Jerusalem Controversies Explored in Lesson 9

Aug 31, 2024

3ABN Sabbath School Panel - Lesson 9: Jerusalem Controversies

Introduction

  • Welcome to the 3ABN Sabbath School Panel.
  • Topic: Book of Mark, Lesson 9 - Jerusalem Controversies.
  • Email for notes: ssp@3abn.org

Participants

  • Pastor John Lomercang - "The Cursed Tree and the Cleansed Temple"
  • Brother Jason Bradley - "Who Said You Could Do That?"
  • Professor Daniel Perrin - "Earthly Duties and Heavenly Outcomes"
  • Sister Shelly Quinn - "The Greatest Commandment"

Lesson Overview

  • Focus on controversies with religious leaders in Jerusalem.
  • Analyzing opposition to God and how Christians can overcome prejudice.
  • Mark 11-16 covers Jesus' ministry in Jerusalem leading to Passover.

Sunday: The Triumphal Entry

  • Mark 11:1-11 - Jesus sends disciples to fetch a colt for his entry.
  • Instruction: "The Lord has need of it."
    • Significance: Ownership and dependence on God's provision.
  • Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, symbolizing humility and peace.
  • Crowd shouts "Hosanna!" - Initially joyous but later turns against Him.
  • Prophecy Fulfillment: Zechariah 9:9-10

Monday: A Cursed Tree and a Cleansed Temple

  • Mark 11:12-26 - Jesus curses a barren fig tree.
    • Fig tree symbolizes Israel's spiritual barrenness.
    • Lesson: Be prepared for God's sudden appearance in your life.
  • Cleansing of the Temple:
    • Jesus drives out merchants from the temple.
    • Quotes: "My house shall be called a house of prayer..." (Mark 11:17)
    • Represents the need for spiritual cleansing.

Tuesday: Who Said You Could Do That?

  • Mark 11:27-33 - Jesus questioned by religious leaders about His authority.
    • His response: Question about John's baptism.
    • Leaders' dilemma: Afraid to answer truthfully.
  • Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Mark 12:1-12)
    • Illustrates rejection of God's messengers and the coming judgment on Israel.

Wednesday: Earthly Duties and Heavenly Outcomes

  • Mark 12:13-27 - Jesus questioned by Pharisees and Herodians about paying taxes.
    • Jesus: "Render to Caesar... and to God..."
    • Highlights hypocrisy of the leaders.
  • Sadducees' Question: About marriage in resurrection.
    • Jesus emphasizes the power of God and the nature of life after death.

Thursday: The Greatest Commandment

  • Mark 12:28-34 - A scribe asks Jesus about the greatest commandment.
    • Jesus cites the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-5).
    • Emphasizes love for God with all heart, soul, mind, and strength.
  • Love your neighbor as yourself - Summary of all commandments.

Final Thoughts

  • Importance of reflecting on one’s relationship with God.
  • Examining personal faith against scripture (2 Corinthians 13:5).
  • Encouragement to let Jesus reign in our hearts.
  • Next week's lesson: Lesson 10 - The Last Day.

Conclusion

  • Thank you for joining the panel.
  • Remember to invite Jesus into your heart to handle controversies.