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Mark 9:7
“Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: ‘This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!'”

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Jesus promised some disciples will see the kingdom of God before they die, followed by the Transfiguration where Jesus’s appearance changes, and He is seen with Moses and Elijah. God affirms Jesus’s identity. After this, Jesus heals a boy with an evil spirit, discusses His upcoming betrayal, and teaches about humility and service. The chapter ends with lessons on avoiding sin and the value of everyone in God’s kingdom.

This chapter focuses on the revelation of Jesus’s divine nature, the call to faith and humility, and the cost of discipleship, culminating in the understanding of Jesus as the beloved Son to whom one should listen.

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Mark 8:34
“Calling the crowd along with his disciples, he said to them, ‘If anyone wants to follow after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.'”

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Jesus feeds four thousand people with seven loaves and a few fish, then has a confrontation with Pharisees seeking a sign. Jesus heals a blind man at Bethsaida, then predicts his death and resurrection. Peter confesses Jesus as the Messiah but later rebukes Jesus, leading to Jesus teaching about true discipleship. The chapter concludes with Jesus explaining that following him involves self-denial and taking up one’s cross.

This chapter centers on understanding Jesus’s identity and the cost of discipleship, emphasizing self-sacrifice and commitment to follow Jesus.

click here for the 2025 reading plan