Chapter 4 Journal
1.What is the one key idea of this chapter. pay attention to the title of the chapter!
The one key idea of this Chapter is that we are called to be compassionate. We understand that Jesus was very compassionate, and that we are called to be disciples of him. To be a disciple we must live as Christ did every minute of our lives. There will be times of trouble for us on our road to discipleship, but Jesus is with us to help us overcome those obstacles. Mark's Gospel presents an urgent message that informs his community to live their lives as modeled by Jesus. This requires willingness to suffer and serve others. Mark focuses on Jesus' deeds more than his words. We must strive to live Jesus' compassionate lifestyle.
2.Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
One idea I'd like to remember is the use of some of Mark's writing techniques.In several cases, he frames one incident within another. For instance, Jesus is returning to Jerusalem and curses a fig tree because it beared no fruit. This meant that the temple wasn't producing fruit it was supposed to, and it too would come to an end like the fig tree. A second technique Mark uses is the threefold pattern. There are three seed parables, three opinions about John the Baptist, three opinions about Jesus, and three denials by Peter. These are nice to remember because I like studying different styles of historical writings.
Another idea I'd like to remember would be the idea that we can overcome obstacles to become disciples of Jesus. Jesus' own disciples had some problems of their own staying faithful to Jesus. Mark used miracle stories in his Gosple as a way to describe times when the disciples were unfaithful. We should realize that God's love calls us to leave behind anything that is not compatible with being his disciple. Christian discipleship is costly. Faith is trusting, believing, and surrendering to God who is revealed in Jesus. This idea could be very useful in my future times of doubt. Knowing God will always be on my side is very promising.
3.One image that captures the chapter for you.
4.One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal.
Why didn't Christ inspire his disciples to be so brave until after his death? I think he might have done this sort of to test them and see who really is willing to follow him.