SIGN FROM HEAVEN? YOU GOT IT!

Watch closely as we come to the climax of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee – the pace is breath-taking in Mark 8!                 

Over 5000 Jews have recently been fed bountifully with just 5 fishburgers, the scraps filling 12 SMALL baskets (kophinos). 

Will Gentiles have to settle for only crumbs from the Jew’s table?  

No, this time Jesus feeds 4000 people with just 7 fishburgers, the scraps filling 7 LARGE picnic hampers! (spuris)...God’s favourite number is 7!                                  

The Pharisees want a sign from heaven? – you guys have it right there. In the face of such plentiful divine provision even the disciples miss it, fretting over their one loaf of bread and exasperating Jesus who upbraids them. 

  

Before heading all the way to Caesarea Philippi there is one man in Bethsaida who needs that very personal touch from Jesus to see clearly: spit in the eye!...outside the town that has rejected his ministry.                                                

There will be nothing more for Galilee.                                                                             

So who is this Servant of God, called Jesus?            

The Christ who must face death... but Satan is right there to use Peter in rebuking him!                                          

This is the first time the disciples learn this and that the Son of Man will be raised after three days.

Will you deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Him?