Mark 10:34

who will mock Him and spit on Him and flog Him and kill Him. And after three days He will rise again."

Study Bible

who will mock Him
The Greek word for "mock" is "ἐμπαίζω" (empaizō), which means to ridicule or make fun of someone. In the historical context of Roman and Jewish cultures, mocking was a common way to demean and dehumanize a person, especially one who was seen as a threat or a criminal. Jesus, the Messiah, was subjected to this humiliation, fulfilling the prophecies of the suffering servant in Isaiah 53. This mockery was not just a physical act but a spiritual affront to His divine nature, highlighting the depth of human sinfulness and the extent of Christ's humility and love.

and spit on Him
Spitting was a profound gesture of contempt and disgrace in ancient cultures, including Jewish and Roman societies. The act of spitting on Jesus symbolizes the utter rejection and scorn He faced from humanity. The Greek word "ἐμπτύω" (emptuō) conveys this act of disdain. This moment underscores the prophecy in Isaiah 50:6, where the suffering servant is not shielded from shame and spitting. It serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths to which Jesus went to bear the sins of the world, enduring the ultimate humiliation for our redemption.

and flog Him
The term "flog" comes from the Greek "μαστιγόω" (mastigoō), referring to the brutal Roman practice of scourging. This punishment was severe, often leaving the victim near death. Historically, Roman flogging was a prelude to crucifixion, intended to weaken the condemned. Jesus' flogging fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah 53:5, "by His stripes we are healed." This act of physical suffering was part of the atonement process, demonstrating the physical and spiritual agony Christ endured for humanity's salvation.

and kill Him
The Greek word "ἀποκτείνω" (apokteinō) means to kill or put to death. This phrase points to the culmination of Jesus' earthly mission: His sacrificial death on the cross. Historically, crucifixion was a method of execution reserved for the most heinous criminals, yet Jesus, the sinless Son of God, willingly submitted to this death. His death was not a defeat but a divine plan for redemption, as foretold in scriptures like Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53. It signifies the ultimate act of love and obedience to the Father's will, providing the means for humanity's reconciliation with God.

And after three days He will rise again
The phrase "after three days" is significant in Jewish understanding, as it denotes a period of completion. The Greek "ἀνίστημι" (anistēmi) means to rise or stand up, indicating Jesus' resurrection. This event is the cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming Jesus' victory over sin and death. Historically, the resurrection was a transformative event for the early church, providing hope and assurance of eternal life. It fulfills Jesus' own predictions and Old Testament prophecies, such as Hosea 6:2. The resurrection is a testament to God's power and faithfulness, offering believers the promise of new life in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of this passage, who is foretelling His own suffering, death, and resurrection.

2. The Disciples
Jesus' followers who are being prepared for the events that will soon unfold.

3. Jerusalem
The city where these events are prophesied to take place, significant as the center of Jewish religious life.

4. Roman Authorities
The governing power in Jerusalem, responsible for the flogging and crucifixion of Jesus.

5. Jewish Leaders
The religious authorities who conspired against Jesus, leading to His arrest and trial.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophecy
Jesus' prediction of His suffering and resurrection demonstrates the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, affirming the reliability of Scripture.

The Cost of Discipleship
Jesus' foretelling of His suffering serves as a reminder of the cost of following Him, calling believers to be prepared for trials and persecution.

The Hope of Resurrection
The promise of Jesus' resurrection offers hope and assurance of eternal life for believers, encouraging them to live with a future perspective.

God's Sovereignty
The events described were part of God's sovereign plan for redemption, reminding believers of God's control over history and their lives.

Responding to Suffering
Jesus' example of enduring suffering with purpose encourages believers to trust God and find meaning in their own trials.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus' prediction in Mark 10:34 demonstrate the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, and why is this important for our faith?

2. In what ways can understanding the cost of discipleship, as seen in Jesus' suffering, impact our daily walk with Christ?

3. How does the promise of resurrection in this passage provide hope and encouragement in the face of life's challenges?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding influence our response to difficult circumstances?

5. How can we apply Jesus' example of enduring suffering with purpose to our own lives, and what other Scriptures support this application?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 53
This Old Testament prophecy describes the suffering servant, which aligns with Jesus' prediction of His own suffering and death.

Psalm 22
This psalm foreshadows the mocking and suffering of the Messiah, connecting to the events Jesus describes.

Matthew 16:21
Jesus similarly predicts His suffering, death, and resurrection, emphasizing the necessity of these events.

Acts 2:23-24
Peter's sermon at Pentecost highlights the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy and His resurrection as part of God's divine plan.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Paul reiterates the core gospel message of Christ's death and resurrection, affirming the truth of Jesus' prediction.