Following Jesus in the Gospel of MarkSample

WHAT DO YOU WANT ME TO DO FOR YOU?

Look Closely: In Mark 10:45, we find the theological center of the Gospel of Mark: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Jesus makes it clear that there is purpose and intention behind all that He is doing and teaching: to serve, to suffer, and to redeem. How does this echo Isaiah 53?

Although Mark records three instances of Jesus predicting His suffering and death, this is the only passage that explains that He must “give His life as a ransom for many.” In general, a ransom is the price paid for redeeming someone or something. In Jewish law, ransoms were imposed in cases of certain crimes and personal injury (Exodus 21:30; Numbers 35:31-32), and the concept was applied to the annual half-shekel census tax, which eventually became the temple tax (Exodus 30:12). However, in this context, ‘ransom’ means even more specifically “to liberate many from misery and the penalty of their sins.” (Thayer’s Greek Lexicon, Electronic Database)

It is no accident that we find this declaration of Jesus’ purpose tucked between two requests: that of James and John and that of Bartimaeus. Compare and contrast the requests. Consider the circumstances and the intentions behind them. The disciples are still wrestling with questions of greatness and hierarchy. How does Bartimaeus illustrate true discipleship instead?

Challenge: How would you answer today if Jesus asked you, “What do you want Me to do for you?” What motives of your heart are influencing this response?