Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel. Mark 1:14-15
I continue my study of Mark, leaning on the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume for Mark. Today, I focus on a commentary-assisted review of Mark 1:14-15, which is the text for the first of three divisions per the commentary. Excerpts from the commentary:
- Believers are encouraged to "fish for people" by proclaiming the Good News
- There are four components of Jesus' message: "(1) [t]he time is fulfilled, (2) the kingdom of God is near, (3) repent, and (4) believe in the gospel."
- "With the appearance of the Messiah-King, the “kingdom of God” has drawn near. In the person of Jesus Christ, men are confronted head-on with the kingdom—the reign of God. What should be our response? Jesus gives His hearers two commands."
- The first command is to repent, which is "to change [one's] mind leading to a change in behavior." Of course, we must turn towards God.
- The second command is to believe. Repentance is complemented by belief - this is how we turn towards God. This turn towards God is not a one-time event but a "life altering change" as we become a new creation. "[a] King has arrived who rightly demands that we follow and radically obey Him. This is the unchanging and uncompromising message and vision of the eternal kingdom of God."
As the commentary implies, this message of repent and believe requires something not just of a new believer, but all believers over the course of their entire life. Despite being "born again" (aka regeneration), we continue to have sin until glorification when we meet Jesus face-to-face in Heaven. On a daily basis, we must go to God to continue a work in us through sanctification. Sanctification only works if we remain and abide in Him - see also John 15:1-8 and this post from John Piper on DesiringGod.com.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who saves, provides mercies that never cease and that are new every morning, and who is full of grace and patience to continue a work in me through sanctification. I am undeserving of my salvation and for all that You pour out for me. My sin is great and it continues...sometimes in very frustrating ways. Please forgive me and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
