Today’s Message

Date:               January 29, 2006

Speaker:          Pastor Steven Thomas

Title:                Following and Fishing

Text:                Mark 1:14-20

14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”

16 As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. 17 “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.” 18 At once they left their nets and followed him.

19 When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. 20 Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him.

Introduction:  The baptism and temptation of Jesus (1:9-13) marked the inauguration of his public ministry.  From these events, Mark drives right to Jesus’ preaching.  He gives us a brief synopsis of Jesus’ message, recounts the call of the first disciples, and tells us of their response.

I.          Jesus preached a message of good news from God.  14-15

A.        His message presented an opportunity.

B.        His message announced the presence of the King.

C.        His message required repentant faith.

II.        Jesus called those who believed his message to participate in his mission.  16-17

A.        He called them to follow.

B.        He called them to serve.

III.       Jesus’ followers responded decisively.  18-20

A.        They responded immediately.

B.        They responded completely.

Today’s take-home truth:  Jesus brought good news—a life changing message.  What will you do with it?