First in a series on the Gospel of Mark by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp
We begin a new sermon series in the Gospel of Mark. Mark begins with a bang!
The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God (Mark 1:1)
Mark gives us the real Jesus; the unadulterated, unfiltered version of Jesus. While the other Gospels begin at the birth of Jesus, Mark starts right at the point of Jesus’ ministry. Mark is an action Gospel. It’s written for the Romans who were all about “action,” and so it’s kind of a front page, newspaper edition. The word “immediately” appears over 40 times. Mark announces that the King has arrived in the person of Jesus, the Christ and the Son of God.
Why Were The Gospels Written?
- Eye witnesses gave early testimony to Christ
- Over time there was a need for a written record
- The Gospels, especially Mark give us the Real Jesus
Who is This Mark?
- John Mark is associated with Peter (Acts 12:12)
- A ministry companion of Barnabas Paul (Acts 12:25;13:5)
- Is known as the quitter and deserter (Acts 13:13)
- Graciously restored (Acts 15:37-40; 2 Timothy 4:11)
Mark Announces The King
- “Gospel” currency in Mark’s day
- Jesus is the King, the Messiah, the Son of God
- John’s fulfillment of Isaiah 40 is proof positive of Christ
- The Incarnation is the end to all philosophy and other religions
How Can This Be Believed?
Mark’s announcement of the Christ sounds impressive, but he was speaking to a much more primitive audience. They could believe something like the divine has become incarnate. But do we really expect a modem sophisticated person with all the intellectual and cultural barriers to believe such a thing?
Consider the real impact of the truth of the lncarnation
- It changes our basic motivation
- It is a tremendous source for suffering
- It is great motivation for peace and justice
