In Mark’s version of the so-called “Olivet Discourse” we find Jesus’ answer to His disciples’ question of when the end of the (church) age would be and what would be the signs of His coming (again). Jesus explained that no one knows when the end will be – not even Him, but only His Father. Therefore, He strongly admonished them (and us) to be continually watchful for His coming. In the meantime, we must be about the mission He assigned us to preach the Gospel throughout the world.
Jesus’ resurrection which we celebrate at Easter is the single most important event in all of history. The very definition of what it means to be a Christian is our belief in His resurrection. But just as importantly, Christians must understand that the reason Jesus was born into human flesh in the first place was to die on the cross in our place to take upon Himself God’s righteous judgment of death for our sins. Jesus’ resurrection demonstrates His power and victory over death and His invitation for us to join Him in resurrection out of death into eternal life together with Him through faith in His Gospel. Furthermore, Christians believe with eager anticipation Jesus’ promise to return one day to rule and reign eternally over all creation.
The story of the “Triumphal Entry”is a familiar one. Many of those who celebrated His coming on this day were the same ones who would cry “Crucify Him” a few days later. Why? Jesus the servant King who came to Jerusalem that day was not the conquering warrior King Messiah they had been expecting.
Jesus frequently taught that whoever would be greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven must be the servant of all in our lives. Jesus Himself modeled this life of service for us, perfectly fulfilling the prophecy we find in Isaiah 53 of God’s servant who takes upon Himself God’s rightful punishment (death) for the sins of all mankind. Jesus Himself said that He offered Himself as a ransom for many. So, since we have this perfect model of servitude shown to us by our LORD, we must also humble ourselves and become servants of all.
God’s people Israel certainly didn’t expect their long-awaited Messiah to come as such a humble “Servant King,” but Mark’s gospel makes clear that Jesus perfectly fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy about God’s Suffering Servant (Isaiah 53), while John the Baptizer served as the messenger sent by God to prepare the way before Him as foretold by Malachi 3:1.
Sunday School - 9:30 AM
Sunday Worship - 10:30 AM
Sunday Evening - 6:00 PM
©
2026
Mt. Freedom Baptist Church
