Mark: My Heroes Have Always Been... Widows
What is True Religion? Mark contrasts Scribes and a Widow to help us know the real thing.
The scribe was distinguished by his linen robe, a long white mantle reaching to the feet and provided with a long fringe. White linen clothes were regarded as a mark of distinction, so that men of eminence (priests, Levites, scribes) or those who wished to parade their position, wore white and left bright colors to the common people. By the majority of the people the scribes were venerated with unbounded respect and awe. Their words were considered to possess sovereign authority. When a scribe passed by on the street or in the bazaar people rose respectfully. Only tradesmen at their work were exempted from this display of deference. The scribe was greeted with titles of deepest respect: "Rabbi," "Father," "Master," and there is evidence that in the first century A.D. the designation "Rabbi" was undergoing a transition from its former status as a general title of honor to one reserved exclusively for ordained scribes. When the important men of Jerusalem gave a feast they considered it an ornament to the feast to have a distinguished scribe and his pupils there. The highest places were assigned to them, and the scribe was given precedence in honor over the aged, and even over parents. In the synagogues as well the seat of honor was reserved for him; he sat at the front with his back to the chest containing the Torah, in full view of the congregation.William L Lane The Gospel of Mark
Sermon discussion topics for parents to use with their children:
What is true religion according to the Bible?
Why did Jesus say the Scribes were in danger?
How did this widow show true religion?
How can we give more money than Bill Gates?
