us back chronologically to verse 43 in Mark’s gospel which states that there was a man named “Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, coming and taking courage, went in to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.” Vs. 43
Now it is explicitly stated of Joseph, that he was a prominent council member, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God. Luke’s gospel also tells us that Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus. And that he did not consent to their decision to crucify Him (Luke 23:50-51). And so the Scripture states that Joseph taking courage went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. The very fact that Joseph did not consent to Jesus death, and was now actively seeking Jesus' body, so that he might give Jesus an honorable burial, was Joseph’s stepping out from secret discipleship to open discipleship. For ultimately having faith in Jesus means you either move from “secret discipleship” or a “private faith” to an open and unabashed discipleship, or you don’t move with God at all. Since the Lord Jesus Christ requires not only exclusive loyalty to His Person; above all other relationships and family ties (Matt. 10:34-39), but also unashamed profession of His Person and His Words (Mark 8:38). There is then no place, time, or circumstance when one is to tuck their faith In Christ away. To believe in Jesus Christ, and thus be His disciple, is to have an open life that is built upon the Lord Jesus Christ’s Person by obeying His Words. People who say they can separate their Christian beliefs from their work, school or public sector responsibilities are deceiving themselves, and sadly others as well. Since what one does, says, and endorses (or does not endorse) publicly is to be what they are and believe privately. My Christian beliefs then are not to be restricted to Sunday morning; for they are mine every morning, noon and night. Whether in Christian fellowship or not. They do not change. For they define who I am and what I believe, all the time. Therefore wherever I go, they go with me. That is the salt and light I am to bring with me into every relationship, job, career, service, or even recreational activity. Jesus Christ’s Lordship, and thus by my words and deeds the declaration of His Kingdom having come. Now John’s gospel explains why Joseph was initially a secret disciple of Jesus; for fear of the Jews (John 19:38). But with his taking courage and approaching Pilate to take the body of Jesus and honor Him by giving Him a worthy burial, Joseph ceased to be. If you’ve come to believe in Jesus have you then likewise taken courage and stepped out in faith for Him in some way? Maybe got baptized, or confessed your faith in Jesus Christ as Lord to your family or publicly in some other way? For Spiritual growth always entails our overcoming our fears (or failures) and stepping out in faith with Him (Heb. 13:13; Rev. 3:20). Now along with Joseph also came Nicodemus; the Jewish teacher of the law who first came to Jesus at night. To whom Jesus explained the way into the Kingdom of heaven; (see John 3:1-21); Nicodemus bringing with him a mixture of myrrh and aloes; about 100 pounds worth, to prepare Jesus Body for burial (John 19:39-40). Two prominent men then, who overcoming their fears, were now going to publicly identify with Jesus Christ. And in doing so they were not only risking their life's ambitions as far as the Sanhedrin counsel went; they were risking their very status within the greater Jewish society (John 12:42-43); because they like others believed, yet unlike so many other "rulers" who believed their faith moved them to openly identify with Jesus Christ the Son of Man whom that very counsel conspired to kill and the Jews ultimately crucified.

Now the Apostle John alone mentioning this fact about Nicodemus being with Joseph maybe linked to his own connection with some of Israel’s upper echelon, since it appears he was known to the high priest (John 18:15-16); and thus he would’ve known of these men as well. Returning then to Marks gospel, it states when Joseph approached Pilate and asked him for the body of Jesus: “Pilate marveled that He was already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him if He had been dead for some time. 45 So when he found out from the centurion, he granted the body to Joseph. 46 Then he bought fine linen, took Him down, and wrapped Him in the linen. And he laid Him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock, and rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. 47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses observed where He was laid.” Vs. 44-47

Joseph then having received permission from Pilate to take Jesus’ body down from the cross went out and purchased some fine linen and he went to the cross to take Jesus’ body down (Mark 15:44-47). John’s gospel also relates to us that Nicodemus was with Joseph at this time and that they both took Jesus’ body down (John 19:38-40). Then they prepared it for burial and Joseph laid Jesus’ body in a tomb which Joseph owned in a garden near to where Jesus was crucified (Matt. 27:60). This tomb was newly hewed out of rock in which no one had ever laid (John 19:39-42). Marks gospel then states that it was Joseph who rolled a stone against the door of the tomb (Matt. 27:60; Mark 15:46). And then says, that Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where Jesus was laid (Mark 15:47). These are the same two Mary’s who were mentioned in the previous passage of Mark we looked at (Mark 15:40). Their noting where Jesus was laid is important. Since later, when the Sabbath is past, it will be this Mary and Mary Magdalene who will come to anoint Jesus’ body on the third day. And they will be the first to realize Jesus is risen from the dead (Mark 16:1-2).

However between Jesus’ burial by Joseph, and the two Mary’s returning to find an empty tomb (Mark 16:3-8), is what took place on the day that followed the Day of Preparation. There in Matthew it states: “On the next day, which followed the Day of Preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees gathered together to Pilate, 63 saying, “Sir, we remember, while He was still alive, how that deceiver said, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 “Therefore command that the tomb be made secure until the third day, lest His disciples come by night and steal Him away, and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead.’ So the last deception will be worse than the first.” 65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard; go your way, make it as secure as you know how.” 66 So they went and made the tomb secure, sealing the stone and setting the guard. Matt. 27:62-66

The chief priests and Pharisees gathering to Pilate to speak with him about sealing the tomb and not Jesus' disciples just gives greater credence to Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead. Mary and Mary Magdalene being the first witnesses to the empty tomb, and Mary Magdalene being the first eye witness to Jesus Christ's resurrection (Mark 16:9). With Easter fast approaching the question is have you come to the place of faith in not only a crucified Lord and Savior Jesus Christ (by which our sins redemption is purchased through His shed blood) but of the resurrected Lord Jesus Christ. For it is Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead that makes everything Christian possible. For without it there would be no salvation from our sins (1 Cor. 15), or transforming Holy Spirit power at work in believers lives (Titus 3:4-7) and thus no eternal life (Rom. 10:9-10, 13). Nonetheless it is because of Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead that everyone who has faith in Him having been crucified, and now risen from the dead, ascended and seated at the right hand of the Father until all His enemies are made His footstool, has everlasting hope, security and consolation. That is the Christian hope, not just a crucified Lord and Savior, by whom our person's redemption from sin and death has been purchased, but a risen One. For it is through Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead that we are given new and everlasting life (2 Cor. 5:17). For as all die in Adam's sin (the first man who sinned, and thus who brought sin and death into the human race, so all who believe In Christ are made alive, freed from sins power and delivered from death through Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead (1 Cor. 15:20-28). And having been brought to Spirit life by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ's Person crucified and raised from the dead. We find the fulfillment of His Words in our own lives: “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 “And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26

For it's not that our bodies will not die; it's that even though some may die (before the Lord Jesus' return); yet because of Jesus Christ's resurrection from the dead so shall we who die will likewise rise from the dead to new and everlasting life with spiritual bodies bearing the likeness of our Lord and Savior (1 Cor. 15:42-49). And thus no longer bearing any traces of the fallen nature (1 Cor. 15:50-54). That is the Christian message of Hope that is so desperately needing reaffirmation. Since it is there that we find the power of God and the Scriptures at work greatly within us. So we might boldly say, and dare I add, sing with everlasting joy:

“O Death, where is your sting?

O Hades, where is your victory?” 1 Cor. 15:55

No fear in death, because there is no judgment (and thus no hell) for those who believe in Jesus Christ (John 5:24). No fear in life, because Jesus Christ lives within us, thus we will never be separated from the Love, Plans or Purposes of God (Rom. 8:28-39). Therefore we greatly rejoice in all things. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 6 So we may boldly say:

“The Lord is my helper;

I will not fear.

What can man do to me?” Heb. 13:5-6

Dear friend there is no greater comfort or security in life then personally knowing God and knowing His Son the Lord Jesus Christ and experiencing the Power of His resurrection in ones own life. For seeing the life of Jesus Christ manifested through ones own life, is to experience life in all of it's fullness. For the Lord Jesus Christ imparts His Life into all who repent and believe. If all you have been doing and pursuing is leaving you unfulfilled and unsatisfied then please come home to the Lord who loves you. By a simple prayer of faith you to can have the indwelling and soul satisfying Presence of God within you (John 4:14). Simply pray something like this: Dear Lord Jesus I believe Your were crucified for my sins and rose from the dead so that You could save me from the judgment to come and bring Your life (the life giving Presence of God) by the Holy Spirit into mine. And thus give me eternal life, and bring life into me in all it's fullness. Therefore I now invite You into my heart and life to be both my Lord and my Savior, in Your Precious Name Lord Jesus, amen.

Scripture Quotations
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Additional Resources
Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible dictionary, (Nashville: Thomas Nelson) 1997, c1995.

Mark 15:33-41 Jesus Dies on the Cross

Mark 15:33-41
33 Now when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying,“Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” 35 Some of those who stood by, when they heard that, said, “Look, He is calling for Elijah!” 36 Then someone ran and filled a sponge full of sour wine, put it on a reed, and offered it to Him to drink, saying, “Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to take Him down.” 37 And Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and breathed His last. 38 Then the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, “Truly this Man was the Son of God!” 40 There were also women looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome, 41 who also followed Him and ministered to Him when He was in Galilee, and many other women who came up with Him to Jerusalem.

Devotional
The backdrop of darkness over the whole land from the sixth hour until the ninth hour indicates the intense gloom that such an act on humanities part could do. For as God by His Nature brightens and enlightens the world so mankind in its fallen and degenerate state only darkens it. For when God’s Son was given to us we didn’t glorify and worship God for His incredible act of Kindness instead we crucified Him! And thus the whole land is darkened; turned to reflect what the reality of it is; bleak and dreary, without any signs of the life of God that it was to represent, and bring to the entire world. Such is an appropriate state for the land which has rejected and crucified Jesus Christ the Man of God whose sole purpose was to bring life; in every sense; and bring it more abundantly, to us all. For there is an inescapable darkness that pervades when the Light of the World is shut of men’s and women’s hearts and lives; how much more then when He is rejected and sentenced to die a horrific death at the hands of His own? And so there is darkness all over the land as the Light world hangs on their tree.

And thus there was darkness over the land until the ninth hour. Now verse thirty four says that at the ninth hour: Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” Jesus’ cry is a direct quote from Psalm 22:1, the opening verse of a Messianic Psalm. A verse of unimaginable isolation and abandonment as Jesus in that moment experiences being forsaken by the Father. Yet understand this, Jesus Christ’s being forsaken in that moment by God the Father is so that we will not be. All that we have ever done as unbelievers; and ever will do now as believers that would cause God the Father to forsake us was endured in that moment by Jesus Christ alone. Innocent and Sinless Jesus was crucified and forsaken so that God could find just grounds not to forsake us all. For God is a God of not only love, but also of justice (Deut. 32:4). And His just and everlasting judgment against sin is death, either the death of the offender (Ezek. 18:20), or the death of a Substitute (Isaiah 53:10-12; Rom. 6:23). That theme is clearly portrayed over and over again in the Law of Moses. And is why Jesus Christ allowed Himself to be crucified (John 10:17-18; 6:51). So that He could be the Finial and Everlasting Sacrifice for all our sins, a Sacrifice that would satisfy the wrath of God forever, for it is the immeasurable Value of the Son of God that makes His sacrifice eternally imputable to every sinner who believes.

Now some of the onlookers when they heard Jesus’ Words said: “Look, He is calling for Elijah!” vs. 35 And with that one ran and filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a reed, and offered it to Jesus. Then they rebuked him saying: “Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to take Him down.” Vs. 36 Their desire to see a supernatural deliverance by God’s prophet Elijah only heightens the cruelty and wickedness of the moment as the Son of God is in His deepest anguish approaches death. And with their finial inhumane act Jesus cries out with a loud a voice and breathes His last. And with Jesus Christ’s death on the cross the Scripture says that the veil of the Temple was torn in two from top to bottom (vs. 38). The significance being that it was the veil that separated the Most Holy Place in the Temple from the rest of the Temple’s Sanctuary. With the Most Holy Place only being entered once a year on the Day of Atonement by the officiating high priest after great ritual and careful preparations were made for him to do so.

For in there dwelt the Ark of the Covenant with the mercy seat on top where the high priest made intercession for the people’s sins. But now with Jesus Christ’s death; the veil which so symbolized sinful humanities separation from God, being supernaturally torn in two from top to bottom by God, this indicated that from the greatest of religious men to the least of men. No more would anyone be separated from having free access to God the Father through the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. For Jesus Christ is the Mediator of the New Covenant (Heb. 9:15), a covenant made not just with Israel; but with all of mankind (Heb. 8:6). Therefore you and I do not need to go to a priest, or make prayers through saints to have God hear us. We only need to approach Him through what He has done for us all through His Son. “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time,” 1 Tim. 2:5-6 The tearing of the veil then is the end of the Law’s priesthood and the ushering in of the Lord Jesus Christ’s (Heb. 4:14-16).

Now the Scripture also says “So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, “Truly this Man was the Son of God!” vs. 39 The centurion’s conviction of what had just occurred truly served as a witness for the Lord Jesus Christ. But I’m unsure if it equated with his salvation? Matthew’s gospel mentions that those words were spoken out of fear when the earth was shaken and the veil torn, not conviction of faith (Matt. 27:54). Nonetheless if he came to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God then that would be enough (John 5:24).

Verse forty and forty one then mention that: “There were also women looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome, 41 who also followed Him and ministered to Him when He was in Galilee, and many other women who came up with Him to Jerusalem.” vs. 40-41 The mention of the women and none of the Apostle’s; though they were present (Luke 23:49) is interesting, since it will be the women who will first see and come to believe that Jesus Christ has risen from the dead (Luke 24:10-12). One finial note, the mention of Marry the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome is not referring to the mother of Jesus and His brother James who wrote the epistle James. It is a reference to another Marry who mothered three sons. Jesus’ mother Marry had four (Matt. 13:55-56; Mark 6:3). While the reference to this particular James as being Less is from a Greek word which means small, little, less; which could be indicating physical size, personal stature, or significance in the eyes of others. Nonetheless the mention of those two women who were not “major” players in Jesus’ Galilean ministry is again interesting. For God the Father always finds a way to honor those who honor His Son. For it’s not the stature of anyone in the eyes of men that approves them to God. It’s their faith in and love towards the Lord Jesus Christ. “For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, 23 “that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.” John 5:22-23

Have you then come to honor the Son of God? In faith, love and obedience. It all starts with first receiving what Jesus Christ has done to make you honorable in the eyes of God. By seeing your need and turning in faith to Jesus Christ’s Person. God opens the door you. As the Lord Jesus Christ said: 9 “I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. 11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. John 10:9-11
Why not then receive the One who came to die for you that you might have life in all it’s fullness, rather than settling for what you can make out of it. If you would like to receive God’s love, grace, life and peace for you and within you and begin your life fresh and new, just pray a simple prayer in faith acknowledging your sinfulness and need for the Lord Jesus Christ. Simply pray something like this: Dear Lord Jesus Christ I believe that You were crucified for me so that I might receive remission of all my sins and have new and everlasting life the moment I believe in You. I also believe You rose from the dead so that I might have life in all its fullness; freed from sin, Satan and death so that I might live life joyful, peacefully and richly with You. And so in all gratitude I now gladly receive You into my heart and life, to be my Lord and Savior, both now and forever amen.

Scripture Quotations
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Mark 15:21-32 Jesus Crucified with Robbers

Mark 15:21-32
21 Then they compelled a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, the father of Alexander and Rufus, as he was coming out of the country and passing by, to bear His cross. 22 And they brought Him to the place Golgotha, which is translated, Place of a Skull. 23 Then they gave Him wine mingled with myrrh to drink, but He did not take it. 24 And when they crucified Him, they divided His garments, casting lots for them to determine what every man should take. 25 Now it was the third hour, and they crucified Him. 26 And the inscription of His accusation was written above: THE KING OF THE JEWS. 27 With Him they also crucified two robbers, one on His right and the other on His left. 28 So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “And He was numbered with the transgressors.” 29 And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads and saying, “Aha! You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 “save Yourself, and come down from the cross!” 31 Likewise the chief priests also, mocking among themselves with the scribes, said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. 32 “Let the Christ, the King of Israel, descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Even those who were crucified with Him reviled Him.

Devotional
The Roman soldiers having beaten and mocked Jesus in the Praetorium will now as they are leading Jesus out to crucify Him, compel a man named Simon; a native of Cyrene; to bear Jesus’ cross. Jesus likely being too weak at this point to do so Himself. The mention of Simon’s two sons Alexander and Rufus is important since it appears Rufus later became a Christian (Rom. 16:13). While Cyrene, Simon’s resident city, was located on the north coast of Africa; and though founded by Greeks it had a large Jewish population. Its significance was in being the capital city of the Roman province Cyrenaica; equivalent to ancient and modern Libya (Nelson’s). Luke’s gospel says that as they were leading Jesus out to crucify Him that they came across Simon coming from the country (maybe traveling from Cyrene on business since the city was an economic center). And so seeing him they seize him, and lay Jesus’ cross on him (Luke 23:26). Now the word used in Mark's gospel translated compel was of Persina origins and has legal implications in that the word indicated pressing one into public service. And having done so they bring Jesus, with Simon bearing his cross, to a place called Golgotha, which is translated, Place of a Skull (vs. 22).

Now Golgotha as the name implies was a gruesome place, located on a hill outside of the walls of Jerusalem, where the aura of death was likely only surpassed by the odor of it. It was here crucifixions took place. And it would be here that Jesus Christ the Son of God would bear our sins on the cross and fulfill the Scriptures as God’s Suffering Servant on our behalf (See Psalm 22:1, 16-18, 22; Isaiah 53; John 3:15-16). The very fact that the Son Man who being sent by God, who dwelt Holy in God, and was perfectly indwelt by God; and who came to bring Life to us all; who did no wrong either before God or man. Yet was betrayed by His own, and then sentenced to die by the rulers of this world in such a place, is as evil and dark as it gets. And is itself the pinnacle reflection of mankind’s depravity apart from God. For if ever there was a sin that cried out mankind’s spiritually dead and lost state, and our need to be Spiritually born again, this is it. Yet this was not unknown to God, or to the Lord Jesus Christ His Son. But is what God commanded, and what Jesus Christ was willing to do to save us all from eternal condemnation (Rom. 5:8). Now Marks gospel says that the soldiers offered Jesus wine mingled with myrrh, but He did not take it (vs. 23). This must have been a customary act to help deaden the pain, though one can scarcely see how it would do much of anything. Nonetheless any lessoning of Jesus’ Suffering would not take place on this day. Though the physical anguish of the cross being utterly unimaginable to us; is not the most terrifying aspect of the cross. It is Jesus’ bearing our sins on it. For that is something only He as the Sinless Son of Man could do and endure. That aspect of Jesus Suffering no one cannot fathom, we can only by faith and gratitude receive what He accomplished through it, for us all.
Moving then back to the scene at Golgotha verse twenty four says as they crucified Jesus they cast lots for His garments. That is to see who would get them. This again is a fulfillment of the Scriptures (Psalm 22:18). And a most sickening act on their part. That while the Son of Man was condemned and going to be crucified to death, they were coveting His clothing! What is it that you covet when faced with Jesus Christ’s crucifixion? Is it your soul’s salvation? Or are you just indifferent to the fact that this was done for you? Verses twenty five and six then give us the time of Christ’s crucifixion, “the third hour”; our 9:00 am, the day routinely beginning for them at 6:00am. And say that an inscription of His accusation was written above Jesus Christ’s cross: “THE KING OF THE JEWS” That is the “crime” for which Jesus was condemned to be crucified. Now John’s Gospel says that it was written in Hebrew, Latin and Greek (John 19:20); Hebrew being the native language of the Jews, Latin being the official language of the Roman Empire; and Greek being the universal dialect of the people in the Empire.

Now the Scripture says that crucified with Jesus were two robbers; one on His right hand, and the other on His left (vs. 27). “So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “And He was numbered with the transgressors.” Vs. 28 The significance being that is what I and you are; that is sinners in need of redemption; in the eyes of God apart from Him justifying us through our faith in His Son Jesus (Rom. 3:23-26). Anyone who thinks otherwise, who thinks they have not transgressed the Law, has neither understood the Law. Nor have they seen themselves in the light of what the Law says about us all (Rom. 3:9-28, vs. 23; Gal. 3:22; James 2:10). Therefore though Jesus Christ was crucified according to human law, it was so that He might fulfill God’s Law and be God’s propitiation for all our sins (Rom. 3:24). And having done so we can all now receive the reconciliation work of Jesus Christ by His death on the cross, which restores us to God, and brings us to everlasting life, simply by faith in His Person (John 3:16-17; Gal. 3:21-26). “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Cor. 5:21

Now Mark’s gospel says that as Jesus was being crucified with those two criminals that the very people Jesus came to save. As they passed by that horrific sight blasphemed Him, and shaking their heads in a gestures of mocking said to Him: …“Aha! You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 “save Yourself, and come down from the cross!” 31 Likewise the chief priests also, mocking among themselves with the scribes, said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. 32 “Let the Christ, the King of Israel, descend now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Even those who were crucified with Him reviled Him. Vs. 29-32

How the Son of God, who loved so much, and did so much good, could be openly and brazenly treated that way; I cannot explain. Think of all the lives Jesus profoundly touched and made whole in every sense (and is profoundly touching and making whole), and all in just three short years of ministry. Yet here He is being mocked and reviled, even while dying on the cross for our sins. Even if people’s eyes are veiled to His Person, does the cruelty and pitilessness of mankind ever end? Now their antagonistic reference to Jesus destroying the Temple and building it in three days is in regards to what Jesus said to the Jews the first time He visited the Temple; which was also on a Passover; when He forcibly purged it of all the buying and selling that was going on in it (See John 2:13-22). While their declaring, along with the chief priests and scribes, that Jesus save Himself misses the point of His being crucified. For it is through Christ’s death that we live. When someone understands that, receives that for themselves, they will see both God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ His Son in a whole different light.

Scripture Quotations
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Additional Resources
Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Dictionary

Word Studies
Compel STR 29; GK 30
A Guide To The Gospels; W. Graham Scroggie, Kregal Publications, pages 660-661

Mark 15:16-20 Jesus in the Praetorium

Mark 15:16-20
16 Then the soldiers led Him away into the hall called Praetorium, and they called together the whole garrison. 17 And they clothed Him with purple; and they twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head, 18 and began to salute Him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” 19 Then they struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him; and bowing the knee, they worshiped Him. 20 And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him.

Devotional
The high priest along with the Sanhedrin counsel having mocked and abused Jesus after they tried Him and found Him "guilty", then sent Jesus to Herod and Pilate who also similarly mistreated Him. And so with Jesus fate being sealed and He being turned over to Pilate's guard, will now have the soldiers charged with delivering Jesus to be crucified first take him into the hall called Praetorium (a hall adjacent the Governor's Palace where the soldiers resided). Once there the elite Roman soldiers who were charged with crucifying Jesus Christ as the “King of the Jews” will be most vicious in their executing Pilate’s order. For before they will crucify Jesus they will first make sport of Him, exposing Him to a kind of military hazing. For this they will gather together their whole garrison and place Jesus in the midst of them before they strip Him naked and clothe Him in purple (the color of royalty) and twist a crown of thorns and place it on His head. And with that they begin to salute Him saying “Hail, King of the Jews!” vs. 18 And having done so the Scripture says “Then they struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him; and bowing the knee, they worshiped Him. 20 And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him.” Vs. 19-20

Within that brief narrative one cannot imagine what must have been said and done as these Roman soldiers mocked and abused Jesus. Nor can we imagine what Jesus must have felt when He was enduring all these things, already suffering the physical agony from being scourged, and knowing what was still ahead of Him. All we can say is that Jesus endured all these things without a Word being spoken by Him, as the prophet Isaiah said He would:
“He was oppressed and He was afflicted,
Yet He opened not His mouth;
He was led as a lamb to the slaughter,
And as a sheep before its shearers is silent,
So He opened not His mouth.” Isaiah 53:7

And so having mocked Jesus the soldiers take the purple robe off Him and dress Him in His own clothes’ before they lead Him out to crucify Him. And so Jesus being physically and emotionally beaten and humiliated He must now somehow find the strength to endure the cross that awaits Him. Yet it was for this very purpose that He came into the world to suffer and die in our place so that we could have the grace and salvation of God the moment we believe in Him. Know this then though the whole garrison partook in Jesus Christ’s humiliation. Still any one of these Roman soldiers (or even previous counsel members who condemned Jesus to death) after Jesus Christ’s crucifixion death, then His resurrection from the dead, could’ve been completely forgiven and reconciled back to God, just as you and I can be the moment we repent and believe in Him. That is the love and grace of God that Jesus extends to us all, irrespective of whether we have been His friends or His enemies in this life. Again all it takes is repentance and faith. Repentance being a change of mind about oneself (that is ones own sins and ones need to be redeemed from them), as well as God and just what Jesus Christ has suffered and done to purchase our redemption from our sins and bring us into a personal relationship with God. No longer proud in spirit then and living independently of God, but rather poor in spirit and seeking salvation from God which is freely given to anyone who sees their need to redeemed by God and in faith calls upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ who saves all by what He has suffered and done for all our sins atonement (the moment we believe in Him) so as to bring about our redemption and reconciliation with God. 16 “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:16-18

Have you then come to Jesus Christ? Come to Him poor in spirit believing in Him, that’s paramount. For that is the only way to enter the Kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:3). Then come to place of surrender to Him, that’s discipleship’s call, learning to obey the Lordship of Jesus Christ in every aspect of one’s life. For that is what God requires of us all, faith in and obedience towards His Son.

If you would like to be reconciled to God and receive through His love and by His grace, remission of all your sins and everlasting life, why not invite the Lord Jesus Christ into your heart and life. By saying a simple prayer in faith, Jesus Christ who was crucified to make it all possible, will come into you and change you. Simply pray something like this: Dear Lord Jesus I believe You suffered and You were crucified to save me from my sins and restore me back to God the Father. Therefore I now invite You into my heart and life to be my Lord and Savior, in Your Precious Name Lord Jesus, amen.

Scripture Quotations

The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982.

Mark 15:6-15 Jesus Christ to be Crucified

Mark 15:6-15
6 Now at the feast he was accustomed to releasing one prisoner to them, whomever they requested. 7 And there was one named Barabbas, who was chained with his fellow rebels; they had committed murder in the rebellion. 8 Then the multitude, crying aloud, began to ask him to do just as he had always done for them. 9 But Pilate answered them, saying, “Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” 10 For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy. 11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he should rather release Barabbas to them. 12 Pilate answered and said to them again, “What then do you want me to do with Him whom you call the King of the Jews?” 13 So they cried out again, “Crucify Him!” 14 Then Pilate said to them, “Why, what evil has He done?” But they cried out all the more, “Crucify Him!” 15 So Pilate, wanting to gratify the crowd, released Barabbas to them; and he delivered Jesus, after he had scourged Him, to be crucified.

Devotional
It seems most sinister that during the very feast God initially gave to commemorate His saving the Jews. That the chief priests during it would be seeking to kill the One whom God sent to save us all. Nonetheless by their doing so, through their evil plot, God’s Sovereign plans for the redemption of the human race will find its fulfillment (Acts 3:18). For evil in the world, though permitted by God for a season, never thwarts the good designs and intentions of God for those He has chosen out of the world. Instead His plans and His course for history will unfold just as He has decreed it. So that what mankind has destroyed through unbelief, and sin and self rule, God will ultimately recreate and reestablish through His Son’s Rule, by the Kingdom of God, which is now brought near to you. For though Jesus Christ will be crucified by human will, yet He has risen from the dead according to God’s Will. For God by permitting their own free will has accomplished His own will. Indeed even while Sovereignly rendering judgments on both nations and individuals God seeks our reconciliation and redemption; though it is only in regards to this that human will, may if it is in the permissive will of God, supplant His own will. For God predestines no one to eternal damnation. Instead He reveals Himself to each and every individual so that the choice is ultimately their own. For though God elects and predestines people to eternal life, so that as many have been appointed to life believe in Christ (Acts 13:48). It is only as one hardens their heart to God, that God hardens them (Consider Psalm 95:7-11; Rom. 1:18-32, vs. 28; 2 Thess. 2:11-12).

Still not one person will take their stand with Jesus Christ to halt the proceedings on this day. The high priest didn’t (though they should’ve) when false witnesses testifying against Jesus were in utter disagreement as to what they were testifying against Jesus about. Instead it was the chief priests who arranged the false witnesses to testify against Jesus. And with their failing to condemn Jesus, it will be the high priest himself, Caiaphas who will condemn Jesus Christ, accusing Him of blasphemy for simply affirming when questioned by him, that He is the Son of God. Likewise before Pilate, the chief priests having arrested and brought Jesus to him, will stand as Jesus' fierce accusers. And Pilate though having authority to execute just judgment and justice; since Herod acquiesced and returned Jesus back to him after Pilate in trying to defer judgment to Herod sent Jesus to him. Instead Pilate after examining Jesus, and being determined to release Jesus. Ultimately does nothing in regards to doing what would've been just and right. Instead Pilate being the weak leader that he was yields to Jews will to crucify Christ. Pilate then offers the raucous crowd a choice to release to them “the King of the Jews” or Barabbas who was taken into custody for rebellion and murder. Not that Pilate is in faith or reverence acknowledging Jesus as the Christ; by calling Him “the King of the Jews” he is simply assigning Him a designation by which He may be condemned. Since he knew that Jesus was handed over to him because of the chief priests envy (vs. 10; consider John 15:24-25).

And so it is that Pilate wanting to appease the raucous crowd does nothing except evade his duty to make a just decision. Instead he passes off his moral and legal obligations onto the assembled mob, placing Jesus’ fate in the hands of the Jews, which the chief priests and elders had already railed too, against Jesus. But if Pilate thinks that by washing his hands before them he can absolve himself of any culpability for allowing an innocent Man to be condemned in his presence, he is sadly mistaken (Matt. 27:24). For we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and give an accounting of ourselves (Rom. 14:10-13; 2 Cor. 5:10-11). That reality will not escape Pilate, or you, or me. For it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment (Heb. 9:27-28), the passage then, indeed the whole passion narrative, screams out that someone stand up for truth and justice! Yet that will not happen on this day. Instead they all wanting to see Jesus Christ crucified on this day of their feast, unite themselves in a Godless vociferation (i.e. a boisterous shout) to “crucify Him!” As they demand that Pilate release to them Barabbas instead; a scoundrel of a “man” taken into custody for murder and sedition. And thus they reject the Most Noblest of Men offered to them, the very Man of God sent to them; the One of Highest Spirit, Stature, Majesty, Character, Judgment and Power, the Lord and King of the Kingdom of heaven sent to redeem mankind on earth from sin and death and usher in the Kingdom. And instead they choose the vilest, lowest and worst of all men offered to them. The contrast is profoundly and grotesquely striking. Then if that weren’t enough, they ask that Jesus Christ’s blood be upon themselves and their children (Matt. 27:24-25); as if mocking God and His Son will have no consequences. How about you? Who are you going to choose when the Lord Jesus Christ is offered to you? Will you choose to have Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of your life? Or are you going to be like the brazen and raucous mob and choose to keep your life wrapped up in your sins and the values that you live out in accord with them.

Yet know this God that desires no one to perish but that all might come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9); for though this crowd in their ignorance will condemn the Christ. Yet God in His abounding mercies will offer salvation to them after the Lord Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead (Acts 3:11-26). How about you have you come to the place of repentance before God and received by faith the Lord Jesus Christ for yourself? For though you may have been the worst of sinners, nonetheless Jesus Christ was crucified for you and me too, so that by His death on the cross God could provide atonement for our sins but also spare us from His just and everlasting wrath as well. Then by the Lord Jesus’ resurrection from the grave, having vanquished death forever, God could impart new and everlasting life within us who believe, by His Spirit within us the moment we believe. But we must first believe in Him, and then confess Jesus as Lord to have Him as our own (Rom. 10:9-10, 13). That is the beginning of discipleship and having Jesus Christ as one’s Lord. For not until one is born again by faith in Jesus Christ can obedience to Jesus Christ as Lord and fellowship with God the Father, the Son and Spirit occur. For to die without the Lord Jesus Christ justifying one is to die without Spirit life, and be alienated from God and Christ and eternal life in the Kingdom of heaven forever. Don’t make that terrible choice at the cost of your soul; choose Life, choose Christ.

Now between verse five and verse six in Mark’s gospel is Jesus’ brief interview by Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch of Galilee. Herod was the appointed Roman ruler of the region that Jesus was from. For when Pilate heard that Jesus was from Galilee and that He was a Galilean he sent Jesus to Herod who was in Jerusalem at that time (See Luke 23:6-12). That is what follows Pilate’s first interview of Jesus and finding no fault in Him (John 18:28-38, vs. 38). Pilate then deferred judgment to Herod since the more he examined Jesus the more he was uncomfortable with pronouncing judgment on Jesus. And so Jesus is brought to Herod who was also in Jerusalem at that time. Now Herod was initially excited about meeting Jesus since he heard about the things Jesus had done and so He wanted to see Jesus do a miracle. However when Jesus is brought before him and He remains silent, Herod will soon turn against Him. And so Herod will treat Jesus with contempt and mock Him just as Pilate and the Sanhedrin had. And having done so Herod sends Jesus back to Pilate, and with that these former enemies now become friends with each other. For that is what the world does when Christ fails to meet their expectations; whatever these are, they find common ground in their rejection of the Lord Jesus Christ and their persecution of Him, and those who are His. This may happen over time or in a moment in time, yet we are told that this will happen to us if we are Christ’s (John 15:19-21). Now just as Jesus intentionally didn’t meet Herod’s expectations; so the Lord Jesus will not meet yours either if you have preconditioned your faith in Him on His meeting them first. For Jesus Christ the Lord will not be conformed into either your or anybody else’s image of Him (Matt. 11:16-19). And so it will be that Jesus being sent back to Pilate and Pilate having failed to appease the crowds cry’s to crucify Jesus by offering them Barabbas instead; will scourge Jesus will deliver our Lord and Savior to be crucified (vs. 15).

Scripture Quotations
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Note: This work is still in progress.

Mark 15:1-5 The Lord Jesus before Pilate

Mark 15:1-5
1 Immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. 2 Then Pilate asked Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?” He answered and said to him, “It is as you say.” 3 And the chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. 4 Then Pilate asked Him again, saying, “Do You answer nothing? See how many things they testify against You!” 5 But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marveled.

Devotional
With the high priests Annas’ and Caiaphas’ “inquiries” complete. The chief priests hold a **consultation with the elders, scribes and the whole council; that is the Sanhedrin council, early in the morning. The verdict having been already reached, their consultation then is only how to present a case against Jesus to Pilate the Roman governor, so that he would put Jesus to death (Matt. 27:1). Therefore having come to agreement, they bound Jesus as a condemned criminal, lead Him away, and deliver Him to Pilate the Roman governor. Now Pilate’s complete inquiry of Jesus is recorded in John gospel (See 18:28-19:16). While Pilate’s abbreviated inquiry of Jesus here in Mark focuses on one just point: “Are You the King of the Jews?” vs. 2 for it is on that point Jesus Christ will be crucified. Jesus’ response though to Pilate’s inquiry is not to declare Himself King of the Jews; rather just to reply to his questioning him about this by saying, “It is as you say.” vs. 3

Now that is what Jesus also did during His orchestrated trial; when He was being accused by false witnesses before the high priest earlier on (Matt. 26:59-68). So when Jesus did not respond to their accusations, the high priest in frustration put Jesus under oath demanding that Jesus declare Himself to be the Christ the Son of the Living God in their presence (Matt. 26:63). Instead though Jesus said to him, “It is as you said. Nevertheless, I say to you, hereafter you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming on the clouds of heaven.” Matt. 26:64 And with Jesus’ declaration the high priest unjustly charges Jesus with blasphemy, so that they could condemn Him under the Law of Moses (Matt. 26:65-68).

Therefore Jesus while never denying His Person before any of them, does not self incriminate Himself either, as they would have desired. Nor does He respond to any of their accusations, to which Pilate marveled (Mark 15:5); so that His purpose in coming forth, to bear witness to the truth, is not lost through any of them (John 18:37). Instead Jesus simply affirms that Pilate’s question to Him about His Person and Position is indeed a correct assertion of who He is. Yet Jesus is far more than just the King of Jews; as Jesus Himself by His Word's, Works, and all the Scriptures declare Him to be (Matt. 2:2; 2:6; 21:5; 22:1-14; 25:31-46). He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God (Matt. 16:15-20) and therefore His Kingship is by no means limited to just the Jews (1 Tim. 1:17; 6:15; Rev. 15:3; 17:14; 19:16).

Now in regards to Jesus accepting the title “King of Jews” i.e. the Messiah (John 1:40-42; 4:25; 6:69; Luke 4:40-41), yet he did not use it Himself during His ministry. He even forbid His disciples from openly declaring Him to be the Christ when that revelation of Himself was given by God to the Apostle Peter (Mark 8:29-30). Since it was a charged statement; both amongst the Jews and the Romans. To the average Jew it meant the Messiah had come to deliver them from the Romans which would inevitably lead to some sort of insurgency. Something Jesus as the Prince of Peace did not come to usher in (John 6:14). While to Romans it meant that someone other than Caesar was seeking to rule in the empire. And thus there was a threat to empire that needed to be quelled. However to the Jewish ruling classes, especially the priestly classes (Luke 20:9-19), it would mean an end to their tenure’s and the privileges that they enjoyed under Roman rule (John 11:45-54).
And thus Jesus was to them the greatest threat to the "status quo." Since Jesus did not come to affirm it as it then was. But rather He was going to radically transform it as His Right and Heir of all things entitled Him to. Therefore Jesus was inevitably viewed as a threat by all the ruling classes regardless of their theological stripe, which made their uniting against Him not only possible, but inevitable.

No clearer, and horrific example of this can be seen then at Jesus’ birth which troubled both Herod and those of Jerusalem, the epicenter of Jewish religious rule and authority. For when news reached him that the King of the Jews had been born, Herod after first ascertaining where the Christ was to be born from the chief priests; but failing to deceive the wise men into revealing the Christ child to him. Will then put to death all male children two years old and under in Bethlehem and its districts in an attempt to destroy the Christ, whom he saw as the key revival to his own tenure. And thus in so doing he fulfills the Scriptures (Matt. 2:1-18); just as the chief priests and Jewish elders with Pilate are doing here regarding Jesus Christ’s Person by their serving their own evil designs and self preserving ends. If then Rome epitomizes the ruthlessness of secular rule and power apart from God; than the Sanhedrin, the chief priests and Jewish elder’s who are orchestrating Jesus crucifixion, represent the worst of the religious (John 8:42-47).

Therefore Jesus though affirming Pilate’s question, that He is indeed the King of the Jews will go on to say to him that His Kingdom is not of this world. For if it were as the Lord Jesus said, His servants would fight (See John 18:36-37). That is why Jesus rebuked the Apostle Peter for striking the high priests servant with the sword and cutting of his ear when they came to arrest Him. Since Jesus Christ did not come to establish an earthly Kingdom by force of arms (Matt. 26:52). Nor did He come as a political savvy leader who by intrigue and manipulation will bring about His desired end. The things the “power brokers” of this world are skillful at and engage in, our Lord and Savior did not do. For His calling, as is ours, is not exaltation by our own designs, but humiliation, so that ultimately God may be glorified in our redemption (Consider Luke 14:7-11; John 3:30; Rom. 3:24-26). Sadly then Jesus Christ’s Person and calling is who Israel missed during His first visitation to them. For the Messiah they sought and longed for was not the One God sent to them. For God’s Messiah Jesus, is Lord and the Savior of all nations, (Acts 10:34-43). For Jesus Christ is first God’s foretold Suffering Servant sent to bear our sins and transgressions on the cross (Isaiah 53) of both Jews and Gentile’s (Rom. 1:16-17). That is who Jesus Christ is, God’s Son and Sacrificial Lamb whose shed blood provides the atonement for every sinners sins when we believe in Him. Then He is God's exalted King and Ruler of all nations which will be ushered in when God puts all His enemies under His feet (Mark 12:35-37). Jesus Christ as God's conquering and Ruling Messiah then is yet to be fulfilled (Rev. 19:11-16).

Therefore Jesus’ Mission (as is ours) is first to bear witness to the truth so that all who hear and believe, might be saved from the wrath to come (1 Thess. 1:10). Yet that declaration of Jesus’ Person that He is the Christ, the Son of the Living God by which salvation comes to the individual and which the church is built upon (Matt. 16:15-20). Was not to be publicly rendered by Jesus Christ’s disciples until Christ had died for our sins on the cross then He rose from dead on the third day. Therefore until the Scriptures were fulfilled the Lord Jesus Christ uses the Title, either the Son of Man or the Son of God. And so it will be Jesus’ declaration of His being the Son of God to Pilate while Pilate is questioning Him will cause Pilate to fear putting Jesus to death, and initially try to bring about Jesus’ release. For having examined Jesus repeatedly, Pilate finds no fault in Him. (John 19:1-6). Only when the chief priests threaten Pilate with Roman law repercussions, does Pilate acquiesce to their desires to crucify Jesus (John 19:7-16).
In between though is Pilate’s frustration and growing trepidation at Jesus’ silence in the face of the chief priest’s lethal accusations. So that even when prompted by Pilate to reply to their testifying against Him, Jesus would not, causing Pilate to marvel greatly (vs. 5). For Pilate assumed he had power to crucify Jesus or power to release Him. Nonetheless we know that it was the will of God for these things to occur so that through Jesus’ death on the cross we might all have life through in Him. Therefore Pilate though under Roman auspices only had power to do what was within God’s designs for Jesus, to save us from our sins (See John 19:10-11). And that is the Divine paradox which brings forth the Divine Redemption, by allowing evil and ruthless men do their will to His Son; God would be able to open the doors of heaven to us all who believe. The Lord Jesus’ silence here then is simply obedience to that will. And so it is only because of Jesus’ ongoing and continuous obedience to God the Father’s will that we now have salvation brought to us.

The question then is have you believed what God has done through His Son to save you? For you can’t be good enough to earn it; “for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” Rom. 3:23 Nor you can you have been bad enough to be disqualified from it. For Jesus Christ's crucifixion on our behalf qualifies everyone. Therefore you can have what God created you for. And that is everlasting life with Himself through His Son. “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16


If you’d like to have that relationship with God. Why not invite Jesus Christ His Son into your heart and life. By praying a simple prayer in faith you can! Simply pray something that reflects your desire to do so:
Dear Loving Father, it’s been a long and lonely time on the outside, but now I want to be on the inside, Your side. For I believe that You sent Your Son Jesus Christ to suffer and die for me on the cross so that You might be able to forgive me all my sins and give me everlasting life. Therefore I now invite you Lord Jesus Christ into my heart and life to be my Lord and Savior. In your Precious Name Jesus, amen.

Having then believed and thus received what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for us all. We as Jesus Christ's disciples are to daily walk with Jesus, bearing our own “crosses” and live lives of self denial for the Kingdom of heaven’s sake (Luke 9:23-27; 14:27). Yet God is not asking us to build His Kingdom on earth by the strength or skill of our own hands. He is rather commanding us all to look to His Son Jesus Christ crucified, so that we might all enter into what He is building, the church, His Body of Believers from every tongue, tribe and nation. Indwelt by His Son through the Spirit of God and thus united in Spirit, focus and purpose in the declaring and building of the Kingdom of God on earth by keeping the Lord Jesus Christ’s commandments. Since that is what discipleship is, and what it achieves, the manifestation of the Kingdom of God on earth. For as the Lord Jesus Christ brought forth and displayed the Kingdom of God on earth to all by both His Word's and His Works, so must we by ours (John 14:12). Therefore first we enter into the Lord Jesus Christ's commanded rest from trying to earn salvation for ourselves (Rom. 4:4-5; Heb. 4). Then we; having received what Jesus has done to save us by trusting in His crucifixion death then resurrection from the dead, and thus being saved by the grace of God (Eph. 2:8-9); we enter into His service with the Spirit gifts and talents He gives to us. But more than just service, as if that were the point of discipleship, since serving God and others is not an end in of itself. Rather the point is the growth and edification of the whole body of Believers in love. That is the point of our serving God and each other with whatever gifts and talents God has endowed and entrusted to us (Gal. 5:13; Eph. 4:21-22). For anything less inevitably leads to a self directed ministry which inevitably focuses on multiplying itself, and or its own works, for its own gain. Therefore “having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone” Eph. 2:20 we all are to keep Jesus Christ’s New Commandment to love one another as He loves us, for that epitomizes the New Covenant ministry entrusted to us all (John 13:34-35).

Scripture Quotations:
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Word Studies
** sumboulion under sumbouleuo G.K. 5205, page 543 NIDNTT

Mark 14:66-72 Peter's Denial's

Mark 14:66-72
66 Now as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came. 67 And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with Jesus of Nazareth.” 68 But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you are saying.” And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed. 69 And the servant girl saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, “This is one of them.” 70 But he denied it again. And a little later those who stood by said to Peter again, “Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it.” 71 Then he began to curse and swear, “I do not know this Man of whom you speak!” 72 A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.

Devotional
It is now during the time when Jesus is being beaten and mocked by those in attendance at the high priests inquiry. That the scene moves back to the Apostle Peter out in courtyard; who unaware of what is taking place inside; is warming himself along with some servants by a fire. Now it is while there that one of servant girls of the high priest comes. And seeing Peter warming himself there, *she looks intently at him, and recognizing Peter she says to him before them all: “You also were with Jesus of Nazareth.” 68 But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you are saying.” And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed. Vs. 67-68 One can almost see Peter’s awkwardness as he tries to deny knowing Jesus, while looking into the faces of the people, looking at him. And so having denied Jesus, (and likely feeling the guilt of it) Peter moves away from them (Matt. 26:70; Luke 22:57). Immediately then Peter goes out onto the porch (i.e. the gated area) and it is there that a rooster crows. It is then an awakening moment for the Apostle Peter who said he would never do just that (Mark 14:29-30). How Peter felt at that moment we can only speculate. Yet it is a dark and empty feeling when one has knowingly lied to others, to save one’s own skin. For one can slip away from others to escape facing their sin, but where does one go to hide from themselves? Notice as well that the servant girl refers to Jesus, as Jesus of Nazareth the Name used when they arrested Him. Not the Divine Appellation Jesus Christ as Peter so boldly asserted when he was given that revelation of Jesus’ Person by God (Matt. 16:13-20). Nonetheless it will be the Name Jesus of Nazareth that the early church while extol very high since that is the Name Jesus Christ will be crucified under and God will empower many of their Holy Spirit works and witness through (John 19:19; Acts 2:22; 3:6; 4:10; 6:14; 10:38; 22:8; 26:9). Though that maybe a digression, still I thought I’d mention it.

The passage then immediately picks up with Peter out on the porch (i.e. the *** forecourt, the gated area). And likely still reeling from his first denial, Peter will again be recognized by another servant girl. Notice that it is servant girls; not the strong Temple guards to whom the Apostle Peter is now faltering before. And she seeing him and recognizing him, immediately she says to those who stood by “This is one of them.” Vs. 69 Now this servants girls indentifying Peter as being with Jesus is even more direct and indicting. And with her assertion Peter again immediately responds by denying Jesus (vs. 70). In Matthew’s parallel account it is even more emphatic saying Peter this time denies knowing Jesus with an oath (Matt. 26:72). Now the word Peter uses to deny Jesus with an oath is a word used to solemnly swear to something. In ancient times it originally meant “the staff that was grasped and raised in swearing.”**

And thus indicates the vehemence that Peter uses in denying Jesus to those there. Now this is also the same word that the Lord Jesus uses in commanding us not to swear oath’s at all (Matt. 5:33-37). And now we know why, since they add no validity to ones claim. Indeed when one is under duress as the Apostle Peter was here, there is nothing that an oath does but make one give ground to the enemy by swearing falsely. And so Peter, likely again fearing for himself, openly denies Jesus, this time though with an oath. Notice then the unfolding pattern that as the risk of exposure increases, so does the intensity and fervency of Peter’s denials. Now in thinking about these things, they are happening pre-Pentecost. Yet I don’t think that should be over stressed. For Holy Spirit rebirth though changing one's essential nature and bringing us into union with Jesus Christ does not guarantee our obedience or faithfulness to Jesus Christ. Therefore it will be through Peter’s failures here that the Lord Jesus foretold and having shown Peter his own frailty here, will through his failures restore him, and make him stronger through it. For though no one who believes in the Lord Jesus sets out to fail Him, our failures will become a part of His refining us, and making us fit for the Kingdom of heaven. So there are no surprises here. For Jesus had already told Peter and all the Apostles that these things would occur; though Peter was very sincere and adamant when he said that he would never deny Jesus (Mark 14:27-31). Yet ultimately the Lord Jesus Christ must make us all to see that we are all incapable of “standing on our own feet” by our own resiliency, resolve and or strength of person & character, so that our dependency on Him becomes sure, and we grow in both spirit and truth.

For the mighty in spirit are not said blessed, and heirs of the Kingdom of heaven, rather the poor are (Matt. 5:3). And that is where Jesus is leading Peter, and ultimately all His disciples too. For the Kingdom of heaven is not built on the successes of men and women’s lives, but on their failures. For it is there that God’s grace shines brightest; when men and women having done their best in their own efforts, yet fail, in humble repentance and confession turn or return to the Lord Jesus Christ. For as Jesus said to the disciples; before they all said they would never deny Him; after He is raised He would go before them. And so it is today. For our own resources and resolve will run out. That is how God has designed it, so that Jesus Christ will have the Preeminence in everything we do and are.

And so it is that Peter, though earlier this night vehemently declaring he would never deny Jesus, even if that meant death, has denied Jesus for the second time. This time with an oath; which affords Peter some liberty for a time from their scrutiny; since swearing by an oath in ancient times was considered weighty indeed. Nonetheless the Scripture says that some time having passed (Luke says that roughly an hour passed, Luke 22:59) that Peter will again find himself confronted about his involvement with Jesus, as those who stood by will say to Peter: “Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it.” Vs. 71

If the other two times Peter felt endangered when confronted about his involvement with Jesus. Now he is really feeling it! For the previous assertions that Peter was with Jesus were based on the testimony of a couple of servant girls (nothing against woman or servants) but in ancient times their testimony against a man’s was not as weighty as if a man would’ve made the same public assertion. (Though it should've been). Therefore Peter was able to rebuff them, first with a denial, then by a denial with an oath. Now though Peter is confronted by several people (Matt. 26:73) who all say to him: “Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it.” Vs. 71

Now Peter cannot escape the clear fact that his Galilean accent indicates that he is also a disciple of Jesus. Since Jesus came out of the region of Galilee and all His Apostle’s were also from that region (the northern most region of Israelite territory). So here in southernmost territory of Israel in the land of Judea; Peter’s accent would be undeniable to the residents there. The Apostle Peter then almost as immediately as they call him to account, reverts back to his “rapid fire” denial business to try to save himself. This time though the anti being raised, Peter asserts this with all the fervency he can muster by calling down curses on himself and swearing to them all: “I do not know this Man of whom you speak!” Vs. 71 Therefore Peter’s third denial will be his most emphatic and with it the Scripture than says a rooster crowed for the second time. Now with its crowing “…Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.” Vs. 72

Notice not until Peter reflects on what has occurred is he broken by his sin. Therefore the Apostle Peter’s brokenness, for denying Jesus Christ, is what encapsulates the message that I want you to take with you. For it is only when we come to recognize and acknowledge our own sins and failures, that we can see God extending His hand of grace to us. “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” 2 Cor. 7:10

Have you then come to that place? Of seeing yourself and your sins in the light of God’s Word which so truthfully exposes our sins to us, so that we might seek the Lord Jesus Christ, so that He might extend God’s healing grace to us. As the Scripture says:
6 Seek the LORD while He may be found,
Call upon Him while He is near.
7 Let the wicked forsake his way,
And the unrighteous man his thoughts;
Let him return to the LORD,
And He will have mercy on him;
And to our God,
For He will abundantly pardon. Isaiah 55:6-7

For that is how one receives God’s mercy by receiving what Jesus Christ has already done in being crucified in our place to save us from whatever sins and blasphemies against God or others that we have committed or uttered. For it is only by the grace of God which we receive by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ crucified and risen from the dead that we are redeemed from our sins and reconciled back to God. Therefore if you believe in Jesus Christ and have not yet received His salvation for you simply pray something like this: Dear Lord Jesus I know that I am a sinner, for in many different ways and at many different times I too have denied You in both words and deeds, just as the Apostle Peter has. Therefore I come to You acknowledging my sins to You, asking You to forgive me and ultimately change me by Your coming to live inside Me by the Holy Spirit. Therefore I now invite You into my heart and life to be my Lord and my Savior, my friend and King, for now and eternity, amen.

If you have prayed that prayer in faith then know this that it is just the beginning of a whole new life and purpose for your new life in Christ. Now what you have to do is get connected in a community of faith. In a Bible believing church where faith in the Lord Jesus Christ is upheld and taught as the sole means of salvation for every repentant sinner. For it will be there you can both learn about your new life In Christ and also build new relationships around Him and grow. For in doing so you will find God's purposes for your life, and your place within His family, by being an active member of Christ's Body, His church which encompasses every language and culture. It is an exciting time! It is new birth and thus new life! and thus it is the kairos, the right time to begin your life anew, no longer under the bondage of sin or enslavement to your past and failures, but you are now under the dominion of the Lord Jesus Christ as a citizen of the Kingdom of heaven. With unlimited possibilities a head of you, you need to take what has been given to you and go forth in faith, step by step, day by day, and Jesus who has already gone before you will guide your way as you seek to obey him and heed His Voice through His Word spoken to you in the Bible. Go forward then in the grace of God and the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and become what God intends for you to be.

In Christ's Love
Tom


Scripture Quotations:
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Word Studies
*emblepo STR 1689 an intensified form of blepo (Strong’s) I look, see. I.e. to gaze upon (Mark 14:67, looked)
**horkos, STR 3727 an oath; under omnuo GK 3923 pages 407-408 NIDNTT Quote also taken from same article. (Word found in Matt. 26:72)
***proaulion, STR 4259 (Mark 14:68, porch)

curses; vs. 71: anathematizo, STR 332; GK 354, In its strongest sense it is to place something under the “ban”, that is, it is devoted to destruction like the Old Covenant burnt offering that could not be redeemed. Execrate, lay a curse on; NIDNTT, page 44 under anathema

swear, vs. 71 omnuo STR 3660; GK 3922 & 3923; it was an act of swearing to the validity of one’s statement or oath.

NIDNTT: New International Dictionary of New Testament Theology; Abridged Edition; Verlyn D. Verbrugge, Editor; Zondervan Publishing.

Mark 14:53-65 Jesus before the high priest

Mark 14:53-65

53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. 54 But Peter followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he sat with the servants and warmed himself at the fire. 55 Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. 56 For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not agree. 57 Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, 58 “We heard Him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.’ ” 59 But not even then did their testimony agree. 60 And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, saying, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” 61 But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” 62 Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” 63 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “What further need do we have of witnesses? 64 “You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?” And they all condemned Him to be deserving of death. 65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, “Prophesy!” And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.

Devotional (Back drop)

The Lord Jesus having allowed Himself to be arrested in Gethsemane; and the disciples having fled; He is now taken to Annas the father-in-law of Caiaphas the high priest (John 18:12-14). Here a brief preliminary examination will take place by Annas (John 18:19-24) before Jesus will be sent to Caiaphas the presiding high priest, and the Sanhedrin counsel, which then governed Israel’s religious affairs under Rome’s patronage. Now if you read the parallel gospel accounts, both Annas and Caiaphas are referred to as high priest, since both shared the duties at the time of John the Baptist (Luke 3:2). But it was Annas’ son–in-law Caiaphas who was the officiating high priest at the time of Jesus’ arrest. Since Annas had been officially disposed by the then ruling procurator of Judea, and Caiaphas installed in his place. *Apparently this occurred since Annas was imposing and executing capital sentences without Rome’s official sanction. Nonetheless Annas retained the title, as well as his substantial influence over the dynasty, and the Sanhedrin counsel, throughout his life (Consider Acts 4:5-7). In evidence of this all of Annas’ five sons would officially succeed him as high priest as well as one grandson, but it was Caiaphas his son-in-law who again officially held the position at the time of Jesus’ arrest. Thus the Lord Jesus is first brought to Annas for a preliminary examination before being sent on to Caiaphas. And it is only Annas that Jesus however briefly, and seemingly annoyed with, actually responds to in questioning. Therefore Annas was defacto the high priest; or at the very least he was sharing in exercising the offices authority unofficially with his son son-in-law. Therefore even though he was deposed, Annas was a powerful man whose decision would warrant under normal circumstances whether a person was to be “officially” taken to the high priest; and the Sanhedrin counsel assembled for a trial. Nonetheless the circumstances surrounding Jesus’ arrest; i.e. Judas agreeing to betray Jesus to the chief priests for money, along with their collaborating with all of the religious and political factions in Israel, meant Jesus’ fate had been already decided (See John 11:47-53). As John’s gospel declares, “Now it was Caiaphas who advised the Jews that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.” John 18:14 Therefore these preliminary judicial reviews are merely formalities until that end is reached.

Now it will be when Jesus is brought before Annas and then Caiaphas. That the Apostle Peter and another unnamed Apostle; likely the Apostle John, will follow Jesus into the courtyard. Here the Apostle John gains entry, being known to the high priest, while the Apostle Peter is temporarily detained at the gate until John procures his entry onto the grounds (John 18:15-18). It is at this point that Peter denies knowing Jesus to the high priests’ servant girl who kept the gate (John 18:17). This is Peter’s first denial. Peter then having gained entry, waits in the center courtyard with the servants and Temple guards who had built a fire to warm themselves (John 18:18). And it is here that Peter’s two other denials will take place. Now the Apostle John records for us the brief inquiry of the Lord Jesus by Annas and Jesus Words to him, before Jesus is sent bound to Caiaphas (See John 18:19-24). For that is where the chief priests, elders and scribes had already assembled with him (Mark 14:53-54). Which may have been within the same building structure but on an upper level (Mark 14:66). And that is where Mark’s gospel picks up the text and we now start. So beginning in verse fifty five of Marks gospel it states “Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none.” Vs. 55

Notice they all sought testimony to put Jesus to death. Since Annas himself had (nor found) no legal grounds for condemning Jesus or His doctrine. It is then a gravely dark scene where Israel's assembled leaders (both religious and secular) are seeking testimony to execute God’s Son under the guise of upholding the Law. Matthew’s gospel is even more explicit saying that they sought false testimony to put Jesus to death (Matt. 26:59). Which under the Law of Moses would warrant the punishment or death of not only the false witnesses, but also those who sought it (Deut. 19:16-21). Yet it is the chief priests and the council members who are seeking to use God's Law to execute Jesus through it, by securing false witnesses to testify against Him. They will not be last who will use either God's Law, or mans, to forward the wrongful and unjust execution of those who will follow after Christ (consider John 15:20; Rom 8:36-39).
Verse fifty six then says of their “witnesses” testimonies: “For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not agree.” That many bore false witness against Jesus indicates that these witnesses had already been assembled beforehand for that expressed purpose, to forward and justify their condemning Jesus to death. But as the passage says their testimonies did not agree. Which should’ve immediately ended the preceding. Yet those bearing false witness do not come under any sort of scrutiny. By either the chief priests or the members of the Sanhedrin counsel. Instead having failed to bring forth a uniform testimony against Jesus they are set aside, and others sought. Having then failed to condemn Jesus in their first attempt, Marks gospel beginning at verse fifty seven says: 57 Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, 58 “We heard Him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.’ ” 59 But not even then did their testimony agree. Vs. 57-59

Now these next witness who arise will try to cite the Lord Jesus’ Words as evidence against Him, but as they do, they pull them out of there context and the intent in which they were given (See John 2:13-22 for there context) and so their testimonies do not agree. And thus they again fail to bring forth a uniform witness against Jesus. And so they fail in their second attempt to condemn Jesus. And even if they would’ve succeeded in bringing forth a uniform testimony, there is absolutely nothing in Jesus Words’ that deserves death. Indeed Jesus’ quoted Words by them are just His foretelling His own death at their hands! At this point there seems to be great confusion amongst the council members as Jesus has remained silent throughout their proceedings; both as a gesture against their unjust act, surely, but also as a fulfillment of Scripture (see Isaiah 53:7). And with that the high priest being greatly agitated by Jesus' silence and their failing to uniformly testify against Jesus stands up in the midst of them all and asks Jesus saying: …“Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” 61 But He kept silent and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked Jesus, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” 62 Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” Vs. 60-62

Notice the Lord Jesus did not respond to their false witnesses, or even the high priests agitation at Jesus not doing so. Instead Jesus remains silent. Only after they fail to bring charges to justly condemn Jesus, and the high priest in great frustration makes a direct inquiry of Jesus, saying “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” Does the Lord Jesus reply by saying, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.” Vs. 62

Therefore it will not be the testimony of false witnesses that will be the grounds for Jesus' being condemned by the high priest and Sanhedrin counsel. Rather and this is critically important it will be Jesus’ own testimony of His Person in response to their question “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” that will be the sole grounds for their condemning Him. Nothing other than Jesus declaring to them that He is the Promised Christ, (the Messiah foretold in the Scriptures) the Son of God, the Son of Man of the gospels; who in His Person encompasses full Deity and Humanity. For Jesus having previously told the Jews in the Temple the truth of His Person when He declared Himself "I AM" (See John 8:30-59, vs. 58 to understand) will now declare His victory over them. That is the earthly powers who have united and assembled themselves together and are seeking to crucify Him (Ps. 2:1-2; Acts 4:24-31), will one day see Jesus the Son of Man at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven. Therefore the very powers and persons who took, or now take Jesus, for being just a Man, will indeed one day see the Son of Man sitting at God’s Right Hand when He comes again to judge world! (Rev 19:11-21). Now with the Lord Jesus’ declaration of His Person and Power to them the Scripture says: 63 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “What further need do we have of witnesses? 64 “You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?” And they all condemned Him to be deserving of death. 65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, “Prophesy!” And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands. Vs. 63-65

The high priests tearing his clothes as a gesture of being aghast at Jesus’ Words calling them blasphemy is truly the only blasphemy! Yet with Jesus’ honest declaration of His Person and Power, the high priest is swift to condemn Jesus. For that is what they wanted to do. And with that those in attendance begin to mock and abuse and beat Jesus. It is a ghastly sight as Jesus Christ, God's Son who came to redeem not just God's chosen people (but all people; anyone, anywhere, regardless of their background or circumstances, whoever is willingly to listen to Him (John 8:42-27) and receive Him by faith, will indeed be saved by Him (John 1:12; Rom 10:9-10, 13; Rev 3:20). "For God is my King from of old working salvation in the midst of the earth." P2. 74:12  Yet now Jesus is being mocked and beaten by lawless and unjust men. But that is what the wicked do. True to their nature they mock, abuse and ultimately seek to destroy the ones God sends to them (Mark 12:1-12).

Scripture Quotations
The Holy Bible, New King James Version, (Nashville, Tennessee: Thomas Nelson, Inc.) 1982.

Additional Resources:

Gleaned from Wikipedia article titled Annas, quote num. 3