Austin Chinese Church

As we continue to learn what it means to follow Jesus, He continues to ask us stretching questions followed by answers to help us understand. In today's text, He uses a lamp, seeds, and a storm to teach us principles by which we can live and follow Him! Remember it's a growing process, not a destination or event.

As mentioned before, the book of Mark records Jesus' actions more than His words. In fact, 18 of Jesus' miracles are presented, but only 2 lengthy sections are devoted to His teachings. The familiar parable in today's text can sometimes be assumed to be focused on how people respond to the Gospel. However, this is really a lesson about how we respond...or don't respond...to God's words. It isn't about our ears, but our hearts.

Jesus faced a lot of opposition from others as He went about doing His Father’s work…but He did not stop or give up. Conspired against, betrayed, misunderstood and falsely accused...what a hard way to live! As we honestly evaluate our lives and how we live in the face of adversaries, opposition, and challenging circumstances, does it sometimes seem like it doesn’t take a whole lot for us to “check out,” or to be hurt and “knocked out,” from serving the Lord and FOLLOWING Him? Do we settle for a mediocre, safe, faithless version of Christianity? Yes, it is truly a challenge to live for Him and to be faithful. But in our quest to "Follow Him," what can we learn from His example?

When we follow someone, it is good to know where they are going, and what they are doing. Otherwise we are following him/her blindly. The author of Mark immediately starts to share insights about what Jesus did and also what He said, and this gives us an understanding of Jesus' mindset and heart. What was a "day in the life of Jesus" like?

In Mark 1, Jesus is thrust into ministry and quickly gains fame and fans. But in Mark 2, we are introduced to His opposition. Four times, Jesus is challenged and questioned. And in each instance, Jesus demonstrates His unique qualification to answer their questions. But in the end, Jesus not only answers, He is the answer.