Mark 1:16-39: Four Portraits
WE ALL LIVE with authority—whether supervisors, professors, parents or police. And depending on how that authority is exercised, we feel either put upon, trapped and used, or we feel secure, free and useful.
In 1:1-15 Mark has told us that Jesus has come as king to fulfill the Old Testament longings for the Lord's rule over all the earth. But what kind of king is he? Mark, it seems, knows that a picture is worth a thousand words. So, rather than offering an abstract character analysis, he paints four verbal portraits of Jesus in action.
Warming Up to God
In this passage we see Jesus going to a solitary place to pray after a busy day of ministry. But even here he is interrupted with more needs. When have you been in that kind of situation? Ask God to help you balance your need to be with him with the needs of others.
Read Mark 1:16-39. »
Discovering the Word
- What different factors contributed to the ready response of Simon, Andrew, James and John to Jesus' invitation (vv. 16-20)? (Don't forget 1:1-15!)
- What might be some of the reasons that Jesus silences the demon about who he is (vv. 21-28)?
- What impression of Jesus do you get from the portrait of his visit to the home of Simon and Andrew (vv. 29-34)?
- Thus far we have looked at three portraits of Jesus. What aspects of Jesus' character do we see in them?
- How does Jesus exercise his authority differently from kings and dictators and other human authorities?
- The quiet and solitude of verses 35-39 are quite a contrast from the previous events. What do these verses reveal about Jesus' priorities?
Applying the Word
- How do you respond to Jesus' authority?
- Jesus' priorities are clear in this passage. What steps do you need to take to bring your priorities more closely in line with his?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to help you reevaluate your priorities in light of Jesus' kingship.
For Further Study
Mark: Follow Me by James Hoover