Disciples cannot only say they are a disciple; they have to act like one. To behave like a disciple, people must preach the word of God, heal people- mentally and physically, and they must cast out demons.
When Jesus calls the first disciples, he does not choose the powerful people, but the poor fishermen and the tax collectors- the most despised people of the time. In choosing these people, Jesus shows us that the message is universal.
In the account of “Whoever is not against us is for us”, Jesus shows that the gospel is universal, and anyone who acts in a behaviour, which is similar to the message of Christianity, are in some ways disciples.
In the account of Jesus calling on Levi, the tax collector, Mark is reminding us that being a disciple makes total demands on a person’s life. Levi left all of his riches and material possessions, to follow Jesus. These demands on people’s lives can cause them to change their lives completely. Levi had his name changed, by Jesus, to Matthew. This represents a new start to his life.
In the report of the rich young man, Mark informs Christians that they are not always able to fulfil Jesus’ demands and he reminds us that Jesus makes total demands, as you cannot be a disciple on certain days; it needs to permeate Christian’s lives.
Many disciples, in the time of Jesus were being persecuted for what they believed in. When Jesus talks about his suffering and death, for the first time, he talks about having faith. If people have faith and lose their lives for Jesus and what they believe in, they will be rewarded in Heaven. However, if people deny Jesus and turn away from God, Jesus will be, “…ashamed of him when he comes in the glory of his father with the holy angels.” This means those people will be judged in Heaven.
In the gospel, Mark reminds us that human beings are not perfect, but they must strive to be perfect. The account of the calming of the storm , on Lake Galilee, and Peter’s denial informs of this flaw. Peter’s denial is a significant piece in Mark’s gospel, because Peter became the founder of the Christian Church, and even though Peter denied Jesus three times, “... and Peter remembered how Jesus had said to him, “Before the cock crows twice, you will say three times that you do not know me.” And he broke down and cried.” Jesus has forgiven Peter; so he can forgive other disciples.
Therefore, the study of St. Mark’s gospel tells Christians that, God will accept nothing less than total commitment to Him, and that this may involve life-changing sacrifices, but the ultimate reward will be in Heaven.
