Mark 5-8

What did Jesus tell the man who was set free from demons to do?

Mark 5:19 "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you."

Interesting statement Jesus makes. The most natural place for us to share what God has done for us is at home, among our family, friends, and areas of influence. People are often adamant in their talk about the need to share the gospel with those around the world. And yet, ask these same folks what they are doing to share the gospel here at home, and the answer is usually very little. So it is mostly talk.

If we follow Jesus’ command to the former demon possessed man we would see a growth in God’s kingdom at home and there would be a larger base to reach out to those around the world. As I understand the great commission it begins at home (however, it doesn’t end at home either). For far too long we (WSBC) have neglected the mission field at home. We desperately need to support with our finances, talents, testimony, and time the opportunities for missions here in our communities. When we invest at home we will have a much stronger base to reach out beyond ourselves. Of course, it is so much easier to give a few dollars, send it away, feel good about what we have done, and believe we have done our part for the cause of the gospel.
We need to practice this biblical truth, "Go to your homes, tell your family and friends how much the Lord has done for you, and how God has been merciful to you!"

What prevented Jesus from doing deeds of power in his hometown?

A lack of faith. Isn’t that still the case today. Would God do greater deeds of power among s if we had greater faith? Of course the amount of faith we have is evidenced by what we are willing to attempt.

What moved Jesus to compassion for the crowd on the lakeshore?

They were like sheep without a shepherd. He had compassion on those who were wondering about aimlessly without direction or purpose. How do we look at folks like this? With Compassion? Or with little patience?

How did the Syrophoenician woman challenge Jesus?

What a marvelous comeback. When Jesus rebukes her rudely, and appears as if he is calling her a dog, she states, "even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs." In interpreting this passage one must take into consideration Mark’s audience. His audience is Roman/gentile. While Jesus was focused on the Jews, theywere not his exclusive focus, as evidenced in this exchange. In fact, this exchange shows that non-jews were much more receptive and had a greater faith in Jesus than the Jews did. Often the case is that those who have great privilege and should know better are found lacking. While those who you least expect have a far greater understanding. So it is today. Those who are introduced to the gospel rather than born into it seem to have a far greater understanding and a greater desire to follow than those who have been a Christian for a number of years.

When Jesus fed the 5,000 he began with 5 loaves. How many did he feed the 4,000 with?

7 loaves. Were these two different episodes, or the same one told in a different way?

Why did the disciples worry about bread after leaving the crowd