Mark Chapter 6

Jesus Rejected at Nazareth:
(Read: Mark 6:1-29)
Jesus went to Nazareth and began teaching in the synagogue and people were astonished at his teaching. But doubts erupted among some who consider Jesus as the carpenter’s son. His family was also offended at him and refused to believe in him (Mark 3:21; John 7:5).  Jesus said, “A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and his family”. Because of their unbelief, Jesus could not do many miracles among them.  Jesus marveled at their unbelief.  In some ways the rejection of Jesus continues even today as Christians suffer for their faith in the world. Satan has blinded the minds of people to believe that Jesus came to seek and save that which was lost (Luke 19:10).  In times of suffering and opposition, we must remember that Jesus himself suffered rejection. Jesus promised to be with us in our suffering to strengthen us (John 16:33; Isaiah 41:10).  Jesus sent out his apostles in pairs to preach and heal the sick. They were empowered by the Holy Spirit to do the kingdom ministry.  To know more read the note on Matthew 10:1-15.  Mark gives an account of John the Baptist’s death. Though Herod did not believe the message of John, he desired to see him. The rejection and execution of John the Baptist is a preview of Jesus’ own death on the cross.  Satan always resists the work of God.  (Read note on Matthew 14:1-14). 
 
Jesus feeds Five Thousand: 6:30-56
(Read: Mark 6:30-56)
The apostles returned from their ministry tour and told Jesus all they have done and taught.  Jesus said to them, “Let’s get away from the crowd for a while and rest”. But many people followed them. Jesus saw them like sheep without a shepherd and moved with compassion. He taught them many things. The disciples wanted them to be sent away because they were hungry.  Jesus asked disciples to feed them.  He said this to test their faith. They brought to Jesus five loaves and two fish. Jesus blessed them and asked the disciple to give to the people. God who fed Israel in the wilderness for forty years is now providing food for the hungry crowd through his Son Jesus. Nothing is wasted when we give to God.  God can bless them and use them to satisfy many. This miracle was aimed to confirm Jesus’ identity as God and to strengthen the faith of the disciples.  God always provides what is best for his eternal purposes.  When we trust God for our daily needs, our attitude toward him will change.  Jesus dismissed the people and went to Bethsaida. Afterward he went up into the hill by himself to pray.  It shows the importance of prayer in Christian life. Jesus asked his disciples to go to the other side of the lake. They were in deep distress while crossing the lake because of wind and waves.  At three o’clock in the morning, Jesus came to them walking on the water. They thought he was a ghost. Jesus said to them “Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid”.  He got into their boat and the wind ceased. Thus, Jesus proved that he has power over wind and waves.  God displayed for Israel the same power at the Red Sea (Exodus 14).  Thus, Jesus displayed his authority over the laws of nature.  He would not allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to endure but will show us a way of escape (1 Corinthians 10:13).  When Christ who created all things and rules the universe is on our side there is no need to fear (Romans 8:28). Christ's victory over sin and death gives us courage to face trials and difficulties.  We can rest assured that God causes everything to work together for our good and for His glory (Romans 8:28; 11:36).  It is better to trust in the Lord than to put our confidence in men.