What Jesus Did! 'Not Far from the Kingdom' — Mark 12:34

Monday, September 9, 2024

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Realizing how much the man [who had asked about the greatest commandment] understood, Jesus said to him, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." And after that, no one dared to ask him any more questions.
— Mark 12:34 NLT

Key Thought

Despite the hostile environment in which Jesus faced the tough questions put to him, he appreciated the honest seeking heart of this expert in the Jewish law. In an atmosphere where most questioners were trying to trap Jesus, Jesus still had time to offer a great compliment to this truth-seeker. While Jesus' questioners usually left embarrassed and afraid to ask him any more questions, this questioner left with an affirmation. We need to realize that Jesus is always happy to receive us with our honest questions. He longs for us to seek him. However, as we honestly seek to understand Jesus and his will, we must be certain that we are living in obedience to that will. As we seek to obey our Lord, our hearts are opened to understand his instruction so that his will becomes clearer. So let's begin our honest questioning of the Savior by first submitting our lives to his lordship.

Today's Prayer

Gracious Heavenly Father, thank you for sending Jesus to share with us and to show us your truth. Be with me and grant me wisdom as I seek to live for you. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • John 8:31-32
  • Romans 12:1-2
  • John 14:23

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 12:34 NLT — "You are not far from the Kingdom of God."

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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