Repeated themes:
(1) A new era
v.1 The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
1:7 He proclaimed, “One more powerful than I am is coming after me;
1:15 He said, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is near.
1:27 They were all amazed so that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching with authority!
(2) This era was tied to the coming of God and to prepare this time people were called to repent
v.2b prepare your way
1:3 the voice of one shouting in the wilderness,
‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make his paths straight.’ ”
v.4 John the baptizer began preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.
v.5b as they confessed their sins
1:15 He said, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the gospel!”
(3) This preparation of repenting was called by the messenger sent from God
v.1-9 John the Baptist was called by God to baptize people
v.2b Look, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,
who will prepare your way
who will prepare your way
1:3 the voice of one shouting in the wilderness,
v.14-20 Although Scriptures did not directly relate the mission of repentance with the disciples of Jesus the context of v.16 followed immediately v.14-15. When John was imprisoned it seemed like Jesus was preaching alone v.14-15. Then Jesus called the disciples in v.16. Note, Jesus called the disciples as God did with John the baptist. Jesus has the same authority as God the Father.
(4) Jesus share the same authority as God
1:22 The people there were amazed by his teaching, because he taught them like one who had authority, not like the experts in the law.
(NET) Jesus’ teaching impressed the hearers with the directness of its claim; he taught with authority. A study of Jewish rabbinic interpretation shows that it was typical to cite a list of authorities to make one’s point. Apparently Jesus addressed the issues in terms of his own understanding.
This authority was attested when Jesus cast out demons.
1:27 They were all amazed so that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He even commands the unclean spirits and they obey him.”
Reflection:
Reflection:
1. Am I prepared for the new era? One day, Jesus will come again and the KOG will be established. Does my life reflect this truth? Am I living to prepare for the next stage of world history? Or do I spend too much time being troubled by things at this age?
2. To prepare for the new era is to repent. The KOG is ruled by God and sin is not allowed. Am I serious about confession?
3. Jesus called the disciples to be a part of this preparation. I am also being called according to the Scriptures. What shall I do today in regard to this role?
Audrey
Comments