In this section Jesus deals the some basic implications of being one of His followers.
Jesus deals with our need for acknowledgement (position) by calling us to be servants. He deals with our need for exclusivity by encouraging us to allow Him to work through others who are not like us. He deals with our carelessness in the way we do ministry by calling us to ruthless self-evaluation.
Is the Word regularly having a genuine impact in your life?
Mk 4:1-20
Initial observations:
In some ways an understanding of this parable is basic to the understanding of the others (v. 13 "if you can't understand this one, how can you understand the others?"). Why? Because the word is the source of our growth in Christ.
The Word is a basic requirement for growth and productivity. Fruit in one's life results from how one interacts with the Word
It takes more than just "hearing" the Word. Response is also critical.
The proper response to God's Word cannot be limited to a one time experience. The word must have an on-going effect (bring forth fruit)
The Seed is the Word - Interesting analogy: something that seems insignificant in and of itself, but those who understand its power realize that it can be the source of amazing fruit. Is. 55.
The Soil is the hearts of men. Basic principle: the result of the hearing depends directly on the condition of the heart. The character of hearer determines the effect of the word.
We are "long in the way." Is the word of God still having a genuine "Monday to Friday" impact on our lives?
These are notes from my personal agenda. I have no agenda. Just a desire to ask questions and understand what Jesus would say if he were in our content.
Who is this Jesus anyway?
"Blessed Jesus, Meek and Mild" - turns the other cheek,
Jesus the reformer, deliberately antagonizing the status quo,
Section of the book of Mark in which Jesus almost deliberately challenges the traditions of existing religious leadership. I can't get away from the idea that Jesus was a trouble maker.
