Friend and Lord Recap: • When the kingdom of God comes into the world dominated by the enemy the truth is taught, the sick are healed, the demon-possessed are freed, and sinners are forgiven. • Five conflicts with the Pharisees Mk 2:1-3:6 (forgiving paralytic, dinner at Levi’s, question about fasting, picking grain and healing on Sabbath) o Pharisees – self-righteous, judgmental, exclusive o Jesus – truly righteous, merciful, welcoming Talking to someone about coming to Christ? Have them read the gospels, let them come face to face with Jesus.

Mark 2:23-28 – Lord of the Sabbath vv. 23-24. Two observances defined Jews above all else: circumcision & Sabbath Sabbath attests to God as Creator and the divine order of the universe.

The Pharisees complain that Jesus’ disciples are harvesting by picking grains.

vv.25-26. Jesus reminds them of 1 Sam 21 when David’s men entered the tabernacle and ate the consecrated bread. Jesus didn’t raise the incident to plead for an exception. He is inviting a comparison between himself and King David.

There were Eighteen Benedictions recited in the synagogue. Part of it read, “Cause the Branch of David thy servant speedily to sprout, and let his horn be exalted by thy salvation.”

vv.27-28 The Sabbath was instituted to bless people to rest in God. v. 27. The Lord’s day is a blessing not a burden. v. 28. Jesus, as Lord of the Sabbath, puts himself in the place of God.

Should Christians observe the Lord’s Day? We should rest – even as NT believers, we should do good as well. God rested on the 6th day, not because he needed it, but to set an example for us. It does not earn favor with God, but it does help us trust God instead of striving. We need rest for our own good: spiritually, physically, mentally We need time to honor and love the Lord.

Mark 3:1-6 Jesus Heals on the Sabbath v. 2. The Pharisees’ minds were set on finding something to accuse Jesus. v. 4. Jesus’ mind was on mercy toward a crippled man. v. 5. Jesus was angry (indignant) and grieved at their hardness of heart.

Jesus example: It’s always right to do good.

If we would follow Jesus well, we will look for opportunities to help others, to show mercy and compassion on them, to care for the sick and the poor.