Jesus’ kingdom doesn’t work like the world’s. In Mark 9-12, he flips expectations upside down—teaching that true greatness is found in serving others, that the first will be last, and that his throne is a cross. Today, we break down why the disciples were so confused and how Jesus redefines power, leadership, and authority.
✈️ Overview:
• Jesus continues preparing his disciples for his death, but they don’t understand what he’s saying.
• The Transfiguration (Mark 9) reveals Jesus’ divine glory, yet the disciples are still confused about his mission.
• Jesus repeatedly teaches that his kingdom is about servanthood, not power, but his disciples keep missing the point.
• In Mark 10, James and John ask to sit at Jesus’ right and left in his kingdom—only to later find out those spots belong to two criminals crucified beside him.
• Jesus flips leadership upside down: “Whoever wants to be great must be your servant.” (Mark 10:43)
🔎 Context Clues:
• Mark’s Roman audience would have been familiar with the brutal hierarchy of power in the empire. Jesus’ teachings on leadership were radical.
• The phrase “Son of Man” (Mark 10:45) ties back to Daniel 7, but instead of conquering, Jesus says the Son of Man came to suffer.
• The disciples’ confusion highlights how deeply ingrained their expectations were—they couldn’t fathom a Messiah who would die.
• Jesus’ harsh words in Mark 9:42 about harming children are especially relevant to Mark’s Roman readers, where pederasty was common.
🤓 Nerdy Nuggets:
• Jesus predicts his death three times in this section (Mark 8:31, 9:31, 10:33), but the disciples don’t grasp it.
• Mark uses literary “sandwiches” (intercalation), such as pairing the story of James and John’s request with Jesus’ crucifixion.
• The “Messianic Secret” continues—Jesus repeatedly tells people not to reveal his identity until after his resurrection.
• The Transfiguration (Mark 9) is later referenced by Peter in 2 Peter 1:16-18, showing how deeply it impacted him.
✅ Timeless Truths:
• Leadership in God’s kingdom is about serving, not status—Jesus redefines greatness through humility.
• The way up is down—Jesus’ throne is a cross, proving that real power is found in self-sacrifice.
• We often misunderstand God’s plans, just like the disciples—trusting in his wisdom requires humility.
• True faith isn’t about influence or position; it’s about obedience and serving others.
Jesus’ teachings were shocking then, and they still challenge us today. Tomorrow, we finish Mark’s Gospel by looking at the crucifixion. See you there!
🚀 START HERE!
Want to join us on the journey? Check out the Start Page! You can start from Episode 001 on January 1st or jump in to follow along with us, your choice.
📖 DOWNLOAD THE PLAN:
Whether you’re new to the Bible or ready for a fresh start in 2025, this plan is for YOU. And the best part? The plan is FREE! Download it now and start your journey today.
🤓 WANT MORE BIBLE NERD RESOURCES?
Check out armacourses.com for biblical literacy resources, courses, and a community to grow with! Learn the Bible for yourself with 60+ courses and counting for only $13 / Month. Also, your first 30 days are on us. Join ARMA for FREE!
🐉 PRE-ORDER DR.MANNY'S NEW BOOK
Crushing Chaos is available now for preorder, shipping on May 6th. Learn more & buy now at https://crushingchaos.com.
🍬 CHURCH CANDY MARKETING
Get NEW church guests, EVERY Sunday without you having to stress over ads, algorithms, or figuring out Facebook or Instagram. Head over to https://churchcandy.com/manny to book a discovery call today!
👍 NEVER MISS AN EPISODE! LIKE & SUBSCRIBE:
📱 STAY CONNECTED:
📨 EMAIL US!
Got questions or want to share your thoughts? Email us at hello@thebibledept.com.
💥 MORE RESOURCES:
- Amazon Store | Shop The Bible Dept. Essentials
- Dr. Manny Arango’s Book | Brainwashed
- Book Dr. Manny to Speak
🌱 WE’RE PLANTING A CHURCH!
SUBSPLASH: The Subsplash Platform is the complete solution for connecting with your community on Sunday and beyond. There’s no better way for your church or ministry to engage your audience, grow your giving, or host and stream your media. Learn more at https://subsplash.com/bible-department
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands