Faith In Jesus!

¹ Jesus left that part of the country and returned with His disciples to Nazareth, His hometown. ² The next Sabbath He began teaching in the synagogue, and many who heard Him were amazed. They asked, “Where did He get all this wisdom and the power to perform such miracles?” ³ Then they scoffed, “He is just a carpenter, the Son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And His sisters live right here among us.” They were deeply offended and refused to believe in Him. ⁴ Then Jesus told them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his relatives and his own family.” ⁵ And because of their unbelief, He could not do any mighty miracles among them except to place His hands on a few sick people and heal them. ⁶ And He was amazed at their unbelief. Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people. Mark 6:1-6 (NLT)

Mark 6 begins a shift in Jesus’ public ministry. Here begins Jesus’ final extended ministry. Beginning at Mark 6:1 through Mark 9:50, Jesus and His followers will minister in a wide area well north of Jerusalem.

To begin this new section, Jesus and His disciples (followers) return to Jesus’ hometown, the city of Nazareth (Mark 6:1; see also Matthew 13:54; Luke 4:16). Although Jesus was born in Bethlehem, He was brought up in Nazareth located in Galilee (see Matthew 2:23; Matthew 21:11; Matthew 26:71; Mark 1:9; Luke 1:26; Luke 2:39, 51; Luke 4:16-24; John 1:45-46). The city of Nazareth was a small and insignificant village in lower Galilee. Amazingly, Nazareth is so common and ordinary that Nazareth is never mentioned in the Jewish rabbinic literature of the Mishnah and the Talmud. Even Josephus, a first-century Jewish historian, does not mention Nazareth. Nazareth was a rather obscure town, nowhere mentioned in the Old Testament. The only fame of Nazareth was Jesus the Messiah (Christ)!

When the Sabbath (Saturday) had come, Jesus began teaching in the synagogue, the heart of the Jewish community (Mark 6:2; see also Matthew 13:54; Luke 4:16). Many people heard Jesus’ teaching and were amazed, saying, “Where did this Man get these teachings? What is this wisdom that has been given to Him? And where did He get the power to do miracles?” (Mark 6:2, NCV). The people were amazed and astonished at Jesus’ anointed teaching, wisdom (insight), and miracles (see also Mark 1:21-28; Matthew 7:28-29; Matthew 13:54; Luke 4:18-19, 22). The people of Nazareth had previously heard all Jesus’ miracles and wisdom (John 1:19-4:42). Nevertheless, the people became upset and began to mock and reject Him (Mark 6:3). Jesus’ hometown people of Nazareth knew Him as just a carpenter (Mark 6:3; see also Matthew 13:55). After all, Jesus had been their neighbor for nearly thirty years, they had seen Jesus at work in the carpenter’s shop, and He appeared to be just another Nazarene. The people of Nazareth saw no reason to trust Jesus as their Messiah! The rejection and misunderstanding of Jesus are most evident at Mark 6:3. The people said, “He is just the carpenter, the Son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And His sisters are here with us” (Mark 6:3, NCV). The failure to mention Joseph probably indicates that he had already died. Also, the story mentions Jesus’ four half-brothers and His half-sister. The four half-brothers and two or more half-sisters were children of Joseph and Mary born after Jesus (see Matthew 1:25; Luke 2:7).

The Gospel of John states that “not even His brothers believed in Him” (John 7:5). Also, Jesus’ family resented Jesus and thought that He had lost His mind (Mark 3:21). However, the good news is that Jesus’ half-brothers eventually were born again and accepted Jesus. Jesus’ brothers were in the upper room in Jerusalem following Jesus’ ascension (return to heaven) (Acts 1:12-14). At some point, James became the lead elder in the church in Jerusalem (see Acts 15:13; Acts 21:17-18; Galatians 1:19). Eventually, James wrote the New Testament book of James and Judas, Jesus’ other half-brother, wrote the New Testament book of Jude (Mark 6:3; see also Matthew 13:55).

Like His earthly father Joseph before Him, Jesus worked as a carpenter (Mark 6:3). Possibly Jesus continued to practice His trade while traveling about teaching and healing others. Jesus certainly derived no income from His ministry. Only officials of the temple and religious courts drew salaries. The rest of the religious teachers and leaders were either independently wealthy or supported themselves through a trade or profession.

The people of Nazareth became deeply offended at Jesus (Mark 6:3). They refused to believe He was the long-awaited Christ (Messiah) and Son of the living God (Mark 1:1; see also Matthew 13:57; Matthew 16:16). One translation states that “they took offense at Him” (Mark 6:3, NIV). The word for “offense” comes from the Greek word “skandalon,” meaning a “stumbling block.” The people of Nazareth saw only a carpenter, only a Son of Mary and only another one of the village children that returned for a visit (Mark 6:3). However, Jesus' teaching and miracles clearly marked Him as different from all other people of the world. Jesus was God in flesh (see e.g., Matthew 1:21, 23; John 1:1-5, 14, 18; Romans 9:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15, 19; Colossians 2:9-10; Hebrews 1:3-4). Despite the unbelief Nazareth, the Holy Scriptures declare that Jesus of Nazareth is God's Son, and the Messiah sent to fulfill His promises (Mark 8:29). Jesus was certainly a “stone of stumbling” to Nazareth and many others because of their unbelief in Him (see also Isaiah 8:14; Romans 9:32-33; 1 Peter 2:8).

Jesus’ rejection by His hometown was His second rejection at Nazareth, the first one occurring at the beginning of His Galilean ministry (Luke 4:16-30). In Luke 4’s parallel version, the hometown people of Nazareth wanted to throw Jesus down the hill and kill Him (Luke 4:28-30). When Jesus claimed to be the long-awaited Messiah and the One the prophet Isaiah prophesied would come, those who were listening became intensely angry and literally attempted to take Jesus’ life by throwing Him over a cliff on the outskirts of Nazareth (see Luke 4:16-30).

Moreover, first-century society was very segregated, and one’s place in that society was largely established at birth. Jesus was described as a carpenter in these verses (Mark 6:3; see also Matthew 13:55). The people of Nazareth resented Jesus and were offended that He had gotten out of His place (Mark 6:3). Also at this point in Jesus’ public ministry, Jesus was a controversial itinerant (traveling) Preacher that surrounded Himself with “low lives” – fishermen, tax collectors, and women. Jesus said to the people, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family” (Matthew 13:57, NLT). Jesus said that a prophet (in other words, a worker for God) is never honored in his hometown (Mark 6:4; Luke 4:24; John 4:44). Unable to explain Jesus, the people who knew Jesus best rejected Him.

Sadly in His hometown of Nazareth, Jesus was not able to work any miracles, except to lay His hands on a few sick people and healed them (Mark 6:5; see also Matthew 13:58). Jesus’ familiarity and commonness caused the people of Nazareth to miss the Kingdom of God. Jesus was teaching effectively and wisely, but His hometown rejected His authority because they only saw Jesus as a carpenter. Thus, this small town of Nazareth missed the greatest day of their lives! Nazareth’s lack of faith in Jesus, not Jesus’ lack of supernatural power, kept Jesus from doing many miracles and gracious acts in Nazareth (Mark 6:5-6; see also Matthew 13:58). The point is not that Jesus was suddenly lacking in ability to do miracles — He does perform a few. Rather Jesus finds contempt and hardness of heart which hinders God’s supernatural power (Hebrews 3:12-14). Jesus was amazed or marveled at how many people had no faith in Him and refused to believe in Him (Mark 6:6). Only here does Mark speak of Jesus as having marveled (Mark 6:6). Instead of remaining at Nazareth, Jesus left the city of Nazareth and went to other villages in that area teaching (Mark 6:6).

¹⁴ For if we are faithful to the end, trusting God just as firmly as when we first believed, we will share in all that belongs to Christ. Hebrews 3:14 (NLT)

The Holy Scriptures are clear that Jesus responds to our faith in God and faith in Him (e.g. see Mark 9:23; Luke 7:9; John 6:29; John 14:1). Where there is no faith, Jesus performed few miracles (Mark 6:5). Jesus performed His miracles most often in the presence of and in response to faith in Him (e.g., see Mark 5:34, 36). Lack of faith blinds people to the truth and robs them of hope. God's supernatural power is unlimited, but the true and living God has chosen to work through people of faith. God cannot work where there is no faith (Matthew 17:20; Luke 17:6; see also James 1:6). That does not mean that God’s omnipotence is limited, but that God has chosen to act only in response to our faith (trust or confidence) in Him (Matthew 7:7-11; Mark 11:22-25). Even more, our faith in Jesus lets God work through us (e.g. see Matthew 8:10, 13; Matthew 9:2, 22, 28-29). The failure of God to act come from our unwillingness and hardness of heart to accept the God who comes to us as a carpenter, the Son of Mary (see Matthew 1:21, 23; John 1:1-5, 14).

²¹ Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. ²² You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.” Matthew 21:21-22 (NLT)

References

Disciple's Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible, 1988).

King James Version Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1988).

Life Application Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005).

Life Essentials Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2011).

Ryrie Study Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).

Spirit Filled Life Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1991).

Word in Life Study Bible (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1996).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Edwards, James R. The Gospel According to Mark (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2002).

Loyd, Melton, Ph.D., Professor of New Testament. Due West Campus: Erskine Theological Seminary, 2015.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary (Victor Books, 1989).

Jesus’ Heals

Jesus got into the boat again and went back to the other side of the lake, where a large crowd gathered around Him on the shore. Then a leader of the local synagogue, whose name was Jairus, arrived. When he saw Jesus, he fell at His feet, pleading fervently with Him. “My little daughter is dying,” he said. “Please come and lay Your hands on her; heal her so she can live.” Jesus went with him, and all the people followed, crowding around Him. Mark 5:21-24 (NLT)

Mark 5 next gives two stories that are sandwiched together (Mark 5:21-43; see parallel verses at Matthew 9:18-26; Luke 8:40-56). First, Jesus heals a bleeding woman (Mark 5:25-34) and next He restores a dying girl to life (Mark 5:21-24, 35-43). Most scholars look at both stories together.  Both stories are interrelated and reveal Jesus’ healing power in response to our faith in Him (Mark 5:23, 34; see also Matthew 9:2, 22).

As Jesus re-crossed the Sea of Galilee by boat, a large crowd gathered around Him (Mark 5:21). Then, Jesus is approached by Jairus, who was the ruler of the synagogue (Mark 5:22). The Holy Scriptures do not define the roles of a “ruler of the synagogue.” Obviously, Jairus was well respected and honorable man. Traditionally, synagogues were built by wealthy people or possibly Jairus was the chief lay leader of the synagogue. Nevertheless when Jairus saw Jesus, he came and fell before Jesus’ feet and pleaded earnestly with Jesus to heal his dying daughter (Mark 5:22-23). Essentially, Jairus pleaded for Jesus help to come and lay His hands on his dying daughter so she would be healed and live (Mark 5:23). Jairus’ prayer to Jesus was sincere and humble but intense (Luke 8:41). Jairus shows great respect to Jesus because his daughter was dying (Mark 5:22). Jairus was desperate and believed only Jesus’ healing touch could save his daughter (Mark 5:23). Jesus goes with Jairus (Mark 5:24).

A woman in the crowd had suffered for twelve years with constant bleeding. She had suffered a great deal from many doctors, and over the years she had spent everything she had to pay them, but she had gotten no better. In fact, she had gotten worse. She had heard about Jesus, so she came up behind Him through the crowd and touched His robe. For she thought to herself, “If I can just touch His robe, I will be healed.” Immediately the bleeding stopped, and she could feel in her body that she had been healed of her terrible condition. Mark 5:25-29 (NLT)

On the way to Jairus house, large crowds followed and pressed around Jesus (Mark 5:24).  A woman within the crowd saw Jesus and approached Him. She had been subject to incurable bleeding for twelve long years (Mark 5:25-26). This woman was in a state of permanent defilement as noted in the Old Testament (Leviticus 15:19-33). She may had a menstrual or uterine disorder that made her ritually or ceremonially unclean (Leviticus 15:25-27). According to Leviticus, this woman was thus not allowed to worship in the temple or join other people for regular activities. Like Jairus, the synagogue ruler, this woman was desperate, and she believed only Jesus’ healing touch could heal her sickness (Mark 5:26-28). The woman does not want to take the spotlight but she desperately needs a healing touch from Jesus (Mark 5:28). As Jesus passed through the crowd, the woman received her healing from Jesus. The woman reached out to Jesus by faith and Jesus healed the woman. One touched from Jesus instantly healed her terrible suffering (Mark 5:29). After receiving her healing, the woman wanted to fade quietly back into the obscurity of the crowd.

Jesus realized at once that healing power had gone out from Him, so He turned around in the crowd and asked, “Who touched My robe?” His disciples said to Him, “Look at this crowd pressing around You. How can You ask, ‘Who touched Me?’” But He kept on looking around to see who had done it. Then the frightened woman, trembling at the realization of what had happened to her, came and fell at His feet and told Him what she had done. And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over.” Mark 5:30-34 (NLT)

After the woman’s had touched, Jesus realized at once that healing power had gone out from His body (Mark 5:30). Jesus stopped and asked the crowd who touched Him (Mark 5:30-31). He kept looking around to see who have received a healing (Mark 5:32). Jesus was not angry with the woman for touching Him. Then, the frightened and trembling woman came and fell at Jesus' feet and told Him what she had done (Mark 5:33). The woman is fearful yet she told Jesus the truth. The woman was expecting punishment, but she received her miracle! Jesus tenderly said to the frightened and trembling woman, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace. Your suffering is over” (Mark 5:34, NLT). The woman’s miracle becomes public. Her faith in Jesus brought her healing. Although the woman was healed when she touched Jesus, Jesus said her faith in Him caused her healing. Jesus helps everyone who places their faith in Him.

While He was still speaking to her, messengers arrived from the home of Jairus, the leader of the synagogue. They told him, “Your daughter is dead. There is no use troubling the Teacher now.” But Jesus overheard them and said to Jairus, “Do not be afraid. Just have faith.” Then Jesus stopped the crowd and would not let anyone go with Him except Peter, James, and John (the brother of James). When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw much commotion and weeping and wailing. He went inside and asked, “Why all this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead; she is only asleep.” The crowd laughed at Him. But He made them all leave, and He took the girl’s father and mother and His three disciples into the room where the girl was lying. Holding her hand, He said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means “Little girl, get up!” And the girl, who was twelve years old, immediately stood up and walked around! They were overwhelmed and totally amazed. Jesus gave them strict orders not to tell anyone what had happened, and then He told them to give her something to eat. Mark 5:35-43 (NLT)

While Jesus was still speaking to the healed woman, messengers came from Jairus’ home and said, “Your daughter is dead” (Mark 5:35). Jesus overheard the messengers speaking to Jairus and said to Jairus, “Do not be afraid. Just have faith” (Mark 5:36, NLT). Literal, Jesus told Jairus “just keep on believing!” (Mark 5:36; see also Matthew 7:7-11). Jesus statement to “just keep on believing!” visualizes a continuing action. Jairus’ initial plea for Jesus’ help proved that he believed Jesus could heal his dying daughter (Mark 5:23). Jesus’ encouragement to “just keep on believing!” emphasized that Jairus’ blessing also depended on Jairus’ unswerving and persistent faith in Jesus’ power to heal (see also Mark 6:5–6; Luke 18:1-8). Such persistence is not to suggest healing or any other work of God is earned by human effort. Rather, Jesus’ encouragement illustrates the need to be bold in what we believe — to not be deterred by difficult circumstances or discouraged by others. “All things are possible to him (or her) who believes” (Mark 9:23; see also Mark 4:40; Mark 5:34). There are no limits; Jesus says, to what faith in the power of God can do!

Despite the negative report, Jesus continued to Jairus’ home and ignored the messengers (Mark 5:36). On His way to Jairus home, Jesus did not let anyone follow Him except Peter, James and John – Jesus’ inner circle (Mark 5:37-38; see also Mark 9:2; Mark 13:3; Mark 14:33; Luke 22:8). When Jesus arrived at Jairus’ home, He saw much commotion with people crying and wailing loudly (Mark 5:38). Jesus went inside Jairus’ home and said to the people crying, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep” (Mark 5:39, NIV2011). However, the people laughed and ridiculed Jesus because the girl had been pronounced dead (Mark 5:40; see also Luke 8:52-53). Jesus made the wailing crowd leave Jairus’ home (Mark 5:40). Then, Jesus took the girl’s father and mother and His three disciples (Peter, James, and John) into the room where the girl was lying (Mark 5:40). Then, Jesus took the little girl by the hand and said to her in Aramaic, one of the original languages of Palestine, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, get up!” (Mark 5:41). Immediately, the girl stood up and walked around (she was twelve years old). At this moment, the people were overwhelmed and completely amazed (Mark 5:42). The raising of Jairus' daughter was Jesus’ first miraculous resurrection from the dead. Jesus’ power over death pointed believers to see Jesus as God in human flesh (Matthew 1:23). By delivering Jairus’ daughter from death, Jesus revealed the nature and power of the true and living God. Jesus' healing was a dramatic miracle. Jairus’ faith in Jesus brought healing for his daughter.

Next, Jesus gave the crowd strict orders not to let anyone know about this miracle (Mark 5:43). Once again, Jesus invoked the Messianic secret not to tell anyone (see also Mark 1:25, 34). At this point in Jesus’ public ministry, Jesus was a controversial Figure. Jesus kept secret His true identity secret initially to avoid inciting political action by the Roman government and religious leaders (Mark 1:44; Mark 3:12; Mark 4:10-12; Mark 5:43; Mark 7:36; Mark 8:17-21, 26, 30, Mark 9:9).

Many first century Jews were expecting a political Messiah, who would overthrow the Roman government. However, Jesus came to announce and establish God’s Kingdom. God's Kingdom brought healing, liberation, and good news – but not necessarily political power (Matthew 3:2; Matthew 10:7-8). The Kingdom of God is the sovereign reign of God that He brings about through His Son, Jesus. God’s Kingdom means the establishment of God’s Holy Spirit in the hearts and lives of people, overcoming sickness, disease, and the forces of evil, and the removal from the world the consequences of sin. Our faith in Jesus overcomes sin and defeat, including death.

The stories of the incurable blood disease and Jairus’ dying daughter reveal Jesus’ healing power in response to our faith in Him. As God incarnate (in human flesh), Jesus has power over disease and death (Exodus 15:26; Psalm 41:3, 5; Psalm 103:2-3). Jesus responds to our genuine faith (trust) in Him – whether weak or strong. In the healing ministry of Jesus, faith was a dominant factor. Normally, faith on the part of the sufferer or by someone on the sufferer’ behalf was present before Jesus’ healing; faith was not started by Jesus' healing (e.g., Matthew 8:13; Matthew 9:2, 22, 29; Matthew 15:28). Mark 6:5-6 and Matthew 13:58 expressly record that Jesus could not heal in Nazareth due to the people’s lack of faith. At Matthew 17:20, Jesus' healing was delayed because of their lack of faith. James 5:15 emphasizes that it is the prayer of faith that brings our healing.

In both cases, Jairus and the woman were publicly exercising their faith in Jesus. At this point in Jesus’ public ministry, Jesus was a controversial Figure. Jairus risked his reputation as a religious leader because he trusted Jesus and the woman risked public shame in touching a man. Both Jairus and the woman courageously put their faith in Jesus, and Jesus rewarded their faith. Jesus not only has miraculous power over nature (Mark 4:35-41) and evil spirits (Mark 5:1-20) but He has healing power over sickness and death (Matthew 4:23; Luke 4:40-41). Also, some people would say that Jairus deserved Jesus’ miraculous healing because he was an upstanding citizen, but not the unclean woman suffering from the bleeding disorder. These two stories reveal the incredible depth of Jesus’ love and mercy for ALL PEOPLE – men, women, rich, poor, young and old. Both Jairus and the poor woman found the answers to their needs humbly at the feet of Jesus (Mark 5:22 and 33; see also Mark 5:6).

Most important, the whole connection of these two stories centers on salvation. In both the Old Testament and the New Testament, the word “saved” means rescued, restoration, and wholeness. In response to our faith in Him, Jesus heals our brokenness and brings restoration and wholeness. Jesus is more than a Healer, but He is also our Lord and Savior.  Even more, Jesus not only provides our physical healing but also our spiritual healing through faith in Him.

Jesus’ miraculous healing revealed the in-breaking of God’s Kingdom. Jesus performed these miraculous healing and other signs to call people to repentance because the true and living God of heaven and earth and His Kingdom arrived with Him (see Matthew 1:21, 23; Matthew 3:2; Matthew 11:20-24). Healing occupies a significant role of Jesus’ proclamation of God’s Kingdom. Jesus healed varies diseases such as leprosy (a skin disease), blindness, and hemorrhaging. Also, Jesus healed people suffering from unclean (evil) spirits, and He overcame death (e.g., see Matthew 8:16-17; Mark 1:32-34, 39; Mark 3:11; John 11:38-44). Jesus’ healing and miracles revealed God’s power working through His public ministry. The true and living God (Yahweh) was fully working in the life and ministry of Jesus (see e.g., Matthew 1:21, 23; John 1:1-5, 14, 18; Romans 9:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15, 19; Colossians 2:9-10; Hebrews 1:3-4). Our healing and restoration also come as we faithfully first seek and obey God and walk in love and righteousness (Matthew 6:33; see also Hosea 6:6; Micah 6:6-8).  

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. 3 John 2 (ESV)

References

Disciple's Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible, 1988).

Faithlife Study Bible ((Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 2012).

Life Application Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005).

New Student Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1992).

Ryrie Study Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).

Spirit Filled Life Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1991).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Elwell, Walter A. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Second Edition (Grand Rapids, MI:  Baker Book House Company, 2001).

Loyd, Melton, Ph.D., Professor of New Testament. Due West Campus: Erskine Theological Seminary, 2015.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary (Victor Books, 1989).

A New Person

So they arrived at the other side of the lake, in the region of the Gerasenes. When Jesus climbed out of the boat, a man possessed by an evil (unclean, impure) spirit came out from a cemetery to meet Him. This man lived among the burial caves (tombs) and could no longer be restrained, even with a chain. Whenever he was put into chains and shackles — as he often was — he snapped the chains from his wrists and smashed the shackles. No one was strong enough to subdue him. Day and night he wandered among the burial caves and in the hills, howling and cutting himself with sharp stones. Mark 5:1-5 (NLT)

Mark 4:35-5:43 records four miracles that answer the question asked at Mark 4:41: “Who is this Man?” These four miracles demonstrate Jesus’ sovereignty and absolute power over nature (Mark 4:35-41), evil spirits (Mark 5:1-20), physical sickness (Mark 5:21-34), and death (Mark 5:35-43). Each of these miracles reveal Jesus as the all-powerful and sovereign Son of God and Messiah (Matthew 1:21-23; see also Mark 1:1).

Mark 5 continues Jesus’ Galilean ministry, located in northern Israel. Mark 5:1-20 shows Jesus now in the Gerasenes region (see also Matthew 8:28-34; Luke 8:26-39). Evil spirits inhabited the Gerasenes region (Mark 5:1-2, 10). Jesus goes to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (Mark 5:1) as Jesus’ Galilean ministry is a series of boat trips across the Sea of Galilee (Mark 4:1). As Jesus gets out of the boat, a hopeless man meets Jesus and this man is probably the most hopeless man that Jesus’ meets. This man had many evil (unclean, impure) spirits living within him (Mark 5:9) and he dwelled among the tombs (Mark 5:2-3). In other words, this man was a living dead man and defiled (unclean) because he lived among corpses (Mark 5:3). Jews would consider this man permanently unclean since he lived among corpses (tombs) (see Leviticus 22:4; Numbers 5:2; Numbers 9:6-7, 11; Numbers 19:11-13, 22; Haggai 2:13). However, Jesus willingly entered this unclean place to rescue souls for God’s Kingdom. Moreover, this man had been chained and shackled (Mark 5:4). The man’s family chained him not for punishment but to stop him from hurting himself (Mark 5:3-4). The man had an unusual strength to break the chains and no one could “tame” him (Mark 5:3-4). But, Jesus’ power and authority was stronger (see Mark 5:6-13). Also, this man was treated like an animal! Even more, the man was probably suicidal because he was constantly cutting himself on rocks (Mark 5:5). This man was hopeless and everyone had given up on him and no Jew would come near this land.

When Jesus was still some distance away, the man saw Him, ran to meet Him, and bowed low before Him. With a shriek, he screamed, “Why are You interfering with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? In the Name of God, I beg you, do not torture me!” For Jesus had already said to the spirit, “Come out of the man, you evil spirit.” Mark 5:6-8 (NLT)

Then, this man sees Jesus! Jesus’ coming provided the man hope. Seeing Jesus, the man ran to Jesus, fell before Him, and worshipped Him (Mark 5:6). The unclean spirit shriek, screamed, and tried to resist Jesus’ authority and power (Mark 5:7). Amazingly, the man identified Jesus as “Son of the Most High God” (Mark 5:7; see also Matthew 8:29). The spirit world knew Jesus’ true identity as the Son of God (Matthew 4:3; Mark 3:11; Luke 4:33-34, 41). Evil spirits were speaking through the man’s voice as the man’s life was controlled by demons (Mark 5:8-10). With all-authority, Jesus speaks and said to the unclean spirits: “Come out of the man, you evil spirit” (Mark 5:8; see also Mark 1:23-26, 34).

Then Jesus demanded, “What is your name?” And he replied, “My name is Legion, because there are many of us inside this man.” Then the evil spirits begged Jesus again and again not to send them to some distant place. There happened to be a large herd of pigs feeding on the hillside nearby. “Send us into those pigs,” the spirits begged. “Let us enter them.” So Jesus gave them permission. The evil spirits came out of the man and entered the pigs, and the entire herd of 2,000 pigs plunged down the steep hillside into the lake and drowned in the water. Mark 5:9-13 (NLT)

Then, Jesus demanded and said to the demon-possessed man, “What is your name?” (Mark 5:9, NLT). The man replied, “My name is Legion, because there are many of us inside this man” (Mark 5:9, 15). The name “Legion” was plural because this man was possessed with multiple demonic spirits that invaded and controlled him. Now, these evil spirits confronted Jesus. The evil spirits begged Jesus again and again not to send them into a different region (Mark 5:10). Amazingly, these evil powers in the presence of Jesus begged and pleaded with Jesus (Mark 5:10). As God incarnate, Jesus was in charge and the evil (unclean) spirits obeyed Him (Mark 5:10-13). Obviously, the Gerasenes region is Gentile territory because there is a herd of pigs that lived in Gerasenes (Mark 5:11-12). Begging Jesus, the demonic forces came out of the man and entered into the large herd of pigs feeding on the hillside nearby (Mark 5:11-12). Jesus gave the evil spirits permission to enter the pigs and the entire herd of 2,000 pigs plunged down the steep hillside into the lake and drowned in the water (Mark 5:13).

The herdsmen fled to the nearby town and the surrounding countryside, spreading the news as they ran. People rushed out to see what had happened. A crowd soon gathered around Jesus, and they saw the man who had been possessed by the legion of demons. He was sitting there fully clothed and perfectly sane, and they were all afraid. Then those who had seen what happened told the others about the demon-possessed man and the pigs. And the crowd began pleading with Jesus to go away and leave them alone. Mark 5:14-17 (NLT)

The keeper of the pigs (herdsmen) fled to the nearby town and the surrounding countryside, spreading the news about the demon-possessed man and the pigs (Mark 5:14, 15). People rushed out to see what had happened. Then, the people gathered around Jesus, and they saw the same man who had been possessed and controlled by the legion of demons fully clothed, perfectly sane, and in his right mind (Mark 5:15). The amazing difference between the former and the present condition of the man was a testimony of Jesus’ saving power (Mark 5:15-16). With his encounter with Jesus, this man was healed, changed, and a new person (see also Romans 6:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Revelation 21:4-5). The people were now afraid with fear and began pleading with Jesus to leave the region (Mark 5:15, 17). Fear and amazement were frequent responses to the mighty and miraculous acts of Jesus (e.g. see Mark 1:22, 27; Mark 4:41; Mark 6:50-51)

As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon possessed begged to go with Him. But Jesus said, “No, go home to your family, and tell them everything the Lord has done for you and how merciful He has been.” So the man started off to visit the Ten Towns of that region and began to proclaim the great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed at what he told them. Mark 5:18-20 (NLT)

As Jesus went to get back onto the boat, the man begged Jesus to go and be with Him (Mark 5:18). Unlike his neighbors (Mark 5:17), the man experienced firsthand God’s grace and mercy and he wanted to be with Jesus. This scene used a similar expression found at Mark 3:13-19 with the calling of the Twelve disciples by Jesus. To be one of the Twelve disciples means to “be with Jesus” or “be with Him” (Mark 3:14; see also Luke 8:35).  However, Jesus refused and said “No” to the healed man. Instead, Jesus told the man to go home to his family, relatives, and friends and tell them about the Lord’s grace and mercy (Mark 5:19; see also James 1:17). The normal understanding of the word “Lord” is God. Here, Jesus is clearly referring to Himself as God (Mark 5:19). This claim as Lord means that Jesus has the authority of God. Then, the healed man began to preach or proclaim publicly to goodness of Jesus in Decapolis, the region of the Ten Cities located southeast of the Sea of Galilee (Mark 5:20). The people marveled at the man’s preaching and amazed at the man’s deliverance by Jesus (Mark 5:20). The former demon-possessed man became a living example of Jesus' power! For the first time in Mark’s Gospel, a Gentile was the receiver of Jesus’ miraculous healing. This miracles proves that Jesus heals all people by faith in Him – Jews and non-Jews (Gentiles) (see also Mark 7:24-30).

Many people have wondered why the people asked Jesus to leave their region after the miraculous healing and deliverance of the demon-possessed man. Some have focused on the monetary loss of the pigs (property). Undoubtedly, the people feared more financial losses if Jesus stayed. Throughout history, people have always tended to value financial gain above needy people. In fact, most wars have been fought to protect monetary interests. People are continually being sacrificed to the god of money (Matthew 6:24). When God’s Kingdom comes, His Kingdom will interrupt people’s finances. The Kingdom is costly and disrupts economic and political structures. Sadly, the people in this story begged Jesus to depart from their regions because they were more concerned with money than saving souls from evil. However, humans are created in God's image and have eternal value (Genesis 1:27). Jesus’ miraculous healing reveals His power over the demonic world and His compassion for human life. The salvation of people is always more important than money! God the Father graciously sent His Son, Jesus to deliver us from the forces of evil and darkness and deliver us into God’s glorious Kingdom by faith and belief in Him (John 1:12-13; John 8:12; John 12:35-36, 44-46).

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ . . . . God made Him (Christ) who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (NIV)

References

NLT Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008).

Loyd, Melton, Ph.D., Professor of New Testament. Due West Campus: Erskine Theological Seminary, 2015.

Faith or Fear

As evening came, Jesus said to His disciples, "Let us cross to the other side of the lake." So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with His head on a cushion. The disciples woke Him up, shouting, "Teacher, don’t you care that we are going to drown?" When Jesus woke up, He rebuked the wind and said to the water, "Silence! Be still!" Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then He asked them, "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?" The disciples were terrified. "Who is this Man?" they asked each other. "Even the wind and waves obey Him!" Mark 4:35-41 (NLT)

After teaching varies parables to the crowds about God’s Kingdom (Mark 4:3-32), Jesus and His disciples (followers) crossed to the other side of the lake (Mark 4:35). This lake was the Sea of Galilee. Jesus was temporarily leaving the territory of Galilee to go over to the Gentile (non-Jewish) territory of Gerasenes (Mark 5:1). Soon, a violent and unexpected storm arose with high waves breaking into the boat until the boat was nearly full of water and about to sink (Mark 4:37). Jesus’ disciples panicked (Luke 4:37-38). However, Jesus was sound asleep at the back of the boat with His head on a cushion (Mark 4:38). Jesus was weary from a long day of teaching about God’s Kingdom (Mark 4:1-32). The disciples were afraid of the storm, but Jesus was not! Jesus kept on sleeping, confident that God the Father was completely in control (Psalm 4:8; Psalm 89:8-9; see also Romans 8:28). 

Frantically, the disciples awakened Jesus, shouting, “Teacher, do You not even care that we are all about to drown?” (Mark 4:38). The disciples panicked and were filled with fear (cowardliness) because several of Jesus’ disciples were expert fishermen and they knew the dangers of these storms on the Galilean Sea (Mark 1:16-20; see also Matthew 8:26; Mark 4:40-41). Jesus seemed unworried about the storm. When Jesus woke up, He rebuked (commanded) the winds and said to the sea, “Peace, be still!” (Mark 4:39, NKJV). Suddenly, the winds stopped, and there was a great calm on the waters (Mark 4:39; Luke 8:24; see also Psalm 65:5-7; Psalm 107:29). Then, Jesus asked His disciples (followers) asked two important questions: “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” (Mark 4:40; see also Matthew 6:30-34; Matthew 8:26; Matthew 14:31; Luke 8:25; Luke 12:28-31; James 1:5-8). Jesus was amazed and shocked that His disciples had not yet developed faith (confidence or trust) in Him, and they were acting like cowards (see also Revelation 21:6-8). At this point, the disciples clearly did not understand Jesus’ full identity. Jesus’ disciples said among themselves, “Who is this Man?” because even the winds and waves submit and obey His authority (Matthew 8:27; Mark 4:41; Luke 8:25). 

Mark 4:35-41 reveals a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus’ disciples (see also Matthew 8:18, 23-27 and Luke 8:22-25). With this miracle, Jesus sought to establish and increase His disciples’ faith in Him as God’s divine Son and to trust Him for salvation. This miracle was just another display of Jesus’ authority and power as God’s Kingdom was present in His life. Jesus performed one of His greatest miracles – He “rebuked the winds and the waves. And there was a great calm” (Matthew 8:26). Overwhelmed, Jesus’ disciples shouted, “What kind of Man is this?” (Matthew 8:27). These disciples, who would eventually be called apostles (Mark 3:13-19; Mark 6:30), did not fully understand Jesus’ identity at this point.  Jesus’ disciples had been with Him during His public ministry. These disciples heard Jesus’ wise teaching and witnessed firsthand His powers and miraculous healings and casting out evil spirits. Now they discovered that Jesus even had authority over nature – winds and the seas. Yet, Jesus’ disciples did not fully understand that Jesus, the Jewish carpenter from Nazareth, was indeed the Son of God (Mark 1:1; Mark 15:39), the Messiah (Christ) (Mark 8:29-30; John 20:31), God incarnate (Isaiah 40:3; Matthew 1:23; John 1:1-5, 14; Colossians 1:15-20; Colossians 2:9), Lord (Romans 10:9), the Word of God (1 John 1:1; Revelation 19:13), the Seed that defeats evil (Genesis 3:15); King (Matthew 2:2; John 1:49) and Savior (Matthew 1:21). Jesus is God incarnate (in the flesh) and the fullness of God dwelt within Him (John 1:1-5, 14; Colossians 1:19; Colossians 2:9; Titus 2:13). Moreover, Jesus is not just a Messenger from God but Jesus is God (John 1:1; John 20:28; Romans 9:5). As God, Jesus controls the forces and powers of nature, suffering, sickness, and death. Jesus has the power to calm the raging storm at sea and in our hearts. 

Apostle Paul:  "Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again — rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Do not worry (anxious) about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live (trust) in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4-7 (NLT)

Think about the storms in your life — the situations that cause great worry and anxiety. We can choose between faith and fear (Mark 4:35-41; see also Matthew 6:25-33: Luke 12:22-31). Essentially, everyone has two options: self-centered worry and panicked or to resist fear by praying and putting our wholehearted trust in God (Philippians 4:6-7; see also 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, 23). At Philippians 4:4-7, Apostle Paul continued Jesus’ teaching on worrying (Matthew 6:25-33; Luke 12:22-31). When you feel like worrying, Apostle Paul encouraged us to tell our problems and needs to God in prayer and then trust God to care for us. Our sovereign and all-powerful God has promised never to leave us or to forsake us (Hebrews 13:5-6; see also Joshua 1:9). When we are afraid, we can trust God and rest quietly in Him (see Psalm 56:3). God is our salvation, and we can always trust in Him and never need be afraid (Isaiah 12:2). As the all-powerful God incarnate, Jesus also cares about all our problems and needs and we can always trust Him regardless of the challenge (Mark 4:35-41). Jesus is the sovereign God of every situation and the Conqueror of every enemy. He is willing to help if we only ask, trust Him and obey His orders. Jesus provides His peace in the middle of any storm (Matthew 23:27). 

In His final teaching to His disciples before His sacrificial death, Jesus told His disciples (followers) “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust in Me” (John 14:1, NCV). The God of the Old Testament (Yahweh) fully dwelt in His Son, Jesus of the New Testament (John 14:9-11, 20; John 17:11, 14, 21; see also Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:1-4). No one can come to God the Father except through His Son Jesus because Jesus is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, NLT).  By uniting our lives with Jesus, we are united with God the Father (John 17:22-24; see also Romans 5:10-11; 2 Corinthians 5:18-21). Jesus promised His disciples (followers) that if we love Him and obey His teachings, He will ask His Father and God the Father will send the Holy Spirit, who will never leave us (John 14:15-16, 23). The Holy Spirit is God the Father and Jesus’ presence living within Jesus’ disciples who love and obeys Jesus’ teaching (John 14:21, 23; John 15:10). Jesus’ teaching comes directly from God the Father (John 14:24; John 17:8). The Holy Spirit will teach Jesus’ disciples truth (John 14:26). Even more through the Holy Spirit, Jesus gives His disciples the gift of peace of mind and heart (John 14:27; see also Romans 8:15; Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Timothy 1:7). “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid (fearful), but gives us power, love and self-discipline” (2 Timothy 1:7, NIV2011). God is not a God of disorder but a God of peace (1 Corinthians 14:33). So, Jesus told His disciples do not be troubled or afraid (John 14:27; John 16:33; Romans 5:1; Philippians 4:7; Colossians 3:15) but remain (live in) and trust Him (John 15:5). Jesus said to His disciples that “here on earth we will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NLT) and God the Father will keep us safe from evil and the evil one (John 17:15).

That Sunday evening the disciples were meeting behind locked doors because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders. Suddenly, Jesus was standing there among them! "Peace be with you," He said. As He spoke, He showed them the wounds in His hands and His side. They were filled with joy when they saw the Lord! 21 Again He said, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent Me, so I am sending you." Then He breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit. . . ." Eight days later the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. The doors were locked, but suddenly, as before, Jesus was standing among them. "Peace be with you," He said. Then He said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and look at My hands. Put your hand into the wound in My side. Do not be faithless any longer. Believe!" John 20:19-22, 26-27 (NLT)

Even after Jesus’ death, His disciples were still afraid. But Jesus’ first word to His frightened disciples was the traditional greeting, “shalom — peace!” Jesus could have easily criticized His disciples for their unfaithfulness and cowardice just before His arrest and crucifixion, but He did not. Jesus said “peace” to His disciples and calmed their fears. “Shalom” means “peace” and this peace is a precious word to the Jewish people. Shalom means much more than just the absence of war, hostility or distress but a total well-being and inner rest of spirit that comes with faith and fellowship with God and His Son, Jesus. In our relationship with Jesus, Jesus brings God’s peace – wholeness, completeness, health, security, joy, contentment even prosperity.  We receive God's wonderful peace by faith in His Son, Jesus and His gifting of the Holy Spirit (Romans 5). The Holy Spirit is the very presence of God the Father and Jesus the Son living within all faithful believers. By faith and obedience, we can receive God’s peace and power each day for victorious living. 

Evil does not care how many Bible truths we know as long as we do not obey and live out our faith each day. God wants us to hear AND obey God’s Word from our hearts. True faith is obeying and trusting God in spite of feelings and circumstances (see also James 2:14-26). Faith and fear cannot dwell together in the same heart. “Doing the will of God from the heart” is what God wants from His people (Ephesians 6:6). If we want to experience full God’s grace (favor), peace, and blessings, we must hear and obey God’s Word that was fully lived out in His Son, Jesus (Deuteronomy 8:1; Deuteronomy 11:8-9, 22-25; Joshua 1:5-11; Proverbs 3:1-8; Luke 8:21; John 15:10). 

At Mark 4:35-41, Jesus contrasts fear with faith and equates fear with no faith. Faith brings peace while unbelief brings fear. The medicine for a troubled heart is trusting in God and His Son, Jesus (John 14:1; see also Psalm 56:3-4, 10-11; Isaiah 26:3-4). Faith means trust in God’s helping power in crisis – a help that is both present and active in Jesus. Jesus is in constant control of every situation! Jesus is our Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6; see also Micah 5:5).

Jesus: "That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life . . . . Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? . . And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, He will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? So do not worry about these things, saying, What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear? These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need." Matthew 6:25, 27, 30-33 (NLT)

References

Disciple's Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible, 1988).

Life Application Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005).

Life Essentials Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2011).

Spirit Filled Life Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1991).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Loyd, Melton, Ph.D., Professor of New Testament. Due West Campus: Erskine Theological Seminary, 2015.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary (Victor Books, 1989).

Small Beginnings

²⁶ Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. ²⁷ Night and day, while he is asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. ²⁸ The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. ²⁹ And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.” Mark 4:26-29 (NLT)

In Mark chapter 4, Jesus teaches on the importance of seed (Mark 4:3-8, 14-20, 26-32). God’s Word is the seed (Mark 4:14; see also Luke 8:11). Jesus is the Word of God (John 1:1-5, 14, 18; 1 John 1:1). Also, Jesus is God’s last Word to humanity for He is the climax of God’s divine revelation to the world (Revelation 19:13). The Word of God is “living and powerful” (Hebrews 4:12; see also Romans 1:16-17) and able to bring new life (John 12:24; John 14:6).

Mark 4:26-29 is a parable unique to Mark’s Gospel and has no parable references in Matthew, Luke, or John’s Gospels. Only Mark records this parable. This parable is a Kingdom parable from Jesus and teaches the supernatural character of God’s Kingdom. The Kingdom of God was Jesus’ central concern (see Mark 1:14-15), and God’s sovereign reign was displayed through Jesus’ teaching, preaching, healing, and casting out evil spirits during His public ministry (Matthew 4:23-25; Acts 10:38). The Kingdom of God is like a whole scene of events of a farmer sowing a seed in a field. The farmer represents God’s servants or messengers who faithfully shares God’s Word with others (1 Corinthians 3:5-9) and the field or soil represents human hearts that hear God’s Word. After sowing God’s Word in the field, the farmer goes about his or her ordinary life (Mark 4:27). Then, the seeds miraculous sprout, grow and produce crops and no one knows how the wheat is produced (Mark 4:27-28). The farmer has no power to make the seed grow but only to plant the seed. In the end, God’s divine power causes the seed (God’s Word) to grow in the soil (people’s hearts) (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). God’s Word when genuinely sown into human hearts produces fruit sometimes slowly but always surely (see 1 Peter 1:23-25). God is at work in Jesus (John 14:11).

Mark 4:26-29 teaches that God calls His servants or messengers to faithfully share God’s Word (seed) with others (Matthew 28:16-20). Ultimately, God is sovereign and miraculously involved in each person’s heart to make His Word (seed) grow and produce fruit (Mark 4:26–29; 1 Corinthians 3:6-7). The Apostle Paul elaborated on Jesus’ parable at 1 Corinthians 3:7-9. Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God who causes the seed to grow (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). God’s servants or messengers have no power in themselves to save souls for God’s Kingdom. God’s Kingdom grows through God’s grace and the inner working of the Holy Spirit using God’s Word (Matthew 13:31-33).

The point of this parable is that God’s servants and messengers (disciples or sowers) work to cast the seed (God’s Word). However, the ultimate growth and results comes from the grace of God and God’s Holy Spirit. Sowers of God’s Word are not in charge of people’s hearts, nor can they change people’s hearts. All the sowers can do is faithfully and patiently cast the seed (God’s Word) and trust God for the growth (see James 5:7-8). In the parable of the sower, Jesus taught that much of the seed scattered would fall on unproductive soil (Mark 4:3-8, 14-20; see also Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; Luke 8:4-8, 11-15). This fact could discourage God’s servants and messengers. However, this parable reassured them “in due season we shall reap if we faint not” (1 Corinthians 3:8; see also Galatians 6:9-10). Followers of Jesus must understand that they do not cause the harvest but they must spread the seed (God’s Word)! 

Whereas the parable of the sower stresses the importance of proper soil for the growth of seed and the success of the harvest (Mark 4:3-8, 14-20; see also Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; Luke 8:4-8, 11-15), the parable of Mark 4:26-29 emphasizes the mysterious power of the seed. God’s Word is power (Hebrews 4:12) and active in accomplishing God’s purpose (see e.g., Isaiah 40:8; Isaiah 55:11; James 1:18; 1 Peter 1:23, 25). The author of Hebrews describes God’s Word not simply a collection of words. God’s Word is living, life-changing, and enduring that brings growth and wisdom within our hearts (soil) (Acts 6:7; Acts 12:24; Acts 19:20; 2 Timothy 3:15-17; see also Deuteronomy 4:6; Psalm 119:98-99). God’s Word was preached in verbal form, lived out in person by Jesus, and finally placed in stable, written form – the Holy Scriptures. God is also true and living (Jeremiah 10:10; 1 Thessalonians 1:9) and His living Kingdom increases through His Word (seed). Jesus is the incarnate Word of God (John 1:1-5, 14). God’s Word is alive and powerful and sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword to cut between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow and expose our innermost thoughts and desires (Hebrews 4:12). Everyone that hears AND obeys God’s Word is blessed (Luke 11:28; John 12:26) and overcomes evil (1 John 2:14).

³⁰ Jesus said, “How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it? ³¹ It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds, ³² but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade.” Mark 4:30-32 (NLT)

Mark 4:30-32 is the parable of the mustard seed. This parable is also a Kingdom parable from Jesus. These verses have parallel references at Matthew 13:31-32 and Luke 13:18-19. The mustard seed was the smallest seed of any plant cultivated in first-century Israel and was well-known for minuteness (Matthew 17:20). Though the mustard seed is small, this seed can produce a tree that grows to a height of six to ten feet. Jesus used this parable to show that God’s Kingdom has small beginnings with the planting of seed (God’s Word) by His servants but will grow and produce great results. The mustard seed begins small and insignificant but eventually produces a large plant with a glorious and grand ending. When God’s Word is planted in willing hearts, God’s Word produces new life and salvation through God’s Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17). God’s messengers and servants are to faithful take God’s Word to the world and watch God grow it!

Interestingly, some biblical commentaries noted that Jesus’ ministry seemed very fruitless and small at the beginning. Some argued that one of the criticisms Jesus would have received is how fruitless His ministry began. Jesus had great and miraculous powers of healing, teaching and casting out evil spirits (demons) during His public ministry (see e.g., Matthew 4:23-25; Mark 1:14-15, 21, 39). Yet during His pubic ministry on earth, Jesus was considered a small town itinerant (traveling) preacher. Jesus appeared as a Jewish common man to many people. During His public ministry, Jesus had not overthrown Rome. Instead, Jesus was accompanied by the Twelve apostles, women, and many outcasts (Luke 8:1-3; see also Matthew 27:55-56; Mark 15:40-41; Luke 23:49; Acts 1:13-15). Yet later, there were as many as 500 believers (1 Corinthians 15:6). Apostle Peter won 3,000 hearts at Pentecost; and throughout the Book of Acts, that number steadily increased (Acts 4:4; Acts 5:14; Acts 6:1, 7). One day, saints from every nation shall worship before His throne (Revelation 5:9).

Also, biblical commentaries argue that because of Jesus’ small beginnings, many of Jesus’ followers were probably becoming discouraged and downcast. Some biblical commentaries argue that Jesus used this parable at Mark 4:26-32 to encourage His followers of the greatness of God’s Kingdom. Unfortunately, many people rejected God’s Kingdom because the Kingdom was not dramatic enough for some people. The general expectation of the first century was that the Messiah would come with a triumphant arrival. The Jews believed the Messiah would be a great king and leader to free Israel from Roman oppression and restore Israel’s former glory. As the Christ (Messiah) and the Son of the living God (Mark 1:1; John 6:69), Jesus said His Kingdom was beginning quietly, like the tiny mustard seed that grows into an enormous tree. God is building a worldwide Kingdom through His Son Jesus. Our faith (belief) and obedience in God’s Son makes us a part of God’s family and His Kingdom (Matthew 12:48-50; Mark 3:34-35; John 1:12-13; John 15:14). The arrival of God’s Kingdom appears small and unimportant at first but will grow over all the earth. Although God’s work in Jesus currently is very small, apparently insignificant, and making little visible advancement, God’s Kingdom will eventually grow worldwide and have global impact. The day will come when God’s Kingdom will be unveiled and its true greatness and power will be seen by the whole world (Mark 4:30-32; see also Ezekiel 17:22-24; Revelation 11:15).

⁵ After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. ⁶ I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. ⁷ It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. ⁸ The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. ⁹ For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 (NLT)

References

Disciple's Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible, 1988).

King James Version Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1988).

Life Application Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005).

Life Essentials Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2011).

Ryrie Study Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Cabel, Ted. The Apologetics Study Bible: Understanding Why You Believe (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2012).

Loyd, Melton, Ph.D., Professor of New Testament. Due West Campus: Erskine Theological Seminary, 2015.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary (Victor Books, 1989).

Spreading Light (Jesus)

¹ Before anything else existed, there was Christ, with God. . . . ⁴ Eternal life is in Him, and this life gives light to all mankind. ⁵ His life is the light that shines through the darkness — and the darkness can never extinguish it. ^6-7 God sent John the Baptist as a witness to the fact that Jesus Christ is the true Light. . . . ¹⁴ And Christ became a human being and lived here on earth among us and was full of loving forgiveness and truth. And some of us have seen His glory — the glory of the only Son of the heavenly Father! John 1:1, 4-7, 14 (TLB)

Jesus Christ is the Light of the world and the radiance of God’s glory (John 1:4-7; John 9:5; John 12:46; Hebrews 1:3 see also Isaiah 9:2; Malachi 4:2; Luke 1:78-79; Luke 2:32; Revelation 21:23). God is Light and the source of all light (1 Timothy 6:16; James 1:17; 1 John 1:5; Revelation 22:5). He clothes Himself with light (Psalm 104:2). During the exodus from Egyptian slavery, God was the pillar of fire that lighted the way for the Israelites (Exodus 13:21; Exodus 14:19; Nehemiah 9:12). God’s light was displayed to Israel as His Shekinah glory in cloud and fire (Exodus 16:10; Exodus 19:18; Deuteronomy 1:33; see also 2 Chronicles 7:1). As God incarnate (human flesh), Jesus became the “Light of the world” (John 8:12; see also Matthew 17:2). Jesus is the Holy One of God, God in human flesh, and Lord of all (John 1:1; John 6:69; John 20:28; Acts 10:36). The Apostle Paul encountered the Light on the Road to Damascus (Acts 9:3, 5). As the Light of God, Jesus lights the way for life (John 1:4-7). Jesus is the wisdom of God that bring spiritual illumination (Matthew 13:54; Mark 6:2; 1 Corinthians 1:24, 30). He exemplifies all the treasures of the divine wisdom and the collective “thought” of God (Colossians 2:2-3).  

²¹ Then Jesus asked them, “Would anyone light a lamp and then put it under a basket or under a bed? Of course not! A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light will shine.” Mark 4:21 (NLT)

Jesus calls His followers (disciples) to reflect and spread Jesus’ Light as they too are the “light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16; Mark 4:21; John 8:12; John 12:35-36; 1 Peter 2:9) and members of God’s family (John 1:12-13; John 3:3-7). Sincere followers of Jesus are “children of light” (John 12:35-36; Ephesians 5:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:5). John the Baptist was a lamp that burned and gave light (John 5:35; see also Daniel 12:3; 2 Peter 1:19). At the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus expected His followers as members of God’s family and Kingdom to shine their light in the world with good deed so the world will praise God in heaven (Matthew 5:14-16; see also Proverbs 4:18). Our good deeds are not to be done in a public way for one’s own honor and own praise (Matthew 6:1) but for God’s glory alone (1 Corinthians 10:31). This light is to be characterized by moral purity, patience, truth, holiness, and peacefulness (Ephesians 5:3-7), so that we will “shine like stars” in a dark and depraved world (Philippians 2:15).

¹⁴ “You are the light of the world — like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. ¹⁵ No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. ¹⁶ In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

We are saved and receive eternal life through our faith, acceptance, and belief in God’s only begotten Son, Jesus Christ – the King of Israel (John 1:12-13, 49; John 3:16; Ephesians 2:8-9). Through our faith in Jesus as God’s Son, Jesus brings new life (John 1:4-5; 2 Corinthians 5:17); spiritual re-birth through the Holy Spirit (John 1:33-34; John 3:3-7); a clean heart (Acts 15:9); and heart peace within (Romans 5:1). God graciously brings new life and spiritual rebirth so we can shine the Light of Jesus in the world with good deeds and good work (Ephesians 2:10). God does not save Jesus’ followers by good work but He definitely brings them new birth and His Holy Spirit to do good works and good deeds in the world (Matthew 5:14-16). To “work out” our “salvation” (Philippians 2:12) does not mean to work for our salvation because we are saved “by grace through faith” (Ephesians 2:8-9). However, Jesus’ followers are “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Ephesians 2:10) and to shine Jesus’ good Light in the world (Matthew 5:14-16). Our salvation involves the double work of redeeming us from guilt and judgment (Mark 10:45; Romans 3:24) and of producing moral purity and helpful service to others (Titus 2:14). God is concerned about the life-styles of His people and He looks for obedience and active doing of good (Titus 3:1, 8, 14; 1 Peter 2:12-15). God accepts EVERYONE who loves Him and does what is right (Acts 10:35).

As Jesus followers, we are to reflect Jesus’ command of loving one another (John 13:34-35; John 15:12; see also Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:34-40; Mark 12:31; Luke 10:27; Romans 13:8-10; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; Galatians 5:14; James 2:8). We are to be patient, fair, always hopeful, truthful, faithful and kind to others and not jealous, boastful, vengeful, selfish, proud, irritable or rude (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Our goodness is “love in action” (Galatians 5:6, 14). Even more, our love for others shine “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14-16) and is the distinguishing mark of Jesus’ followers (John 13:35; see also 1 John 3:23; 1 John 4:7-8, 11-12, 19-21).

²³ Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” ²⁴ Then He added, “Pay close attention to what you hear. The closer you listen, the more understanding you will be given — and you will receive even more. ²⁵ To those who listen to My teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.” Mark 4:23-25 (NLT)

In order to receive Jesus’ Light, Jesus’ followers must also receive and obey His teaching (Mark 4:24-25). Jesus is the Word of God and God’s last Word to humanity because Jesus is the climax of God’s divine revelation (John 1:1-5, 14, 18; 1 John 1:1; Revelation 19:13). The more we hear and obey the Word of God, the better we are able to spread Jesus’ Light to others (Luke 8:16-18). As we hear and obey God’s Word, we will sharpen our vision and increase our understanding and truth (James 1:22-25). Those who respond God’s Word as truth receive more truth (Mark 4:25).

¹⁸ “There is no judgment against anyone who believes in Him. But anyone who does not believe in Him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son. ¹⁹ And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s Light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the Light, for their actions were evil. ²⁰ All who do evil hate the Light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed. ²¹ But those who do what is right come to the Light so others can see that they are doing what God wants.” John 3:18-21 (NLT)

Many people do not want their dark lives exposed to God's Light because they are afraid of what will be revealed. However, there is no sense trying to hide anything from God because God will one day reveal all things (Jeremiah 16:17, Jeremiah 23:24; Hebrews 4:13). All things that are now hidden will someday come to light (Mark 4:22).  As the Source of light, God exposes evil and reveals all hypocrisy (Luke 8:17; see also Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2; Romans 2:16; Hebrews 4:13). “For everything that is hidden will eventually be brought into the open, and every secret will be brought to light” (Mark 4:22, NLT). The light reveals the truth and exposes the true character of things. This explains why some people stay clear of the church and the Bible. God's light reveals everyone’s true character.

¹⁶ “No one lights a lamp and then covers it with a bowl or hides it under a bed. A lamp is placed on a stand, where its light can be seen by all who enter the house. ¹⁷ For all that is secret will eventually be brought into the open, and everything that is concealed will be brought to light and made known to all. ¹⁸ So pay attention to how you hear. To those who listen to My teaching, more understanding will be given. But for those who are not listening, even what they think they understand will be taken away from them.” Luke 8:16-18 (NLT)

Followers of Jesus are to be a beacon of light to the world (Luke 8:16). Although Jesus couched much of His teaching in parables (Matthew 13:34-35), He intended His followers (disciples) to make His truths known as widely as possible (Acts 1:8). When the good light of Jesus illuminates us, Jesus’ followers are to spread the light with good deeds and to help others (Titus 2:14). Jesus’ teaching is a light that must be allowed to shine so that others may be helped and saved. Our task is not to please ourselves, but to proclaim God's message (Matthew 28:18-20). A believer’s life will have influence, whether good or bad. Jesus commanded His disciples to be like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14-16). The good Light of Jesus should shine forth like the light of a lamp on a stand in such a way that God will get the glory for the good deeds in our lives.

Apostle Paul:  ⁸ For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light ⁹ (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) ¹⁰ and find out what pleases the Lord. ¹¹ Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. ¹² For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. ¹³ But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, ¹⁴ for it is light that makes everything visible. Ephesians 5:8-14 (NIV)

Followers of Jesus are the light (Ephesians 5:7-14). The Apostle Paul warns his readers to “walk as children of light” and flee darkness (Ephesians 5:8; see also 2 Corinthians 6:14-17). Our good light must also produce or grow fruit of all goodness, love, truth, patience, mercy, compassion, forgiveness, righteousness and truth in our daily lives (Ephesians 5:9; see also John 3:20-21; Galatians 5:22-23). By our good character and conduct, we bring God’s light into a dark world (Romans 13:12-14). It is not enough simply to expose sin but Jesus’ followers must also bear good fruit and good light (Ephesians 5:8). As children of light, our actions should reflect our faith, morality, truth and goodness to others (Matthew 5:15-16; Colossians 1:12-14). Followers of Jesus are to wear armor of light, not the deeds of darkness (Romans 13:12). We are to flee the darkness of orgies, drunkenness, sexual immorality, quarreling and jealousy (Romans 13:13) and ACT LIKE JESUS (Romans 13:14)!   

⁵ This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all. ⁶ So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. ⁷ But if we are living in the light, as God is in the Light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:5-7 (NLT)

References

Disciple's Study Bible ((Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 1988).

Life Application Study Bible (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005).

Life Essentials Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2011).

Ryrie Study Bible (Chicago, IL: Moody, 1995).

Zondervan NIV Study Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2008).

Elwell, Walter A. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Second Edition (Grand Rapids, MI:  Baker Book House Company, 2001).

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary (Victor Books, 1989).