[Practical Application Review – Week 7]
Greetings,
Hopefully you are enjoying time in God’s Word. I trust that five (5) chapters spread out over the week has been doable.
Likely you have already noticed that we have finished the first book of the New Testament (Matthew). Let us continue moving forward…
Schedule – Week 7:
Please read and/or listen to Mark 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Even though we enjoy reading and listening to the Bible being read, our primary goal is learning to live the Bible (to the best of our ability).
For “every” chapter:
Step 1: Select a passage of interest
Step 2: Identify area of teaching
Step 3: Consider a practical application
Now let us explore an example for each of these five chapters…
Text #1: Mark 3
Passage: (vv. 22-26)
Teaching: The scribes said that Jesus was casting out devils by their own help. Jesus pointed out that a kingdom or household divided against itself will not stand.
Application: Since I desire to follow Jesus, I wish to do whatever will help build His Kingdom and the Church. I pray that we will all be united through our Lord Jesus.
Text #2: Mark 4
Passage: (vv. 30-32)
Teaching: Jesus compared God’s Kingdom with a grain of mustard seed. What starts out very small grows significantly and produces large supporting branches.
Application: Even though my own work may have started small within God’s Kingdom (decades ago), I pray it will continue to grow and produce benefits for others to enjoy.
Text #3: Mark 5
Passage: (vv. 21-43)
Teaching: Jairus (leader of synagogue) asked Jesus to come and heal his daughter. On the way, another healing took place (woman with issue of blood). During the delay, little girl died. Jesus continued on with confidence that she would come back to life.
Application: Sometimes I too must wait for my prayers to be fully answered. Other people’s prayers may need to be fulfilled (along the journey) before my own.
Text #4: Mark 6
Passage: (vv. 30-34)
Teaching: Jesus and His apostles were very busy ministering to many people in need. Jesus recommended visiting a place (to rest), but the people found them anyway.
Application: Following Jesus will likely keep me very busy. So many people in need, physically and spiritually.
Text #5: Mark 07
Passage: (vv. 31-37)
Teaching: A man who could not speak nor hear was brought to Jesus. The man was healed of both. Many observers went out to tell what Jesus had done.
Application: I trust God to answer my prayers also. By interceding for those who are sick, we connect the solution to the problem (and God’s healing takes place).
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo