Old Testament Links in Mark Chapters 5-8 (Day 10)

Day 10 – Old Testament Links in Chapters 5-8

Promise: Those who walk righteously and speak what is right, who reject gain from extortion and keep their hands from accepting bribes, who stop their ears against plots of murder and shut their eyes against contemplating evil— they are the ones who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. Their bread will be supplied, and water will not fail them. -Isaiah 33:15-16

It is not easy to keep all the laws of God. Thankfully, God recognized this and has sent his Son to atone for our sins. Though it is difficult to remain righteous by our own strength, we are consistently encouraged to do good and not harm, as in this promise above. Why are we urged toward following the law of God when both He and we know that it is impossible?

In Mark 6: 8-11, Jesus instructs the disciples to depend upon the hospitality of others when they go out to minister. Read Genesis 18:1-8 and 19:1-5. What do Lot and Abraham offer the travelers beyond just food?

The law of hospitality comes after these two accounts, yet both men go to lengths in their offerings to the visitors. What does this indicate of hospitality? What examples of honoring the guests are listed?

1 Kings 17:7-16 and 2 Kings 4:8-17 tell the story of two ladies who were faithful in their hospitality. Exodus 2:15-22 recounts Moses as the recipient of hospitality. How did the Lord bless the hosts?

Application: Privacy is highly prized in many modern cultures. Describe how this characteristic opposes hospitality. Share the difficulties you have experienced in offering hospitality to others as well as the blessings.

The accounts of Jesus feeding the 5,000 (Mark 6) and then the 4,000 (Mark 8) are not the first biblical stories of multiplying food for those in need. You read above of the Widow of Zarephath in 1 Kings 17. Read also 2 Kings 4:1-7 and 42-44.

How would you describe God’s provision in these stories?

What characteristics of God do these stories show?

Elisha answered the servant, “Give it to the people to eat. For this is what the Lord says: ‘They will eat and have some left over.’” What might this statement from the Lord and these examples indicate that we might expect from his provision?

Application: In Mark 6:41 and 8:6, Jesus takes what little is there and gives thanks to God for the meal for thousands. While there is still little, Jesus thanks for much. What does your gratitude habit look like?  

Application: In requesting provision from God in prayer, what expectation do you have of his answer?