Faithful on Fridays Blog

The cruising altitude of an airplane is around 35,000 feet; it climbs and maintains that height as it travels to it’s destination. That’s what we’re going to do as we journey through the Book of Mark recognizing distinct features of Jesus’ character: His spiritual identity. He’s like a diamond with many facets that glisten in every chapter, therefore, I’m hoping to lure you into reading this book alongside me. My vantage point will give you the ‘big picture’, consequently, it’s your job to read for detail.

Peter undoubtedly dictated his eyewitness account to Mark so this is Peter’s story that moves quickly (watch for the word immediately) yet beautifully describes Jesus’ ministry.

First of all, Peter leaves out the Christmas Story and begins at the beginning: Jesus is the Son of God. That’s a vital point since Jesus’ ministry as ‘God made flesh’ gives Him authority and power to finish His Father’s assignment.

And a voice came from heaven, “You are My beloved Son; with You I am well pleased.” Mark 1:11 

Secondly, Jesus experienced temptations in His wilderness time on earth (1:12) but received help and encouragement from angels. We have something greater than angels; we have the power of the Holy Spirit living in us to help when we’re tempted to sin.

For because He Himself has suffered when tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted. Hebrews 2:18

Jesus’ ministry (1:21-34) was centered on teaching Kingdom Living, preaching or encouragement, spiritual deliverance, and physical healing but it was different from anything the people had seen before. He had authority: He is the Son of God and He hasn’t changed.

Next, as you read you’ll find Him moved with love and compassion to the pinnacle of forgiving our sin. It was His purpose, the reason He left His Father’s side in heaven; He’s all about sinners and new life (2:10, 17, 22).

Lastly, at the end of Chapter Two Jesus cared more about relationships than He did about obeying rules. He knows we all have that ‘tug of war’ inside us that thinks God will love us more if we obey His commands. The truth Peter wants us to recognize is that when we repent and receive His forgiveness we are driven to please Him. We obey His rules because we love Him and know that His ways are always better.

From my cruising altitude vantage point I located these seven facets of Jesus’ spiritual identity for you to investigate on your own.

1. He’s the Son of God, loved by the Father.
2. He experienced temptations.
3. His ministry was teaching, preaching, delivering, and healing.
4. He was moved into action by compassion.
5. He has authority.
6. He came for sinners.
7. He cares more about relationships than rules.

Compare your own spiritual identity in Christ with these aspects and I think you’ll find some similarities. Maybe that’s why John said,

“ … as He is so also are we in this world.”