?Series Reboot: Back in the Gospel of Mark
After a powerful start to our journey through the Gospel of Mark in early 2023, we took a break—but now we’re back, and the timing couldn’t be more significant. We’re picking up the story at Mark 11 (Act 3), where Jesus rides into Jerusalem for the final week of His earthly ministry.
But before we rush into waving palm branches, let’s remember where we’ve been.
? Where We’ve Been : A Quick Journey Through Mark 1–10
The Gospel of Mark is the earliest, shortest and most action-packed of the four Gospels. It’s all about movement, miracles, and a Messiah who’s full of surprises. Mark splits the story into two big movements:
1. Act 1: Chapters 1–8: Who Is Jesus?
- Jesus bursts onto the scene preaching, healing, casting out demons, and forgiving sins.
- He silences storms, raises the dead, and teaches with stunning authority.
- But He keeps His identity quiet—this is the “Messianic Secret.”
- At Mark 8:29, Peter finally declares: “You are the Christ!”
Yet immediately, Jesus redefines what that means. He won’t conquer by sword—but by suffering.
2. Act 2: Chapters 9–10: What Does It Mean to Follow Him?
- Jesus begins the journey toward Jerusalem and the cross.
- He teaches about greatness through service, riches as a trap, and the radical demands of discipleship.
- Three times, He tells the disciples He will be betrayed, killed, and rise again—but they don’t get it.
- The section ends with the healing of blind Bartimaeus, the only one who truly sees who Jesus is.
? Where We Are Now: Mark 11:1–3
“When they drew near to Jerusalem, to Bethphage and Bethany, at the Mount of Olives…”
Jesus is now approaching the Holy City, and the tempo slows dramatically. Mark, who often rushes with words like “immediately,” starts giving detail-by-detail narration. Something huge is coming.
?️ Location Matters:
- Bethany & Bethphage were small villages near the Mount of Olives—a deeply symbolic place in Jewish prophecy (see Zechariah 14:4).
- The Mount of Olives overlooked Jerusalem and the temple—Jesus had a clear view of the city He came to save.
- The crowds were swelling. Passover was near. Pilgrims filled the roads. Everyone was hoping this year would be different—that the Messiah would show up.
? Questions for Reflection
- As we re-enter Mark, what has stuck with you from chapters 1–10?
- What parts of Jesus’ identity are clearest to you—and which are hardest to accept?
- How would you respond if Jesus showed up in your life with unexpected timing or direction?
? Cross References
- Zechariah 14:4 – The Mount of Olives splits when the LORD comes.
- Psalm 24:7–10 – “Lift up your heads… that the King of glory may come in.”
- Luke 9:51 – “He set His face toward Jerusalem.”
? Looking Ahead
As we walk with Jesus into Jerusalem over the next few weeks, remember this: He’s not entering to seize a throne, but to bear a cross. And every step He takes is a step toward rescue, redemption, and the renewal of all things.