Unit 1- Background to Marks Gospel

Why did mark write the Gospel:

They thought jesus would come again in their lifetime but once it came
apparent he wasnt coming so soon mark decided to write the Gospel down so
things would be remembered when he did come
The people who knew jesus and the key eyewitnesses were dying and the
message would have been lost if it wasnt written down
Beliefs about the religion were starting to be changed so the beliefs had to
be written down
Christians were being persecuted so he had to write it down to give them
faith
Divine inspiration
Marks gospel sources
Collections of teachings: some christian communities would have had
some of the stories about jesus written down
The passion narrative: The events leading up to jesus crucifixion would
have been written down because they are important
Matthews Gospel: Some historians think that matthew's gospel was
written first so mark used it as the basis of his writing
Peter or another disciple: Sources state that mark got lots of his
information from peter as well as the other disciples
Other eyewitnesses: Mark might have met people like Simon of Cyrene
and Bartimaeus who had known jesus directly, he also might have talked to other
christians who might have witnessed events like the feeding of the 5000
Personal Experiences: Mark might have witnessed events such as the last
supper and the arrest of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane
Divine inspiration: Some christians believe that Mark was directly inspired
by God therefore everything is the Gospel would be accurate and correct
The first line in Mark's Gospel This is the good news about jesus christ, the son of god
tells us that Jesus is the son of god, that mark believes in jesus and thinks highly of him,
and it is good news written by a believer for believers
Who was mark?

 A man named mark referred to in the bible and early christian tradition
Mysterious man in gethsemane who witnessed jesus arrest, he is only
mentioned in mark's gospel
His mother owned the house where the last supper was held so perhaps
mark was in the house at the time
Why did christianity appeal to people?
Women were treated badly and discriminated, in christianity everyone was
equal
Sins can be forgiven if you are genuinely sorry for what you have done,
this would apply to criminals
Outcasts will be accepted
Slaves were treated badly but everyone in christianity was treated equally
Why were christians so unpopular?
The romans worshipped many Gods whereas in christianity there was only
one God
They were seen as unsociable because they didnt come to parties
There were rumours about how they worshipped such as they were
thought to be cannibals
Blamed for bad economy because they were no longer buying offerings to
take to shrines
Nero blamed christians for the great fire in Rome
Calming of the storm
Jesus and the disciples were on a boat on the sea of Galilee when waves rushed over
and into the boat, Jesus was sleeping so they woke him up and said Master, do you not
care if we drown Jesus told the wind and waves to be still and they did so, he then said
to the disciples Why are you so afraid? do you still have no faith?. They were terrified
and asked each other who is this man, even the wind and the waves obey him
The ship on rough seas was an early christian symbol, representing the church sailing
over the stormy seas of live to God. This story would inspire people to trust in God and
even though they may lapse in faith God will still be there and forgive them.
Unit 2 Jesus Ministry

Jesus Baptism
The baptism was the first significant event in Jesus life. At that time jesus came from
naserath in Galilee and was baptised by john in the jordan. As jesus was coming up out
of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and a spirit descending on him like a dove.
And a voice came from heaven you are my son, whom I love; with you I am well
pleased
The water represents purity and the cleansing of his sins, the dove is the sign of peace
and represents the holy spirit; the holy spirit inspires jesus to start his messianic
ministry.
The heavens opening is an old testament symbol and shows God is welcoming him, the
baptism proves jesus is the messiah and God claimed him as his son.
The Temptation
Happens immediately after the baptism, Jesus trying to prepare for his task. At once
the spirit sent him out into the desert, and he was in the desert for 40 days, being
tempted by satan. He was with the wild animals, and the angels attended him 40 days
is often used in the old testament to signify a long period of time. Wild animals were
often seen as demons and satan being there meant he was being severely tested. In
the old testament angels were messengers of God who brought love and support so it
represents God supporting him. This story might help christians being persecuted as it
shows that we should trust God and he will support us. This story shows jesus is ready
to start his ministry, that he has authority over satan and he is aware of Gods support.
Caesarea Philippi
Jesus asked the disciples who do people say I am? and they replied some say John
the Baptist; others say Elijah or one of the prophets but Jesus asked them, who do you
say I am?. Peter answered you are the Christ. Jesus told them not to tell anyone, he
then began to teach them about the son of man who would suffer and be killed but
three days later he would rise again. Peter began to shout at him for saying these
things but Jesus rebuked him Get behind me satan; you do not have in mind the things
of God but the things of men he said
This story is important because it is the first time jesus is acknowledged as the messiah.
It is also the first time we hear the passion narrative. It also shows that peter is the main
disciple. Caesarea Philippi is often called a watershed as as all of Jesus teachings
became private afterwards. He needed to focus on teaching the disciples everything
before he was captured, which would have happened sooner if he continued to teach
and heal publically.
The Transfiguration

Jesus took Peter, James and John up a mountain where he transfigured. His clothes
became dazzling white and Elijah and Moses appeared talking to Jesus. Peter said to
them Let us put up 3 shelters, one for each of you the disciples didnt know what to say
because they were frightened. Then a cloud appeared and a voice said This is my son
whom I love, Listen to him! Suddenly Elijah, Moses and the cloud disappeared and
Jesus told them not to tell anyone what had happened
Jesus shining white represents purity and shows his divinity as he is more than just a
man. The cloud indicated Gods presence and again he spoke like in the Baptism,
claiming Jesus as his son. Moses and Elijah were important figures in the old testament.
Their presence showed that they approved of Jesus and his teachings, also it proves
jesus is not one of them. God saying Listen to him was directed at the disciples and
telling them to heed what jesus had said about his suffering.
The transfiguration is important as Jesus talking to Elijah and Moses shows his divinity,
authority, messianic status and that he has Gods support. It shows Christians that Jesus
is more important than Elijah and Moses. Also Peter and Jesus had previously has an
arguments so it shows Jesus will always offer forgiveness.

Unit 3 - Jesus suffering, death and resurrection

The entry into Jerusalem
As they approached Jerusalem Jesus told his diciples to go to the nearest village
where they would find a donkey tied up. They brought the colt back to jesus and threw
their cloaks over it. Others threw their cloaks or branches on the road. Those who
followed shouted Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the lord, Blessed
is the coming of our father david, Hosanna in the highest heaven They then went to
Bethany as the temple in Jerusalem was closed
Only kings would ride into jerusalem which shows Jesus authority but the fact he rode
on a colt not a horse shows his humility. People throwing their cloaks down showed
respect and devotion and they shouted Hosanna which means save us so they
recognised that Jesus was the Messiah. This story signifies that jesus is ready to be
captured and die as he is not being private or secretive anymore.
The Anointing at Bethany

While Jesus was at Bethany he went into the house of a man named simon. A woman
came with a jar of expensive perfume, she broke the jar above jesus head and poured
it all over him. The other men in the room criticized her and said she should have sold it
and given the money to the poor. But Jesus told them what she did was right as there
would always be poor people but he wouldnt always be there so they should do what
they can before he dies. Jesus then said the woman and the story would be preached
around the world and be remembered in every Gospel
He was anointed by a woman showing that women have authority. She also recognises
what's going to happen to Jesus as you usually anoint a dead body. It shows the men
dont fully recognise what is going to happen to Jesus. Kings were often anointed as a
sign that they had been chosen by God, the word messiah means anointed one. Jesus
defends the woman, an outcast which re enforces Jesus message of love. Jesus says
she will be remembered throughout the world which shows how important women will
be in the church. You will always have poor people but not me Shows jesus is only a
human being as he is being selfish, and that the disciples should listen to him as he
wont be there much longer.
The Betrayal
Judas betrayed Jesus, this might be because he wasnt the messiah he was expecting.
Because Judas was a zealot he wanted a strong military leader which Jesus was not so
he was angry. Also because the sanhedrin offered him a reward and for the past 3 years
he had lived with nothing because he was a disciple.
Saint

Sinner

He committed suicide afterwards showing

he felt remorse

He betrayed Jesus who was supposed to

be his friend

The other disciples betrayed jesus as well

Betrayed him for money

Only fulfilling what God wanted, the

Divine must
He faithfully spent 3 years of his life
dedicated to Jesus

The last supper

Jesus arranged the passover meal to be held in a private room. While they were eating
Jesus told them that one of them would betray him. The disciples were upset and each
of them asked surely you dont mean me? Jesus answered It will be one of the twelve,
The son of man will die as the scriptures say; but how terrible for that man who betrays
the son of man! It would have been better for that man if he had never been born!
Jesus took a piece of bread broke it, gave thanks and shared it with the disciples he
then did the same to the wine. They then sang a hymn and went to the mount of olives
This story is important because it is where we get communion from, which is a time
when we get spiritual strength from God. In the story Jesus tells the disciples that one of
them will betray him. Jesus knows he has to die but he tries to sway Judas so he does
not have to be the reason for his capture and death. The disciples united together
through sharing the meal and would be united with Jesus after his death.
Gethsemane
They went to a place called Gethsemane and Jesus asked the disciples to sit and wait
while he prayed. He took Peter, James and John and asked them to keep watch as he
was deeply distressed and troubled. He fell to the ground and prayed Abba, Father,
Take this cup from me He returned to find the disciples sleeping, he shouted at them
Watch and Pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing but the flesh
is weak Once more he went and prayed but when he came back he found them asleep.
Jesus returned for a third time and told them to get up Look the son of man is delivered
into the hands of sinners he said to them.
This is the first time we see Jesus like this, upset and distraught he was also annoyed
and worried that even his closest disciples couldnt stay awake. Christians can relate to
Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane because sometimes we might think we have the
world on our shoulders when we deal with stress and problems in our life. Christians
being persecuted might find this story a source of encouragement because it showed
we must trust in God. Many christians can also relate to Peter, James and John as they
wanted to stay awake but could not.
The arrest of Jesus
Jesus was speaking with Judas when an armed crowd arrested Jesus. One of the
disciples drew his sword and cut of the high priest slaves ear, but Jesus said why have
you come here armed when you did not arrest me all those times I was teaching in the
temple then all the disciples ran away
Jesus remained calm and did not panic because he had prayed unlike the disciples and
he knew it had to happen. The disciples panicked because they had not prepared
themselves and were caught off guard

The Sanhedrin Trial

The sanhedrin took Jesus to the high priest's house to be trialed, peter followed behind
them. The council could not find any evidence against him so they got witnesses to lie,
but none of the stories agreed. The high priest asked him Are you the messiah, the son
of the blessed God? Jesus answered I am The high priest took this as Blasphemy so
they all agreed to put him to death. They blindfolded Jesus spat and hit him before the
guards came to take him away
During the trial the Sanhedrin broke many rules
The trial shouldnt have been held at night
Verdict should have been given at least a day after the trial
It should have been held in the hall of hewn stone
The trial should have began with reasons why the accused is innocent
Evidence should be given by 2 witnesses whose testimony agrees
The high priest shouldnt ask direct questions
Only when Gods personal name is used is it blasphemy
The trial before Pilate
The teachers of law handed Jesus over to Pilate, who questioned him. Are you the
king of the jews? So you say Jesus replied. The chief priests accused Jesus of many
things so pilate asked him again Arent you going to answer, Listen to all their
accusations Again Jesus did not say anything and Pilate was amazed.
At every passover meal Pilate would release a prisoner. When a crowd gathered Pilate
asked them, who do you want me to free, Jesus or Barabbas The chief priests had told
the crowd to ask for Barabbas so Barabbas was set free by Pilate. He then asked what
they wanted him to do with Jesus and they shouted Crucify him! So he handed Jesus
back to the chief priests to be whipped and crucified.
Pilate was a prefect of Judaea at the time so he needed to keep the Jews on his side
during Passover so he released a prisoner every year. Pilate could clearly see during
the trial that there was no case against Jesus and if he released him it would antagonise
the sanhedrin which he would have liked. However because the people wanted
Barabbas to be set free he could not.
Afterwards the soldiers took Jesus away and made him wear a crown of thorns and a
purple robe. They mocked him for saying he was king of the jews so they spat and beat
him. After they had finished they led him away to be crucified.
Was Pilate a coward?

Agree

Disagree

He knew Jesus was innocent but did not

let him go

Just doing his job by saving Jerusalem

from rebellion

Was afraid of what the emperor would do

if he found out

Going with what the majority of people

wanted
Fulfilling the divine must

The Crucifixion and Burial

Jesus had suffered emotional trauma, betrayal and been beaten twice by soldiers.
Because of this he found the crossbeam too heavy to carry so the soldiers got Simon of
Cyrene to help carry it to Golgotha. The soldiers offered him a drink to drug him but
jesus refused showing he was willing. The soldiers divided his clothes up between him
and kept watch in case he tried to escape. Passers by taunted him and mocked his
inability to save himself, even the two criminals crucified with him taunted him. The
whole country descended into darkness at midday for 3 hours. At 3 Jesus cried out
Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani some people thought he was calling for Elijah so they
tried to prolong his life but with a loud cry he died. The curtain hanging in the temple
tore in two and one of the soldiers proclaimed This man really was the son of God The
only friends of Jesus who watched where the women
Israel in darkness symbolises that a great sin has been committed and judgement was
being passed. The temple curtain symbolises the barrier of sin that cut humanity off
from God being torn in two, so now christians could freely talk to God again. The soldier
would have been significant for 1st century christians as it was a gentile who recognised
and declared Jesus true identity. The women is also significant for 1st century christians
as it shows they were important as the disciples were nowhere to be seen.
The meaning of Jesus death for christians
Self giving love - By dying Jesus took on the sin of humanity and experienced the
separation between God and Humans caused by sin. This shows the full extent of
Jesus self sacrificial love, he accepted his fate even though it meant feeling cut off from
God.
Atonement - Atonement refers to reconciliation or bringing together. Human sinfulness
built up a barrier to God that humans could not remove, the death of Jesus removed the
barrier, enabling people to get close to God again.
Liberation - Jesus set Christians free from sin and opened up the possibility of eternal
life. This can help christians living hard lives in that they will be rewarded with eternal
life
Victory - Jesus ministry may have appeared to have ended in failure and defeat, but
christians believe her was a victor because he willingly accepted his suffering.
The Burial of Jesus

Joseph of Arimathea asked pilate for the body of Jesus so he could bury it quickly
before the sabbath. Pilate was surprised that Jesus had died so quickly but agreed that
Joseph could have the body. He wrapped it in a linen sheet and placed it in a tomb
made of solid rock, he then rolled a large stone in front of the entrance. The women
were watching and saw where the body of Jesus was placed. It was important that
Mark recorded the Burial as false beliefs about Jesus where spreading such as he did
not actually die.
Jesus Resurrection
After the sabbath the women went to anoint Jesus body. They went to the tomb and
found the stone had been rolled away, when they entered the tomb they found a man
dressed in white. Dont be alarmed, I know you are looking for Jesus, he is raised He
told them to tell the disciples but they ran from the tomb and said nothing to anyone
because they were afraid.
It is significant that the the first people to hear the good news about Jesus resurrection
where women as it shows they were important, but like the disciples they also failed as
they fled and did not tell anyone. The man is thought to be an angel and the fact he tells
them to tell the disciples shows that the disciples were forgiven even though they
abandoned Jesus.
Jesus Resurrection appearances
Jesus first appeared to mary magdalene, when she went and told the others what had
happened they did not believe her. Again it is significant that Jesus first appearance
was to a woman.
After this jesus appeared to two of the disciples but when they returned and told the
others they did not believe it.
Last of all Jesus appeared to all the disciples as they were eating, he scolded them
because they did not have faith and they did not believe those who had seen him. He
told them to preach the Gospel throughout the world, drive out demons, speak in
strange tongues, heal people and be able to drink poison and pick up snakes without
being harmed.
The ascension
After Jesus had spoken to them he was taken up to heaven and sat on the right hand of
God, then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, the Lord worked with them
and confirmed their word.
The Ascension marks the end of Jesus physical presence on earth, for christians it is
the final proof that Jesus was indeed the son of God. Jesus became a spiritual
presence in the disciples lives after this.
What Resurrection means for christians

A living christ- Christians worship a living christ not a crucified martyr and Jesus is a
spiritual presence in the lives of christians
Teaching that can be trusted- Jesus referred to his suffering, death and resurrection
many times and by this coming true we can believe that all his teaching can be trusted
A sign of Gods power- Christians believe God brought Jesus back to life showing his
power
Death is not the end- Christians see jesus resurrection as opening the possibility of
eternal life with God
A sign of victory over all evil- Whatever sufferings they undergo in life nothing can
seperate them from Gods love
Did the ressurection really happen?
Yes

No

If the story was untrue its author would

not have included the unlikely detail that
women where witnesses

Mark was a human capable of making

mistakes as where his sources

Most of the eleven died as martyrs, they

would not have given their lives for what
they knew was a lie

Perhaps the story of the empty tomb was

a kind of parable

The disciples changed from being afraid

into courageous preachers of the Gospel,
something must have happened

Perhaps the eleven became so involved

in the lie that they started to believe it or
did not know how to get out of it

Unit 4 - The person of Jesus

Mark states on many occasions that Jesus was teaching. Some called him a rabbi
because some of them like Jesus travelled round towns and villages delivering
teaching. Those who listened to Jesus were stunned by the difference between his
teaching and that of the rabbis they usually heard. Jesus often taught using parables,
the audience would have found these more interesting and memorable.
There were several people who travelled round israel who claimed to be able to perform
miracles like Jesus. Jesus was able to perform healings, exorcisms and nature
miracles. The stories of jesus healing people often show Jesus power and compassion.
People saw Jesus power to drive out demons as a sign that jesus authority came from
God. Jesus defies the laws of nature in several miracles as these clearly display Jesus
God given power.
The feeding of the 5000
Jesus told the disciples to come with him so they could find a quiet place to eat and
rest. They went away in a boat but many people followed them so Jesus started
teaching them. Later the disciples asked Jesus to send the people away but Jesus told
them to give them something to eat. The disciple protested as they only had 5 loaves
and 2 fish but Jesus told them to share it out anyway. Once everyone had eaten the
disciples gathered up the remaining food and found they had enough to fill 12 baskets
This story combines both Jesus roles as a teacher and a miracle worker, we see how
popular he is. It also proves he is the messiah and a miracle worker. Jesus recognises
that the people were desperate for spiritual guidance so rather than be annoyed with
them he reacted with compassion and taught them for hours. Mark refers to the crowd
in this story as sheep without a shepherd. Several old testament passages also use this
when talking about the future messiah, so mark was pointing at Jesus being the
messiah. Some people think that the 5 loaves and 2 fishes refers to the 5 books of
Jewish law and the 2 stone tablets that the commandments were written on. The 12
baskets are the 12 tribes that formed israel.
Messiah/Christ

Means the anointed/chosen one. The title has strong political and Jewish links as in the
old testament it was used to describe kings especially King David. Jews ideas of the
messiah changed over time. Jews began to think that a supernatural figure sent by God
would be there messiah. Zealots in the 1st century hoped the messiah would be a
warrior who could help them overthrow the Romans. Throughout Jesus life there were
men who claimed to be the messiah to led Zealot uprisings. Jesus did not use and
discouraged others from using this title because of the messianic secret. If Jesus had
called himself this he would have been captured and killed much quicker and would not
have been able to complete his ministry. Jews expected the messiah to perform
miracles to prove his identity but this is not why he performed miracles, he did so to
show his compassion, Gods power and love. If Jesus had called himself the messiah
people would have instantly followed him, but he wanted people to draw their own
conclusions about him. There are better titles however that reveal who Jesus is such as
son of God. Also many people today do not understand what a messiah is and could
lead to ideas of status and power which is the opposite of what Jesus is about
Son of man
Jesus used this title the most to describe himself. Many christians like this title because
it emphasises Jesus humanity and humility and as someone we could relate to.. At the
same time it points to his authority as Gods representative during his ministry and to his
future state of glory. It had no political links so it was not dangerous to use but it still
linked to the old testament. The title however is not important enough to fully describe
Jesus and his power. When Jesus uses the son of man it is referring to his ministry,
suffering and future glory. Jesus uses the title son of man in his ministry and links it to
ideas of his god given authority. When talking about his suffering Jesus often says son
of man as it shows his vulnerability. During the sanhedrin trial Jesus says they would
see the son of man seated at God's right hand linking to Jesus future glory. For some
people it would be a confusing title because it links to the old testament which not a lot
of people will know about, it is also a vague title which does not tell us about Jesus
divine qualities
Son of God
Jesus does not use this title however mark felt this title is important, as it shows Jesus
unique relationship with God. This title describes fully who Jesus is and how powerful,
we however cannot relate to it. This title is used at significant points in the Gospel such
as the baptism, transfiguration and Jesus death. Many christians think this is the best
title for jesus as it is not vague, it has no political links or tied to a particular culture. It
also shows the closeness of Jesus relationship with God. However the son of God can
be quite remote so some christians do not like it.
The Paralysed Man

A large crowd gathered to see Jesus so large it filled the room and the area outside.
Some men tried to bring him a paralysed man but could not get through the crowds,
instead the lowered him through the roof to Jesus. When Jesus saw his faith he said
Son, your sins are forgiven Some of the teachers of law thought he was blaspheming
as no one had the power to forgive sins except God. Jesus said to them the son of man
has authority to forgive sins and told the man to get up and take his mat. He did so and
the crowd was amazed as they had never seen anything like it
Illness was often thought to be a result of sin in those days. Jesus as Gods
representative had authority to declare the mans sins were forgiven but the teachers of
law were scandalised by his actions.
Unit 5 - Jesus relationships with others
The sabbath is seen as a gift from God so if they broke the sabbath laws death was the
penalty.
Jesus went into a synagogue and a man with a shrivelled hand was there, the
onlookers wanted a reason to accuse Jesus so they watched to see if he would heal the
man. Jesus said to them Which is lawful on the sabbath:to do good or to do evil, to
save life or to kill? They did not say anything so Jesus healed the man, the Pharisees
left the synagogue and made plans with the herodians to kill jesus.
This story shows that the people were obsessed with keeping the law rather than
understanding why the follow the rules and being a good person. Pharisees and
Herodians allying shows how much they hate Jesus. Because the sabbath is Gods gift
we should do what we want with it is what Jesus is trying to teach the people.
The temple court
Jesus entered the temple and started driving out those who were buying and selling
there. He overturned tables and benches before saying to them You have made it a
den of robbers. The chief priests began looking for ways to kill him as they feared him
because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching
Jesus actions were dramatic but it would have only been a small scale protest. More
symbolic than effective. Jesus is challenging the authority of the sanhedrin but by doing
so he is signing his own death warrant. He was protesting the hypocrisy of religious
leaders, as the sanhedrin were making huge profits from trading but it was impossible to
pray because of trading. There is no evidence of Jesus using violence or force, some
argue that it was well within his rights although pacifists find his actions hard to
understand. It is evidence for christians that we should stand up for what we believe in.
Paying Roman Taxes

Some of the pharisees and herodians wanted to catch Jesus out so they could accuse
him of blasphemy. They asked Jesus if they should pay taxes or not, he knew they had
come to try and catch Jesus out so he asked them if they had a coin. They brought him
a coin and Jesus asked them whose portrait is on the coin. They replied Caesar so
Jesus said Give to Caesar what is caesars and to God what is God
Jesus had to be careful when responding to the pharisees and herodians because if he
had said dont pay taxes then the Romans would have arrested him but if he told the
jews to pay taxes he would have lost followers. We would describe Jesus response as
clever as it did not get him into trouble with the Romans or the Jews. Christians in the
21st century could follow Jesus teaching in this story because it tells us to be good
citizens but not to forget what they give to God. In this story the Religious leaders were
breaking the commandment do not worship false idols as the emperor's face is on the
coin.
Jesus and the Outcasts:

Jesus helping outcasts shows he has come to help those who need it regardless of who
they are and what theyve done in the past. Unlike the officials or government God
accepts everyone.
The call of Levi and eating with sinners
Jesus was teaching beside the lake, he saw levi sitting at the tax collector's booth. He
told him to follow him and Levi did
Levi was not liked because he was a tax collector so it would have shocked the crowd
and the other disciples that Jesus chose him. However like the other disciples Levi
followed immediately.
Jesus was eating at Levis house with many other tax collectors and sinners. When the
teachers of law saw them they asked why does he eat with sinners Jesus replied It is
not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous,
but sinners

Jesus made himself ritually unclean because he entered the house of a tax collector,
but he was there to offer forgiveness and cure the spiritually sick. Not to appeal to the
teachers of law.
The man with Leprosy
A man with leprosy came to Jesus and begged him to cure him, Jesus was filled with
compassion so he touched the man and cured him. Jesus sent him to a priest and told
him not to tell anyone what had happened
If you had Leprosy you were thought to be unclean so lepers were driven out of society.
Those claiming to be cure had to have a priest confirm it before they could be accepted
back into society. The man was very desperate as begged on his knees, he was
however not supposed to approach anyone because he was a leper. But It shows he
had faith in Jesus ability to cure him. Jesus shows compassion by agreeing to heal the
man but he also touched him as well even though he didnt need to to heal him. He tells
the man to go straight to the priest so he can be welcomed back into society but he also
tells him not to tell anyone so he would keep the messianic secret.
The call of levi shows how jesus wanted everyone to be included in his ministry even if
this would shock everyone else. The story eating with sinners shows Jesus wanted to
teach and help those who needed it most, first. It is also a lesson to all those who
treated tax collectors and other sinners like outcasts. The man with leprosy shows us
that Jesus wants to help people which is what his ministry is all about.
The greek womans daughter
Jesus was staying at a house near the city of tyre, but he didnt want anyone to know
he was there. A woman from syria came to Jesus and begged him to drive the demon
out from her daughter. Jesus replied Let us first feed the children. It isn't right to take
the children's food and throw it to the dogs The woman protested even the dogs under
the table eat the childrens leftovers. Then Jesus said because of her answer when she
went home she would find the demon gone from her daughter
Children = Jews, Dogs = Gentiles. Jesus says that the jews should have the teaching
first but the woman says that the Jews have already had the good news so shouldnt
the Gentiles get it too. Jesus was impressed by her answer so he cures her daughter,
but he shows discrimination at the start of the story because he refuses to heal her
because she is a Gentile.
The woman with the haemorrhage

A woman with a haemorrhage had spent all her money on different treatments and
doctors but her condition only got worse. When she heard about Jesus she followed
behind him and touched his cloak, she was healed immediately. At once Jesus could
feel the power going from him so he turned round and asked the crowd Who touched
me. The woman fell to his knees and told him what had happened, jesus replied Your
faith has healed you. Go in peace and be free from your suffering
The woman was unclean so she shouldnt have approached anyone, especially Jesus.
She only touched Jesus cloak so it shows how strong her faith is and how powerful
Jesus is.#
Jairus daughter
Jesus was by the lake when Jairus came up to him, he fell at his feet and pleaded with
jesus to heal his daughter who was dying. While on the way to Jairus house some of
the teachers said why bother your daughter is dead but Jesus carried on anyway.
Jesus went into the house with Peter, James and John where he found people crying
and wailing. He said to them The child is not dead, but asleep he took her hand and
said Little girl, I say to you, get up!. Immediately she stood up and walked around but
Jesus told them not to tell anyone
Jairus was a religious leader so it shows he had faith if he would go see Jesus. Jesus
also shows he is compassionate and gentle by how he treats the girl. Some christians
believe that the girl was just unconscious or it was a parable showing that death is not
the end. There are many christians however who believe because he is the son of God
anything is possible for him. This story is important because it shows the greatness of
Gods power and gives hope that there is life after death.
The healing of Blind Bartimaeus
A blind man, Bartimaeus heard Jesus coming so he shouted Jesus, Son of David,
have mercy on me! many told him to be quiet but Jesus told him to come to him. Jesus
asked him What do you want me to do for you? and the man replied Rabbi, I want to
see so Jesus said Go, your faith has healed you. Immediately he could see again and
he followed Jesus along the road.
Bartimaeus calls Jesus the son of David in front of everyone but Jesus does not shout
at him because he is ready to be captured. He is told that his faith has saved him,
signifying both physical and spiritual healing. He also leaves everything behind and
follows Jesus showing faith and spiritual healing.
Unit 6 - Discipleship
The calling of the first four

Jesus was walking along the shore of the lake Galilee when he saw Simon and his
brother Andrew fishing, he told them to come with him and Jesus would teach them to
be fishers of men. He also called James and John who were fishermen as well.
The story of the calling of the first four is significant because Jesus tells them he will
make them fishers of men. Meaning they are not just to be his followers but also to
become leaders and share in Jesus ministry. Also they recognised Jesus authority
instantly because they respond to Jesus call immediately.
The mission
Jesus sent the disciples out in twos with only a staff and sandals, there where not to
take any food, money or extra clothes. He told them to stay where they were welcome
and if nobody would listen in the town they should leave and shake the dust of their
feet. So the disciples drove out many demons, anointed and healed many sick people.
This story is significant because Jesus knew he had a short time left so he sent the
disciples out as well. He wanted the disciples to bring only the essentials because he
wanted them to trust in God and that he would provide after Jesus died. He also gave
the disciples the authority to perform exorcisms and heal the sick like he could.
Peters promise
They went to the mount of olives and Jesus told them that it is written I will strike the
shepherd and the sheep will be scattered but Peter said he would never leave Jesus.
But Jesus told him that before the cock crows twice he would disown him 3 times. But
peter denied it saying he would even die for Jesus
Jesus makes it clear here that his death is part of Gods plan and that he accepts it. We
also get across Peters devotion and personality in this story.
Peters Denials
While peter was in the high priest's courtyard a woman came up to him and said he
was with Jesus. Peter denied it saying she was mistaken, but the woman said it again
but this time others heard. Peter denied it again but others said he must be one of
Jesus followers because he comes from Galilee. Peter told them he did not know Jesus
and the cock crowed twice, he then remembered what Jesus said to him and broke
down crying.
The twelve: Role models
Peter:

Rolemodel?

Let down?

Good scribe as he wrote down most

accounts in Gospel

He denied Jesus 3 times

Good friend as he shouts at Jesus in

Caesarea Philippi when he says he is
going to die

Runs away when Jesus gets arrested

Gives up everything to follow Jesus

Fell asleep in Gethsemane

At transfiguration he respects Moses and

Elijah

Argues with Jesus at Caesarea Philippi

The Disciples:
Role Models?

Let downs?

They followed Jesus even though they

knew it would be dangerous

They all abandoned Jesus at the trials

and when he was crucified

In the end they all died while trying to

spread Jesus word

They didnt believe that Jesus had risen

Helped to heal and save many people

Resorted to violence in Gethsemane

They were upset that one would betray

him

The kingdom of God parables

Jesus uses parables because they are open to interpretation and those listening can
work it out for themselves, they refer to things that people would understand and they
are entertaining and easier to remember.
Detail

Meaning

Farmer scatters seed

Farmer=God/Jesus/disciple Seeds=Word
of God

Seeds on path eaten by birds

Birds=Satan/temptation. They hear the

message but it gets taken straight away
due to temptation

Seed on rocky ground, cant grow deep

roots, scorched by sun

They receive the message but doesnt

sink in deep enough so when in trouble or
persecuted they give up on God

Seed on thorny ground choked by weeds

They hear the message but are distracted

by worries or desires, so they dont carry
on the message

Seeds on fertile ground, good honest

People who listen and respond to the

word of God and are in the kingdom of
God

The parable of the sower tells us that God is spreading his word and only those who
accept it and spread the message will be in the kingdom of God. Those who do not
accept it or give up God in times of trouble or are distracted by material wealth will not
be in the kingdom of God as they dont believe.
The parable of the mustard seed
Jesus tells us that once a mustard seed was planted and that it grew larger than any
other tree. The plant was so big even birds could nest in its branches.
Mustard seed=Kingdom of God when it is small
Plant=Kingdom of God when it grows bigger
Branches= the church and the kingdom of God growing stronger
Birds=anyone not jewish, shows kingdom of God is for everyone
This parable tells us that the kingdom of God starts small but then it just grows and
grows and that it will protect even the Gentiles.
The cost of discipleship
Jesus told the crowd If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take
up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever
loses his life for me and for the Gospel will save it
Jesus was saying those who put materialist comfort and pleasure first run the risk of
losing what really mattered, eternal life in Gods kingdom.
The rich man
A man ran up to Jesus and fell to his knees Good teacher, what must I do to inherit
eternal life? he asked. Jesus told him to follow the commandments and the man told
him that he always had done. So Jesus told him to sell everything he had and give it to
the poor and then he would have treasure in heaven but the mans face fell because he
was rich
Jesus is trying to say that even though you may be a good and faithful christian unless
you are prepared to give away your material wealth and help others then you cannot
enter the kingdom of god. This story is still significant today because we are more likely
to get distracted by riches and less likely to give it all away
Jesus teaching on wealth
Jesus said it is much harder for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God then for a
camel to go through the eye of a needle. So the disciples asked Who, then, can be
saved? Jesus said Everything is possible for God

Jesus is trying to say that those who are rich have more barriers between them and
God than those that have nothing. He says because it is incredibly hard for rich people
not many do. This story is still significant now because we have a lot more material
things that could be making a barrier between us and God.
Jesus teaching on service
Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants
to be first must be slave of all. For even the son of man did not come to be served, but
to serve, and to give his life as ransom for many
The things that matter in the kingdom of God are the complete opposite of what matters
in the secular Roman world. Greatness in the kingdom of God is about service and
giving to others. To be truly great we must follow Jesus example who gave his life to
serving others.
The Greatest Commandment
One of the teachers of law asked Jesus which of the commandments is the most
important jesus replied Love the lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul,
with all your mind and with all your strength and Love your neighbour as you love
yourself. The man replied Love God and neighbour is more important than to offer
animals and other sacrifices to God Jesus was impressed with the man's answer so he
told him he was not far from the kingdom of God.
Jesus is saying that we must love God and we must love our neighbour.
The widow's offering
Jesus watched people in the temple giving their offerings, many rich people gave a lot
of money but a poor widow came and gave only two coins. Jesus told the disciples
That poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of
their wealth but she put in everything she had to live on
Jesus is teaching about motivation, why we do what we do as opposed to what we do.
The rich men where putting in money just to look good and because they could spare it
whereas the woman had love for God and trust in that he would provide for her so she
gave everything.