Mark 9:2-32: Suffering and Glory
IN A FAMOUS short story, the main character is given the choice of opening one of two doors. Behind one is a beautiful maiden; behind the other, a ferocious tiger. It is easy to identify with the hero of the story, hoping for joy rather than suffering, pleasure rather than pain. But what if we cannot have one without the other? This passage examines the relationship between suffering and glory, human weakness and divine power.
Warming Up to God
In this passage God tells the disciples to "listen to" his Son. What does Christ want to say to you today?
Read Mark 9:2-32. »
Discovering the Word
- What is the significance of the presence of Elijah and Moses with Jesus on the mount?
- In verse 7 God's voice is heard for a second time in Mark's Gospel, the first being in 1:11. What purposes are accomplished by God's affirmation here?
- Jesus descends the mountain and returns to his other disciples, only to find them in hot debate with the teachers of the law over their failure to exorcise a young boy robbed of speech (vv. 14-18). Why do you suppose Jesus is so harsh in verse 19?
- At the end of this account, Jesus again tells his disciples about his death and resurrection (vv. 30-32). Why do you suppose the disciples failed to understand what he meant?
- What details in the account of the boy's healing parallel those in Jesus' prediction of his coming suffering and victory?
Applying the Word
- Which do you struggle with more—believing that Jesus can or that he wants to answer your prayers? Explain.
- How can the dialogue between Jesus and the boy's father encourage you when your faith is weak?
- How can this passage encourage you in the midst of pain and suffering?
- The statement in verse 7, "Listen to him!" probably alludes to Deuteronomy 18:15-19. Explain how we can listen to Jesus today.
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to provide you with the encouragement you need in your life and to make you a channel of his grace to others.
For Further Study
Is God to Blame? by Gregory A. Boyd