Jesus is heading to Jerusalem to die. There is something about His manner, probably a seriousness and determination that amazed and frightened the disciples (v32). Jesus was not going to be stopped from completing the work of salvation, which was to be achieved through His death on the cross (v33-34).

There is a great contrast between the sacrificial attitude of Jesus and the selfish attitude of James and John (v35-40). The baptism Jesus refers to was His suffering. James and John would both suffer for Christ’s sake, but that doesn’t give them the right to push for the highest place in heaven. Jesus teaches that true greatness is to be found not in pushing self forward but in serving (v41-45).

Bartimaeus was a sorry sight, blind and forced to beg at the side of the road. But now there is hope as he hears Jesus is nearby. His cry, ‘Jesus, Son of David’ (v47), shows he believes that Jesus is the promised Messiah who came to save. Some want to hold Bartimaeus back but he is having none of it (v48-49). What a wonderful comfort, Jesus is calling; Jesus is waiting for you to come to Him.

Bartimaeus didn’t delay, throwing aside his cloak, he ran to Christ (v50). Let us all do likewise! It is through meeting with Jesus that Bartimaeus’ needs are met (v51-52).