Mark, Chapter Eight

Chapter Eight



Verses1-13, Jesus feeds the four thousand

Very crowded. Three days and nights. No decent sleeping arrangements for so many. Concentrate on Jesus’ words, “I have compassion for these people….” How does my charity compare in even less trying circumstances?

Verses 14-21, the yeast of the Pharisees and Herod

The disciples have forgotten to bring along bread again, so when Jesus begins a spiritual lesson, the temporal overrides his teaching. They have ears, but aren’t hearing, eyes but aren’t seeing; brains but not understanding, and these are Jesus’ chosen learners.

Verses 22-26, the healing of a blind man at Bethsaida

Everything about this scene is touching, you’ve heard of the blind leading the blind, but here, Jesus “took the blind man by the hand and led him outside the village.” Precious Jesus hold my hand!

Verses 27-30, Peter’s confession of Christ

Our confession of Christ as Lord and Son of God at our Christian baptism is just the beginning of lifetime-confessions. Today, sometime, confess to God your belief that Jesus is the Son of God.

Verses 31-37, Jesus predicts his death

When Jesus rebuked Peter, he also said, “You do not have in mind the things of God but the things of men.” How could this assessment also fit our lives today?

Summary Thought: Jesus introduces even deeper teachings after he announces his impending suffering and death: he talks about cross bearing and living a life for the gospel. He calls his disciples to live out his death, burial and resurrection each day.

Prayer Endings: Through Jesus who sighs deeply for me at the throne of God (vs. 12);

Open my eyes, Lord, through Jesus who led blind men and blind disciples (vs. 23, 37).