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Dec 04, 2011

Breaking Through (Part 7)

Passage: Mark 4:1-29

Preacher: Travis Fleming

Series:Man at Work

Summary:

Mark is fascinated with two qualities of Jesus that he gives to us in the first words of this gospel: "The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God" (Mark 1:1). Jesus of Nazareth, a carpenter, the human Jesus—but also the Son of God, the divine one. Mark seems to be fascinated by that combination: the Ruler who manifests His ability to serve, and the Servant who knows how to rule.

Detail:

God's kingdom breaking through into our lives involves...

1. Understanding the role of parables

2. Proclaiming the reality of God's kingdom

3. Realizing there will be various responses to our message 

  • Some of the responses may involve...
    • Straight up rejection
    • Initial reception – discipleship + tribulation/persecution = rejection
    • Initial reception + responsibilities + riches = rejection
    • Reception + discipleship = reward

4. Recognizing our responsibility in God's work

  • This involves a...
    • Steadfast work
    • Secret work
    • Successful work
    • Shining work
    • Surprising work