In this sermon I tackle these tough verses. I unpack them and open them up so that we modern readers can better understand what Jesus is saying and the importance of it. And what Jesus is teaching here is definitely important.
Remember where we are in Mark’s narrative. Jesus and the disciples are on their way to Jerusalem to die. Well, Jesus is going to die. The disciples have been told to be ready. They have been called to give up their lives for him already. And what he is telling them here is that eternity is at stake. Their souls are at stake. Is there anything that would hinder them from following him until the end? Then whatever it is they are better off without it. It’s time to take inventory.
Here is an excerpt:
“This world is dying. It is passing away. It is marked by death and will end in death. But Christ has entered this world of death to die, and through that death to bring about a world of life, where death will reign no more, but life--eternal life. That world, that kingdom, that life, is entered through Christ. We enter life through dying to self and living to Christ. Our death is wrapped up in his death and our life in his resurrection. This is the message of Christ. This is the gospel!
And this is the message of Jesus’ words here. Don't let anything keep you from that life, that kingdom, that eternal life that is found in and founded upon Jesus Christ. This world is passing away. Don't get caught up in it. Don't let its cares keep you down, keep you back. Nothing in this life is worth holding onto.”
The sermon is about 35 minutes long and you will find it at the link below. I hope you will click and listen. God bless.
Click here: Mark 9:42-50 - The Salt Life
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