Kata Markon

[HStaiti AT aol.com]

Mark 14.53-72 – Jesus’ Confession, Peter’s Denial

A.     Peter distances himself from Jesus’ accusers (53-54)
      B.        The Sanhedrin determine to put Jesus to death (55-61)
             C.               Jesus declares himself before 
                              the Sanhedrin (62)
      B’.       The Sanhedrin denounce Jesus (63-65)
A’      Peter disowns Jesus three times (66-72)

The opening scene sets the stage for the denial episode at the end of the 
passage and encases the mockery of law in the center. Here is see how Mark 
composes the scene for us in such a manner as to elaboratethe injustice done 
to Jesus
      Directly by his accusers 
            His accusers do him injustice with an unjust 
            and prejudicialtrial

      Indirectly by his followers
            They all have abandoned him except Peter, 
            and he will denyknowing Jesus, not once, not twice, 
            but three times

There is also the contrast between the way Jesus answers his accusers in the 
Sanhedrin, and the manner in which Peter responds to his in thecourtyard

Narrative for Today
Today, we face the problems of denial in a different type of courtyards. We 
may find ourselves silently standing by while the majestyof Christ is being 
verbally abused and rejected in conversation, movies, at work. We may stand 
by silently in the face of various forms of injustice. We may find ourselves 
allowing others to mock God, or thefaith in our presence without so much as a 
response for Jesus Christ.

Today, as we face the problems of a world hostile to our faith, let us take 
our cue from Jesus himself, while we learn from Peter’s mistake. Although we 
may regret our silence in the past, let us resolve to not be a silent witness 
when it comes to our testimony of Jesus Christ. Let’s resolve to not stand 
and allow “polite silence” to destroy the possibility of faith for others

This lesson may be found in its entirety at 
http://evangelassemblyofgod.org/MK14F.html



Peace to you,
Harry Staiti
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www.EvangelAssemblyOfGod.org (NEW DESIGN! Feb 18)
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