I. The Message of the Kingdom (Mark 1:14–15; Matthew 4:17) When Jesus returns to Galilee, He doesn’t start his preaching ministry softly. He doesn’t warm up with parables or ease into the public square with gentle reassurance. His first words are a command that thunders with urgency: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at... Continue Reading →
John’s Message and Jesus’ Baptism
I. The Time of the Beginning (Mark 1:1; Luke 3:1-2) Mark doesn’t ease us into his Gospel. He opens with the forceful declaration: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.” (Mark 1:1, ESV). There’s no mention of mangers or Magi, no angelic announcements to Mary or Joseph. Mark skips the... Continue Reading →
The Genealogies of Jesus
Two Genealogies It’s easy to gloss over the long genealogies in the Bible, thinking they are just lists of names. However, these passages have a deeper meaning. These names are a reminder that God’s plan for salvation was set in motion long before Christ’s arrival (Luke 24:44-46). When we read of figures like Abraham, Boaz,... Continue Reading →