The Character of Jesus - SPOKE WELL

Read Mark 12:35-37.

"And the great crowd enjoyed listening to Him." (v. 37b)

Jesus spoke to large groups as well as small ones and individuals. Evidently, what He spoke and how He spoke kept their attention and caused them to think. They "enjoyed listening to Him." He was anything but boring.

I need to see that my speaking is interesting. That I'm talking about something worthy and that I'm delivering my message will. Help me to not only put in my study and preparation time, but to be dependent on You.

(1/8/99)

The Character of Jesus - RESPECT

Read Mark 12:28-34.

"And when Jesus saw that he had answered intelligently, He said to him. 'You are not far from the kingdom of God.' And after that, no one would venture to ask Him any more questions." (v. 34)

Jesus had been drilled by the Jewish leaders for a while. When one of them was actually honest and agreed with a part of Jesus' teaching, He commended him. Jesus respected the scribe and his views. Jesus have him honor.

I need to validate those around me who might disagree for a time, but who are honestly searching for the truth.

(1/6/99)

The Character of Jesus - CONFIDENT

Read Mark 12:18-27.

"Jesus said to them, 'Is this not the reason you are mistaken, that you do not understand the Scriptures, or the power of God?'" (v. 24)

Jesus knew that the Sadducees studied the Scriptures all the time and pried themselves on their understanding. He sets them straight by correcting their misunderstanding of the Scriptures. He was confident enough in His own knowledge that He challenged the "experts."

I need to "study to show myself approved unto God," knowing fully the doctrines of God. I must be confident enough to speak words of truth in the face of error.

(1/5/99)

The Character of Jesus - RESPONDING WISELY

Read Mark 12:13-17.

"'Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.' And they were amazed at Him." (v. 17)

Jesus knew what these people were trying to do to Him. He discerned their hypocrisy. So, He gave them an answer which satisfied them and the crowd, and respected authority.

I need to depend on God for His godly wisdom when answering critics and those who would seek to entrap me. God, let me not lean on my own understanding but on Yours.

(1/4/99)