The Avenue Church
The Gospel of Mark is an action packed account of the life and ministry of Jesus. As Christians, our entire lives are to be built around following Jesus, so how can we do that if we don't know how Jesus lived??? This verse-by-verse study of Mark will help each of us take our Next Steps towards Christ, no matter where we are starting from!
Mark 11:1-11 NLT
Jesus journeys from Jericho to Bethany, Bethpage and ultimately Jerusalem
During this time - approximately 1 week prior to HIs death He stays in Bethany which is about 2 miles away from Jerusalem
1. Why so far?
John 12:1-2 NLT
A. This is where his dear friends Mary, Martha and Lazarus lived
John 12:12-19 NLT
2. Day 5 a couple of disciples found him the donkey's colt and he began his 2 mile journey
A. During Passover the population would swell to around 125,000
B. News of Jesus swept through the city as many had witnessed the raising of Lazarus from the dead and they were telling others in the crowd.
3. The nation of Israel was anxious for the Messiah, but most had the wrong idea of what the Messiah was to be
A. The excitement that builds is placed in what they think the Messiah was going to be - Mighty Leader, Conqueror, Liberator
B. The Red Carpet Treatment
4. The Crowd thinks this is it! The conquering Messiah and he makes it all the way inside Jerusalem
Mark 11:11 NLT
A. He looks around, turns, and goes back to Bethany
B. Can you say disappointment?
5. How much of this sentiment can you identify with?
A. In this wonderful country of spiritual freedom, it has unfortunately allowed for an abundance of false, misguided teaching
John 15:19-20 NLT
B. We are used to the freedom to worship how we want in a country that affords us luxuries and abundance unlike any other, but is that what God promises?
2 Corinthians 12:8-10 NLT
God is always working His plan
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