Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

For this purpose I have come

Keith Dewell · October 26, 2024

Mark 1:36-38

sharonrpc.org/sermons/for-this-purpose-i-have-come

Summary

Mark presents Jesus preaching the kingdom, calling disciples, teaching with authority, defeating demons, healing the sick, and withdrawing to pray.
When Simon and his companions find Jesus and report that everyone is looking for him, Jesus directs them toward the neighboring towns instead of remaining where his miracles have made him popular.
Jesus declares that he came to preach, fulfilling the messianic mission announced in Isaiah and entrusted to him by the Father.
His miracles compassionately help sufferers and confirm his identity and teaching, but they serve rather than replace the proclamation of the kingdom.
The sermon warns that churches can displace preaching with entertainment, emotional technique, pop psychology, abbreviated homilies, or an unbiblical elevation of sacrament over Word.
God especially uses the preaching of Scripture to awaken unbelievers, confront cherished sin, nourish believers, and call hearers to obedience.
Those who feel Christ distant should seek him where he has promised to meet his people, asking for ears to hear his Word.

Why does Jesus leave a place where everyone is seeking him in order to preach in neighboring towns?
How do Christ's miracles support rather than overshadow his preaching mission?
What does Jesus' statement about his purpose reveal about his being sent by the Father?
Which attractions or practices are most likely to displace faithful preaching in the church?
Why can the sacraments not be rightly understood apart from the Word?
Do we hear sermons merely with amazement, or with repentance, faith, and obedience?
Where should believers seek Christ when he feels distant?
How should we prepare and pray for the preaching of God's Word each Lord's Day?

Preaching: Authoritative public proclamation and explanation of God's Word, centered on Christ and the kingdom of God.
Kingdom of God: God's saving reign announced and embodied by Jesus the promised King.
Messianic mission: The work for which the Father sent the promised Christ, including proclamation, deliverance, suffering, and redemption.
Miracle: A work of divine power that shows compassion, displays Christ's authority, and confirms his message and identity.
Means of grace: The outward ordinances Christ ordinarily uses to communicate the benefits of redemption, especially Word, sacraments, and prayer.
Effectual calling: The Spirit's saving work through the gospel, enlightening and drawing sinners to Christ.