The Greatest Commandment (Mark 12:28-37) (2). What is Jesus teaching in Jerusalem (Mark 12:13-44)? Great question!
Introduction
The teachings in this section aren’t random. Jesus expanded on what it takes to follow Him on His mission (Mk 8:29). From that passage on, He taught the following related concepts:
- The last will be first.
- Social status and riches in this world hinder faith–at best (meaning having or seeking riches may hinder faith); and
- The Son of Man came to sacrifice His life as the ultimate service to others (Mk 10:45).
Teaching on the Greatest Commandment (Mk 12:28-34)
The Questioner
A scribe had observed Jesus’ teaching on taxes. When Jesus, who had no formal rabbinic training, answered, he nodded approval. So, the scribe smiled and locked eyes with Jesus. Then he approached Him with his question. An observer could see that this man’s motive was puzzling and different than the leaders before him. But maybe he wanted to impress Jesus with his superior knowledge?
The Question
The leading rabbis found 613 commandments in the Law. They asked a familiar question: “Which commandment is the most important of all?” It’s a trick question, similar to other leaders’ earlier questions. But knowing the answer was vital because it summed up the Law of Moses. But many in the crowd wondered, what’s the ploy?” He knew the answer yet was curious how Jesus would answer.
Jesus’ Answer
Jesus said that loving the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength is the most important and loving your neighbor as yourself. How will this man respond to Jesus’ answer?
The Scribe Approves
But the man told Jesus He was right, and before Jesus could respond further, the scribe added, “(Keeping those commandments) is much more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices (someone could offer to please God).”
Peter’s Reaction
The disciple Peter was present, and he raised his eyebrows, thinking, “What?! He thinks he can tell Jesus whether His answer was correct? Peter expected Jesus to rebuke the scribe, so he leaned forward, anxious to hear Jesus’ response. Yet, Jesus didn’t reprimand the scribe. Instead, Jesus told him he was “not far from the Kingdom of God!”
Peter could never anticipate Jesus’ answers; they always surprised him. Jesus brought new teachings and interpreted the old (Matthew 13:52). His teaching was new wine stored in new, unstretched wineskins (Mark 2:22).
The Scribe Walks Away
Jesus’ followers expected him to follow up with Jesus. But instead, he walked away!–still not far from the Kingdom. Peter wondered, “Not far? What does he lack, and doesn’t he want to know? How can someone walk away after hearing they’re not far from the Kingdom?
