Monday, May 21

Scripture: Mark 1:1-8

I’m assuming you could answer these questions. And great job on getting day one!

Tuesday, May 22

Scripture: Mark 1:9-11

Scripture Reading Skill: Observation and Interpretation

Questions to answer:

Who are the people involved?
Where are they?
What are they doing?
What is the significance of the Jesus being baptized, the Spirit descending and the Father speaking? This is evidence of the Trinity. Notice that the Son is being baptized and the Spirit and the Father are participating in this event. This is Jesus’ inauguration into public ministry and the entire Godhead is involved. This should speak volumes about the unalterable unity of the Trinity and the gracious plan of God to save humanity from our sins.

Scripture: Mark 1:9-11

Scripture Reading Skill: Application

Questions to answer. Try to figure these out before looking at answers I have provided. Pray and ask God to give you discernment.

Why are people baptized? To show what Christ has done for them by saving them.
Why was Jesus baptized? As an example–he never sinned.
What does it mean for me that Jesus was baptized? He lowered himself, identifying as a sinner. This predicts the crucifixion.
Why was God the Father so pleased with Jesus for being baptized? Jesus, the majesty one, became Jesus, the humiliated one–already.
How does this change how you think about your own baptism? My humiliation (over my sin) as I go into the waters pales in comparison to a sinless Jesus who was baptized for sins he never committed.

Scripture: Mark 1:12-13

Scripture Reading Skill: Observation and Interpretation

Questions to answer.

Who are the people involved?
Where are they?
What are they doing?
What word(s) stand out to you?
1. Immediately–the high of the baptism led to the low of the wilderness. Does this happen with us?
2. the Spirit drove–The Trinity is still involved and Jesus, as a human, is responding to the Spirit. He really did empty Himself of divine privileges. (Philippians 2:5-11)

Scripture: Mark 1:12-13

Scripture Reading Skill: Application

Questions to answer.

How does the fact that Jesus was tempted impact your thinking about your own temptations? You answer this for yourself
What do you make of the Spirit driving Jesus into the wilderness? See above
Why do you think Mark (and the other Gospels) include this event in Jesus’ life. To show us that Jesus faced every temptation we would but without sin.
What temptations do you need to give to God today?
How does God minister to you in your temptations?