"The Beginning of the Public Life of Jesus"

MARK 1:9-20 The Beginning of the Public Life of Jesus

A Sermon by Dr. Neil Chadwick


"The Beginning of the Public Life of Jesus" MARK 1:9-20 A Sermon by Dr. Neil Chadwick

In today's world there are different generational needs represented in the church. Today's church can be called "The Multiplex Congregation". Here's the break-down by generation:

1. OLDER ADULTS: the "Need me and show me" generation.

    They are 50 and up; possess skills and money; and want to do something worthwhile.

    What do they need? In preaching, they need positive examples of other adults; and they need appreciation.

2. BOOMERS: the "Entertain me and earn me" generation.

    They are 35 to 50 years old; faddish, intellectually and lazy. They are looking for spiritual definition.

    What do they need? In preaching they want talk about meaning, self-definition, and worth. They are interested in new church models and the media.

3. BUSTERS: the "Why me?" generation

    They are 25 to 35 years old; don't like crowds or mingling with other generations; and are skeptical of guarantees.

    What do they need? Relationships; a challenge to create a better world; and opportunity to talk things over with their peers.

4. GENERATION X: the "Feed me" generation.

    They are 16 to 25 years old, and suffer from low self-esteem.

    What do they need? Unconditional acceptance; they have a very short list of what's really important; and are aided by a written reinforcement of key concepts (e.g., a spiritual notebook).

While we are aware of this diversity, the multiple generations represented in the church, it is our conviction that what is needed is the simple, clear preaching and teaching of the Bible, with full confidence that the Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth. Furthermore, the preaching of the Bible always has something to do with Jesus. Here's what we learn from "The Beginning of the Public Life of Jesus."

I. Jesus is Baptized by John - vs. 9-12

    A. This points out the importance of water baptism, following the example of Jesus.

    B. What is the meaning of water baptism? Jesus didn't "need" to be baptized, and in one sense, neither do we. As with Jesus, we do it to make a public statement of an inner reality which is already present.

    C. Note that the practice of baptism is that it is done by another person, and immersion is the mode.

    D. With Jesus' baptism there was both a sign (dove) and voice of approval. The true motivator of every Christian is to win the approval of the Father.

II. Jesus is Tempted by the Devil - vs.12-13

    A. This temptation is the result of being "led" by the Spirit (Luke 4).

    B. If Jesus was tempted, why would we think we're exempt? The reality is that this often comes very soon after a person's conversion.

    C. Jesus won the victory over Satan by means of:

      1. The Spirit (those led by the Spirit are enabled by the Spirit).

      2. The "Word" (we must have it in our hearts).

      3. The comfort of ministry by angels (the TV program "Touched by an Angel" points out a reality we all affirm, but we should be careful not to learn theology from commercial media. And certainly not stay home from church to watch it!)

III. Jesus Begins His Ministry - vs.14-15

    A. His ministry begins after John is put in prison (reinforcing the meaning of John's role, his job is done, now he is put aside, like the missionary who had little fear of being killed because "If God doesn't have a purpose for me, I'd rather not stay around.")

    B. Jesus begins by preaching in Galilee. He begins with the people of his own upbringing, but also those who were previously despised by the religious leaders.

    C. His message is "Good News". The "Bad News" comes first, we're all sinners, then follows the "Good News", there is forgiveness.

    D. He calls for response, "Repent and Believe".

IV. Jesus Calls Disciples - vs.16-20

    A. His work is to be done through His followers.

    B. Becoming "fishers of men" is languate they understood. What is your line of work? Perhaps He's calling you too.

      Are you a Builder? - edify the Church.

      Are you a Farmer? - feed and care for the here or flock.

      Are you a Mechanic? - be a repairer of souls.

      Are you a Cosmetologist? - beautify the Body of Christ.

      Are you a Hunter? - search for and provide spiritual nourishment for the Family of God.

This was the beginning of Jesus' public ministry; a parallel to the Christian life.

    1. Be Baptized

    2. Overcome Temptation

    3. Share the Gospel

    4. Train up others

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