Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Understanding to grow in
What stands out here is how serious guilt of those who condemn Jesus. Knowing Jesus was being set up Pilate was still ready to have him flogged and crucifed. And the Jews were ready to have a murderer released in order to ensure that Jesus died. We also see here the irony of Jesus' kingship. He is ridiculed as "king of the Jews" when that is just who he is. He is bowed down to in jest when bowing is just what should be done. He is mocked as unable to come down off the cross despite claiming to be the Messiah, when he remained there willingly only because he was the Messiah. And it is this that makes the crown of thorns is in some way fitting, for his greatness is seen in his readiness to suffer - his kingdom is established through his torture. The darkness was a sign that in Christ God was acting in judgment towards sin (Zeph 1v15), as Jesus experienced God-forsakeness. And the ripping of the temple curtain that shut off the place of God's presence, signalled that the way to heaven was then opened. As you read note what Jesus had to endure for you.
Mark 15:1-41
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.