February 15, 2010, Mark 4

Key Verse

He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”

(Mark 4:40)

Key Concept

Through true faith we can accomplish great things for God’s glory.

HEAR-ACCEPT-PRODUCE.

The key word in the key concept is "accomplish."

In Mark 4 Jesus speaks to the people in parables that all point to a central truth.
In the parable of the sower, He explains something that we are really hit with in our time. Verses 18 and 19 warn of the desires of this world choking the word and making us unfruitful: worries of life, deceitfulness of wealth, and desires for other things (other than focusing on glorifying God).

Verse 20 is key. It gives instructions that many overlook.
God’s truth is sown. We hear it. (Most have at some point). We accept it. (Many also accept God’s Grace). We produce. It doesn’t say get saved and wait to go to heaven quietly! The bible tells us to get in the game. Produce is a word of action; it means we are now working to glorify Jesus Christ.

That scares a lot of folks, and that is where Faith comes in. When you accept the grace of God, start learning. Read the word, talk to pastors, study the Bible, research what is says, join a bible study or community group, surround yourself with friends who are Christ followers. Soon you will realize you can do anything through Faith.

Relax, you don’t have to be Billy Graham. But just like the mustard seed, the truth of Jesus Christ must be planted in order for God to make it grow. If you keep it to yourself, it is like a seed that is never planted, it will lie dormant. So like the lamp (v21), when you have received the word of God, SHINE! Glorify God in every step you take. Have faith that you are doing God’s will; don’t be silent, don’t be still!

Hear-Accept-Produce/Shine through faith in your wonderful, all powerful Savior!