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).

A Fruitful Heart

Jesus:  ³ “Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seed. ⁴ As he scattered it across his field, some of the seed fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate it. ⁵ Other seed fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seed sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. ⁶ But the plant soon wilted under the hot sun, and since it did not have deep roots, it died. ⁷ Other seed fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants so they produced no grain. ⁸ Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they sprouted, grew, and produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! . . . ¹⁴ The farmer plants seed by taking God’s Word to others. ¹⁵ The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message, only to have Satan come at once and take it away. ¹⁶ The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. ¹⁷ But since they do not have deep roots, they do not last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s Word. ¹⁸ The seed that fell among the thorns represents others who hear God’s Word, ¹⁹ but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life, the lure of wealth, and the desire for other things, so no fruit is produced. ²⁰ And the seed that fell on good soil represents those who hear and accept God’s Word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” Mark 4:3-8, 14-20 (NLT)

Mark 4 consists of a group of parables that focus on the issue of planting and sowing seeds. The first parable concerns Jesus’ parable of the sower and the different responses people make to God’s Word (Mark 4:3-8, 14-20; see also Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; Luke 8:4-8, 11-15). In the parable of the sower, Jesus describes how the Kingdom of God begins in people’s lives. God’s Kingdom begins with the planting of seeds in the hearts of people (Matthew 13:19). God’s Word is the seed (Mark 4:14; Luke 8:11) and the sower is God’s servants or messengers who shares God’s Word with others (1 Corinthians 3:5-9). Jesus is the initial Sower of God’s Word. Jesus is the Word of God incarnate (human flesh) (John 1:1-5, 14). As the Word of God, Jesus is the sum of all that God wanted to say to humanity. After Jesus, the sower represents all servants and messengers who faithfully and genuinely plant and share God’s Word in the world (1 Corinthians 3:9). The various soils represent different kinds of hearts and their response to God’s Word from God’s servants. Essentially, the parable teaches there are four different heart responses to God’s Word: no response, emotional response, worldly response, and fruitful response. The most unusual feature of this parable is the abundant harvest of everyone that hears, accepts, and obeys God’s Word. Everyone who hears, accepts and obeys God’s Word with their whole heart produces an abundant harvest (spiritual fruit) – a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times (Mark 4:8, 20). The quantity of the harvest depends on the quality of the soil (heart). Jesus explained this parable so there is no doubt of the parable’s meaning (Mark 4:14-20).

First, the hard-hearted soil resists God’s Word and therefore Satan (the birds) snatches God’s Word away easily (Mark 4:4, 15). People who carelessly and recklessly open their hearts to all kinds of people and philosophies are in danger of developing hard hearts (see Proverbs 4:23; Hosea 10:12). Second, the shallow hearted soil is like thin soil on a rock (Mark 4:5-6, 16-17). Since there is no depth with thin soil, whatever is planted cannot last because it has no deep roots. These people represent the “emotional hearers” who joyfully and quickly accept God’s Word but they do not really understand the importance of faith and wholehearted obedience to God’s Word. Oftentimes, these emotional hearers accept God’s Word with great enthusiasm for several days or weeks; but when persecution, testing, and difficulties arise, the enthusiasm vanishes and they abandon God (see John 8:31-32). Third, the crowded hearted soil receives God’s Word. These hearers do not truly repent of their sins and wholeheartedly follow God (Mark 4:7, 18-19). Sadly, crowded heart hearers have too many different kinds of “seeds” growing in their hearts — worldly cares, a desire for riches, a lust for things. Thus, the good seed of God’s Word has no room to grow and flourish. In other words, people with crowded heart want to live and walk the “broad way” and the “narrow way” at the same time (Matthew 7:13-14). “Cares, riches, and the pleasures of this life” keep their soil from being fruitful. The person devoted to many pursuits cannot respond to Jesus' call to the Cross (Mark 8:34-38). Moreover, the people with the “crowded hearts” comes the closest to salvation, but they still do not bring forth good fruit or good deeds (Mark 4:19). This kind of belief is superficial and does not save. The book of James call this kind of hearts “dead” (James 2:17, 26) or “useless” (James 2:20). Lastly, the good soil represents true believers (Mark 4:8, 20). These people produce GOOD FRUIT of a changed life and a visible presence of God’s Holy Spirit (“love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control”) (Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Corinthians 5:17; James 2:14-26). Sadly, the other three soils (hearts) produced no fruit and they belong to people who have never been truly born again by God’s Holy Spirit.

God’s Kingdom begins with willing acceptance and obedience of God’s Word in our human hearts. Satan seeks to make us ignore or not listen to God's Word and divert us from faith and wholehearted obedience in God (Matthew 13:4). Faith and obedience in God’s Word always leads to salvation, blessings, and life (see Deuteronomy 11:1; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Proverbs 3:3-4; Proverbs 11:19; Proverbs 12:28; Matthew 7:13-14). Yet, the evil one seeks to steal, steal, and destroy (John 10:10).

^{1 . . .} Store My commands in your heart. ² If you do this, you will live many years (prolonged life), and your life will be satisfying (prosperous and peaceful). ³ Never let loyalty (faithfulness) and kindness (mercy) leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. ⁴ Then you will find favor (grace) with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation. ⁵ Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. ⁶ Seek His will (way) in all you do, and He will show you which path to take. ⁷ Do not be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear (honor) the Lord and turn away (shun) from evil. ⁸ Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones. Proverbs 3:1-8 (NLT)

A person who genuinely and sincerely repents of their sins and wholeheartedly turn to God found in Jesus by faith produce good fruit by God’s Holy Spirit (Mark 1:14-15; John 3:5-8; John 14:15-18; Acts 11:15-18; Galatians 4:4-7; Galatians 5:22-26; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:22-25). Through true repentance and obedience, there will always be evidence of good fruit (deeds) (Matthew 7:15-23; see also Isaiah 1:16-17; Jeremiah 4:22; Amos 5:24; Matthew 9:13; Matthew 12:7; Mark 12:33.). Good fruit and good works are the result of true salvation that come with a repentance of sin, submission to God, and OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD (e.g. see 1 Samuel 15:22-23; Psalm 40:6; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 7:16; Luke 9:23; see also Ephesians 2:8-10; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:13-15, 21-22; 2 Thessalonians 3:13; James 1:22-25). Even more, these kinds of people ALWAYS produce an abundant harvest in this life and the life to come (see Proverbs 3:1-8). God’s Word is “full of living power” to produce an abundant harvest (Hebrews 4:12, TLB). Unlike mere human words, God’s Word has life!  Unless there is good fruit in a person’s life, there is no saving faith in the heart. The proof of true salvation is spiritual fruit and good works (Matthew 7:16, 18, 20; Luke 6:43-49; see also Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 2:8-10). Moreover, not everyone produces the same amount of good fruit (Matthew 13:8), but all true believers will produce good fruit as evidence of their new life in Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:17). Furthermore, this faith-filled and obedient life leads to membership into God’s Kingdom and family (Matthew 12:48-50; Mark 3:34-35; Luke 8:19-21; John 1:12-13; John 3:3, 5; John 15:14).  Sadly, those who reject or disobey God’s Word do not produce life and good fruit from their hearts (see Proverbs 2:1; Matthew 12:34-35; Mark 7:21).

The entire Holy Bible teaches that God desires goodness, loving-kindness, mercy, forgiveness, holiness, truth, humility, unity, patience, compassion, gentleness, and fairness because these are the very characteristics of God Himself (e.g., see Hosea 6:6; Micah 6:6-8; Matthew 5:1-12; 1 Corinthians 13:1-13; 2 Corinthians 6:6-10; Ephesians 4:2, 32; Ephesians 5:9; Philippians 4:8-9; Colossians 3:12-15; 1 Peter 3:8-12). God is “compassionate and gracious . . .  slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion, and sin” (Exodus 34:6-7, NIV). God wants people to be kind, forgiving, and merciful (Galatians 5:22-23). Sadly, Jesus knew the crowds of people listening would not wholeheartedly and genuinely follow God. Worldly worries, materialistic pursuits of wealth, and the desire for other things cause many people to lose faith and turn from God’s Word. God wants everyone to strive to be like good soil in every area of our lives at all times (Mark 4:14-20). Jesus calls everyone to receive and obey God’s Word so we will bear good fruit for Him.

¹⁴ The farmer plants seed by taking God’s word to others. Mark 4:14 (NLT)

Although many will not respond positively, God’s messengers are to continually and faithfully communicate God’s Word (see Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:47-49; Acts 1:8). God promises to provide His grace to help His messengers (Mark 10:27). The parable of the sower encourages spiritual “sowers” — those who faithfully teach, preach, and lead others for God’s glory. Jesus taught that God’s messengers must faithfully “sow the seed” of God’s Word regardless of the results (Mark 4:15). God’s Word is good seed, yet not all the seeds will sprout (Luke 8:5-7). Even the plants that grew had varying yields – thirty, sixty, and hundred (Luke 8:8). As faithful sowers of God’s Word, God’s Holy Spirit uses our words to lead others to Him regardless of our listener’s responses (Mark 4:16-17), and regardless of those who remain immature and worldly (Mark 4:18-19). That some of the seed produced no crop was not the fault of God’s messengers or God’s Word. The yield depended on the condition of the soil (heart) where the God’s Word (seed) fell. God’s messengers have the responsibility to spread the seed (God's Word), but we should not give up (Hosea 10:12). God's Word will always have a mixed reception but God’s Word is powerful (Hebrew 4:12)!

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).

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

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

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).

Jesus’ Favorite Way of Teaching

Once again, Jesus began teaching by the lakeshore. A very large crowd soon gathered around Him, so He got into a boat. Then He sat in the boat while all the people remained on the shore. He taught them by telling many stories in the form of parables . . . . Mark 4:1-2 (NLT)

Jesus not only healed people, performed exorcisms, and worked miracles, but He also taught the people about God and God’s Kingdom. Jesus’ favorite way of teaching people about God was using parables (e.g., see Matthew 13:2-3; Luke 8:4; Mark 3:23; Mark 4:2, 10-11, 13, 33-34). Parables were the core of Jesus’ teaching. Jesus’ parables are among the best-known stories and illustrations in the world. Jesus explained God’s truths and God’s Kingdom, not by giving a lecture on theology, but by telling vivid stories using comparisons and illustrations that painted pictures that captured the crowd’s attention. Jesus turned people’s ears into eyes, sometimes with a still picture and then again with a moving picture (e.g.  Matthew 5:13; Matthew 7:6). Jesus’ parables ranged from brief sayings (e.g. Mark 3:22-27) to extended narratives (e.g. Mark 4:1-9, 13-20). In general, a parable is a comparison of two objects for the purpose of teaching, usually in the form of a story. Parables are found commonly in the Synoptic (“look-alike”) Gospels – Matthew, Mark, and Luke. John’s Gospel excludes Jesus’ parables but uses other figures of speech. Mark has the fewest parables while Matthew and Luke’s Gospels are filled with stories and illustrations.

Jesus used many similar stories and illustrations to teach the people as much as they could understand. In fact, in His public ministry He never taught without using parables, but afterward, when He was alone with His disciples, He explained everything to them. Mark 4:33-34 (NLT)

In His public ministry, Jesus never taught the people without using parables (e.g. see, Matthew 13:34; Mark 4:33-34; John 16:25; also see John 16:29). Parables were particularly effective and easy to remember. Jesus used familiar and everyday experiences from nature and human life to help the people understand God and God’s Kingdom. In other words, Jesus’ parable compared something familiar to something unfamiliar with illustrations or stories to help the people understand God and God’s Kingdom. Many people call a parable an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. Parables are much more than “an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.” Though Jesus’ parables were stories about everyday experiences, these parables pierced to the very heart of God’s truths. The Greek word for “parable” is a broad term and may refer to a simile (e.g., Matthew 10:16; Matthew 13:33), a metaphor (e.g., Mark 4:21), a proverb (e.g., Luke 4:23), a story (e.g., Luke 15:1-32), an allegory (e.g., John 10), etc. Because of the varied definitions of a parable, biblical scholars have counted 79, 71, 59, 39, 37, and 33 parables in the New Testament.

Jesus also used this illustration: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough.” Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, He never spoke to them without using such parables. This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: “I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world.” Matthew 13:33-35 (NLT)

Why did Jesus teach in parables? Jesus’ disciples asked Him that very question (Matthew 13:10; Luke 8:9). Jesus’ practice of teaching in parables fulfilled prophecy (Matthew13:33-35; see also Psalm 78:2). Parables were Jesus’ method to illustrate God’s truths, reveal God’s Kingdom, and awaken spiritual perception to those who accepted Him as God’s Son and Messiah. However at the same time, Jesus’ parables concealed God’s truths from others who rejected Him and were not willing to receive His message (Matthew 13:14-15; Mark 4:12; Mark 13:11). The careless listeners who were stubborn, hardhearted and rebellious would hear only a story without spiritual meaning (Matthew 11:25-30; see also Isaiah 6:9-10). However, the sincere listener with a desire to know God and God’s Kingdom would ponder the parable, submit God, and then begin to understand the spiritual lessons taught by Jesus.

Jesus is the only One who used parables in the New Testament. However, parables are not unique to Jesus as Jesus did not invent the parable. Parables are also located in the Old Testament (e.g., see 2 Samuel 12:1-4; Isaiah 5:1-7). Also, parables were recognized as a literary type before the time of Jesus in the writings of the Greeks concerning rhetoric. The famous writer Homer included 189 parables in The Illiad and 39 more in The Odyssey. Plato’s poetic speech was rich in parables interwoven into his speech. Furthermore, some of the illustrations of Socrates were parabolic. Aristotle recognized the place of parables in his writings.

Furthermore, Jewish rabbis used parables in their teaching. In fact, there are many rabbinic parables found in the Jewish Mishnah and the Talmud. Remarkably, most rabbinic parables are dated after Jesus’ life and death. Many biblical scholars believe Jesus’ use of parables influenced many later rabbinic parables. Prior to Jesus’ public ministry in the first century, there were not many rabbinic parables. Thus, many biblical scholars believe that that Jesus did not invent the parables, but His use of parables increased the use of parables with the Jewish rabbis.

Nonetheless, Jewish rabbinic parables differed from Jesus’ parables. Jewish rabbis typically used parables to illustrate or clarify some point of the Law or Torah. In essence, rabbinic parables were like sermon illustrations. The rabbis would make a point and illustrate with a parable. However, Jesus used parables, unlike rabbinic parables. Jesus’ parables were new revelations about God and God’s Kingdom. Jesus’ parables did not discuss issues of the Law. Parables were told by Jesus usually to make God’s truth more engaging and clear to those who were willing to hear (Luke 15:3).

Later, when Jesus was alone with the Twelve disciples and with the others who were gathered around, they asked Him what the parables meant. He replied, “You are permitted to understand the secret of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables for everything I say to outsiders, so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled: ‘When they see what I do, they will learn nothing. When they hear what I say, they will not understand. Otherwise, they will turn to Me and be forgiven.’” Mark 4:10-12 (NLT)

One of the most confusing passages in the Gospels comes at Mark 4:10-12 with Mark’s quotation of Isaiah 6:9-10.  Isaiah 6:9-10 is so important that this passage is quoted six times in the New Testament (see Matthew 13:13-15; Mark 4:12; Luke 8:10; John 12:40; Acts 28:25-28; Romans 11:8). A careful study of Jesus’ reply reveal that He used parables both to hide God’s truth and to reveal God’s truth (Matthew 13:11-17; Mark 4:11-12; Luke 8:10; see also Isaiah 6:9-10). Jesus spoke in parables because of the spiritual dullness of some people that rejected Him as God’s only begotten Son and the Messiah (see Matthew 13:13-14; Luke 8:4). Sadly, Jesus’ gracious works and teachings as God’s begotten Son and Messiah were intentionally rejected by many in unbelief (John 12:39-40). The Apostle Paul also faced hardened unbelief when preaching Jesus as Christ to others (e.g., see Acts 28:25-27). Continued rebellion and stubbornness toward God the Father, God the Son (Jesus) and God the Holy Spirit bring alienation and separation from God and God’s Kingdom (see Matthew 13:14-15; Mark 4:12; Luke 8:10; Romans 11:7-10, 25). God does not deliberately make sinners blind, deaf, and hardhearted. However, the more that people resist God's truths spoken through His Son Jesus, the less able they are to receive God's truth. Jesus came not to obscure God but to reveal God and God’s Kingdom to the world (John 1:1-5, 14). Jesus’ teaching makes God and God’s Kingdom known to those with responsive and open hearts towards Him. Acceptances of Jesus’ parables depended on the conditions of the hearer’s heart (Mark 4:13-20, 25). Everyone with obedient and loving hearts towards God responded positively to Jesus’ parables through the inward working of God’s Holy Spirit revealing God’s truths (John 14:15-17; John 15:26-27; see also James 1:22-25). To those with open hearts towards God and His Son Jesus received ears to hear and God’s truths by God’s Holy Spirit awakening and enlightening the hearer (see John 14:26; John 15:26-27; John 16:13). God’s Holy Spirit teaches and reminds us of Jesus' words (John 14:26; John 15:26).  When we commit ourselves to God found in Jesus Christ by faith, God enters into our heart in the Person of the Holy Spirit and reveals God’s truths – revelatory activity  (John 3:5-8; John 14:15-18; Acts 11:15-18; Galatians 4:4-7).

Jesus:  “If you love Me, obey My commandments. And I will ask (God) the Father, and He will give you another Advocate (Counselor, Helper), who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. . . . But when the Father sends the Advocate as My Representative — that is, the Holy Spirit — He will teach you everything . . . .” John 14:15-17, 26 (NLT)

References

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

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

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

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

Butler, Trent. Holman Bible Dictionary (Broadman & Holman Pub., 1991).

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

Douglas, JD. NIV Compact Dictionary of the Bible (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1989).

Green, Joel B. Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels (Downer Grove, IL: Intervarsity Press, 2013).

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

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

Doing Good Deeds and God’s Will

One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon He and His disciples could not even find time to eat. When His (Jesus) family heard what was happening, they tried to take Him away. “He is out of His mind,” they said. But the teachers of religious law who had arrived from Jerusalem said, “He’s possessed by Satan (Beelzebub), the prince of demons. That is where He gets the power to cast out demons.” Jesus called them over and responded with an illustration. “How can Satan cast out Satan?” He asked. “A kingdom divided by civil war will collapse. Similarly, a family splintered by feuding will fall apart. And if Satan is divided and fights against himself, how can he stand? He would never survive. Let Me illustrate this further. Who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man like Satan and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger — someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house.” Mark 3:20-27 (NLT)

Mark 3:20 and following contains two harsh complaints against Jesus. Members of Jesus’ family said He was “out of His mind” (Mark 3:21), while the religious leaders accused Jesus of being demon-possessed and being filled with an evil (unclean) spirit (Mark 3:21-22). This Scripture section begins once again with crowds of people gathering around Jesus. Jesus was so busy ministering to the needs of the people that He and His disciples could not even find time to eat (Mark 3:20). The Gospel writers noted Jesus was a very popular because He cared and provided for the people (e.g. see Matthew 4:23-25; Mark 3:7; Mark 6:34). Because of Jesus’ popularity with the crowds, Jesus would take time away from the crowds to rest and pray (see Mark 1:35; Mark 6:31; Luke 4:42). Doing God's work is very important, but Jesus recognized rest and prayer were essential to ministering (serving) the people.

When Jesus’ family heard about Jesus not eating and His busyness, they came to take Jesus away with them that He might eat and rest. Jesus’ family thought He was insane, out of His mind, or having a mental breakdown (Mark 3:21). Even more, Jesus’ family wanted to protect Jesus from the large crowds and the opposition from religious authorities (Mark 3:21-22). The Holy Scriptures teaches that Jesus had brothers and sisters (Mark 6:3). At first, Jesus’ brothers and sisters did not believe in Him or know His true identity as the Messiah (Christ) and God’s unique Son (John 7:1–5; Mark 1:1). At this point in the Gospels, Jesus’ family simply wanted to protect Him from the growing crowds and increasing religious opposition.

The religious authorities came from Jerusalem because they believed Jesus was possessed with an evil (unclean) spirit (see Matthew 12:24; Luke 11:15). In this Scripture, the religious leaders attributed Jesus’ healing, miracles, and casting out evil spirits to evil (unclean) spirits rather than to God’s Holy Spirit (Mark 3:22; see also Matthew 9:34; Matthew 12:24). Refusing to believe that Jesus came from God, the religious authorities said Jesus was in league with Satan. The religious authorities accused Jesus of receiving His powers to cast out evil spirits not from God’s Holy Spirit but from evil (unclean) spirits (Mark 3:22). The Holy Scripture makes reference to “Beelzebub” or “Beelzebul.” The terms literally mean “lord of the flies.” In some sources, Beelzebub is like Satan or one of Satan’s leaders. Jesus responded to the religious leaders’ ridiculous accusations with a parable. A parable compares one thing to another. Jesus said: “How can Satan cast out Satan. . . . A kingdom divided by civil war will collapse. Similarly, a family splintered by feuding will fall apart. And if Satan is divided and fights against himself, how can he stand? He would never survive” (Mark 3:23-26 NLT). In essence, Jesus said the religious leaders’ accusation against Him were illogical. Divided kingdoms fall (Mark 3:24); divided houses fall (Mark 3:25); therefore, Satan fighting against himself would lead to self-destruction (Mark 3:26; see also Matthew 12:25-26; Luke 11:17-18).

“Who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man like Satan and plunder his goods? Only Someone even stronger — Someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house.” Mark 3:27 (NLT)

With this statement at Mark 3:27, Jesus described His ministry. Jesus is stronger than all evil as He is the STRONGER MAN. God the Father sent His Son Jesus to defeat evil and release people from the burden and power of sin (Luke 11:21-22; see also Luke 4:18). Jesus’ ministry is not only teaching, preaching, and healing but also casting out evil from people’s lives (Matthew 4:23-25). Jesus is the Prince of Peace but He is also the Stronger Man by removing evil from people’s lives. Jesus has complete power and authority over evil and evil forces.  The only way for Jesus to establish God’s Kingdom on earth is to remove the kingdom of evil. Jesus’ ministry removes evil and sin from the world (Luke 11:20).

As mentioned at Mark 1:14-15, the Kingdom of God is the rule or reign of God. Jesus is the embodiment of God (see e.g., John 1:1-5, 14, 18; Romans 9:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Colossians 1:15; Colossians 2:9-10; Hebrews 1:3-4) and embodies the Kingdom of God (Luke 4:43). In other words, Jesus bears God’s Kingdom in His very Person. Jesus’ most visible manifestation of the Kingdom of God was His casting out of evil (unclean) spirits from people’s lives. So when Jesus casted out evil (unclean) spirits from a person, Jesus was bringing the Kingdom of God or the rule of God into a person’s life. In the Gospels, these evil (unclean) spirits being removed by Jesus often resisted (e.g., see Mark 1:26; Mark 5:7; Mark 9:20) but the rule of God eventually entered through Jesus’ authoritative command. Also, when the Kingdom of God dawns in the presence, the Kingdom always causes conflict by exposing and removing evil. Practically speaking, anytime the Kingdom of God appears in the present there will always be conflict because the rule of God comes with resistance.

Ultimately, Jesus bound the strongman and defeated all evil through His sacrificial death on the Cross at Calvary (e.g., see Romans 5:6; 1 Peter 2:24). When Jesus died for our sins, He destroyed evil (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Jesus’ public ministry removed and continues to remove people from the power of the strongman by healing, preaching and casting out demons (e.g., see Matthew 1:21; Galatians 1:4). Finally, Jesus bound the strongman by giving His life on the Cross as a ransom to save the world from sin (Matthew 20:28; John 1:29; Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:2). Jesus is the ending of old history by beginning God’s visible rule to earth (2 Corinthians 5:17). God’s Kingdom is here and now but God’s Kingdom appears unexpected forms and in the normal ordinary life. Eventually all evil will be constrained forever and evil will no longer roam the earth (Revelation 20:10).

“I tell you the truth, all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven. This is a sin with eternal consequences.” He told them this because they were saying, “He’s possessed by an evil spirit.” Mark 3:28-30 (NLT)

Then, Jesus gives a statement about the Holy Spirit and the unpardonable sin (Mark 3:28-30). Jesus said all sin and blasphemy can be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes (curses) the Holy Spirit will never be forgiven (Mark 3:29). In Mark 3:28-30, Jesus defines the unpardonable sin as crediting to Satan (Beelzebub) Jesus’ authenticating miracles, teaching, and healing done in the power of God’s Holy Spirit (see also Matthew 12:24, 28, 31-32; Luke 12:10). According Jewish scribes, blasphemy involved direct and explicit abuse and misuse of God’s Name (Exodus 20:7; Deuteronomy 5:11). As Jesus taught, all sin can and will be forgiven when there is repentance (Mark 3:28; see also Luke 13:3, 5). Even blasphemy, or profaning God’s Name in some way, can be forgiven when God’s forgiveness is sincerely sought (1 John 1:9; see also Matthew 4:17; Acts 2:38). However, blaspheming the Holy Spirit has eternal consequences (Luke 12:10). For the religious authorities to allege that Jesus was possessed by evil spirit was the worst kind of blasphemy (Mark 3:22). Anytime a person attributes a work of God through His Holy Spirit to evil or evil spirits, they are blaspheming or cursing the Holy Spirit. Thus, the unpardonable sin is the deliberate refusal to believe that Jesus came from the true and living God and God’s Holy Spirit dwelt in Jesus (see Hebrews 10:26-31).

The Holy Spirit brings God’s salvation and new life through faith and obedience in Jesus, God’s unique Son (see e.g., John 3:5-8; John 14:15-18; Acts 11:15-18; Galatians 4:4-7; Galatians 5:22-26; Titus 3:5; 1 Peter 1:22-25). Jesus is the “Way, the Truth and the Life and no way can come to the true and living God without faith and obedience in Jesus (John 14:6; see also Acts 4:8-12; Hebrews 10:19-20). Anyone who rejects Jesus and His good works through the indwelling of God’s Holy Spirit, then that person is also rejecting God. Rejecting Jesus – God’s only solution for our sin sickness and eternal life – is the ultimate unpardonable sin. Jesus is the only way to forgiveness, peace and reconciliation with the true and living God (Acts 10:43; Romans 5:1-5; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21). To refuse to follow Jesus is to choose to follow evil and eternal damnation (Hebrews 10:26-31).

Then Jesus’ mother and brothers (and sisters) came to see Him. They stood outside and sent word for Him to come out and talk with them. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and Your brothers are outside asking for You.” Jesus replied, “Who is My mother? Who are My brothers?” Then He looked at those around Him and said, “Look, these are My mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is My brother and sister and mother.” Mark 3:31-35 (NLT)

Jesus’ mother, brothers and sisters came to Jesus to take Him home (Mark 3:31; see also Matthew 12:46-50). This is a replay of Mark 3:20-21. Again, Jesus’ family is concerned for Jesus’ safety and well-being. The crowds are forcing their way to Jesus and the religious authorities are plotting for ways to kill Him (see e.g., Mark 3:6; Luke 8:19-21). Despite all the commotion of the crowds and the religious leaders, Jesus made a radical statement about this real family. According to Jesus, His real family is “anyone who does God’s will” (Mark 3:35; see also Matthew 12:50; Luke 8:21; John 15:10, 14). Essentially, Jesus changed the relationship of our earthly family and reinterprets family as not human bloodline but according to those who accept Jesus as Savior and does God’s will (see also Matthew 7:21). When we trust Jesus as our Savior, God graciously provides us a new birth by His Holy Spirit and we enter into God's family (John 1:11-13; see also Romans 8:12-16; Ephesians 2:8-9). Through our faith and obedience in Jesus, we obtain God’s holy nature.

Some have mistakenly taken Jesus’ statement at Mark 3:31-35 as permission to neglect their families and family obligations. However, Jesus’ statement heightened our responsibility to care for our families and loved ones. Jesus did not abolish the Fifth Commandment to honor, respect, and care for one’s father and mother (see Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16). Instead, Jesus’ makes the Law a matter of motives and the heart. As faithful followers of Jesus, Jesus’ love compels us to love and care for our families and others in need (2 Corinthians 5:14-15; see also Proverbs 30:17; Ephesian 6:1-4; 1 Timothy 5:8). Through faith in Jesus, God sends the Holy Spirit to fill genuine believers with a new heart, new attitude, and new motive to continue Jesus’ good works and produce good fruit and good deeds (Acts 11:17; Galatians 5:22-23). Since the Day of Pentecost, God’s gift of the Holy Spirit is given to all believers who faithfully trust and obey Jesus to continue Jesus’ good deeds and work (Acts 2:1-4; Acts 10:45; Romans 8:9-11). If anyone wants the Holy Spirit, just ask God and God freely gives His Holy Spirit (Luke 11:13). However, even the closest human relationship must not stand between or supersede an individual’s primary loyalty to the Lord (Matthew 6:33; Matthew 16:24; Luke 11:23). Membership into God’s spiritual family, evidenced by trust and obedience to Jesus (John 1:12-13; Romans 8:14-16), is always more important than membership in our human families (Mark 10:30). We must all love God first with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strength (Matthew 6:33; Matthew 22:37; see also Deuteronomy 6:4-6). Yet membership in God’s family always leads to good deeds and loving others (e.g., see Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:31; Luke 10:27; John 13:34-35; John 15:12; Galatians 6:7-10; James 2:14-21).

References

Believer’s Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1995).

KJV Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1994).

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

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

Woman’s Study Bible (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1995).

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).

Jesus' Great Popularity

Jesus went out to the lake with His disciples and a large crowd followed Him. They came from all over Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, from east of the Jordan River, and even from as far north as Tyre and Sidon. The news about His miracles had spread far and wide, and vast numbers of people came to see Him. Jesus instructed His disciples to have a boat ready so the crowd would not crush Him. He had healed many people that day, so all the sick people eagerly pushed forward to touch Him. And whenever those possessed by evil spirits caught sight of Him, the spirits would throw them to the ground in front of Him shrieking, “You are the Son of God!” But Jesus sternly commanded the spirits not to reveal who He was. Mark 3:7-12 (NLT)

During His public ministry, Jesus took the world by storm. Jesus was very popular with the people (Luke 7:17). Everyone was talking about Jesus – this Man from Galilee (Matthew 9:26; Mark 1:28, 45; Luke 4:14-15, 37). Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews) were coming long distances to see and hear Jesus (Matthew 4:23-25). Some people were simply curious (e.g., Luke 23:8-12), some sought their healing (e.g., Mark 8:22-26), some enjoyed His teaching (Matthew 7:28-29; Mark 1:21-22), some wanted evidence to use against Him (e.g., Mark 11:27-33), and others wanted to know if Jesus truly was the Messiah (Christ) and the unique Son of God (e.g., Mark 14:61-62). Not everyone applauded Jesus’ fame and popularity (e.g., e.g., Mark 2:6-7, 16-17, 24; Mark 12:13). Many religious leaders rejected Jesus and plotted to kill Him (Mark 3:2, 5-6, 22). Yet, the news about Jesus’ miraculous healing of the sick (Mark 1:29-31), feedings of thousands (Mark 6:32-44; Mark 8:1-9), His great compassion and mercy (Mark 1:40-44), wised teaching (Matthew 5 – 7), and deliverance (Mark 5:1-20) spread far and wide, and vast numbers of people came to see Him (Matthew 12:15-21; Mark 3:7-12). Jesus’ fame spread from all over Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, from east of the Jordan River, and even from as far north as Tyre and Sidon (Mark 3:7-8). He was not only popular among the clean orthodox Jews from Judea and Jerusalem but Jesus was also popular among Gentiles (non-Jews) from Tyrea, Sidon, and Decapolis (Matthew 4:23-25). Thus, Jesus’ appeal was universal as He sought to unite and reconcile Jews and Gentiles and create the church (see Ephesians 2:11-22). Jesus did good deeds for others and lived a self-sacrificing life for the good of others (Acts 10:38; see also Matthew 5:16; Ephesians 2:10; Galatians 6:9-10). Most important, Jesus loved and cared for all people, even to the point of giving His life to save all them (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45; Galatians 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 1 John 3:16).

Jesus traveled throughout the region of Galilee, teaching in the synagogues and announcing the Good News about the Kingdom. And He healed every kind of disease and illness. News about Him spread as far as Syria, and people soon began bringing to Him all who were sick. And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon-possessed or epileptic or paralyzed — He healed them all. Large crowds followed Him wherever He went — people from Galilee, the Ten Towns (also called “Decapolis,” a league of ten Gentile cities east of the Sea of Galilee), Jerusalem, from all over Judea, and from east of the Jordan River. Matthew 4:23-25 (NLT)

Jesus became popular with people as He went healing, teaching, preaching and casting out demons – four basic characteristics of Jesus’ public ministry (Matthew 4:23-25). All of these characteristics were prepared in the summary statement of Mark 1:14-15. Mark 1:14-15 is basically a summary of Jesus’ ministry. The central message of Jesus is the Kingdom of God. The basic understanding of Kingdom of God is the rule of God. God was establishing His rule in human history through Jesus’ healing, teaching, preaching and casting out demons among the people. In Jesus dwelt the fullness of God and He was Good News to everyone (Acts 10:36, 38; Colossians 2:9-10).

This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel — that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. You know what happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee, after John began preaching his message of baptism. And you know that God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. Then Jesus went around doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. Acts 10:36-38 (NLT)

Jesus cared and did good for ALL PEOPLE – men, women, children, Jew, Gentile, poor, and wealthy, even the outcasts of society (Luke 2:30-32). Jesus loved and cared for lepers (people with skin disease) (Mark 1:40-44), notorious sinners, cheats, and the rejects (Mark 2:15-17).  Jesus accepted invitations to meals (Luke 19:1-10), blessed the children (Luke 18:15-17), and enjoyed social gatherings with a variety of people (e.g. Luke 14:1). Essentially, Jesus opened His life to ALL PEOPLE as the Savior of the world (John 4:42; 1 John 4:14). The people were desperate and they needed the presence of God dwelling fully within Jesus (Matthew 28:18; Colossian 1:19; Colossians 2:9-10). The true and living God was with the people with Jesus’ public ministry on earth (Matthew 1:21-23). As God incarnate (in the flesh), Jesus came revealing to the world just how much God loves and cares for people (e.g., see John 3:16; Ephesians 2:4-9). Jesus was uniting the clean and unclean worlds and transforming lives (Matthew 15:1-20; Mark 7:1-23).

When Jesus heard . . ., He told them, “Sick people need the doctor, not healthy ones! I have not come to tell good people to repent, but the bad ones.” Mark 2:17 (TLB)

Jesus came into the world to call sinners to repentance (Luke 19:10; see also 1 Timothy 1:15). Jesus does not consider sinner “rejects,” even though they had been excluded by the religious leaders. Instead, Jesus “came to seek and save those who are lost” (Luke 19:10 NLT). Jesus sees sinners as patients who needs a merciful Physician (Mark 2:17). Sin may be compared to sickness and Jesus provides the final and complete cure for our sin – the sinful heart (Jeremiah 17:9). Jesus graciously heals our sin sickness through the power of God’s Holy Spirit when we (1) acknowledge and confess our sins to God; (2) believe (trust) in Jesus as God’s unique Son and final sacrifice for sin; and (3) continual walk in obedience to God from the heart (John 15:9-17). Jesus freely saves all sinners (Luke 19:10) because He heals not just our physical sickness, but of spiritual sickness as well. There is no sin or problem too great or too small for Jesus to save.

Sadly, the crowds of people that followed Jesus did not truly give their lives in wholehearted obedience and faith in Him. Salvation from sin sickness involves much more than knowing about Jesus, or even having “good feelings” toward Jesus. Salvation is not a partial patching up of one's life but a whole new robe of righteousness graciously given by God through faith in His Son, Jesus (Isaiah 61:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21). Salvation means faith and obedience in Jesus. The closer one genuinely and wholeheartedly trust and obeys Jesus (James 2:14-17), the more the magnitude of one’s sins and the need for repentance (e.g., see Isaiah 6:5). Even more with our trust and obedience in Jesus, God graciously sends the power of His Holy Spirit to live within a believers’ heart (Ephesians 1:13-14; Titus 3:4-7). When you trust Jesus, you become part of a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Apostle Paul:  “When I think of all this, I fall to my knees and pray to the Father, the Creator of everything in heaven and on earth. I pray that from His glorious, unlimited resources He will empower you with inner strength through His Spirit. Then Christ will make His home in your hearts as you trust in Him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep His love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God. Now all glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to Him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen.” Ephesians 3:14-21 (NLT)

References

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

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).

“Who Is Jesus?” Mark’s Theological Portrait of Jesus