This Sunday, we’ll continue our journey through the Gospel of Mark, focusing on Mark 9:42-50. This is a challenging passage, but one that speaks powerfully to our call as disciples of Jesus. In the previous passage, the disciples have just been arguing about who was the greatest, and Jesus showed them that whoever would be great must become the servant of all. The disciples’ pride is then displayed further as they reveal they tried to hinder someone from casting out demons in Jesus’ name because he was not part of their group. In verse 41, Jesus said that even one who gives a cup of water to those who follow Him will not lose their reward. Verses 41-50 continue Jesus’ discourse with the disciples and he addresses His disciples with a sobering message about the seriousness of sin and the radical commitment required to follow Him. The passage continues Jesus’ teaching from the end of Mark 8, where He emphasizes that following Him means denying ourselves and taking up our cross. Jesus warns against hindering others—especially fellow believers—from stumbling. Using vivid imagery, He underscores the severe consequences of causing “little ones” who believe in Him to stumble in their faith or obedience. He also calls for drastic action against personal sin, using language like cutting off a hand or eye to illustrate the need to remove anything that leads us away from Him. This isn’t about physical mutilation but about taking sin seriously and pursuing holiness with urgency, recognizing the reality of eternal judgment. Jesus concludes by urging His disciples to be “salted with fire,” living as dedicated sacrifices to God. He calls them to reject pride, embrace humility, and be at peace with one another, reflecting the transformative power of the gospel in their lives. While the passage includes tough topics like hell and the cost of discipleship, it’s ultimately a call to trust the grace of Christ, who transforms us to hate sin and desire Him above all else.
I. Do Not Cause Others to Stumble (v. 42):
II. Do Not Tolerate Sin in Yourself (vv. 43-48):
III. Do Not Lose Your Saltiness (vv. 49-50):