16 October

Bible In 365 Days                        

Mark 4-5 

Mark 4

In Mark 4:1-2; Mark 4:10-12, we have the explanation of the reason of the parabolic teaching of Jesus. He clothed divine truth in picture forms that men might more easily look upon it and learn it, just as He Himself was veiled in human form that men might have some vision of God suited to their capacity.

In verses Mark 4:3-9; Mark 4:13-20, we have the parable of the sower. He is the Sower. The results following His sowing are indifference, shallowness, insincerity, fruit.

The illustration of the lamp reveals the responsibility entailed by privilege. Light is bestowed that it may lighten.

The parable of development (Mark 4:26-29) is peculiar to Mark's Gospel. It is concerned with the responsibility of the disciples for sowing the seed and gathering the harvest. The parable of the grain of mustard seed we have dealt with in Matthew, to which we may refer.

One of the most beautiful touches in this narrative, though full of sadness, is contained in the words, "They take Him with them, men as He was, in the boat." It reveals the weariness of the Master, and how at His word they hurriedly departed with Him that He might have opportunity for rest. How much better had they not disturbed Him. Far better to weather a storm in perfect confidence in Him than to enter a calm He creates, if the price of it is a rebuke from His lips for lack of faith.

Mark 5

Nevertheless the men of Gadara "began to beseech Him to depart from their borders" (Mark 5:17). The price was too heavy; their pigs were destroyed.

There is heartbreak here. Jairus fell at His feet, and said, "My little daughter is at the point of death." "And He went with him." Of course He did! Exposition is superfluous. The procession to Jairus' house halted. The deep compassion of the Master's heart could not pass on without coming into very close dealing with this poor, broken, lonely, ostracized woman. However, contact that heals must always issue in confession that glorifies.

"Thy daughter is dead." Jesus was as quick as affliction's stroke. "Fear not, only believe." "The child is not dead, but sleepeth." "Talitha cumi." Wooed by such tones, the child's spirit came from the farthest spheres. Surely it was that she heard Him say, "Talitha cumi," and the child arose, and went to Him.