Mark 9

What did I learn about Jesus?

Jesus knows that he is going to be killed and rise again.
If Jesus could predict his own death and resurrection and then fulfill it, we can trust him with our death and future resurrection in his Kingdom.

What did I learn about disciple-making?

Jesus took only three of his disciples up the mountain; he had three who he was closest to and shared more with than others, spending special time with them.
We each need a few people in our lives who we take extra time to be with and get to know in a deeper more intimate way, so we can spur one another on in our faith.

Extended thoughts and observations from Pastor Mark:

This is a chapter of discipleship. It is clear that, the closer Jesus gets to Calvary, the more focused he is on training up the men who will carry on his message. And we also see how FAR it seems they have to go.

Transfiguration-this amazing story where, for the first time, his disciples get a glimpse of Jesus in his eternal glory, having a chat with Moses (the Law) and Elijah (the prophets). Peter wants to build tents so that they can just hang out and prolong the glorious moment; he wants to forget about what Jesus has recently said about suffering and death…and will say again in a few verses. Notice-Jesus focuses on just the three-Peter, James, John; 1 of three times that he does so (also the raising of Jairus’daughter and Gethsemane). Key discipleship principle-identify key leaders and spend extra time with them.

30-after the incident with the demon-possessed boy, Jesus intentionally takes them away to continue his teaching. For the third time, speaks of death. They STILL don’t get it.

33-One of the most embarrassing moments re: the disciples in the gospel. Jesus has JUST spoken of his betrayal and death…and shortly, he catches them arguing about who will be greatest. Just terrible! And he counters with discipleship principle- “If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all!”

So…for me, a couple questions. Do I pull away from the crowds enough to spend time discipling the handful…and am I happy to be last and so join Jesus?

Your thoughts?