The ministry of Jesus prompted close scrutiny by religious
leaders. As when the scribes took issue with His
claim to forgive sins – Mk 2:6-7. As when the scribes and Pharisees took
issue with His dining with sinners - Mk 2:16. One
issue in particular produced a strong reaction: the Sabbath and its
observance. At first, it involved Jesus' disciples
plucking grain on the Sabbath - Mk 2:23-24. Later, Jesus will be criticized for
healing on the Sabbath - cf. Mk 3:1-2
On
the occasion involving Jesus' disciples plucking grain, The Pharisees said it was unlawful - Mk 2:24.
Actually,
it was contrary to rabbinical tradition, but not the Law per se. In
answering the Pharisees, Jesus stated two notable things; (1) "The Sabbath was made for man, and
not man for the Sabbath." – Mk 2:27. (2) "Therefore the Son of man is Lord
even of the Sabbath." - Mk 2:28. These statements
will serve as the basis for this lesson.
