Introducing Barabbas, Mark 15:1-15
It’s good to be back with you all for worship. We were back in St. Louis last week for my mom’s memorial service, and it was made a little easier knowing that you all were praying for us. Thank you, again, for all your kindnesses. Having a family of people who share in faith together makes such a difference in tough times, and my family has been part of the Manchester family for almost seven years now, and we hope you all know that we love you.
Thank you to Chris Barclay who preached last week in my place. If you haven’t watched or heard his sermon on “Mindful and Graceful Stress Management,” you can watch it or listen to it here.
This morning we are back in our year-long series in the Gospel of Mark, and we pick things up with the ongoing trial of Jesus in Mark 15. We’re in the climax of Mark’s testimony from here on out, and we all should know what’s coming. Jesus has been betrayed by Judas, abandoned by the rest of the Twelve disciples, and denied three times by Peter, one of his closest friends. He’s been falsely accused in his Jewish trial, and now the chief priests and Jewish elders have handed Jesus over to the Roman official Pontius Pilate in hopes that he might be condemned to death.
As we read this ancient testimony this morning, please remember that Jesus stood there and endured all the ridicule, abuse, and torture because he was forever faithful to God’s mission and because he loved us more than he loved his own life. I told you that a few weeks ago, and it’s important that we never forget it. He loved us that much, and he accepted condemnation even though it was unjust so that he could be the great Justifier of all who believe in him.
Mark 15:1-15, Introducing Barabbas
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