The Gospel According to Mark, Chapter 2
[Note: Parenthetical numbers indicate the verses from which I derive my observations.]
- Jesus spoke the word in all settings, even at home (1-2).
- Do not compartmentalize the command to "preach the word" (2 Tim. 4:2).
- Jesus called even the most despised people (14).
- Do not be partial to anyone! Share the gospel with all types of people, even the ones you really do not want to.
- Jesus spent time with sinners, even eating with them, for the purpose of evangelism (15-17).
- Make, or at least do not shy away from, relationships with lost people. I should be intentional about making real relationships with lost people, but not just because. The whole point is to share Christ with them. There is a danger here: do not be deceived into thinking that the relationship itself is the end; it is the means to the end. There is no such thing as "friendship" or "lifestyle" evangelism; you must verbally proclaim the gospel if anyone will be saved. So make those relationships, but use them, even from early on, as an opportunity for calling men to follow Christ.
- Jesus was concerned for the well being of people and the spirit of the Law (25-27).
- I must not allow my own personal convictions, ideals, or ideas to cause a fellow Christian to stumble. I must not get so caught up in a legalistic system that there is no flexibility or that I miss the overall spirit and heart of Jesus, the giver of the Scripture. I must be more concerned about others' well being, not just getting them to do things my way or agree with me.
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