Roman Law, Jewish Authority, and Prophecy
Last week we discussed how the Roman government allowed the Jewish people religious freedom, including the right to enforce Mosaic Law. If Jesus had truly violated the Sabbath, He could have been tried and stoned under Book of Exodus 31:15.
Yet instead, He was handed over to Rome. Why?
- He did not violate the Law of Moses.
- The leaders feared rebellion due to His popularity.
- Prophecy had to be fulfilled.
In Gospel of John 8:5–7, Jesus demonstrated wisdom under accusation. Ultimately, God sovereignly orchestrated both Roman authority and Jewish leadership to fulfill Scripture.
Growing Crowds and Expanding Ministry
In Gospel of Mark 3:7–8, multitudes from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, Tyre, and Sidon followed Jesus.
Idumea was south of Israel, historically connected to Edom — descendants of Esau. Even Gentile regions were responding.
Opposition was growing. So was influence.
Fulfilled Prophecy
Matthew connects this moment to Isaiah’s prophecy:
“A bruised reed He will not break…” (Matthew 12:20)
This fulfilled the prophecy of Book of Daniel 9:24–25 concerning the appointed time of Messiah.
Jesus silenced demons who declared Him the Son of God. Why?
Because His public declaration as King would happen on God’s exact timetable.
The Calling of the Twelve
In Mark 3:13–19, Jesus appoints the Twelve.
Luke adds that He prayed all night before choosing them (Luke 6:12–13). He acted in complete submission to the Father.
In Gospel of John 17, Jesus affirms that those given to Him by the Father would be kept.
The mission was clear:
- Be with Him
- Preach
- Heal
- Cast out demons
The Last Hour and Spiritual Discernment
In First Epistle of John 2:18–23, believers are warned that it is the last hour.
The Church must:
- Know the Word
- Defend the faith
- Stand firm
As First Epistle of Peter 3:15 teaches, we must always be ready to give a defense.
Accusation of Beelzebub
In Mark 3:20–26, scribes accuse Jesus of casting out demons by Beelzebub.
Jesus responds with divine logic:
“A kingdom divided against itself cannot stand.”
The accusation reveals hardened unbelief. This leads into the serious warning about blasphemy of the Holy Spirit — a topic to be explored next.
Our Responsibility Today
As darkness increases, we are called to:
- Occupy until He comes (Luke 19:13)
- Be salt and light
- Stand for truth
- Give a reason for our hope
The world twists Scripture.
The Church must know it.
Join us next week as we continue our verse-by-verse study through the Gospel of Mark. Let us remain steadfast in faith, walk in love, and share the mercy of Christ — for He calls sinners to repentance and to life.
— Valley Christian Church
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