Mark 12:28-34 (Day two)
Mark rarely tells of someone from the religious establishment being commended by Jesus. “You’re not far from the kingdom of God” is a glowing commendation. What made him different? Was it his knowledge of the Bible? He clearly knew not only the facts of the Old Testament but also the intention behind it. Possibly. But there were other Jewish teachers who discerned a deeper significance. Mark notes two characteristics unique to this man. First, he is the first of the scribes to approach Jesus alone. Coming to Jesus requires the courage to come alone if necessary. Second, he “heard…and saw that Jesus answered them well.” These details appear insignificant, but they mark out the characteristics of a true disciple. A follower of Jesus must hear, see and understand. Not to have these abilities is evidence of a “hardened,” unbelieving heart (8:17-18). So check your heart. Do you have courage to follow Jesus “though none go with me”? Do you perceive that Jesus answers “well” the questions of our day?
I personally think Jesus was responding to his acknowledgment that ….”to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” Religion can take you up to the line of Love, but it cannot cause you to cross over. We Love because He first Loved us. Until them, there is only religion. How I enjoyed deeply last week being around a group of former female drug addicts. To see the Life they now have. It is true that he/she who has been forgiven much, loves much. Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
Matt 11 says, At that time Jesus said, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and intelligent and have revealed them to infants. My understanding of the Kingdom is that He withholds secrets of the Kingdom from those who are disobedient….. from those who do/will not Love. Otherwise, what is the purpose?