Passage
Mark 9:30-41 (ESV)
Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
Acts 8:26-40
Key Verse: 8:35
Jesus Teaches About His Death
Date: Apr. 6, 2016
Daily Bread
Key Verse: 9:37
First, the servant of all (30-37). Jesus took the chance to teach his disciples away from the crowds and excitement. He continued to teach them the gospel of the Son of Man who would suffer, be killed and then rise. Still the disciples did not understand. Instead they began to argue about who was the greatest among them. Jesus taught them that to be first, they must learn to serve. This is the reality of the kingdom of God. He took a child in his arms and taught them how to welcome such children in his name. We learn to see others not as competition for number one, but as God's precious children, purchased by the death of Jesus for their sins.
Second, whoever is not against us is for us (38-41). John was concerned about someone driving out demons in the name of Jesus because "he was not one of us." Jesus taught John to see others in light of the Messiah. He came and died so that all people may belong to the Messiah. He teaches us to discern his gospel whenever we see others. He came so that we may belong to him.
Prayer: Prayer: Lord, help me serve others in light of Jesus, as children belonging to him.
One Word: Welcome others in Jesus' name
