Following Jesus in the Gospel of MarkSample

SNAKE CRUSHER

Look Closely: As early as Genesis 3:15, we see a foreshadowing of Jesus. It is called a protoevangelium, which means the “first gospel.” God’s story doesn’t end with sin in the garden. He has a plan to win back His creation. God predicts that someone will come and destroy the snake (Satan). The demons in this passage in Mark clearly know that Jesus is this person predicted. Jesus knows He is this person because, in Mark 1:15, He tells people to “repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark is trying to help his readers see Jesus in this way, too. Jesus’ casting out demons and healing with a word would have reminded the disciples and religious leaders of the power of God in Psalm 33:9. He is pushing back on the power the snake has on this world, starting to build His heavenly kingdom on earth. He is keeping His eyes forward to the moment He will crush the snake's head in Mark 15!

Why would it be hard to believe that Jesus is fulfilling this prophecy? How do Jesus’ actions point to Him being the Son of God?

Challenge: What things about Jesus are you hesitant to believe? Write them down and then ask Jesus to show you the evidence through Mark that He is those things.