Pastor Bob DuPar
March 5, 2008

Journal Entry


Scripture

Numbers 4:1-5:31; Mark 12:18-37; Psalm 48:1-14; Proverbs 10:26.

Observation

I don’t recall ever reading about the test and associated curse for the unfaithful wife. Sounds kind of voodoo to me!

Today’s NT passage intrigued me the most. Mark 12:18 and 12:23 present a glaring inconsistency on the part of the Sadducees:

“Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus with a question. …At the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?”

The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection and yet they’re asking a question about the resurrection. Do you think they were really interested in the answer? Or, were they simply interested in trying to stump Jesus and discredit His teaching and authority? Jesus’ reply is perfect: “You don’t understand the Scriptures or the power of God.” (Mk. 12:24) Mark’s commentary a little bit later in the passage is priceless: “From then on no one dared ask Him any more questions.” (Mk. 12:34)

Application

Today’s reading causes me to reflect on how many times I throw questions to God that, a. I already know the answer to, and b. I use as an excuse for procrastination in obeying Him or following through on my convictions. Jesus’ response to the Sadducees is a great analysis of why people in general are “in error” – they don’t understand the Bible/God/God’s will and they don’t understand God’s power. This is a helpful insight and bottom line for me.

Prayer

“Lord, thank You for Your Word and the opportunity and privilege, through it, to learn more of Your power and glory. Thank You that Your “divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.” (2 Peter 1:3)