“But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” —Mark 10:38
Mark 10 is an interesting portion of scripture as it presents some interesting contrasts that provide the saint incredible encouragement.
The Pharisees approached Jesus with a question: “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” (Mark 10:2, ESV). In answer to their question, Jesus sent them directly to the Word of God, Mark 10:3,
“What did Moses command you?”
A little later in the chapter an enthusiastic rich man came running up to Jesus. He knelt before the Lord and asked Him what He must do to inherit life eternal. Jesus directed the man to the Word of God, Mark 10:19,
“Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.”
When unbelievers confronted Jesus the Living Word, He directed them to the written Word, the scriptures. When the Lord’s disciples inquired of Him, Jesus brought them into something more intimate, something deeper, and something eternally glorious.
Christ’s true disciples already walked with the Word, Jesus Christ the Living Word. As they walked with Him, the truth of scripture grew within them. The Word was in them while they were with the Word. James and John desired something of the Lord and this is how Jesus answered them, Mark 10:38,
“…can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”
Again, the Lord took His disciples deeper. “Can you drink of the cup that I drink of?” Will you drink down the truth of Christ’s atoning death? “Can you be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” Will you be so identified with Me that My life will live through you?
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. —Romans 6:4
We are crucified with Christ.
Beautiful devotional, brother Jon.
Thank you, sister.
“As they walked with Him, the truth of scripture grew within them.”
Amen, Pastor Jon. Just like it says in John 8:31-32, “If you abide in My word then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.”
Free to be identified with Christ.
Have a wonderful day and you are in our prayers and thoughts.
Very well said, sister. Thank you for your comments, your love, thoughts, and prayers.
May the Lord continue to bless you and your family.