Lecture Notes: Enduring Word Bible Commentary - Mark Chapter 14

Overview

• The chapter covers significant events leading up to Jesus’ arrest, trial, and the reactions of His followers.
• It highlights the preparations for Jesus’ death, the Last Supper, the prayer in Gethsemane, His arrest, and the actions of Judas and Peter.

A. Preparations for Death

1. The Rulers' Plot (Mark 14:1-2)

• Passover Timing: Significant due to the messianic expectations and large crowds in Jerusalem.
• Chief Priests and Scribes: Plot to kill Jesus out of fear of an uproar from the people.
• Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread: Merged in practical observance as a week-long celebration.

2. Jesus Anointed by a Woman (Mark 14:3)

• Mary of Bethany: Anoints Jesus with costly oil, indicating her devotion and understanding of His significance.
• Symbolism: Nard oil seen as an heirloom; breaking the flask symbolized total commitment.
• Disciples' Misunderstanding: Some (especially Judas) criticize her actions as wasteful.

3. Reaction to the Anointing (Mark 14:4-9)

• Judas’ Indignation: Driven by self-interest and greed, not concern for the poor.
• Jesus’ Defense: Acknowledges Mary's act as preparation for His burial, promising its remembrance whenever the gospel is preached.

4. Judas’ Betrayal (Mark 14:10-11)

• Judas' Motivation: Likely a mix of greed and disillusionment, leading to his betrayal of Jesus.
• Religious Leaders’ Response: Gladly agree to Judas' offer, altering their original plans.

B. The Last Passover

1. Passover Preparation (Mark 14:12-16)

• Secrecy: Jesus instructs disciples to follow a man carrying a water pitcher, an unusual sight, to find a place for the Passover.
• Different Calendars: Possible explanation for differing accounts of the timing of Passover and Jesus' crucifixion.

2. Jesus and Judas at the Passover (Mark 14:17-21)

• Betrayal Prediction: Jesus reveals one of His disciples will betray Him, giving Judas a chance to repent.

3. The Last Supper (Mark 14:22-25)

• Symbols of Bread and Wine: Reinterpreted as Jesus’ body and blood, establishing a new covenant.
• Transformation Promise: Jesus’ blood brings forgiveness and a new relationship with God.

4. Prediction of Peter's Denial (Mark 14:26-31)

• Peter's Confident Proclamation: Despite Jesus' warning, Peter insists he will not deny Him.

C. Gethsemane: Prayer and Arrest

1. Jesus' Agony in Prayer (Mark 14:32-36)

• Gethsemane’s Significance: A place of pressing, symbolizing Jesus' inner struggle and surrender to God's will.
• Prayer of Submission: Jesus seeks God's will over His own.

2. Disciples’ Failure to Watch and Pray (Mark 14:37-42)

• Repeated Sleep: Disciples fail to support Jesus in His distress, emphasizing human weakness.

3. Jesus’ Arrest (Mark 14:43-52)

• Judas’ Betrayal: Identifies Jesus with a kiss; Peter reacts violently.
• Disciples’ Desertion: All flee, fulfilling Jesus’ prediction.

D. The Trials of Jesus

1. Illegalities of the Trial (Mark 14:53-59)

• Jewish Law Ignored: Jesus is tried illegally by night, without consistent witnesses.

2. Jesus’ Testimony (Mark 14:60-62)

• Affirmation of Identity: Jesus confirms His identity as the Messiah, forecasting His glory.

3. Condemnation by the Sanhedrin (Mark 14:63-65)

• Mockery and Abuse: Jesus is condemned for blasphemy and suffers physical abuse.

4. Peter’s Denial (Mark 14:66-72)

• Three Denials: Despite initial bravado, Peter denies knowing Jesus, recalling Jesus’ prophecy and weeping in remorse.

Reflection

• Jesus’ awareness of His mission and love for even His betrayers is emphasized.
• The narrative encourages believers to find strength in Jesus’ perseverance and to remain faithful despite trials.