Mark 10:37-45

TITLE: Request Denied TEXT: Mark 10:37-45 PROPOSITION: There are valid reasons for being denied our requests. QUESTION: Why? KEY WORD: Reasons SCRIPTURE READING: Same INTRODUCTION:

1. Matthew includes the mother of James and John.

2. We have a request - will you do it?

3. One on your right hand, other on your left.

Request of James and John

Thought they were asking to be “top dog” in the kingdom - 37

Jesus answers:

You do not know what you are asking - 38

1. Right and left = sheep and goats = saved and lost (Matthew 25:1-46)

2. We often pray for things - we really don't want

3. Grass is always greener on other side of fence.

4. Pray “If it be your will” - according to the will of God

You can't handle the Job - 38-39

1. Can you drink from the cup?

2. Can you be baptized as I am about to be baptized?

3. Baptism = immersion, burial - This is a baptism of suffering.

4. They argue that they are ready.

Not mine to give - 39-40

1. You will suffer - not as Jesus - but suffer nonetheless.

2. Not mine to give - I am not the one who decides this issue.

3. Left or right hand - determined by our lives - not whim of Christ

4. 2 Corinthians 5:10 - deeds done in body, good or bad

Worldly rulers - 42

1. Other apostles were angry - didn't think of it first

2. Worldly rulers - Lord it over - control, dictate, order, command

3. They exercise authority OVER them.

Not so among you - 43-45

1. The Harvard business model will not work in the church

2. Want to be “top dog” = be the servant

3. Want to be first = be slave of all

4. Note the example of Jesus

1. Not to be served - as worldly rulers

2. Jesus came to serve - work, sacrifice

3. Give his life a ransom for many