Seeking Truth Catholic Bible Study

Sharon Doran studies Mark chapter 13 (the Olivet Discourse), tracing Jesus’ final teachings from the triumphal entry through Bethany and Bethphage, the raising of Lazarus, the cursed fig tree, and the corruption of the temple leadership. She explains how these events lead into Jesus’ prophecy of the temple’s destruction and the signs of suffering — false messiahs, wars, earthquakes, and famines — calling listeners to watchfulness and faith.

Sharon Doran explores Mark 13, explaining why Bethphage and the Sanhedrin mattered, the meaning behind the cursed fig tree and temple cleansing, and how Jesus’ Olivet discourse foretells persecution, false messiahs, and the destruction of the temple. The episode connects Jesus’ warnings to historical fulfillments and practical application: stay vigilant against deception, rely on the Spirit in suffering, and endure in faith.

Sharon Doran explores Mark 13, showing how Jesus' warnings about the desolating sacrilege were fulfilled in history — from Antiochus IV and Caligula to the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD — and what it means for Christians to watch, endure, and rely on the Holy Spirit.

Sharon Doran explores Mark chapter 12 (part 1), focusing on Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem and the rich symbolism of the eastern gate. The episode traces connections from Mount Moriah and Abraham’s near-sacrifice to Jesus as the promised Lamb of God. Sharon highlights Mary as the Eastern Gate and the House of Gold, explaining traditions about her Immaculate Conception, presentation in the temple, and role as the vessel through which God enters creation. The talk ties these biblical and patristic images to the Eucharist and the temple’s imagery.

In this episode Sharon Doran continues Mark chapter 12, weaving historical and theological insight into the eastern "Mercy" gate, the early life and temple presentation of Mary, and the church’s ancient imagery of the Ark and veil. Sharon then unpacks Jesus’ parable of the tenants—identifying the vineyard, tenants, prophets, and the beloved son—showing how the imagery points to Israel, the prophets, Christ’s sacrificial crushing, and his role as the cornerstone. The episode closes with Jesus’ clever replies to traps about taxes and the resurrection, exposing hypocrisy among the religious leaders and calling listeners to give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.