Sermon Central
-
Exposition Of Mark
Contributed by Christopher Benfield on Feb 8, 2017 (message contributor)
-
1. Jesus Christ Proclaimed
Contributed on Feb 8, 2017
Mark jumps right into the life and ministry of Jesus, proclaiming Him as the Son of God. The Gospel opens with John the Baptist, preaching a message of repentance in preparation for the coming of Christ. He too proclaimed His deity.
Jesus Christ Proclaimed Mark 1: 1-8 As we begin our study in Mark’s Gospel, it is interesting to note that he doesn’t offer any genealogy of Christ, the events surrounding His birth, or any details about His childhood. These would have been essential to reach a Jewish audience, but ...read more
-
2. The Submission Of The Servant
Contributed on Feb 15, 2017
Jesus came as the promised Messiah. His baptism signaled the beginning of His public ministry, which was followed by His triumph over temptation in the wilderness. We have victory through Him. He submitted to God's will to purchase our redemption.
The Submission of the Servant Mark 1: 9-15 Our text today reveals what most consider the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. Up until this point, even in the other Gospels, we have very little detail about the life of Jesus. From this moment on, Jesus will live His life in public ...read more
-
3. Assembling A Team - Mark 1:16-20
Contributed on Feb 22, 2017
As Jesus began His ministry, one of the first priorities was to assemble a team of men to serve alongside Him, men He could teach and equip to carry on the work of the church. The Lord is still seeking those who will follow Him in service.
Assembling a Team Mark 1: 16-20 Following His baptism, wilderness temptation, and public introduction in Galilee, Jesus continued His work here on earth. One of the first priorities was to assemble a team of men to walk with Him, whom He could teach and prepare for ministry. In our text ...read more
-
4. Authority In The Synagogue
Contributed on Mar 1, 2017
Jesus possesses great wisdom and authority regarding the Word, and He also possesses authority over all creation, humanity, and Satan himself. We face nothing our Lord cannot handle. His power and authority are unmatched and unlimited.
Authority in the Synagogue Mark 1: 21-28 As we continue moving through the Gospel of Mark, bear in mind that he is writing primarily to a Roman audience, seeking to portray Jesus as the Servant of Men. It is a dialogue that moves rapidly from one event to the next. The fast pace, with which ...read more
-
5. Glimpses Of Grace
Contributed on Mar 8, 2017
As Jesus ministered among men, He showed great love, grace, and compassion. Whether it was a private moment, or a very public moment, Jesus always responded in power and grace. He continues to meet our needs according to His gracious provision.
Glimpses of Grace Mark 1: 29-39 The rapid pace of events continues as we progress through Mark’s Gospel. Jesus and the disciples have left the synagogue and immediately entered the house of Simon Peter and Andrew, his brother. This would not be a leisurely afternoon. Upon arriving Jesus begins ...read more
-
6. A Life Changing Touch
Contributed on Mar 15, 2017
Leprosy was a dreaded disease, that led to a slow and painful death apart from divine healing. Jesus touched a leper, bringing healing and hope to his life. Leprosy pictures sin, and the saved have experienced such a touch from the Lord.
A Life Changing Touch Mark 1: 40-45 Today we read of one of the greatest miracles Jesus performed while here on earth. Leprosy was a dreaded disease without a known cure. Apart from a divine touch of God, those who contracted the disease faced a slow and painful death. There is only one other ...read more
-
7. Commotion In Capernaum
Contributed on Mar 29, 2017
Jesus returned to Capernaum, creating quite a stir. Word spread that He was in the house and a multitude gathered. We have the opportunity to meet with the Master at any time for any need. As we come by faith, He responds to our need.
Commotion in Capernaum Mark 2: 1-12 Following a season of ministry within the region of Galilee, Jesus has returned to Capernaum. Likely He is in the home of Simon Peter once again and it doesn’t take long for the crowds to begin gathering. The people in Capernaum were astonished at Jesus’ ...read more
-
8. Found Among Sinners
Contributed on Apr 5, 2017
Large crowds followed Jesus, coming where He was. He could've waited on them to come to Him, but often He went out, seeking them. Jesus was often found among those society rejected. We too must be willing to go where they are, seeking to reach them.
Found among Sinners Mark 2: 13-17 Following a season of ministry around the region of Galilee, Jesus had returned to Capernaum. His return created quite a stir, as multitudes arrived at Peter’s house, hoping to see Jesus. The palsied man was miraculously healed, and Jesus made a statement that ...read more
-
9. The Concern About Fasting
Contributed on Apr 12, 2017
What began as a confrontation regarding the practice of fasting, turned into a lesson regarding the doctrines of salvation. Christ is the only means of salvation. We must come to Him by grace, through faith, in Christ alone.
The Concern about Fasting Mark 2: 18-22 Our text today deals with a passage that is often misunderstood, and even overlooked by many. Some argue the passage is confusing, and they fail to see the great significance it reveals. Actually Jesus revealed great doctrinal truth in this conversation ...read more
-
10. Debate Over The Sabbath
Contributed on Apr 19, 2017
Jesus remained under attack from the Pharisees. Their demands for adherence to unbiblical standards clouded their vision and desire for Christ. Sadly these attitudes remain today. While we must adhere to doctrine, the Lord affords liberty through grace.
Debate over the Sabbath Mark 2: 23-28 Have you dealt with a season in life when others acted as if you could do nothing right? Surely we have experienced times when people criticized our efforts or challenged our motives. It seems as if everything we tried to accomplish was met with skepticism ...read more
-
11. Hated For Healing
Contributed on Apr 26, 2017
The opposition Jesus faced continued as He sought to reveal Himself as the Christ. Sadly they failed to see Him for who He really was. Many today deny and oppose the Gospel, but we must remain committed to share!
Hated for Healing Mark 3: 1-6 Our text today, once again finds Jesus in the synagogue on the Sabbath. While there He performed a great miracle. Unfortunately, this marvelous act of grace is overshadowed by the suspicion and animosity of the Pharisees. Our studies in chapter two revealed the ...read more
-
12. Desired By The People
Contributed on May 4, 2017
As Jesus' ministry grew in popularity, He often was forced to minister in the outlying areas to accommodate the crowds that gathered. The church needs to capture this passion and desire to be in the presence of the Lord.
Desired by the People Mark 3: 7-12 The rapid pace we have become accustomed to in Mark’s Gospel continues. Jesus seldom stays in one place for extended periods of time. He is continually on the move, ministering to different people, with varied needs, in different places. Such is the case ...read more
-
13. The Calling Of The Twelve
Contributed on May 10, 2017
Jesus called twelve men to serve as disciples. These men came from different backgrounds, varied occupations, and unique personalities. Jesus used ordinary men in extraordinary ways. That should challenge and encourage every believer.
The Calling of the Twelve Mark 3: 13-21 Surely you would agree that our study thus far has revealed a very busy, and often difficult time for Jesus. His ministry had gained momentum and immense popularity among the common people. Everywhere Jesus went, He was met with large crowds of people, ...read more
-
14. Attacked With False Accusation
Contributed on May 17, 2017
Have you ever been falsely accused? Maybe you have dealt with attack, even while trying to do a good deed. Jesus faced continual assaults from the adversary. We must lean on Him and press on, even in the face of opposition.
Attacked with False Accusation Mark 3: 22-30 Have you ever been falsely accused? Maybe you have been maliciously attacked while seeking to do a good deed for someone else. Likely we all have dealt with situations where our actions or motives have been misrepresented, and we were unnecessarily ...read more
-
15. Being In The Family
Contributed on May 24, 2017
Jesus asked a perplexing question that continues to cause confusion and uncertainty - who is my family? His focus was not to appease His brothers, but to please His Father. Our relationship with Christ, and devotion to Him, must exceed all else.
Being in the Family Mark 3: 31-35 Our text today reveals an encounter that was difficult for many to accept. Very likely the intentions of our Lord were misunderstood and misrepresented. Even today, as we consider these verses, this passage remains difficult for many to comprehend and accept. ...read more
-
16. Sowing And Harvest
Contributed on May 31, 2017
The heart must be prepared by the Spirit to receive the Word and yield a spiritual harvest. Jesus discussed the four types of soil and their impact on the Kingdom. One tiny seed sown in the right place has unbelievable potential.
Sowing and Harvest Mark 4: 1-20 Today we come to the first parable of Jesus, recorded in Mark’s gospel. This approach to teaching marks a definite shift in Jesus’ teaching style. We have discussed many accounts of the intense opposition Jesus faced while expounding truth. Along with the ...read more
-
17. Incapable, Yet Faithful
Contributed on Jun 28, 2017
When it comes to reaping a harvest, we are very limited in what we have control over. All we can do is plant the seed, share the Gospel, but the harvest rests in the Lord's hands. We are not called to produce life, but sow the seed that leads to life.
Incapable, yet Faithful Mark 4: 26-29 Our text today once again deals with sowing and harvest. While the sower must put forth sufficient effort in preparing the soil and sowing the seed, he has no control over the harvest. He can faithfully cultivate the ground, keeping the field free of weeds ...read more
-
18. Little Is Much
Contributed on Jul 5, 2017
Jesus used the tiny mustard seed as a comparison to the Kingdom of God. Although it was small, it had potential to become great. The church would start very small, but soon make a significant and eternal impact on humanity.
Little is Much Mark 4: 30-34 As we continue in Mark, we come to the fourth and final parable Jesus revealed to His disciples during this moment of teaching. Due to the resistance and unbelief of many, Jesus chose to teach primarily in parables. Those who genuinely sought truth would receive it, ...read more
-
19. The Master Of The Storm
Contributed on Jul 12, 2017
The disciples learned much about themselves and the Lord as they encountered a storm on the Sea of Galilee. Is it possible this storm was experienced for their benefit? I think so, and our storms can be opportunities for growth.
The Master of the Storm Mark 4: 35-41 Our text today reveals the end of a long day of teaching for our Lord. The evening had come, and night was soon approaching. While the disciples may have been unaware, Jesus had made the decision to journey to the other side of the Sea of Galilee that ...read more
-
20. From A Maniac To A Missionary
Contributed on Jul 19, 2017
When life seemed hopeless for a man dwelling among the tombs and possessed with demons, Jesus brought deliverance. There is nothing too great or too small for the Lord. He is more than able to meet any need we have.
From a Maniac to a Missionary Mark 5: 1-20 Our text follows the great miracle Jesus performed as He calmed the raging sea that arose while they sailed upon the Sea of Galilee. As we come to Chapter 5, we encounter several more miracles Jesus performed as He walked among men. We will find Him ...read more
-
21. Faith In The Midst Of Despair
Contributed on Jul 26, 2017
Jairus had a great need, and he met One greater than his need. When he faced an impossibility, Jesus provided life. We all have difficulties beyond our control. We have great needs, and we serve a great Christ for our needs.
Faith in the midst of Despair Mark 5: 21-24; 35-43 Following the great miracle in Gadara where the demonic was healed, Jesus made His way back across the Sea of Galilee. Most agree He returned to the region around Capernaum, the home-base for His ministry. As soon as Jesus steps out of the ...read more
-
22. The Touch Of Deliverance
Contributed on Aug 9, 2017
Jesus dealt with a woman who faced a desperate situation. She had faced an infirmity for twelve long years, and spent all she had in search of healing. When all she had left was faith, she discovered that she had all she needed.
The Touch of Deliverance Mark 5: 24-34 As we continue through Mark’s gospel, we come to a woman who faced great difficulty in life. This account takes place within the intense moments for Jairus as he waited for Jesus to make it to his house and heal his young daughter. As we examine the ...read more
-
23. Is Jesus Welcome Among Us?
Contributed on Aug 16, 2017
As Jesus returned to His hometown of Nazareth for the second time, His reception was any better than the first visit. He was not welcomed among His own people. This passage begs the question - is Jesus really wanted and welcome in the average church?
Is Jesus Welcome among Us? Mark 6: 1-6 I trust we have met tonight to worship the Lord. He is our Savior, the Master of our lives, and the Rock upon which the church is built. Ours isn’t a civic organization conducting community business, but a living organism concerned with heavenly business. ...read more
-
24. Separated And Sent To Serve
Contributed on Aug 23, 2017
As Jesus sent the twelve out to serve, He paired them according to His divine will and sent them out as He desired. They enjoyed His power and guidance. We too can rest in His power and provision as we seek to serve Him.
Separated and Sent to Serve Mark 6: 7-13 Today we come to what must have been an exciting and yet anxious time in the life of the disciples. They have been walking with Jesus for some time now, watching and learning from Him. While they have experienced much in their time with the Lord, Jesus ...read more
-
25. A Tragic Death
Contributed on Sep 6, 2017
This passage in Mark is one of great tragedy. It has been suggested there were actually two deaths revealed - the death of John the Baptist and the death of Herod's conscience.
A Tragic Death Mark 6: 14-29 Our text today deals with the horrific and tragic death of John the Baptist. Mark discussed the character of John and the tragic reason for his untimely death. The text actually deals with John’s death in retrospect, sometime after it had happened. John’s ...read more
-
26. A Compassionate Lord
Contributed on Sep 13, 2017
As Jesus surveyed the multitude, He saw them as sheep without a shepherd. He saw their need and spoke many things to them. I am glad He is aware of our need and has compassion toward us.
A Compassionate Lord Mark 6: 30-34 As we continue through the sixth chapter of Mark, I realized we have discussed much in varied settings within this chapter. Jesus dealt with rejection in His hometown of Nazareth, the disciples were sent out to minister in pairs of two, and we read of the ...read more
-
27. A Feast In The Desert
Contributed on Sep 20, 2017
Facing a great multitude, the disciples faced a problematic situation - how to handle their hunger and need. Jesus took what appeared to be insufficient and provided more than enough. We can bring our meager supply before Him and receive abundance.
A Feast in the Desert Mark 6: 35-44 Our text today is one of the most familiar accounts recorded in the gospels. In fact, this is the only miracle Jesus performed that is recorded in all four of the gospels. It is a story that many of us have heard all our lives. I suppose it resonated so well ...read more
-
28. Strengthened Through The Storm
Contributed on Oct 4, 2017
Following an exciting day of ministry that included feeding the 5,000, the disciples had a long night ahead. This would be a night filled with fear and doubt, but one that would end in wonder and amazement of faith.
Strengthened through the Storm Mark 6: 45-52 Our text follows another very busy day of ministry for Jesus and the disciples. He had just multiplied the bread and fish of a little boy’s lunch, and the disciples distributed the meal to several thousand people. The day is coming to an end, but ...read more
-
29. Blessings In Bethsaida
Contributed on Oct 11, 2017
As Jesus came into the area of Gennesaret, word quickly spread that He had arrived. The entire region sought Him, bringing the sick unto Him by faith. We need to spread the word about Jesus, and point others to Him.
Blessings in Bethsaida Mark 6: 53-56 Our text today immediately follows the miraculous, and yet frightening night the disciples had spent upon the sea. While we too would likely have responded much the same or worse, we cannot overlook their lack of faith. Jesus had commanded them to get into ...read more
-
30. Clean Hands And Defiled Hearts
Contributed on Oct 18, 2017
I fear too often we major on the minor things and neglect the greater aspects of our faith and service unto the Lord. Jesus confronted the hypocrisy and neglect of the Pharisees. This passage reveals similarities to the modern church.
Clean Hands and Defiled Hearts Mark 7: 1-23 It has been a while since we’ve heard from the scribes and Pharisees, but they were a continual nuisance to the Lord as He ministered among the people. It appears they followed Jesus as often as they could, seeking any means to accuse Him and ...read more