November 2018 Messenger Newsletter

They devour widows' houses
(Mark 12:40)

Twenty Fifth Sunday after Pentecost

Beware of the Scribes

Mark 12:38 As he taught, Jesus said, "Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted in the marketplaces,
Mark 12:39 and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets.
Mark 12:40 They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."

The Widow's Two Mites

Mark 12:41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts.
Mark 12:42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.
Mark 12:43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.
Mark 12:44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything--all she had to live on."

[Mark 12:38] (vv. 38-44) The contrast between the scribes and the widow is striking. The hypocritical scribes look good outwardly, but are in fact greedy and selfish. Jesus actually identifies six characteristics of their improper behavior in vv. 38-40. The widow's gift, on the other hand, does not appear to be much, yet it was a true act of sacrifice and commitment. Believers should be reminded that, in giving, it is not the amount that matters to God, but rather the attitude (cf. 2 Cor. 9:6, 7)

[Mark 12:42] The value of the copper coin was approximately one-eighth of a cent (see chart, "Monies, Weights, and Measures," Matt. 18:24).

NSRV & Believer's Study Bible (BSB) Notes

Readings for the week of November 18th
Twenty-Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
First: Daniel 12: 1-3
Psalm 16
Second: Hebrews 10: 11-25
Gospel: Mark 13: 1-8

Sunday Worship Services at 10:00am
Sunday School at 9:00am

Thursday Bible Study (Library) 10:30 am
Holy Communion Service (Sanctuary) Noon