Mark 10:51

 BIBLE VERSE

Mark 10:51 (NLT)

"What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked.

Mark 10:51 (NLT)

 * WHAT DOES IT SAY?

 * Jesus asks a question to someone. (51a)

 * The question Jesus asks is, "What do you want me to do for you?" (51b)

 * The text implies a conversation is taking place between Jesus and an unnamed person. (51)

 * WHAT QUESTIONS DO I HAVE ABOUT WHAT IT SAYS?

a) Historical Context

 * Who is the person Jesus is asking this question to? What happened just before this verse?

b) Cultural Context

 * What was the social standing of the person Jesus was speaking to? Would a person of high status normally engage with someone like this?

c) Theological Context

 * Why does Jesus ask this question? Does he not already know what the person wants? What does this interaction reveal about Jesus' character?

d) Literary Context

 * How does this verse fit into the broader narrative of Mark's Gospel? What themes are being developed here?

e) Life Application

 * How can I apply this verse to my own life? What does it look like to have Jesus ask me this question today?

 * WHAT DOES THE TEXT MEAN?

a) Understanding the propositions made in the text

 * The text is a record of a specific interaction where Jesus, the Son of God, engages a person with a direct and personal question. It is an invitation to articulate a desire or a need. It suggests that Jesus is not only willing to help but wants a person to express their need to Him.

b) What the text means and provides answers for the questions

 * Historical Context: Just before this verse, we learn that Jesus is speaking to a blind beggar named Bartimaeus. Bartimaeus had been calling out to Jesus for mercy. The crowd told him to be quiet, but he shouted all the more. This shows Jesus' compassion and willingness to stop for those who are often overlooked in society.

 * Cultural Context: In that culture, a blind beggar would have been on the lowest rung of society, often viewed as being afflicted due to sin. Jesus' willingness to stop and engage him personally was a radical act that challenged social norms. It showed that Jesus valued every individual, regardless of their status.

 * Theological Context: Jesus asks the question not because He is unaware, but because He wants to draw out a response of faith. He is inviting Bartimaeus to articulate his request, which is an act of trust. This interaction reveals Jesus' compassion, His willingness to meet a person at their point of need, and His desire for a relationship with us that is based on open and honest communication.

 * Literary Context: This verse is a pivotal moment in the narrative. Bartimaeus's cry and Jesus's response are a powerful example of what it means to come to Jesus with a desperate need and receive mercy. It is also an example of the kind of faith that Jesus praises, a faith that is both persistent and personal.

 * HOW DOES THE TEXT APPLY TO ME?

This verse encourages me to be honest and specific in my prayers. Jesus' question to Bartimaeus is a question to me as well: "What do you want me to do for you?" He knows my needs before I even ask, yet He wants me to come to Him and express them. This verse prompts me to move beyond general prayers and to bring my specific fears, desires, and struggles to God, knowing that He listens and cares. It reminds me that Jesus is not a distant figure, but a compassionate Savior who wants to have a personal and direct relationship with me.

PRAYER/RESPONSE

Father, I come to You with my fears, doubts, and anxieties. There are times when I feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. I often try to solve things on my own, but this verse reminds me that You want me to bring my needs directly to You. Help me to have the faith of Bartimaeus—the courage to cry out to You and the honesty to articulate my deepest needs. Thank You for listening to me and for your compassion. I surrender my burdens to You now, with hope for the future, knowing that You are the one who can truly meet my  needs. In Jesus' name, Amen.