Arise Shine, Your Light Has Come!
All the gospel writers tell of our LORD’s glorious victory over death and the grave. Praise be God for His wonderful gift to mankind.
The prophet Isaiah proclaimed the Glory of Zion in chapter 60 of his O. T. gospel. Listen! “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you. See darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you . . .Lift up your eyes and look about you.” (60:1-2 and 4). Eight hundred years later, Isaiah’s promise to his people was made manifest in none other than the King himself.
When you read and listen to chapter 16, think about Isaiah’s word centuries before.
Read Mark 16
Mark tells us that the angel of the LORD said to them, “Don’t be alarmed!” Go to Matthew’s version (28:3ff) and see the phrase he uses to describe the appearance of the angel. The angel’s gospel message is short and succinct. He was crucified . . .He has risen!
- How sweet is the message of victory here? But what was the women’s response?
- Why do you think Mark separates out Peter’s name from that of the disciples?
Let’s turn to Matthew 28:1-15.
- Matthew uses language like “earthquake” and “lightening” to describe the action and appearance of the angel. How did the guards respond?
- Matthew tells us that the women were afraid . . .but filled with joy. Is there any personal experience in your life was fearful but joyous?
His final instructions were short but very specific as the disciples’ role but also a guide for you and me today. The four key words used in the Great Commission are GO, MAKE DISCIPLES, BAPTIZE AND TEACH.
The final verses in Mark (9-20) are questioned re: early manuscripts. Some call the final section the “Long Ending.” It is also possible that the last page of the original copy was lost and then added later. Regardless, they’re printed for us today. Mark’s version of the Great Commission gives the promise and so important to Christians today.
- What are the requirements for salvations according to Mark?
- What role does baptism play in salvation? Go to John 3:3 and 5.
Mark’s final comment confirms God’s promise to be with them and grant them power through the Holy Spirit. Read verse 20 and describe in your own words.
Epilogue
This is the conclusion of Saturday’s Notes Publishing version of the compassion of our Lord according to Mark’s gospel. To me, His greatest act of compassion was His death on Calvary’s cross and His victorious resurrection over sin, death, and the Evil One! Now, we, with all believers can rejoice with a victory shout, “I have been saved by His blood and will rise to new life with Him in eternity.” Amen and Amen.
GHR