July 8th, 2012 Vol.19 No.28

The Savior and the Teachers of the Law
(Mark 12:35-40)
A. David's descendant, yet greater than David
1) The people were expecting a great leader from David's line (35)
What were they like? While Jesus was teaching in the temple courts, he asked, "How is it that the teachers of the law say that the Christ [35] is the son of David? (35)
 
2) God's plan of intervention (36, 37, Psalm 110:1)
David himself, speaking by the Holy Spirit, declared: "`The Lord said to my Lord: "Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet."' David himself calls him `Lord.' How then can he be his son?" The large crowd listened to him with delight. (36,37)
 
B. Why the teachers of the law could not accept Jesus as savior
As he taught, Jesus said, "Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely." (38-40)
1) Pride
 
2) Greed
 
3) Hypocrisy
 
Summary The people wanted a hero figure like king David, but God sent a savior who far surpassed David in greatness. God's plan was to come to earth as a man. Jesus knew that the teachers of the law were unable to accept him. They did not live as God's messengers, but rather, used God for their own desires. For this reason, they were unable to receive from God. Are you being used by God or are you using God?
For Discussion 1) How were people mistaken about the "savior"? 2) Who were the teachers of the law?

MP3 Audio

Video(Click to Start)