Genesis 6-8; Psalm 104; Mark 3
In the first chapters, Mark describes how the Jewish religious leaders are forming an opposition to Christ. First, he notes that Christ teaches "as one who had authority, and not as the scribes" (Mark 1:22). This could not go unnoticed. The essence of the scribes’ religion is self-worth. When someone is recognized as more righteous or pious, they are uncomfortable.
In the second chapter, they are critical of him—"who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:7). They rebuke Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners (Mark 2:16). Then they are tracking him, criticizing the disciples (Mark 2:18-19, 24). Despite Jesus providing them with exhaustive answers, there opposition only grows.
In the third chapter, they are already looking for an opportunity to ensnare Christ. (Mark 3:1). After He heals the man with a withered hand, they call a meeting, looking for an opportunity to "destroy him" (Mark 3:6). They then do two things they believe would discourage people from following Christ - they start a rumor telling people he is out of his mind (Mark 3:21) and send "experts" from Jerusalem to Judea, who told everyone that Jesus casts out demons by the power of Beelzebub.
This is the essence of a self-righteous religion. By failing to recognize its need for a Savior, it will always resist Christ. Furthermore, by taking this path, its followers won’t will not be ashamed of resorting to open lies, slander, and other forms of evil.
In the second chapter, they are critical of him—"who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:7). They rebuke Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners (Mark 2:16). Then they are tracking him, criticizing the disciples (Mark 2:18-19, 24). Despite Jesus providing them with exhaustive answers, there opposition only grows.
In the third chapter, they are already looking for an opportunity to ensnare Christ. (Mark 3:1). After He heals the man with a withered hand, they call a meeting, looking for an opportunity to "destroy him" (Mark 3:6). They then do two things they believe would discourage people from following Christ - they start a rumor telling people he is out of his mind (Mark 3:21) and send "experts" from Jerusalem to Judea, who told everyone that Jesus casts out demons by the power of Beelzebub.
This is the essence of a self-righteous religion. By failing to recognize its need for a Savior, it will always resist Christ. Furthermore, by taking this path, its followers won’t will not be ashamed of resorting to open lies, slander, and other forms of evil.