Hey there :) My name is Stu. If you've found religion confusing, and long sermons boring, but want to get to know what Jesus is on about, then maybe you'll find this podcast interesting. Here you'll find me chewing on some bite-sized reflections from the book of Mark about following Jesus.
Jesus has been crucified and buried, but there are rumours that he is back. In today's episode Jesus appears to his disciples, rebukes them for their lack of faith, and invites them to go and change the world. Its an invitation now extended to everyone who believes. What will you do with the good news that death has been defeated? Based on Mark 16:9-21
The story doesn't end with Jesus' death. In this episode we look at just a few of the reasons we can know that Jesus' resurrection is a reality. Based on Mark 15:42-16:6
A Roman Centurion who witnesses Jesus' death utters the words that summarise Mark's gospel. In this episode we take a look at the titles of Jesus: Son of God and Son of Man as they apply to him through Scripture, and particularly in Mark's biography of Jesus. Based on Mark 15:39.
While Jesus hangs on the cross, there are some pretty significant things going on. This is not the execution of just another man- something else is afoot. Based on Mark 15:33-38
Jesus is flogged, tortured and led out to his crucifixion, but what his executioners use for his death become the instruments God uses to redeem us. The curse of sin is broken. Based on Mark 15:15-32
The innocent one is condemned while the guilty one goes free. In this episode we witness the very first to be set free by Jesus' sacrifice is a notorious murderer and terrorist. Based on Mark 15:1-15
Peter follows Jesus' arrest and trial from a distance, and denies knowing him three times, fulfilling Jesus' prediction of the night before. Full of remorse, Peter is a broken man. But Jesus is not finished with him just yet. For anyone who has failed miserably, the example of Peter can bring hope. Based on Mark 14:66-72
Despite several illegalities, false witnesses and trumped up charges, Jesus does not defend his innocence. Rather he makes a statement that is bold, uncompromising and fearless. Based on Mark 14:53-65
As he experiences deep anguish, knowing the pain of the cross that is to come, Jesus considers a way out. It is his final temptation in the garden. Based on Mark 14:27-52. Also available on YouTube
Following the previous series, IsoDevotion Series and The Second Half, this is the first episode of a 10 part series based on the final chapters of Mark's gospel. Jesus celebrates Passover with his closest followers, giving new meaning to the centuries old understanding of Israel's deliverance from slavery. Based on Mark 14:22-26. Also found on YouTube
In this episode we take a look at the tragic figure of Judas Iscariot. Bottom line- don't be a Judas. Based on Mark 14:17-21, this is the final episode of 'The Second Half'. But stay tuned for more episodes from Mark's gospel- soon to come is a 10 part series on the Final Chapters.
A woman was preparing Jesus for burial, the disciples were preparing a place for Passover, and Judas was doing some preparations of a different kind. Based on Mark 14:9-15
In the place of redeemed identity flows an act of extreme generosity. An expression of devotion or terrible waste of resources? That will all depend on your perspective. Based on Mark 14:3-9
Jesus is hanging out with the usual crowd, including a former leper. Be careful about spending time with Jesus- your whole life might end up totally different. Based on Mark 14:3
Jesus is firmly in the sights of the religious authorities, and it becomes clear they are out to get him. Based on Mark 14:1-2
No one knows when, but Jesus is coming back. In this video we hear of the signs surrounding his return, but the bottom line is, be alert! Based on Mark 13:28-37
Jesus continues conveying hope and encouragement in the midst of warning to his disciples, pointing ultimately to the promise of his return. Based on Mark 13:14-27
Jesus' words to his disciples include a reference to OT prophecy & a warning of evil to come. If the disciples were left scratching their heads, it's okay for us to as well. Based on Mark 13:14f
Jesus uses the disciples' amazement of the temple buildings to teach on future events. Based on Mark 13, this episode is the first of a few to follow that might leave listeners scratching their heads.
Jesus uses some of the most unlikely people to teach about God's kingdom. It today's episode he notices what everyone else misses- a poor widow's generosity. Based on Mark 12:41-44
Jesus is no fan of religious hypocrites. Hear what he has to say about them in this episode. Based on Mark 12:37b-40
Jesus gives some not-so-subtle hints regarding his identity and purpose. Based on Mark 12:35-37
In this episode we look at the flow of love in God's kingdom. Based on Mark 12:28-34
Jesus answers the question that matters- what does God want from me- with an equally simple, straightforward answer. Based on Mark 12:28-33
With all the bogus questions people have been coming to Jesus with, finally someone asks him something that matters: how do I please God? (What is the most important commandment?) Based on Mark 12:18-28
Jesus is met by more resistance, this time from competing factions, but answers their question of entrapment with amazing wisdom. Based on Mark 12:13-17
Jesus faces the first in a series of challenges from the religious and political establishments of Jerusalem. Based on Mark 11:27-12:12
Following on from Jesus' challenging words about prayer and faith, this episode draws on the connection between healthy relationships we have with one another and our relationship with God. Based on Mark 11:25.
"I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Really? What about the times this doesn't happen? What was Jesus talking about? Based on Mark 11:20-24
A fruitless fig tree and overturned Temple tables. Jesus wasn't just having a bad morning, he was furious at empty religion and corrupt leaders. Based on Mark 11:11-19
On the day that Jesus enters Jerusalem he does so to the cheers and adulation of the crowd, and fulfils a centuries old prophecy. Based on Mark 11:1-11.
In this episode we recap the message of the various events found in Mark 10- as Jesus makes his way to Jerusalem, those who find their way into his kingdom are those with soft and surrendered hearts.
As Jesus travels toward Jerusalem with his followers and a large crowd, he comes across a blind man- the only person in the whole crowd to recognise who he is. Based on Mark 10:46-52
James and John come to Jesus with a special request, the rest of the disciples are extremely annoyed, and Jesus uses the moment to show them all again that it's what you give, not what you get, that makes them special. Based on Mark 10:35-45
What is the crux of Jesus' message, and why were the disciples confounded and a wealthy young man dejected? The Gospel is better news than we've believed. Based on Mark 10:17-34
In this episode I share some exciting news about my kids, asking the question, 'how did they grow up so fast?!' "Anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it" - Jesus. Based on Mark 10:13-16
Jesus answers legalistic Pharisees' question about divorce with a re-presentation of God's heart for marriage, and the need to maintain soft hearts. Based on Mark 10:1-12
In this episode we take a look at Jesus' interesting words calling his followers to become like salt. Based on Mark 9:49-50
Jesus shares some extreme words regarding sin- and issues a call to his followers to get ruthless in cutting it from their lives. Based on Mark 9:41-48.
The first time a follower of Jesus gets his nose out of joint with another believer. What kind of approach is Jesus looking for from his followers regarding those who may be from another group? Based on Mark 9:38-40
Just when the disciples think they're getting somewhere, pride soon follows, and Jesus gives them a lesson in humility. Based on Mark 9:33-37
Jesus doesn't write the disciples off when they don't impress, and he doesn't shut them down when they come with questions. Rather, he invests in their training, building much needed community. Today's Church can learn some of the forgotten ways of Jesus, encouraging safe places for people to ask the questions on their hearts. Based on Mark 9:30-32
What if prayer isn't just something that religious people do out of obligation or duty, but rather is something anyone can do anytime to experience the presence of God?. Based on Mark 9:25-29
In the absence of Jesus, the best we can hope for is a good theological debate. But when Jesus shows up, everything changes. In today's episode Jesus comes down the mountain to find his disciples arguing with Pharisees and a father and son in desperate need for healing. Based on Mark 9:14-24
Coming with questions, and seeking understanding is a natural part of following Jesus, but it doesn't necessarily mean they will be answered. Where's your faith- in your understanding? Or in relationship with Jesus? Based on Mark 9:9-13
Today's video recounts one of the strangest events of Mark's gospel, complete with cloud, voices from heaven, and stupid sayings. Based on Mark 9:2-9
Jesus continues the straight talk with words that might even seem extreme, and I share a story from my younger days. Based on Mark 8:38
Jesus gives the disciples some tough truth to hear about the nature of following him. Based on Mark 8:34-37
Jesus and Simon Peter have words about the latest development in Jesus' mission. Based on Mark 8:31-33
Up to now it seems like Jesus has been mostly concealing his true mission and identity. But from here on in he sets out his game plan. Based on Mark 8:29-31.
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