COMMENTARY ON MARK
LESSON NUMBER 175
Mark 16:12 “After that He appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country. 13 And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.”
Luke 24:18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? 19 And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: 20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him.” (Mark 16:12; Luke 24:18-20)
THE TWO ON THE ROAD TO EMMAUS, #2
INTRODUCTION
Appearing in “another form,” Jesus has joined two disciples as they journey from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They are returning from being with the eleven and others, who were morning and weeping in despair. As they walked they talked to one another concerning the things that had taken place. Even though they did not comprehend what had happened, it was the topic of their conversation. Although their hopes had been blasted, and it appeared as though there was no hope, they continued to speak about what had taken place. They were not angry over what had happened, but were perplexed. They did not charge God with injustice, and question why He had allowed such things to take place. They were not speaking about various views of God, but of the things that had happened. This was nothing less than the effects of being with Jesus, beholding His works, and hearing His wondrous words. Jesus had brought a perspective of God to them that did leave them question the wisdom of God, or His purposes, or what He does. They were confused, but God was still at the center of their thinking. They will not question the promise of God concerning the Messiah, but confess to being unsure whether or not Jesus was the One God had sent. They do not question what the validity of what Jesus had done, and did not question the truth of what He had taught them. Seems to me that it is important to note these distinctions in view of the kind of conclusions professing Christians often draw in our time. They appear to reason in a different manner, thus indicating their view of God is corrupted.
THE THINGS WHICH ARE COME TO PASS THERE
“ Luke 24:18 And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?” 19a And He said unto them, ‘What things’”
It is assumed that Christ’s appearance to these two took place between 4-6 PM. This is based upon the fact that evening drew on as they walked. It was still the first day of the week.
ONE OF THEM NAMED CLEOPAS. The precise identity of this man is not sure. Some from early centuries say this was Alphaeus, the father of James the less (Matt 10:3). Others think it was the Cleophas of John 19:25, husband of the other Mary. We simply are not certain of the identity of this man. However, we do know that these two were chosen witnesses, selected by God to see the risen Christ. Peter said of Christ’s post-resurrection appearances, “Him God raised up the third day, and showed him openly; Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with Him after He rose from the dead” (Acts 10:40-41). Not only were the “witnesses” chosen by God, they also “did eat and drink” with the risen Christ. Although they were not apostles, these two men qualify on both requirements. Jesus appeared to them, and they ate and drank with Him. We do know that these were numbered among “all the rest” who were with “the eleven” when the women reported that Jesus was risen from the dead (Lk 14:9). Mark specifically says they were “two of them” who were with the disciples who “believed not” when Mary Magdalene reported Jesus was alive (Mk 14:10-11). This record confirms that the Lord takes note of those who think upon Him, even though their thoughts may be flawed.
JERUSALEM WAS THE PLACE. Jesus had asked, “What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” (Luke 24:17). So far as Cleopas was concerned, this suggested the One speaking was not a local resident, but “one visiting Jerusalem.” NASB Although Cleopas was abiding in Emmaus, he does not mention anything that was taking place there. Nor, indeed, does he mention any of the surrounding cities like Bethany, or Bethlehem, or Bethel, or Gilgal – or any of the other many cities, towns, and villages in that area. Jerusalem was the place where the significant things had taken place. There is a lesson to be learned here. Profitable conversation will come from a proper focus. If you want to talk about proper things, you must speak of the place where they were accomplished.
THE PUBLIC NATURE OF “THE THINGS.” Cleopas refers to “the things which are come to pass there in these days.” There were no doubt many “things” that took place in Jerusalem during the last few days. The Passover had been observed. There were no doubt political matters that took place in the government. So far as the ministry of Jesus was concerned, He had cleansed the Temple (Matt 21:12-14). Many blind and lame had been healed in the Temple (Matt 21:14). However, these were not the nature of “the things” of which Cleopas spoke. He is speaking particularly of the things pertaining to Christ’s death.
The public nature of the matters relating to the crucifixion of Jesus is worthy of note. Some years after the events of this text, Paul was stand before king Agrippa and bear witness that “That Christ should suffer, and that He should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should show light unto the people, and to the Gentiles” (Acts 26:23). He then referred to the public nature characterizing the suffering and death of Jesus. “For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner” (Acts 26:26). The “thing” of which Paul spoke is what God did, accomplishing it through the Jews and the Romans in a public arena. God “delivered Him up for us all” (Rom 8:32). Even though the public did not see it, God “made Him to be sin for us” (2 Cor 5:21), and “made Him a curse” (Gal 3:13). Even though the people did not know it. Jesus was rejected and crucified according to the “determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God” (Acts 2:23). Even the ministry of Jesus was a display of God’s approval of Him “by miracles, signs, and wonders” (Acts 2:22). It was all done publically, and every knew they had happened, even though they did not know why they occurred or what was accomplished in them. The latter is what is to be expounded by those of understanding. It is not enough to say that Jesus died. Even Cleopas knew that.
“WHAT THINGS?” Jesus responds as though He was a stranger in those parts. And, from one point of view, He was. He will draw out of Cleopas what he perceived had happened. This is the manner of the Lord, for the proper ministration of the truth is will expose the ignorance of men, and show them things they ought to have known. God asked Adam, “Hast thou eaten of the tree?” (Gen 3:11). He asked Cain, “What hast thou done?” (Gen 4:10). He asked Elijah, “What doest thou here, Elijah” (1 Kgs 19:9). Jesus asked His disciples, “What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?” (Mark 9:33). When we have dealings with Jesus, even though He knows what is in man, and “needed not that any should testify of man” (John 2:26), yet He draws our thoughts out of us in order to minister to us.
A PROPHET MIGHTY IN DEED AND WORD
“ Luke 24:19b And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people.”
Cleopas does not hesitate to answer Jesus’ question. He had already been discussing these matters with his companion, and now he will continue the discussion with what he conceives to be, a “stranger” who was not familiar with what had happened in Jerusalem. In view of the fact that they had been saddened by the events, and really did not have a proper understanding of them, it will be interesting to hear how he speaks about Jesus.
CONCERNING JESUS OF NAZARETH. First, Cleopas focuses on a particular person: “Jesus of Nazareth.” Other people had been involved in the events, but he does not speak particularly of them. He does not focus his attention on the religious leaders – the high priest, the scribes, the Pharisees, the elders, and the Sadducees. He does not draw the attention to Judas who betrayed Jesus, or to Pilate who tried Him. Everything that he reports will be within the context of “Jesus of Nazareth.” Even though he thinks that Jesus is dead, He is still the center of his thinking. Although it appeared as though He had been overcome by His enemies, He has no demeaning thoughts about Jesus.
WHICH WAS A PROPHET. He does not say he thought Jesus was a Prophet, but that He “was a prophet.” That was His first consideration of Jesus, and pertained to what Jesus had to say, for prophets are noted for what they say. Moses had said the Messiah would be “a Prophet” (Deut 18:15,18). Jesus had referred to Himself as “a Prophet” (Matt 13:57). Even the multitude had said, “This is Jesus the Prophet of Nazareth of Galilee” (Matt 21:11). The woman at the well of Samaria said to Jesus, “I perceive that Thou art a prophet” (John 4:19). The blind man who was healed when he washed off the clay Jesus had put upon his eyes said of Him, “He is a prophet” (John 9:17). The common people “heard Him gladly,” hanging on every word He spoke (Mk 12:37). The multitudes referred to His sayings as “gracious words” (Lk 4:22). During His ministry, Jesus was noted for His words!
I have observed that over the years people have become less aware of what Jesus said. He is not commonly perceived as a “Prophet,” even though He is the ultimate Prophet, delivering the ultimate word. Even within the professed church, there is a general ignorance concerning what Jesus taught, particularly about Himself, His accomplishments, and the Kingdom of God – His ministry as the Prophet.
MIGHTY IN DEED AND WORD. Cleopas confesses Jesus was “mighty,” or “powerful in deed and word.” The word “mighty” accents the ability of Christ – that when He worked or spoke, something happened. Both His deeds and His words were effective. People could not easily forget what they saw Him do, or what they heard Him speak. The people said of His deeds, “He hath done all things well” (Mk 7:37). When Jesus challenged them to do so, His foes could not find a work done by Him that was worthy of taking His life (John 10:32-33). Jesus could say with all confidence to those He had healed, “Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee” (Mark 5:19). Even His enemies said, “never man spake like this man” (John 7:46). The people who heard Him knew beyond all doubt that “His word was with power” (Lk 4:32).
BEFORE GOD. Other versions read, “in the sight of God.” NASB Cleopas knew God well enough to be convinced that what Jesus did and said stood the test of Divine scrutiny. In the sight of God, Jesus was mighty in deed and word. Before God, His works were right, and His words were true. This is because everything Jesus did and said were an expression of the will of God. When He worked, He said He did so “in My Father’s name” (John 10:25). He said His works were shown to the people “from My Father” (John 10:32). When Jesus spoke, He delivered “the word of God” (John 3:34). He said of His teaching, “My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me” (John 7:16).
Having some understanding of God, and knowing the Scripture, Cleopas knew that God was well pleased with what Jesus did and said. Although it is tragic to make such an observe action, I am not sure that a significant percentage of professing Christians can make such a confession. Their ignorance of both God and Scripture has greatly restricted their understanding.
AND ALL THE PEOPLE. Christ’s deeds and words were of such magnitude, that “all the people” recognized their greatness. Even His enemies, particularly the chief priests and Pharisees, said, “this man doth many miracles” (John 11:47). Even though His enemies were astute in their intellect, and shrewd in their strategies, they could not find a flaw inj His words (Lk 20:26). As for the general populous, they were “astonished” at His “wisdom” and “mighty works” (Matt 13:54). Nicodemus confessed that Jesus could not work and speak as He did “except God be with Him” (John 3:2). Even though some were not sure whether or not He was the Christ, they observed, “When Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this man hath done?” (John 7:31). “All the people” were amazed when they saw Him work (Matt 12:23). “All the people” were “astonished at His doctrine” (Mk 11:18). Everyone knew there was nothing ordinary about Jesus of Nazareth!
OUR RULERS DELIVERED HIM TO BE CONDEMNED
“ Luke 24:20 And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and have crucified Him.”
Remember, Cleopas is relating to a supposed stranger what was common knowledge among those in and around Jerusalem. Although it is a secondary matter, this accents the interest that Christ’s disciples had in things that pertained to Him – even His unjust condemnation and death. Their world did not revolve themselves. While this may appear rather rudimentary, our society has been shaped by a Satanic initiative that has compelled people to think primarily of themselves. In the wake of this influence, cogent thoughts concerning the Person and work of Jesus are becoming more and more unusual. A valid church ministry is now considered to assisting people in their crises rather than bringing them into a cognitive and productive relationship with the Lord of glory. This is a serious dilemma.
THE CHIEF PRIESTS AND OUR RULERS. The disciples of Jesus were keenly aware of both the nature and work of the “chief priests” and “rulers” of the people. Cleopas does not mention what Pilate or Herod did, but what the Jewish leaders did. Although he did yet have a fuller understanding of the matter, he says preciselty the same thing as Peter would say some days later, when He was filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 3:17). The “chief priests and the rulers” had been addressed by Pilate who told them they had brought Jesus to him (Lk 23:13). Prior to His betrayal, Jesus had told His disciples He would be “betrayed unto the chief priests” (Matt 20:18) – not to the political authorities, but to the primary religious authorities. These were the people who gathered together at “the palace of the high priest” to discuss how they might “take Jesus with subtlety, and kill Him” (Matt 26:3-4). In that text, “the rulers” are defined as “the scribes and the elders of the people.” In Matthew 26:59, they are called “the elders and all the council.” When Jesus was brought before Pilate “the elders” accompanied the “chief priests,” making the official accusation against Jesus (Matt 27:13). Matthew also says that “the chief priests and the Pharisees” came to Pilate, requesting that a guard be placed before the tomb (Matt 27:62). Luke refers to the accusers as “the chief priests and the rulers of the people” (Lk 23:13).
The word “rulers,” therefore, includes scribes, Pharisees, elders, and the council, or Sanhedrin. All of them were religious authorities. None of them were civil authorities. With Jesus, the civil injustice that was executed against him was driven by religious corruption. This is an illustration of the extraordinary depths to which religious rottenness can drive a person. Some of the most atrocious deeds in human history, as well as in our time, have been brought about in the name of religion, and devotion to a god of some sort.
DELIVERED HIM TO BE CONDEMNED. Peter charged the Jews with carrying out the death of Christ “by wicked hands” (Acts 2:23). They were the ones who “delivered him up” to Pilate ad his heathen court (Acts 3:13). The chief priests and rulers sought for the death sentence to be carried out by the civil authorities, although later they will have no compunctions at all about stoning Stephen to death. And why was this so? It was because the death of Christ was to be carried through an effort in which both Jews and Gentiles, common people and rulers, conspired. The conspiracy against Jesus is described as one in which “For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, “both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together” against God’s “holy child Jesus” (Acts 4:27). This, insightful believers confessed to God in prayer, was “ to do whatsoever Thy hand and Thy counsel determined before to be done” (Acts 4:28).
In other words, all for whom Jesus died joined together in carrying out His death, thus confirming their guilty, and the depravity to which the human race had descended.
AND HAVE CRUCIFIED HIM. Even at this time, Cleopas knew that the chief priests and rulers were themselves guilty of crucifying Jesus. This was precisely true, as was confirmed in later proclamations by Peter and Paul (Acts 2:23,36; 3:15; 4:10; 5:30; 10:39; 13:27-28). In other words, from a circumstantial point of view, Jesus would not have been crucified if the Jews leaders did not press the point – and Cleopas knew it. Perhaps he was among those who recalled the warnings of Jesus concerning these leaders (Mat 16:6,12; 12:38-39).
KNOWING THE FACTS, BUT BEING IGNORANT OF THEIR MEANING. As is confirmed in this text, it is possible to know many of the facts relating to Jesus, yet fail to see their significance. At this point Cleopas knew nothing of the sins of the world being taken away, Satan destroyed, principalities and powers plundered, and the world being reconciled. He did not know that peace had been made through the blood of the cross, or that a new and living way had been opened to God. In fact, he did not know that Jesus had actually risen from the dead, and that he was presently speaking to Him. He only knew in part (1 Cor 13:9,12), and it was not sufficient knowledge to lift him out of the doldrums of sadness. Let us learn from this incident to now be content with a knowledge that contributes to sadness and melancholy. Rather, seek the knowledge that liberates, enabling you to “know the truth” (John 8:32).