Christ as Servant: A Study in MarkSample

What does it say?

After the Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, Jesus overturned the tables in the temple. He taught the disciples about prayer and was challenged by the high council.

What does it mean?

Jesus had predicted His death and resurrection a few times before the events of this passage. He knew what the disciples needed to learn before His departure, and one of those lessons was about effective prayer. After the disciples were amazed at the withering of the fig tree in one day, Jesus explained that they would be capable of doing things that were impossible from a human standpoint if they would pray with faith and trust and depending on God. Believing in God and forgiving others would clear the way for God’s power to be released in their lives.

How should I respond?

Have you prayed for something, and it seemed that God was silent? It’s true that sometimes God answers “No” or “Wait,” but wrong attitudes can hinder the effectiveness of our prayers. Effective prayer seeks God’s will before our own. That kind of prayer requires that we graciously forgive those who’ve wronged us, deciding not to harbor anger or seek revenge against them. It requires trust in God, removing doubts concerning how He will handle the situation. Effective prayer requires a heart of faith.