What Jesus Did! 'Murderous Intentions' — Mark 3:6

Thursday, February 15, 2024

[After Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees about healing on the Sabbath,] the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.
— Mark 3:6 NLT

Key Thought

When we get into a defensive posture toward those who disagree with us religiously, we can very quickly find ourselves looking to destroy their argument, destroy their faith, and even destroy their reputation. The Pharisees and the supporters of Herod were bitter enemies. Yet their common hatred of Jesus brought them together to plan what is evil. Hatred and a hard heart go together. Both lead to death — not necessarily the death of the target of our hate, but our own spiritual death. When we find ourselves siding with others who dislike us and when we find ourselves scheming to do what we know is evil, we must immediately be open to God and ask him to change our ways. We must seek his wisdom and his insight into the situation.

Today's Prayer

Holy and righteous God, please guide me into your truth. I want to honor and serve you with my heart, soul, mind, and strength. I don't want my religious passions to be used to lead me astray. Even more, dear Father, I don't want my religious passions to cause harm to anyone, especially those who are seeking you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Matthew 10:16-20
  • Luke 22:2
  • John 12:9-11

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 3:6 NLT — [After Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees about healing on the Sabbath,] the Pharisees went away and met with the supporters of Herod to plot how to kill Jesus.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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