Disciples with their spiritual eyes closed

After leaving Mount Hermon, Jesus journeyed through Galilee and moved southward. His ministry in Galilee was coming to an end. At this point, Jesus’ greatest concern was how to prepare for the upcoming events of suffering in Jerusalem. He needed to train his disciples for the impending crucifixion. In today’s passage, Jesus predicts His own death and resurrection. This is to prepare the disciples for the tragedy that lies ahead. (1) This marks the second prediction of His suffering. The first prediction was mentioned in Mark 8:27-37 (see also Matt. 16:21-28). (2) In response to the first prediction of His suffering, Peter strongly protested. He even took Jesus aside and began to rebuke Him. Peter, without realizing it, had taken a position against the Lord Jesus. (3) Jesus’ response was, “Get behind Me, Satan; for you are not setting your mind on God’s interests, but man’s.”

The second prediction

Once again, the disciples could not grasp the significance of His suffering and resurrection. They were perplexed and afraid to ask Jesus. It was only after the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended upon them that the disciples came to understand the meaning of Jesus’ crucifixion. From this short passage, what lessons can we learn? (1) The heart of the gospel is the cross (1 Cor. 2:2). Did you have the cross in the center of your faith? (2) It is the Holy Spirit who guides us into truth. It is impossible to have faith without the work of the Holy Spirit. Let us pray for those who have not yet confessed Jesus as Lord, asking the Father to work through the Holy Spirit. (3) Unexpected events happen in our lives. They can bring sorrow, confusion, and fear. However, God is in control of all things. Let’s learn to overcome trials with the power of faith. Let’s trust that God is working all things for the best.