Chinese Grace Bible Church 4 February 2007 Mark 1:35-45 The Life of Jesus: Knowing the Heart of the Father as Our Basis for Service

Context What do we know of this passage? Who was it written to? –Audience: hellenistic Jews living throughout the Greek world that may not know the Jewish customs of the time –What do we make of Mark putting this passage at the beginning of his gospel? Chapters 1-9 start His Galilean ministry to including the surrounding regions of Phoenicia, Decapolis, and Caesarea Philippi What is Mark be saying about the importance of relationship as a springboard for our ministry?

A Desire to Get Away A break from the busyness v. 37—“Everyone is looking for You” Jesus’ response Mary and Martha

A Call To Something Different A Bigger Purpose (verse 38) Knowing our call and who we are. Ministry With Confidence –Verse 39 Christ Preaching (c. 1652, Rembrandt van Rijn)

A Call To Something Different Ministry With Confidence –Ministry –Darline and Huy Meng in Cambodia Christ Preaching (c. 1652, Rembrandt van Rijn)

A Response of Assistance Jesus was prepared and ready to minister (verse 40) Motivation for service was love (verse 41) John 3:16 2 Cor 5:14 I Cor 13 Love requires sacrifice For Jesus, it required ignoring the false calls Life of Christ, (1915, Hurlbut)

A Response of Assistance Tina and Mtisiyileni in Malawi The essence of the Church –“The Church is a hospital, and army, and a celebration.” John Wimber

Conclusion Our need for – –A robust relationship with God for our own transformation “Prayer does not change God, but changes him who prays.” Soren Kierkegaard – –A robust relationship with God for an intimate friendship with Him “For prayer is nothing else than being on terms of friendship with God.” Teresa of Avila – –A robust relationship with God for the transformation of others Jesus’ healing of the leper Lloyd Evans in Seattle

The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things. John 14:26 Contact Information: David Costillo Conclusion