Jesus now makes the turn directly on the way toward Jerusalem. Again Jesus predicts what will take place there (now for the third time). Then Mark gives two stories that are connected by Jesus' question, "What do you want Me to do for you?" (v. 36 and v. 51). The first story is James and John who ask for power and glory, clearly demonstrating their lack of understanding about Jesus' prediction. The second story, in Jericho which is a few miles down hill of Jerusalem, is of a blind man calling out to Jesus for healing. The other connection between these stories is the word "way." Jesus and the disciples are on the "way" to Jerusalem. Bartimaeus is sitting on the way. After being healed, Bartimaeus follows Jesus on the way. So there is the contrast of the disciples who ask for humanly glory, status, and power and Bartimaues who simply wants sight! Mark tells us, this blind beggar sees better than the disciples.
Questions:
In v. 32 what were they amazed at and/or fearful of?
What is the relationship between Jesus' prediction and James and John's request to Jesus?
Why do you think Jesus again has to relate who will be great in the Kingdom? What might that say about leadership or discipleship?
How does the blind address Jesus? How is that in contrast to how others have addressed Jesus?
How has the blind man's faith healed him? What is getting in the way between you and God? What do you want Jesus to do for you?
What did the blind man do once he sees? How is that in contrast to the disciples?
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