Sundays @ 10:30am

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Jesus, a Ransom for Many

Dear CrossPointe,

This Sunday we’ll study Mark 10:32-52 which contains the high point of Mark’s gospel, verse 45, in which Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man came not be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” By his death Jesus purchased our freedom by substituting himself in our place to bear our punishment. John Stott writes, “The concept of substitution may be said, then, to lie at the heart of both sin and salvation. For the essence of sin is man substituting himself for God, while the essence of salvation is God substituting himself for man.”

Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” which he addresses not just to the blind beggar, Bartimaeus, but also to James and John. Note the difference in their responses—James and John ask for prestige and power, Bartimaeus for mercy and sight. Take some time to read Mark 10:32-52 before Sunday, thinking about the implications.

Looking forward to seeing you Sunday!

Brad