The reading for Trinity 15 in Year B is Mark 8.27–38, the encounter with forms the pivot in the second gospel: until now, there has been power, success, dynamism and crowds, but from now on, Jesus walks the lonely path to suffering and the cross. At the northernmost point of his ministry, Jesus turns from the adulation of the crowds in Galilee to the opposition of the authorities in Jerusalem.
There are some big ideas to explore here, not least the image of ‘taking up your cross’, which is much misunderstood, and raises questions about historicity and Jesus’ teaching.
Come and join Ian and James as they explore these questions! Revd James Blandford-Baker is vicar of Histon and Impington, two villages just north of Cambridge. Revd Dr Ian Paul is Associate Minister of St Nic’s, Nottingham, and writes the widely-read blog www.psephizo.com. We hope you enjoy the new video format.
Full written commentary behind the discussion can be found on the blog each week.
(As no one has left a comment, I would just like to say I like the passing reference to the carol “He who was rich beyond all splendour”. It is my favourite: great theology and a beautiful tune from a French folk melody. Nights are drawing in, soon be Christmas.)