(Read Mk. 10:1-31)
Introduction: In the first part of the tenth chapter of Mark we find Jesus being asked "is it lawful for a man to put away
his wife?" (vs. 1-12). Children are brought to Him, and He points to the nature
(innocence and purity) of children (vs. 13-16). One came running and asking what he needed
to do to have "eternal
life" (vs. 17-27). Jesus
tells him and he goes away sadly, and Jesus explains what it is that keeps him out, even
though He loved him. Verse 24 has a very enlightening statement relative to riches. Peter
asked a question relative to what they should receive for having forsaken all and followed
Him (vs. 28-31).
1. A question that has been a problem for man always has been to fail to carry out God's
design in the marriage relationship (Cf. Gen 1:26-28; Deut. 24:1-4; Matt. 19:3-1-12).
God's design has always been one woman for one man for life, and this provides the best
arrangement for all involved. He hates to see His rule ignored and or violated (Mal.
2:16). The Man and woman both suffer when His law is not observed, and often children are
the biggest losers. However, those who asked Jesus were not all that concerned about
what was right. They wanted to trap Jesus. They failed, as all do when
they try.
2. Children are born innocent, clean. However, we see that men have developed
doctrines that contradict this fact. Yet, God is plain in His teachings that no one is
guilty of sin until they commits it. Consequently, sin is not inherited (Ezek.18:20).
Evidently some people had different views relative to children. We notice though that when
children were brought before Christ that He set us straight about them: "for of such is the kingdom of God." (V. 14) It might be beneficial to look at
Matt. 18:3. 19:14).
3. How one may "inherit
eternal life" is a question
of the highest order. Nothing could be more important, more relevant or more
appropriate. We are told that one came running and kneeled down before Him. This suggests
the individual's degree of interest and concern. Also, unlike some of the hypocrisy of the
Pharisees, no one could question his sincerity. In answering his question, Jesus
first points to the law that the man evidently knew and thought that he had always
kept it. Yet, he felt that there was something lacking and he wanted to know what it was,
or to be assured that he was acceptable. Jesus sees his real problem and tells him
what he needed to do. Amazingly, he went away "grieved" being unwilling to comply with the Lord's instructions. The lesson
taught here by the Lord is a simple one: trusting in riches will keep one from heaven!
4. Peter is
concerned and asks the question about what is awaiting those who put the Lord first -
Ultimately, in the world to come: eternal Life!
Questions:
1. Was the motive sincere behind the question asked Jesus about divorce (v. 2)?
2. Where did Jesus point the people (and disciples) for God's purpose and plan on marriage
(vs.3-12)?
3. How did the "disciples" react to children being brought to Jesus and Jesus'
response (vs.13-16)|
4. According to Jesus (and other verses of the Bible) are children born guilty of sin?
5. Did the man who came asking about inheriting eternal life manifest sincerity (V. 17)?
6. What question did Jesus ask, and then tell the man who had inquired about eternal life
(vs.18-19)?
7. How did Jesus feel about this man, and His instructions to the man, and the man's
reaction (vs.21- 22)?
8. According to v. 24 who is the rich man and how does it affect one who is
"rich"?
9. What answer did Jesus give Peter regarding the people who had "left all" to
follow Him (vs.28-30)?
10. What did He say about priority (v.31)
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