Where’s the fruit?

J. C. Ryle on Mark 4:1-20 These verses contain the parable of the sower. Of all the parables spoken by our Lord, none is probably so well-known as this. There is none which is so easily understood by all, from the gracious familiarity of the figures which it contains. There is none which is of … More Where’s the fruit?

Needed: Faith to see

Kim Riddlebarger asks, “What, then, should we take with us from this section of Mark?” [Chapter 3:20-35] The very fact that so many different and diverse people witnessed the miracles of Jesus with their own eyes and yet did not understand his mission or understand who he was, should remind all of us that unless God … More Needed: Faith to see

Jesus chooses a motley crew

Mark 3:1-19 is the passage we read today. Here is some help from Jeff Miller, “A Follower’s Calling” found at Bible.org: Jesus chooses a motley crew of followers: Four blue collar fishermen, one hated tax-collector, one radical member of a violent political party, one doubter, and one betrayer (known to Jesus). We know virtually nothing … More Jesus chooses a motley crew

Mark 2…Amazing Healer

In Mark 2, we read of the story of Jesus healing a paralyzed man.  But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the paralytic—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed, and go home.” And he rose and immediately picked up his bed … More Mark 2…Amazing Healer

Why did Jesus come?

And he said to them, “Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also, for that is why I came out.” And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons. —Mark 1:38-39 ESV J.C. Ryle: The meaning of these words is plain and unmistakable. Our … More Why did Jesus come?

J.C. Ryle: the uselessness of a mere intellectual knowledge of religion

J.C. Ryle comments at Grace Gems: Twice we are specially told that the unclean spirits know our Lord. In one place it says, “they knew Him.” to another, the devil cries out, “I know you who you are, the Holy One of God.” They knew Christ, when Scribes were ignorant of Him, and Pharisees would … More J.C. Ryle: the uselessness of a mere intellectual knowledge of religion