Unit 1 – Background to Mark’s Gospel

Why did Mark write the Gospel? They thought Jesus would come again in their lifetime but once it came apparent that he

wasn’t, 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 wasn’t 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 give them faith Divine inspiration

Mark’s 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 were important Matthew’s Gospel: some historians think that Matthew's gospel was written first so Mark used it

as the basis of his writing Peter or other disciples: 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 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, and therefore everything is the Gospel is 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/slaves were treated badly and discriminated against, but in Christianity, everyone is

equal Sins can be forgiven if you are genuinely sorry for what you have done – this would apply to

criminals Outcasts will be accepted

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 didn’t 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’ BaptismThe baptism was the first significant event in Jesus’ life. ‘At that time Jesus came from Nazareth 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 the 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 TemptationHappens 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 that Jesus is ready to start his ministry, that he has authority over Satan, and that he is aware of God’s support.

Caesarea Philippi Jesus asked the disciples, “Who do people say I am?” They replied, “Some say you are John the Baptist; others say Elijah or one of the prophets.” 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 away from me, Satan! You do not have in mind the things of God but the things of men.”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 TransfigurationJesus 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 didn’t 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 God’s 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 God’s support. It shows Christians that Jesus is more important than Elijah and Moses. Also Peter and Jesus had previously had an argument, so it shows Jesus will always offer forgiveness.

Unit 3 – Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection

The entry into JerusalemAs they approached Jerusalem, Jesus told his disciples 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 BethanyWhile 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 criticised 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 wouldn’t always be there, so they should do what they could before he died. 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 don’t 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 reinforces 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 won’t be there much longer.

The BetrayalJudas betrayed Jesus. This might be because Jesus wasn’t the Messiah Judas 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 supperJesus 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 don’t 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.

GethsemaneThey 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.” This is the first time we see Jesus like this: upset and distraught. He was also annoyed and worried that even his closest disciples couldn’t 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 JesusJesus was speaking with Judas when an armed crowd arrested him. One of the disciples drew his sword and cut off the ear of the high priest’s slave, 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 trialThe Sanhedrin took Jesus to the high priest's house to be trialled. 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 shouldn’t 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 two witnesses whose testimony agrees The high priest shouldn’t ask direct questions Only when God’s personal name is used is it blasphemy

The trial before PilateThe 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, “Aren’t 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. 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 didn’t let him go Just doing his job: saving Jerusalem from rebellion

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 BurialJesus 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. Passersby 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 were 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 presence of

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 ChristiansSelf 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 - 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 are comforted with the reward of eternal lifeVictory – Jesus’ ministry may have appeared to have ended in failure and defeat, but Christians believe he was a victor because he willingly accepted his suffering.

The Burial of JesusJoseph 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 were spreading, such as that he did not actually die.

Jesus’ ResurrectionAfter 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. “Don’t 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 were 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 appearancesJesus 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 ascensionAfter 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 the 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 ChristiansTeaching 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 trustedA sign of God’s power – Christians believe God brought Jesus back to life, showing his powerDeath is not the end – Christians see Jesus’ resurrection as opening the possibility of eternal life with GodA sign of victory over all evil – Whatever sufferings they undergo in life, nothing can separate them from God’s love

Did the resurrection really happen?Yes No

If the story was untrue its author would not have included the unlikely detail that women were witnesses

Mark was a human capable of making mistakes, as were 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 JesusMark 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, and these clearly display Jesus’ God-given power.

The feeding of the 5000Jesus 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 disciples 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 fish refer 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/ChristMeans ‘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 their 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 lead 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, God’s 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 ManJesus used this title the most to describe himself. Many Christians like this title because it emphasises Jesus’ humanity and humility as someone we could relate to. At the same time it points to his authority as God’s 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 GodJesus 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, has no political links, and is not 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 ManA 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, they 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.” He 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 God’s representative had authority to declare the man’s 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 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 they follow the rules, and being a good person. The alliance of the Pharisees and Herodians shows how much they hate Jesus. Because the Sabbath is God’s gift, we should do what we want with it. This is what Jesus is trying to teach the people.

The temple courtJesus 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 was 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 TaxesSome 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 him 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.” Jesus said, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.”Jesus had to be careful when responding to the Pharisees and Herodians because if he had said ‘don’t pay taxes’, then the Romans would have arrested him but if he told the Jews to pay taxes he would have lost followers. Jesus’ response was 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:Criminals, Jews, tax collectors, lepers, the poor, Gentiles, the disabled, women, and people with demons. Jesus helping outcasts shows he has come to help those who need it regardless of who they are and what they’ve done in the past. Unlike the officials or government, God accepts everyone.

The call of Levi and eating with sinnersJesus 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 Levi’s 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 LeprosyA 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 cured had to have a priest confirm it before they could be accepted back into society. The man was very desperate: he 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 it wasn’t necessary. 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 of 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 woman’s daughterJesus was staying at a house near the city of Tyre, but he didn’t want anyone to know he was there. A woman from Syria came to Jesus and begged him to drive a 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 children’s 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 shouldn’t 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: he refuses to heal her daughter because she is a Gentile.

The woman with the haemorrhageA 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 shouldn’t have approached anyone, especially Jesus. She only touched Jesus’ cloak so it shows how strong her faith is and how powerful Jesus is.

Jairus’ daughterJesus 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 that because he is the son of God, anything is possible for him. This story is important because it shows the greatness of God’s power and gives hope that there is life after death.

The healing of blind BartimaeusA 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?” 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 fourJesus 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 that he 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 missionJesus sent the disciples out in twos with only a staff and sandals. They were 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 off 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.

Peter’s promiseThey 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 God’s plan and that he accepts it. We also get across Peter’s devotion and personality in this story.

Peter’s denialsWhile 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. 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. The cock crowed twice, and he then remembered what Jesus said to him. He broke down crying.

The twelve: Role modelsPeter is a role model because: he is a good scribe (he wrote down most accounts that appear in the gospels), he is a good friend (he shouts at Jesus in Caesarea Philippi when he says he is going to die), he gives up everything to follow Jesus, and at the transfiguration he respects Moses and Elijah.Peter is a let-down because: he thrice denied Jesus, he ran away when Jesus was arrested, he fell asleep in Gethsemane, and he argued with Jesus at Caesarea Philippi.

The disciples are role models because: they followed Jesus (even though they knew it would be dangerous), in the end they all died while trying to spread Jesus’ word, they helped to heal and save many people, and they were upset that one would betray Jesus.The disciples are let-downs because: they all abandoned Jesus at the trials and when he was crucified, they didn’t believe that Jesus had risen, and they resorted to violence in Gethsemane.

The kingdom of God parablesJesus 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. They are entertaining and easier to remember.

The parable of the mustard seedJesus 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 grows and grows, and that it will protect even the Gentiles.

Farmer scatters seeds. God/Jesus spreads the word. Seed on path eaten by birds. People hear the message but it gets taken straight away by temptation/Satan. Seed on rocky ground, can’t grow. People receive the message but it doesn’t sink in deep enough, so when in trouble/persecution they give up on God. Seed on thorny ground, choked by weeds. People hear the message but are distracted by worries/desires, so they don’t carry it on. Seed on fertile ground, grows, and gives good yield. People 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 who give up God in times of trouble, or who are distracted by material wealth, will not be in the kingdom of God, as they don’t believe.

The parable of the mustard seedJesus 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 grows and grows, and that it will protect even the Gentiles.

The cost of discipleshipJesus 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 matters: eternal life in God’s kingdom.

The rich manA man ran up to Jesus and fell to his knees. “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 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. The man’s 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 wealthJesus 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. 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 to reach the kingdom of God, 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 CommandmentOne of the teachers of law asked Jesus which of the commandments was 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. Love your neighbour as you love yourself.” The man replied, “To 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 offeringJesus 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 were 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.