The crowds loved listening to Jesus. The religious leaders did not especially when Jesus called them out for their arrogance and their need for attention.
Jesus explains that He is the cornerstone for those who believe, and a stumbling block to those who don’t.
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This episode was filmed in India where those who follow Jesus are sharing about the One True God to people who believe in many gods much like the Christians in Rome that Mark was writing.
Video:
Mark 12 Notes:
Jesus shares a parable about some terrible tenants. They killed the landowners’ messengers and even the landowner’s son!
The parable described how the prophets of God had been rejected and killed and now even the Son of God is facing opposition.
Jesus explains that He is the cornerstone for those who believe, and a stumbling block to those who don’t.
The religious leaders knew he was talking about them, but they were afraid of the crowds.
The rest of the chapter includes Jesus answering their questions brilliantly. He was asked about controversial subjects like paying taxes to the corrupt Roman government, whether or not there is a resurrection from the dead, and whose Son is the Messiah.
The crowds loved listening to Jesus. The religious leaders did not especially when Jesus called them out for their arrogance and their need for attention.
Two people of faith emerge as heroes in this chapter.
One was a teacher of the law who summarized and affirmed Jesus’ answer on the greatest commandment. He pointed out that loving God and loving others is far more important than just going through the motions of religious rituals.
The other was a poor widow. As the wealthy gave out of their abundance, Jesus noticed how this woman gave all she had which was actually very little in comparison. Jesus points her out as an example to all of us to live completely surrendered to God, fully trusting Him for everything.
How is Jesus the cornerstone of your faith?
In what ways is Jesus a stumbling block for you you nowadays?
