Mark 14 Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection

1 Jesus Anointed at Bethany
Now the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some sly way to arrest Jesus and kill him.

2 “But not during the Feast,” they said, “or the people may riot.”

3 While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.

4 Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, “Why this waste of perfume?

5 It could have been sold for more than a year’s wages and the money given to the poor.” And they rebuked her harshly.

6 “Leave her alone,” said Jesus. “Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me.

7 The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me.

8 She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial.

9 I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”

10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them.

11 They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

12 The Lord’s Supper
On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, when it was customary to sacrifice the Passover lamb, Jesus’ disciples asked him, “Where do you want us to go and make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”

13 So he sent two of his disciples, telling them, “Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him.

14 Say to the owner of the house he enters, ‘The Teacher asks: Where is my guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’

15 He will show you a large upper room, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.”

16 The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.

17 When evening came, Jesus arrived with the Twelve.

18 While they were reclining at the table eating, he said, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me—one who is eating with me.”

19 They were saddened, and one by one they said to him, “Surely not I?”

20 “It is one of the Twelve,” he replied, “one who dips bread into the bowl with me.

21 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born.”

22 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take it; this is my body.”

23 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all drank from it.

24 “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,” he said to them.

25 “I tell you the truth, I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God.”

26 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

27 Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial
“You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, “for it is written:
“‘I will strike the shepherd,
and the sheep will be scattered.’

28 But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.”

29 Peter declared, “Even if all fall away, I will not.”

30 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus answered, “today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.”

31 But Peter insisted emphatically, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the others said the same.

32 Gethsemane
They went to a place called Gethsemane, and Jesus said to his disciples, “Sit here while I pray.”

33 He took Peter, James and John along with him, and he began to be deeply distressed and troubled.

34 “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death,” he said to them. “Stay here and keep watch.”

35 Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him.

36 “Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

37 Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Simon,” he said to Peter, “are you asleep? Could you not keep watch for one hour?

38 Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”

39 Once more he went away and prayed the same thing.

40 When he came back, he again found them sleeping, because their eyes were heavy. They did not know what to say to him.

41 Returning the third time, he said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Enough! The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.

42 Rise! Let us go! Here comes my betrayer!”

43 Jesus Arrested
Just as he was speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, appeared. With him was a crowd armed with swords and clubs, sent from the chief priests, the teachers of the law, and the elders.

44 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.”

45 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Rabbi!” and kissed him.

46 The men seized Jesus and arrested him.

47 Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.

48 “Am I leading a rebellion,” said Jesus, “that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me?

49 Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.”

50 Then everyone deserted him and fled.

51 A young man, wearing nothing but a linen garment, was following Jesus. When they seized him,

52 he fled naked, leaving his garment behind.

53 Before the Sanhedrin
They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders and teachers of the law came together.

54 Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. There he sat with the guards and warmed himself at the fire.

55 The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any.

56 Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.

57 Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him:

58 “We heard him say, ‘I will destroy this man-made temple and in three days will build another, not made by man.’”

59 Yet even then their testimony did not agree.

60 Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, “Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?”

61 But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.
Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?”

62 “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

63 The high priest tore his clothes. “Why do we need any more witnesses?” he asked.

64 “You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?”
They all condemned him as worthy of death.

65 Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, “Prophesy!” And the guards took him and beat him.

66 Peter Disowns Jesus
While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came by.

67 When she saw Peter warming himself, she looked closely at him.
“You also were with that Nazarene, Jesus,” she said.

68 But he denied it. “I don’t know or understand what you’re talking about,” he said, and went out into the entryway.

69 When the servant girl saw him there, she said again to those standing around, “This fellow is one of them.”

70 Again he denied it.
After a little while, those standing near said to Peter, “Surely you are one of them, for you are a Galilean.”

71 He began to call down curses on himself, and he swore to them, “I don’t know this man you’re talking about.”

72 Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.” And he broke down and wept.

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Analysis of Mark Chapter 14

The fourteenth chapter of the Gospel of Mark is one of the most profound and densely packed chapters in the New Testament. It covers a range of significant events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, including the plot to kill Jesus, the anointing at Bethany, the Last Supper, Peter’s denial foretold, Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane, His betrayal and arrest, and Peter’s denial. Each scene is rich with symbolism, prophecy, and theological depth. This analysis seeks to offer an in-depth examination of Mark 14, parsing its verses for their deeper meanings and theological implications.

Verses 1-2: The Plot to Kill Jesus

The chapter opens by setting a grim tone: the religious leaders are plotting to kill Jesus, but they fear doing so during Passover due to the potential reaction from the crowds. This introduces a stark contrast between the leaders’ clandestine plans and the public homage Jesus receives from the people. This plot also aligns with scriptural prophecies that foretold the Messiah’s suffering and death, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the inevitability of divine decree.

“Now the Passover and the Festival of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were scheming to arrest Jesus secretly and kill him. ‘But not during the festival,’ they said, ‘or the people may riot.'” (Mark 14:1-2)

Verses 3-9: The Anointing at Bethany

The next scene shifts to Bethany, where a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume. This act of devotion is met with disdain by some of the disciples, who view it as wasteful. However, Jesus defends the woman, declaring her actions as a preparation for His burial. This event foreshadows Jesus’ imminent death and underscores the theme of self-sacrificial love.

“While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.” (Mark 14:3)

By anointing Jesus, the woman demonstrates her recognition of His true identity and mission. Her act is contrasted sharply against the monetary concerns of the disciples, emphasizing the concept that true worship often involves personal sacrifice and understanding of Jesus’ role.

Verses 10-11: Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

The narrative then takes a darker turn as Judas Iscariot agrees to betray Jesus for money. This act of betrayal stands in stark opposition to the woman’s act of devotion in the previous verses. Judas’ decision is influenced by Satan, according to other Gospel accounts, which emphasizes the spiritual battle at play.

“Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.” (Mark 14:10-11)

The juxtaposition of Judas’ betrayal with the woman’s sacrificial act highlights the different responses to Jesus’ ministry. While some recognize His divine nature and respond with love and sacrifice, others, like Judas, are swayed by greed and self-interest.

Verses 12-26: The Last Supper

The Last Supper is one of the most significant events in Christian theology. Jesus shares a final meal with His disciples, during which He establishes the ritual of Communion, symbolizing the new covenant between God and humanity through His impending sacrifice. This meal takes place during Passover, drawing a parallel between Jesus as the Paschal Lamb and the original Passover lamb.

“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take it; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank from it. ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many,’ he said to them.” (Mark 14:22-24)

The institution of the Eucharist is a profound moment that connects Jesus’ sacrifice to the liberation of Israel from Egypt, signifying a new exodus from sin. The bread and wine represent His body and blood, emphasizing the tangible nature of His sacrifice and the intimacy of the new covenant.

Verses 27-31: Peter’s Denial Foretold

Following the meal, Jesus predicts that all His disciples will abandon Him, and specifically, that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows twice. This prophecy serves to prepare the disciples for the upcoming trials and demonstrate Jesus’ foreknowledge and control over the events.

“‘You will all fall away,’ Jesus told them, ‘for it is written: ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’ But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee.’ Peter declared, ‘Even if all fall away, I will not.’ ‘Truly I tell you,’ Jesus answered, ‘today—yes, tonight—before the rooster crows twice you yourself will disown me three times.'” (Mark 14:27-30)

This passage highlights the themes of human frailty and divine foreknowledge. Peter’s vehement denial of his future betrayal emphasizes the weakness of human resolve, setting the stage for his eventual repentance and restoration.

Verses 32-42: Jesus Prays in Gethsemane

The scene shifts to the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus experiences deep anguish and prays to the Father. This prayer reveals Jesus’ humanity as He grapples with the enormity of His impending suffering and crucifixion. His submission to the Father’s will exemplifies ultimate obedience and trust.

“Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him. ‘Abba, Father,’ he said, ‘everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.'” (Mark 14:35-36)

This intimate moment between Jesus and the Father underscores the weight of the crucifixion. Jesus’ request to have the cup taken from Him and His subsequent submission to God’s will highlight His dual nature as fully human and fully divine. This prayer is a profound display of vulnerability and strength.

Verses 43-52: Jesus’ Betrayal and Arrest

Judas arrives with a mob to arrest Jesus, signaling his betrayal with a kiss. The disciples initially attempt to defend Jesus, but He stops them, affirming that the unfolding events are a fulfillment of Scripture. Jesus’ peaceful surrender contrasts starkly with the violent approach of the mob.

“‘Am I leading a rebellion,’ said Jesus, ‘that you have come out with swords and clubs to capture me? Every day I was with you, teaching in the temple courts, and you did not arrest me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.’ Then everyone deserted him and fled.” (Mark 14:48-50)

The irony of Judas’ betrayal by a kiss, a gesture of affection, and the disciples’ flight in the face of danger highlights the depth of human weakness and the fulfillment of divine prophecy. Jesus’ composure and acceptance of His fate underscore His role as the obedient servant of God.

Verses 53-65: Jesus Before the Sanhedrin

Jesus is taken before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council, where He faces false accusations and an unjust trial. Despite the wrongful treatment, Jesus largely remains silent, fulfilling the prophecy of the suffering servant in Isaiah 53. His declaration of being the Christ provokes a strong reaction, leading to physical abuse and condemnation.

“But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, ‘Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?’ ‘I am,’ said Jesus. ‘And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.'” (Mark 14:61-62)

Jesus’ response to the high priest is both a confession of His identity and a foretelling of His exaltation. His assertion of being the Son of Man with divine authority is a pivotal moment that leads to His condemnation. This trial scene highlights the tension between earthly authority and divine truth.

Verses 66-72: Peter Disowns Jesus

The chapter concludes with Peter’s denial of Jesus, fulfilling the earlier prophecy. Despite his earlier bravado, Peter succumbs to fear and denies knowing Jesus three times. This heartbreaking moment captures the reality of human weakness and the need for divine grace.

“Immediately the rooster crowed the second time. Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: ‘Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.’ And he broke down and wept.” (Mark 14:72)

Peter’s denial and subsequent remorse illustrate the process of realization and repentance. His failure, while painful, becomes a foundation for his eventual restoration and leadership in the early church. This moment underscores the themes of forgiveness and redemption in the Christian faith.

Concluding Thoughts

Mark Chapter 14 is a tapestry of human emotions, divine prophecy, and theological depth. Each event, from the plotting of the religious leaders to Peter’s denial, serves to advance the narrative toward the crucifixion while revealing profound truths about Jesus’ mission and identity. This chapter provides rich material for reflection on themes of sacrifice, betrayal, human frailty, divine sovereignty, and ultimately, redemption.

Through the anointing at Bethany, the Last Supper, the agony in Gethsemane, and the unjust trial, we see a portrayal of Jesus as the suffering servant who willingly embraces His destiny. His foreknowledge of events, coupled with His submission to God’s will, underscores the divine plan at work, even in the face of human betrayal and weakness. Mark 14 is not just a historical recounting but a theological exposition that invites believers to understand and participate in the profound mystery of Christ’s passion.

In essence, Mark 14 encapsulates the heart of the Gospel: the love of God manifested through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ, the Messiah, and the hope of redemption for all who believe. As readers internalize these events, they are called to reflect on their own responses to Jesus’ sacrifice and to live in light of the new covenant established through His blood.

Understanding the Key Messages in Mark 14: Insights and Explanation

In Mark 14, Jesus foretells His death and resurrection, celebrates the Passover, institutes the Lord's Supper, predicts Peter's denial, prays in Gethsemane, and is betrayed and arrested.

Notes

This chapter highlights the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the events leading up to His crucifixion. It also emphasizes the faithfulness of Jesus' disciples and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.