◄ Mark 10 ►
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Teachings about Divorce (Matthew 19:1–12) 1Then Jesus left that place and went into the region of Judea, beyond the Jordan. Again the crowds came to Him and He taught them, as was His custom. 2Some Pharisees came to test Him. “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” they inquired. 3“What did Moses command you?” He replied. 4They answered, “Moses permitted a man to write his wife a certificate of divorce and send her away.”a 5But Jesus told them, “Moses wrote this commandment for you because of your hardness of heart. 6However, from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’b 7‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife,c 8and the two will become one flesh.’d So they are no longer two, but one flesh. 9Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” 10When they were back inside the house, the disciples asked Jesus about this matter. 11So He told them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. 12And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery.” Jesus Blesses the Children (Matthew 19:13–15; Luke 18:15–17) 13Now people were bringing the little children to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them, and the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14But when Jesus saw this, He was indignant and told them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” 16And He took the children in His arms, placed His hands on them, and blessed them. The Rich Young Man (Matthew 19:16–30; Luke 18:18–30) 17As Jesus started on His way, a man ran up and knelt before Him. “Good Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18“Why do you call Me good?” Jesus replied. “No one is good except God alone. 19You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not bear false witness, do not cheat others, honor your father and mother.’e” 20“Teacher,” he replied, “all these I have kept from my youth.” 21Jesus looked at him, loved him, and said to him, “There is one thing you lack: Go, sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.f” 22But the man was saddened by these words and went away in sorrow, because he had great wealth. 23Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!” 24And the disciples were amazed at His words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how hard it is to enterg the kingdom of God! 25It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 26They were even more astonished and said to one another, “Who then can be saved?” 27Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” 28Peter began to say to Him, “Look, we have left everything and followed You.” 29“Truly I tell you,” Jesus replied, “no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for My sake and for the gospel 30will fail to receive a hundredfold in the present age—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and fields, along with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. 31But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.” The Third Prediction of the Passion (Matthew 20:17–19; Luke 18:31–34) 32As they were going up the road to Jerusalem, Jesus was walking ahead of them. The disciples were amazed, but those who followed were afraid. Again Jesus took the Twelve aside and began to tell them what was going to happen to Him: 33“Look, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes. They will condemn Him to death and will deliver Him over to the Gentiles, 34who will mock Him and spit on Him and flog Him and kill Him. And after three days He will rise again.” The Request of James and John (Matthew 20:20–28) 35Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Jesus and declared, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.” 36“What do you want Me to do for you?” He inquired. 37They answered, “Grant that one of us may sit at Your right hand and the other at Your left in Your glory.” 38“You do not know what you are asking,” Jesus replied. “Can you drink the cup I will drink, or be baptized with the baptism I will undergo?” 39“We can,” the brothers answered. “You will drink the cup that I drink,” Jesus said, “and you will be baptized with the baptism that I undergo. 40But to sit at My right or left is not Mine to grant. These seats belong to those for whomh they have been prepared.” 41When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. 43But it shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all. 45For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Jesus Heals Bartimaeus (Matthew 20:29–34; Luke 18:35–43) 46Next, they came to Jericho. And as Jesus and His disciples were leaving Jericho with a large crowd, a blind beggar named Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, was sitting beside the road. 47When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 48Many people admonished him to be silent, but he cried out all the louder, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 49Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” So they called the blind man. “Take courage!” they said. “Get up! He is calling for you.” 50Throwing off his cloak, Bartimaeus jumped up and came to Jesus. 51“What do you want Me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “Rabboni,” said the blind man, “let me see again.” 52“Go,” said Jesus, “your faith has healed you.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. Footnotes: 4 a See Deuteronomy 24:1. 6 b Genesis 1:27; Genesis 5:2 7 c NE and WH do not include and be united to his wife. 8 d Genesis 2:24 (see also LXX) 19 e Exodus 20:12–16; Deuteronomy 5:16–20 21 f BYZ and TR Then come, take up the cross, and follow Me. 24 g BYZ and TR how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter 40 h Literally Mine to grant, but for whom Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Mark 10 Summary Jesus Blesses the Children Verses 1–12 – Teaching on Divorce Jesus travels to the region of Judea and across the Jordan. Pharisees test Him about divorce. He points them back to creation, affirming that God made humanity “male and female” and joined husband and wife into “one flesh”; therefore, no one should separate what God has joined. In private He tells the disciples that divorcing and remarrying is adultery. Verses 13–16 – Let the Children Come People bring little children for Him to bless. The disciples turn them away, but Jesus is indignant and welcomes the children, saying the kingdom belongs to those who receive it like them. He embraces the children and blesses them. Verses 17–31 – The Rich Young Ruler A man kneels and asks how to inherit eternal life. Jesus lists the commandments; the man says he has kept them. Loving him, Jesus tells him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man leaves saddened. Jesus warns how hard wealth makes kingdom entry, yet “with God all things are possible.” He promises multiplied blessings—along with persecutions—to those who leave everything for Him, and eternal life in the age to come. Many first will be last, and the last first. Verses 32–34 – Third Prediction of Death and Resurrection On the road to Jerusalem Jesus walks ahead; the disciples are astonished, others afraid. He foretells betrayal to the chief priests and scribes, condemnation, delivery to the Gentiles, mockery, flogging, killing, and rising after three days. Verses 35–45 – Greatness Through Service James and John ask for places of honor. Jesus speaks of the “cup” and “baptism” of suffering He will endure—something they will also share—yet positions of honor belong to those the Father has prepared. He teaches that true greatness is serving, for “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Verses 46–52 – Healing Blind Bartimaeus Approaching Jericho, Jesus hears Bartimaeus crying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” Despite the crowd’s rebukes, Bartimaeus persists. Jesus calls him, restores his sight, and declares, “Your faith has healed you.” Bartimaeus immediately follows Jesus on the road. In Mark 10, Jesus offers profound teachings about marriage, the kingdom of God, and the true cost of discipleship. Through diverse narratives—ranging from discussions about divorce to healing a blind man—we gain insights into the depth of God's kingdom and Jesus' mission. Historical and Geographical Background • Judea beyond the Jordan (Perea) was ruled by Herod Antipas. Crowds followed Jesus here because it was outside direct Judean authority yet close to Jerusalem for pilgrims. • Jericho, one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities, lay about fifteen miles northeast of Jerusalem. Mark’s account likely refers to Herod’s “New Jericho,” rich with palms, balsam groves, and a major trade route, explaining the presence of beggars. • The road from Jericho to Jerusalem climbs about 3,300 feet in twenty miles—steep, winding, and dangerous. Traveling it while predicting His death underscores Jesus’ resolve. Teaching on Marriage and Divorce • Jesus cites Genesis 1:27; 2:24: “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.” Creation, not culture, defines marriage. • Moses’ concession (Deuteronomy 24:1–4) was given “because of your hardness of heart” (Mark 10:5). It regulated, but never endorsed, easy divorce. • Malachi 2:16—“‘I hate divorce,’ says the LORD.” Jesus calls His followers back to God’s original ideal: lifelong, covenantal union. • In private, He clarifies that remarriage after an unlawful divorce is adultery (cf. Luke 16:18; 1 Corinthians 7:10-11). The standard is high because marriage displays God’s faithfulness. Children and the Kingdom • In the first-century world, children had no legal status; Jesus affirms their value. • “Let the little children come to Me…whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it” (Mark 10:14-15). Humble dependence, not merit, gains access. • Psalm 8:2 shows God perfecting praise from children. Isaiah 11:6 pictures messianic peace with children at its heart. Jesus embodies that future even now. • The laying on of hands (Genesis 48:14; Acts 13:3) shows blessing and identification—Jesus personally welcomes the least. Discipleship and Wealth • The man’s question, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” assumes salvation can be earned. Jesus exposes the heart. • Commandments cited omit coveting until the end—fitting the man’s attachment to wealth. • “Go, sell all you possess and give to the poor” (10:21) echoes Proverbs 19:17; Luke 12:33. Jesus calls for wholehearted allegiance. • “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God” (10:25). The phrase is deliberate hyperbole; no evidence supports a city gate named “Needle.” • Wealth is not evil (Abraham, Job, Joseph of Arimathea), yet trust in riches blocks reliance on God (1 Timothy 6:9-10, 17-19). • Jesus promises a hundredfold “now, at this time—houses and brothers and sisters…along with persecutions” (10:30). Obedience brings a new family in Christ and opposition from the world. Jesus Foretells His Cross • This is the third prediction (cf. Mark 8:31; 9:31). Each time Jesus adds detail—now including Gentile involvement, mockery, and flogging. • Isaiah 53:3-5, Psalm 22:7-18, and Daniel 9:26 foreshadow His suffering and death. • The disciples’ fear reflects the danger in Jerusalem, yet Jesus leads the way, showing voluntary, courageous obedience (John 10:17-18). Servant Leadership • Earthly rulers “lord it over” others (10:42). In God’s kingdom, authority is expressed through service. • Jesus’ “cup” (Psalm 75:8; Isaiah 51:17) and “baptism” (overwhelming flood of suffering) point to the cross. • Philippians 2:5-8 urges believers to adopt Christ’s servant mindset. • 1 Peter 5:2-3 tells leaders to shepherd willingly, “not lording it over those entrusted to you.” • The ransom language (“to give His life as a ransom for many,” 10:45) echoes Isaiah 53:10-12. His life is the price that liberates. Healing of Bartimaeus and Messianic Identity • “Son of David” is a royal messianic title (2 Samuel 7:12-13; Jeremiah 23:5-6). A blind man sees what many sighted people miss. • Isaiah 35:5 prophesies Messiah opening blind eyes. Bartimaeus’ healing anticipates the fulfillment of that promise. • Jesus says, “Your faith has healed you” (10:52). Persistent, vocal dependence receives grace. • Bartimaeus follows Jesus “on the road,” immediately modeling discipleship. Connections to the Old Testament • Genesis 1–2: Marriage design. • Deuteronomy 24: Divorce concession. • Exodus 20; Deuteronomy 5: Commandments cited to the rich man. • Psalm 22; Isaiah 50–53: Suffering Servant prophecies. • Isaiah 35: Healing the blind. • 2 Samuel 7; Jeremiah 23: Davidic promises. • Hosea 6:6: God desires mercy over sacrifice—echoed in Jesus’ heart for people. Archaeological Insights • Divorce certificates written on papyrus from the Judean desert (second century BC onward) demonstrate the legal backdrop to the Pharisees’ question. • Jericho’s tell (Tell es-Sultan) and Herod’s winter palace complex confirm a bustling city where travelers, traders, and beggars converged. • First-century synagogues in Galilee and Judea (e.g., Magdala) show community life where Torah debates like the divorce question took place. • Roman roads through the Judean wilderness reveal the route Jesus and pilgrims took, supporting Mark’s travel notes. Practical Application for Modern Believers • Uphold the sanctity and permanence of marriage, reflecting God’s covenant faithfulness. • Welcome children and the vulnerable; value them as Jesus does. • Hold possessions loosely, using them to serve God and others. • Expect opposition when you follow Jesus wholeheartedly, yet trust His promise of present and eternal reward. • Lead by serving—seek opportunities to lay down status for the good of others. • Follow Jesus with persistent faith like Bartimaeus, calling on Him despite obstacles and, once answered, walking the road with Him wherever it leads. Connections to Additional Scriptures Marriage Genesis 2:24, Ephesians 5:31-33 Childlike Faith Matthew 18:3-4, Luke 18:17 Wealth and Discipleship Matthew 6:19-21, 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Servanthood Philippians 2:5-7, John 13:12-17 Faith and Healing James 5:15, Hebrews 11:6 Teaching Points Marriage and Divorce (Mark 10:1-12) Jesus reaffirms the sanctity of marriage, emphasizing that it is a divine union that should not be separated by human decision. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate (Mark 10:9). Receiving the Kingdom like a Child (Mark 10:13-16) Jesus highlights the importance of childlike faith and humility. Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it (Mark 10:15). The Rich Young Man (Mark 10:17-31) Jesus challenges the young man's attachment to wealth, teaching that true discipleship requires surrendering earthly possessions. Go, sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me (Mark 10:21). Jesus Predicts His Death (Mark 10:32-34) Jesus foretells His suffering and resurrection, underscoring His mission of redemption. The Request of James and John (Mark 10:35-45) Jesus teaches about true greatness through servanthood. Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant (Mark 10:43). Healing of Blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52) Bartimaeus' faith and persistence lead to his healing, illustrating the power of faith in Christ. Go, said Jesus, your faith has healed you (Mark 10:52). Practical Applications Value and Protect Marriage Uphold the sanctity of marriage by fostering love, commitment, and faithfulness in your relationships. Cultivate Childlike Faith Approach God with humility and trust, free from pride and self-reliance. Prioritize Eternal Treasures Evaluate your attachment to material possessions and seek to invest in heavenly treasures. Embrace Servanthood Seek opportunities to serve others selflessly, following Jesus' example of humility and love. Exercise Persistent Faith Like Bartimaeus, persist in faith and prayer, trusting in Jesus' power to transform your life. People 1. Jesus Jesus is the central figure in Mark 10. He is depicted as a teacher and healer, addressing various issues such as marriage, wealth, and discipleship. In this chapter, He travels to Judea and beyond the Jordan, teaches about divorce, blesses children, and discusses the challenges of wealth in entering the kingdom of God. The Greek name for Jesus is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous). 2. Pharisees The Pharisees are a group of Jewish religious leaders who approach Jesus to test Him with questions about the lawfulness of divorce. Their interaction with Jesus highlights their focus on legalistic interpretations of the law. The Greek term for Pharisees is Φαρισαῖοι (Pharisaioi). 3. Disciples The disciples are Jesus' followers who accompany Him and receive private teachings. In Mark 10, they are involved in discussions about divorce, the blessing of children, and the challenges of wealth. The Greek word for disciples is μαθηταί (mathētai). 4. Children Children are brought to Jesus so that He might touch them. Jesus uses this opportunity to teach about the kingdom of God, emphasizing the need for childlike receptivity. The Greek term for children is παιδία (paidia). 5. Rich Young Man A rich young man approaches Jesus, asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus' response leads to a discussion about the difficulty for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God. The Greek text refers to him as a man with great possessions (ἔχων κτήματα πολλά, echōn ktēmata polla). 6. Peter Peter, one of Jesus' disciples, speaks up to remind Jesus that they have left everything to follow Him. This prompts Jesus to teach about the rewards of discipleship. The Greek name for Peter is Πέτρος (Petros). 7. James and John James and John, the sons of Zebedee, request positions of honor in Jesus' glory. Their request leads to a teaching on servanthood and greatness in the kingdom of God. The Greek names are Ἰάκωβος (Iakōbos) for James and Ἰωάννης (Iōannēs) for John. 8. Bartimaeus Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, calls out to Jesus for mercy as He leaves Jericho. Jesus heals him, and Bartimaeus follows Him on the way. The Greek name is Βαρτιμαῖος (Bartimaios). Places 1. Judea Mark 10:1: "Then Jesus left that place and went into the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan. Again the crowds came to Him, and as was His custom, He taught them." Judea is a region in the southern part of ancient Israel, significant in Jewish history and the ministry of Jesus. The Greek term used here is "Ἰουδαία" (Ioudaia), referring to the area traditionally associated with the tribe of Judah. 2. Beyond the Jordan Mark 10:1: "Then Jesus left that place and went into the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan. Again the crowds came to Him, and as was His custom, He taught them." This phrase refers to the area east of the Jordan River. In the context of Jesus' ministry, it often indicates the region of Perea. The Greek phrase "πέραν τοῦ Ἰορδάνου" (peran tou Iordanou) is used, meaning "beyond the Jordan." Events 1. Teaching on Divorce (Mark 10:1-12) Jesus travels to the region of Judea and beyond the Jordan. The Pharisees test Him by asking about the lawfulness of divorce. Jesus refers to the creation account, emphasizing that God made them male and female and that marriage is a union that should not be separated by man. He explains that Moses permitted divorce due to the hardness of human hearts but reiterates the original divine intention for marriage. 2. Blessing the Little Children (Mark 10:13-16) People bring children to Jesus for Him to touch them, but the disciples rebuke them. Jesus is indignant and instructs them to allow the children to come to Him, stating that the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. He emphasizes the need to receive the kingdom of God like a child and blesses the children. 3. The Rich Young Man (Mark 10:17-22) A man approaches Jesus, asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus lists the commandments, and the man claims to have kept them all. Jesus tells him to sell all he has, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man leaves sorrowful because he has great wealth, highlighting the challenge of wealth in entering the kingdom of God. 4. Teaching on Wealth and the Kingdom (Mark 10:23-31) Jesus comments on the difficulty for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God, using the metaphor of a camel passing through the eye of a needle. The disciples are astonished, and Jesus assures them that with God, all things are possible. Peter mentions their sacrifices, and Jesus promises rewards for those who leave everything for His sake, both in this life and the life to come. 5. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Mark 10:32-34) As they travel to Jerusalem, Jesus takes the Twelve aside and predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection. He details how He will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, condemned to death, mocked, spit upon, flogged, and killed, but will rise again on the third day. 6. The Request of James and John (Mark 10:35-45) James and John, the sons of Zebedee, request to sit at Jesus' right and left in His glory. Jesus questions their understanding and speaks of the cup He must drink and the baptism He must undergo. He teaches about servant leadership, stating that whoever wants to be great must be a servant, and the Son of Man came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. 7. Healing of Blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52) As Jesus leaves Jericho, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, calls out to Him for mercy. Despite being rebuked by the crowd, he persists. Jesus calls him over, and Bartimaeus expresses his desire to see. Jesus heals him, saying, "Go, your faith has healed you," and Bartimaeus follows Jesus along the road. Lessons from Mark 10 1. The Value of Childlike Faith In Mark 10:14, Jesus says, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them! For the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." This verse reminds us of the importance of approaching our faith with the innocence and trust of a child. Children are naturally trusting and open-hearted, qualities that we should strive to emulate in our relationship with God. By maintaining a childlike faith, we open ourselves to the wonders of His kingdom and the joy of His presence. 2. The Call to Leave Everything Behind When Jesus encounters the rich young ruler in Mark 10:21, He tells him, "Go, sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." This powerful lesson teaches us about the importance of prioritizing our spiritual wealth over material possessions. True fulfillment comes from following Christ and investing in eternal treasures, not in accumulating earthly riches. 3. The Difficulty of Wealth in Entering the Kingdom In Mark 10:25, Jesus uses a vivid metaphor: "It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." This statement highlights the potential spiritual hindrance that wealth can pose. While wealth itself is not inherently wrong, it can become a barrier if it takes precedence over our relationship with God. We are reminded to keep our focus on Him and not let material wealth distract us from our spiritual journey. 4. The Promise of Eternal Rewards Jesus assures His followers in Mark 10:29-30, "Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for My sake and for the gospel will fail to receive a hundredfold in the present age and in the age to come, eternal life." This promise encourages us to make sacrifices for the sake of the Gospel, knowing that our efforts will be rewarded both now and in eternity. Our sacrifices are never in vain when they are made for His glory. 5. The First Shall Be Last In Mark 10:31, Jesus declares, "But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first." This counterintuitive principle challenges our worldly understanding of success and status. In God's kingdom, humility and service are valued above all. We are called to serve others selflessly, knowing that true greatness is found in putting others before ourselves. 6. The Foretelling of Jesus' Sacrifice Mark 10:33-34 records Jesus' prediction of His own suffering and resurrection: "The Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes. They will condemn Him to death and will hand Him over to the Gentiles, who will mock Him and spit on Him and flog Him and kill Him. And after three days He will rise again." This prophecy underscores the centrality of Jesus' sacrifice in our faith. His death and resurrection are the foundation of our salvation and hope. 7. The Call to Servant Leadership In Mark 10:43-44, Jesus teaches, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all." This lesson redefines leadership as service. True leaders are those who serve others with humility and love, following the example of Christ Himself. We are called to lead by serving, putting the needs of others before our own. 8. The Healing Power of Faith The story of Bartimaeus in Mark 10:52 illustrates the transformative power of faith. Jesus tells him, "Go, your faith has healed you." Bartimaeus' unwavering belief in Jesus' ability to heal him resulted in his sight being restored. This account encourages us to have faith in God's power to heal and transform our lives, trusting that He hears our cries and responds to our needs. 9. The Importance of Persistence in Prayer Bartimaeus' persistence in calling out to Jesus despite being rebuked by the crowd (Mark 10:48) teaches us the value of perseverance in prayer. He did not let obstacles deter him from seeking Jesus' help. We are reminded to be persistent in our prayers, trusting that God hears us and will respond in His perfect timing. 10. The Joy of Following Jesus In Mark 10:52, after receiving his sight, Bartimaeus "followed Jesus along the road." This final lesson highlights the joy and fulfillment that come from following Christ. Once we experience His transformative power, our natural response is to follow Him wholeheartedly. Walking with Jesus brings purpose, joy, and a sense of belonging that nothing else can provide. Topics 1. Teaching about Divorce (Mark 10:1-12) Jesus addresses the Pharisees' question about divorce, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage. He refers back to the creation account, stating, "But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’" (Mark 10:6). The Greek word for "divorce" (ἀπολύω, apolyō) implies a release or sending away, highlighting the seriousness of the marital bond. 2. Jesus Blesses the Children (Mark 10:13-16) Jesus welcomes little children, saying, "Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these." (Mark 10:14). The Greek term for "children" (παιδίον, paidion) underscores their innocence and dependence, qualities valued in the kingdom of God. 3. The Rich Young Man (Mark 10:17-31) A rich young man inquires about eternal life, and Jesus challenges him to sell his possessions and follow Him. Jesus states, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" (Mark 10:23). The Greek word for "rich" (πλούσιος, plousios) conveys wealth, which can be a spiritual hindrance. 4. Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection (Mark 10:32-34) Jesus foretells His suffering, death, and resurrection to His disciples. He says, "The Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes." (Mark 10:33). The term "delivered" (παραδίδωμι, paradidōmi) indicates a betrayal or handing over, pivotal in the Passion narrative. 5. The Request of James and John (Mark 10:35-45) James and John request positions of honor in Jesus' glory, prompting a lesson on servanthood. Jesus teaches, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." (Mark 10:43). The Greek word for "servant" (διάκονος, diakonos) emphasizes humble service as the path to greatness. 6. Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52) Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, calls out to Jesus and is healed. Jesus responds, "Go, your faith has healed you." (Mark 10:52). The Greek word for "healed" (σῴζω, sōzō) can also mean "saved," indicating both physical and spiritual restoration. Themes 1. Marriage and Divorce In Mark 10:2-12, Jesus addresses the Pharisees' question about divorce, emphasizing the sanctity and permanence of marriage. He refers back to the creation account, stating, "But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’" (Mark 10:6). The Greek word for "beginning" (ἀρχή, archē) underscores the original divine intent for marriage as a lifelong union. 2. Receiving the Kingdom of God Like a Child Jesus highlights the importance of childlike faith in Mark 10:13-16. He says, "Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." (Mark 10:15). The Greek term for "receive" (δέχομαι, dechomai) implies welcoming and accepting with trust and humility. 3. The Rich Young Man and the Cost of Discipleship In Mark 10:17-31, Jesus encounters a rich young man who struggles with the call to give up his wealth to follow Christ. Jesus teaches, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" (Mark 10:23). The Greek word for "hard" (δυσκόλως, dyskolōs) indicates the difficulty of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions. 4. Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection Jesus predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection for the third time in Mark 10:32-34. He describes the events with precision, saying, "The Son of Man will be delivered over to the chief priests and scribes." (Mark 10:33). The term "delivered" (παραδίδωμι, paradidōmi) in Greek conveys the idea of being handed over or betrayed. 5. Servant Leadership In Mark 10:35-45, Jesus teaches about true greatness through servanthood. He declares, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." (Mark 10:43). The Greek word for "servant" (διάκονος, diakonos) emphasizes the role of serving others selflessly, reflecting Christ's own example. 6. Healing of Blind Bartimaeus The chapter concludes with the healing of Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46-52. Bartimaeus's faith is highlighted when Jesus says, "Go, your faith has healed you." (Mark 10:52). The Greek word for "healed" (σῴζω, sōzō) can also mean "saved," indicating both physical and spiritual restoration through faith in Jesus. Prayer Points Pray for strength and wisdom to honor and protect the sanctity of marriage. Ask God to help you cultivate a childlike faith, free from pride and self-reliance. Seek God's guidance in prioritizing eternal treasures over earthly possessions. Pray for a heart of servanthood, willing to serve others selflessly. Ask for increased faith and persistence in prayer, trusting in Jesus' power to heal and transform. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Mark 10:6 reconcile God creating humans “from the beginning” with scientific evidence for human evolution? 2. Why does Jesus’ strict stance on divorce in Mark 10:2–12 appear to contradict earlier Jewish law that allowed it? 3. Doesn’t Jesus’ command in Mark 10:21 to “sell everything” conflict with modern economic realities and social responsibilities? 4. Is Mark 10:25’s metaphor of a camel passing through the eye of a needle scientifically or logically plausible? 5. How credible is the miraculous healing of Bartimaeus in Mark 10:46–52 given the lack of external historical documentation? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' teaching on divorce in verses 1-12 challenge or affirm your understanding of marriage? 2. What does it mean to receive the kingdom of God like a little child? 3. What does the encounter with the rich young ruler reveal about the dangers of wealth and the nature of discipleship? 4. How does the third prediction of Jesus' death and resurrection add to your understanding of His mission? 5. In the request of James and John, how do you see your own desires for significance or recognition reflected? 6. What does the healing of Bartimaeus teach us about faith and persistence? 7. How does Jesus' teaching about greatness in the kingdom of God challenge worldly concepts of success and power? 8. How can you apply the lesson from the rich young ruler to your own life? Are there things you value more than following Jesus? 9. How can you cultivate a childlike faith as Jesus encourages in verses 13-16? 10. What does it mean in a modern context to give one's life as a ransom for many? 11. Why do you think Jesus' teachings on wealth and poverty were so counter-cultural then and remain so today? 12. How do you feel when you read Jesus' clear expectation of self-sacrifice for His disciples? Is it challenging, inspiring, daunting, or something else? 13. Can you identify ways in which you might have been blind in your faith, and how you can learn from Bartimaeus' encounter with Jesus? 14. What does it look like in your everyday life to serve others as Jesus instructed His disciples? 15. In the context of modern relationships and society, how can Jesus' teachings on marriage and divorce be applied? 16. How can Jesus' interaction with children influence your approach to younger generations within the faith community? 17. How does the rich young ruler's response to Jesus challenge your own responses to God's commands? 18. How can you demonstrate servant leadership in your own life, following the example of Jesus? 19. In what ways have you experienced the truth of Jesus' statement that many who are first will be last, and the last will be first? 20. What steps can you take to cultivate a faith that persists in calling out to Jesus, like Bartimaeus, even when others might try to silence you? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions