Daily Devotions
Mark
You will make me full of joy in Your presence "Acts 2:28b"
Day 270 – Mark 12
A CAREFUL STUDY OF THE SCRIPTURES
The scribes were the custodians of the Scriptures. They literally copied the Scriptures by hand, painstakingly. They devoted their entire existence to the study of the Scriptures. Thus it was dishonest of them not to highlight what David said concerning the Messiah.
“For David himself said by the Holy Spirit:
‘The LORD said to my Lord,
‘Sit at my right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool.’
Therefore David himself calls Him ‘Lord’.
How is He then his Son?’
And the common people heard Him gladly.”
MARK 12:36-37
1. Citing David himself
This was a master stroke! Jesus went to the original text, rather than to reply on the teachings of the scribes for authority.
2. Noting the role of the Holy Spirit
Jesus made mention of the role of the Spirit of God in this matter. This expresses the following truths:-
a) Jesus believed in the inspiration of the Scriptures.
b) The Holy Spirit was definitely involved in the process of the writing of the Scriptures.
3. The issue at stake
a) David actually called the Messiah ‘Lord’.
b) This must mean that he recognized the Messiah is greater than himself.
c) Thus the Messiah is not lesser simply because he is called “Son of David”.
HANDLING OF THE SCRIPTURES
Much is expected of those who handle the Scriptures.
1. There must be essential integrity in the interpretation and application of Scripture.
2. The holiness of the Scriptures must be upheld at all times.
3. Personal and subjective opinions cannot overrule the plain meaning of the Word.
4. One must submit to the truth of the Scriptures and not vice versa.