Prioritizing Choices. Mark 8:36-38.
“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?”For what can a man give in return for his soul? “For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”
Dear Family of Faith,
Jesus has told the people that following him does not come cheap. He goes on to tell them that there is no realistic option!
Reality (vv. 36-37).To forsake Jesus for the world would be abandoning life for the things the world offers. The paradox of possessions without the person to enjoy them should not be lost to us. If we gain the whole world and end up in hell, what profit is there in the world we own, then?
Reciprocation (v. 38a).Jesus will be ashamed of those who are ashamed of him. He uses the term “Son of Man” in this context, clearly identifying himself as the Messiah prophesied by Daniel (Daniel 7:13-14). The contrast is easy to see. The hope of Israel was in the Messiah. To be rejected by him is to lose everything. Whereas acknowledging him before men may mean death, the Messiah will restore to life all who are faithful to him.
Return (v. 38b).Jesus also takes this opportunity to clarify that he the same Messiah that Israel expects to come in the clouds. The people have focused on this part of prophecy at the expense of other prophecies about his birth (Isaiah 9:6), rejection (Isaiah 53:3), suffering (Isaiah 53:4-7), and death (Isaiah 53:9). His resurrection is also prophesied (Psalm 16:10). So, Jesus is saying to them, the coming in the clouds will happen. There are many other things that must happen first, so believe, be patient and be faithful. Jesus will return to acknowledge and reward those who acknowledged him before men. Will he acknowledge you, or will he be ashamed of you?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.