In the sermon titled "Between the Cup and the Kiss," Don Bell explores the significance of Christ’s sacrificial death as portrayed in Mark 14:22-46. The primary theological topic is the substitutionary atonement of Jesus, evidenced as He identifies His body and blood with that of the New Covenant established for many, highlighting the Reformed doctrine of limited atonement. The preacher employs various Scripture passages, including Zechariah 13:7, to illustrate Jesus' prediction of His betrayal and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies regarding the suffering of the Messiah. The sermon emphasizes the gravity of Christ's suffering in Gethsemane, His relinquishing of personal desires for the divine will, and the implications for believers who are called to follow Him faithfully. The doctrinal significance of this teaching stresses the necessity of Christ's atoning sacrifice and the profound weight of sin borne by Him, affirming the implications of grace extended to sinners.
Key Quotes
“Thank God the sword was awakened on him instead of into us.”
“He was wounded for our transgressions.”
“Every scripture has to be fulfilled concerning him.”
“If he didn't have no sin, he wouldn't have died on that cross. So whose sin was he dying for?”
The Bible teaches that Jesus' blood is the new covenant, shed for many to atone for sin.
Jesus taught His disciples that His blood is the blood of the New Testament, which signifies the new covenant established between God and His people. His blood was shed for many, illustrating the substitutionary atonement He provided for sinners. This sacrifice fulfilled the requirements of God's justice and mercy, enabling reconciliation between God and His chosen ones. The blood of Christ cleanses us from all unrighteousness and is central to the gospel of salvation, emphasizing that salvation is accomplished solely through faith in Him.
Mark 14:24, Ephesians 1:7, Hebrews 9:22
Scripture indicates that Jesus' death was specifically for His people, His elect.
The biblical witness consistently affirms that Jesus' sacrifice was intended for a specific group, often referred to as the elect or those whom the Father has given Him. In Mark 14:24, Jesus explicitly states that His blood is shed for many, which has theological implications regarding the particularity of His atonement. This reflects the historic Reformed understanding of Limited Atonement, where Christ's death secures the salvation of His chosen people, ensuring that it effectively accomplishes His divine purpose without failure. This aligns with the doctrines developed during the Reformation, emphasizing that true faith and salvation come through Christ alone.
Mark 14:24, Matthew 1:21, John 10:11
Christ's obedience is the model for our own submission to God's will and ensures our salvation.
The importance of Christ's obedience lies in His perfect submission to the Father's will, even unto death. In Mark 14:36, Jesus exemplifies profound submission when He prays, 'Not my will, but Yours be done.' This submission not only sets the standard for Christian conduct but also assures the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. By obeying the Father, Christ took upon Himself the penalty for our sins, allowing us to be declared righteous before God. His example urges Christians to emulate His willingness to yield to God, which is foundational for spiritual growth and understanding our identity in Christ as obedient children of God.
Mark 14:36, Philippians 2:8, Hebrews 5:8
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