Introduction: Papias, an early Christian writer, provides a very interesting insight into the Gospel of Mark. Relying on a very early source, Papias tells us that Mark was a close associate of Peter. This is supported by 1 Peter 5:13 where we find Peter referring to Mark as "my son Mark." Church tradition refers to Mark as "Peter's interpreter." (The Bible Exposition Commentary) Thus it appears that Peter preached about his work with Jesus and Mark wrote it down and arranged it. (NIV Study Bible, Introduction to Mark) The book of Mark is filled with action - small wonder if he took his source material from Peter. Let's jump into the action by beginning our study of Mark!
Read Mark 1:1. Have you ever said, "Keep it simple, stupid?" Do you prefer things straightforward and uncomplicated?
Can you see Peter preaching this way?
The word "gospel" means "good news." Read Mark 1:1 and substitute "good news" for the word "gospel."
How does this apply to your life? If you want Jesus to come into your heart, is repentance your first concern?
Why was John so popular? Was it his "dress for success" approach? Was it his great diet suggestions?
What lesson can we learn from this about the relative importance of our message versus our diet and dress?
Or, is our diet and dress part of the message?
Read Acts 1:4-5. What other insight do we get from this text about Jesus' baptizing others with the Holy Spirit?
Read Mark 1:9. Why would Jesus be baptized by John? Was it to wash away His sins?
Read Mark 1:16-18. Today I spent most of my time listening to a private school consultant. He stressed the important of "profiling" school board members. Profiling means that you pick board members on the basis of whether they will be able to fulfill the strategic goals of the church school. Does Jesus seem to be "profiling?" Is He picking helpers based on their ability to accomplish His strategic goals?
In the strategic goals of your church, how important is it to have people who are "willing?"
Friend, how about you - do you believe that Jesus is the Messiah? Are you willing to follow Jesus by building your life around His mission?
Next week: Amazing Miracle Worker.