Seventh Day Baptist
Christian Education Council
PO BOX 1678
Janesville, WI 53547
—Mark 9:42-48
by: Maryann Palmer.
In preceding verses, Jesus says it doesn’t matter if someone is outside your group (e.g., denomination, church affiliation, etc.). If he’s doing something good in Jesus’ name, he’s an ally. Conversely, punishment is severe for anyone who gives a believer a hard time, bullying or taking advantage of him because of his childlike faith. “If your hand or foot gets in God’s way, chop it off and throw it away” (The Message, Mark 9:44a) underscores the immediate, drastic action called for. Don’t play with sin; it ends in death (James 1:13-15). It’s by the fruit you recognize good or evil. Bear good fruit!