40 Day Bible Reading Challenge: Day 36 Jesus teaches about Marriage and Divorce, Kingdom of Heaven, Heals a Blind Beggar

 

Mark chapter 10 in the New Testament deals with a series of teachings and events in the life of Jesus as he journeys towards Jerusalem. The chapter opens with Jesus teaching about marriage and divorce in response to a test by the Pharisees. He emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the importance of the bond between husband and wife, stating that what God has joined together, man must not separate. This section also includes Jesus blessing the children brought to him, highlighting his message that the Kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it like a child.

The chapter continues with the story of the rich young man who asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Despite following all the commandments from a young age, the young man is unable to commit when Jesus tells him to sell all his possessions, give the money to the poor, and follow him, illustrating the difficulty of entering the Kingdom of God for those attached to their wealth. This teaching is further expanded upon with Jesus explaining to his disciples the challenges the wealthy face in entering the kingdom, countered with the assurance that all things are possible with God for those who sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel.

Finally, Mark chapter 10 recounts the request of James and John to sit at Jesus’ right and left in his glory, leading to a teaching on the nature of true greatness and servitude in the kingdom of God. Jesus contrasts worldly authority with the call to serve others, stating that he came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. The chapter concludes with the healing of Bartimaeus, a blind beggar in Jericho, who shows faith in Jesus as the Son of David and is restored to sight, following Jesus on the way. This healing acts as a symbol of spiritual insight and the transformative power of faith in Jesus.