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The Master's Instructions about Christian's together. (Matthew 16:13-19). God does not intend anyone to live an isolated Christian life. Much of the New Testament teaches the believer how to be integrated into God’s family. The promises our Lord Jesus made were frequently directed to groups of people, to churches, rather than to individual Christians. In John 14:1-4 ‘many rooms’ are prepared for a company of people. In Acts 1:4-8 ‘the Holy Spirit’ and ‘power’ are promised to the disciples collectively. The meaning of ‘church’ From Matthew 16:13-19 we can learn our Lord’s intention for His church. The word is used here for the first time in the Bible. It means ‘an assembly of people’, those who are called out of the crowd to become a church. By looking at Acts 5:11; 8:1, 3 and 11:26 we can see that the church is definitely people, and not premises. Membership of the church Since the church belongs to Christ and is being built by Him, He knows who are members and who are not. He is the One through Whom the Father and the Holy Spirit are calling a people out of the world. In Matthew 16 Peter had something revealed to him by God. He saw Jesus Christ as the Son of the living God. Peter responded by faith. He gave a clear declaration of Who he believed Jesus to be. Today people become members of the true church in exactly the same way. It happened in Jerusalem’s market-place in Acts 2. There was revelation (v.36), and response (v.41). Then the last verses go on to describe the collective Christian community. Peter and John later described the community in their letters. People ‘built into a spiritual house’ (1 Peter 2:4-5). People ‘born of God’ who ‘believe in Jesus Christ’ (1 John 5:1-5). The church meeting Wherever a group of Christians gather in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, there is a church. The New Testament knew such gatherings by place names (Romans 16:1, 5; 1 Corinthians 1:2; Philemon v.2). In Acts there was a clear numbering of the believers giving a knowledge of who was inside and who was outside the church. Trace the growth through Acts 1:15; 2:41; 4:4; 5:14 and 6:1, 7. In Acts 9:26-28 we see Paul trying to join the church and eventually being accepted on the testimony of Barnabas. The benefits of such a collective commitment and community can be easily understood. The Christians could: encourage each other, comfort each other, support each other, have a greater collective impact on the larger community and experience the special presence of Jesus and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. they could pray together. they could learn to love one another. they could have the rough edges knocked off their own lives. they could learn from each other. A genuine profession of repentance towards God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, together with a personal faith in the living God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, will be expressed best in church membership – joining up with a collection of other Christians as a church. Discussion guide for ‘Born into the family of God’ 1. Describe your church family. What do they meet for? How often? Why do they do this? 2. According to Matthew 16:13-20, Who’s is the church? Who will build the church? Why is it important to remember this? 3. Can you find in these verses how a person becomes a member of this church of Jesus? • They are told about their own shortcomings • They listen to God tell them about their Saviour • They speak out the Lordship of Jesus Christ God’s way of working, His revelation to us, always requires a response from us. 4. If we think of God as “our Father in heaven”, what lessons can we learn about the Christian church family from our human families, especially from our relationships with our fathers? What does/did our father do for us? What do we do for him? etc. 5. Look at all the New Testament letters. In the first chapter and the first few verses they describe the church they were written to. How many can you find? How is each church described? 6. Today, local churches in an area of a village, town or city, may call themselves after their location. They may have conditions of membership, conditions that people must meet before they can be members. Does your church have any conditions for membership? What are they? 7. The simplest of conditions for membership are as follows: • Profession of repentance toward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, expressed in baptism • Personal living faith in God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit, One God in three persons • Belief in the divine inspiration of the Bible and their final authority in all matters of faith and conduct How do these compare with your church? Are the differences important? Why? Why not?

The Master's Instructions about Christian's together. (Ephesians 4:1-32). Just as a baby should grow into maturity, and God ordained the child should have a mother, father and family to care for it, so the born-again believer is given a local family of Christians to care for him or her and contribute towards his growth. Luke 8:14 warns that not all seed will mature. 1st Peter 2:2 says the spiritual babe should grow up. Hebrews 5:11 – 6:3 speaks of infancy and maturity. There are various signs of life both for a baby and for a baby Christian. He will have a good appetite, showing general healthiness. He will make glaring, yet genuine mistakes as he knows no better! Over a period he will show evidence of growth. The Bible word for ‘maturity’ means ‘having reached its end; being complete.’ The church is given to help the believer grow. Both the leadership and the membership do this. Every incident of life, every potential problem, every meeting, every word spoken, every casual contact helps in the maturing process. The Bible says we should give and receive: service (John 13:14-15), possessions (Acts 2:44-45), sober judgement (Romans 14:13), spiritual acceptance (Romans 15:7), competent instruction (Romans 15:14), comfort in trouble (2 Corinthians 1:3-4), halving of burdens (Galatians 6:1-2), honour (Ephesians 5:21), forgiveness (Colossians 3:13), admonition (Colossians 3:16), exhortation and encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25), and pardon and prayer (James 5:16). This means that you have something to give to your church and your church has something to give to you. In Ephesians 4:11-16 we can see that not all members of the local church have to be the same or to do the same things. Some will do one thing and some will do another, but all will do ‘works of service’ (v.12). This verse could almost be translated ‘to prepare God’s people to serve God’s people’. God does give special gifts to His church through some people. They are not special people. Apostles are those sent forth by God, frequently as pioneers in evangelism and church planting, whose ministries are sometimes marked by signs and miracles. Quite a number are named in the Bible (Luke 6:13-16; Acts 1:26; 14:14; Romans 16:7; 1 Corinthians 9:1- 2; 12:28; 2 Corinthians 12:12). The New Testament contains the writing of some of the original apostles. Today’s apostolic witness will not contradict this. Prophets speak out the word of God. At different times they receive guidance for the church, they predict the future, they speak encouragement, they edify believers, they speak to men from God (Acts 11:27-28; 13:1-3; 15:32; 21:9; 10-11; 1 Corinthians 14:3-5; 1 Timothy 1:18; 4:14; 2 Peter 1:21). There are various tests we can apply to authenticate true Christian prophecy (1 Corinthians 14:29-33). Both the Scripture and the Holy Spirit within us should witness to the truth of any prophecy. God will not contradict Himself. Evangelists are messengers of good news and preachers of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Only Philip is named as an evangelist in the Scripture (Acts 8:4-8; 26-40). Timothy was told to do the work of an evangelist (2 Timothy 4:5). A true evangelist will never depart from his central message of the cross of Christ. He will be where the people are, taking them to the cross by the shortest possible route. Pastors and teachers are shepherds and instructors. They tend the flock, feed the flock and guide the flock. They are skilled in communicating truth and applying it to situations. Similarly, elders are those who have mature spiritual experience and understanding. They are able with others to watch over the people in the church (Acts 20:17-38; 1 Timothy; 2 Timothy; Titus). A pastor is not a one-man show. The New Testament always speaks of a plurality of local leadership. The requirements for such a responsible role are found in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9. While recognising these special gifts, always remember that God wants you to give to the church as well as receive from it. Discussion guide for ‘Brought up in the family of God’ Bible reading Ephesians 4:1-32. 1. How did your church look after you when you first made a commitment to follow Jesus Christ? Was it a helpful or a not very helpful experience? 2. Can you think of anything that would have made the experience better for you? (Then you can make sure other people get a good start!). 3. When you are first “born again” it is reasonable to say, “You are a baby Christian”. What does a human baby need to grow strongly into mature adulthood? 4. Can these ideas be paralleled into the growth of a Christian? See 1 Peter 2:2; Ephesians 4:14; Philippians 3:15; Hebrews 5:14. 5. In the human family different people have different roles. The same is true in the church. One role is not more important than another – the roles are simply different ways to serve God and the people. Share the different roles people have in your church. 6. Explain ways you are able to give and to serve in your church. What would help you do more? Do you feel you are in the right role? 7. Reading 1 Corinthians chapters 12-14 it becomes obvious that every role is important to the church. Comment on 12:7; 12:11; 12:26-27; 13:4-7; 14:18-19; 14:33; 14:40. What should the overall character of a church gathering be? 8. What does 1 Timothy 5:17-18 teach about a particular responsibility of church members?

The Master's Instructions about Christian's together. (1 Corinthians 12:1-31). The ministry of Jesus Christ should be the natural and normal everyday life for you and me. At home, at work, indeed, wherever we are, we should try to heal a hurting person, to teach a seeking person, to free a person in bondage (Luke 4:18-19). We should try to inject our Christianity into all that we do. The two foundations for witnessing are koinonia – a warm fellowship of Christians, and kerygma – a preaching of gospel truth. Three main Bible passages speak of God’s gifts to the local church. They are Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:7-11, 27-31 and Ephesians 4:11-12. A spiritual gift is an ability which God, in His grace, gives to one person for the well-being of another. It will make God Himself more plain to the church. It will be set into action by God Himself with the co-operation of the individual’s faith. Here is a brief definition of listed spiritual gifts. Nowhere does the Bible say these are the only spiritual gifts. We have looked earlier at apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. (lesson 35). 1. Prophesying – verbalising the mind of God and the meaning of His word. 2. Serving – taking practical care of God’s people and of His property. 3. Teaching – giving clear instruction and indications of application of truth. 4. Encouraging – getting alongside another to build up his or her faith. 5. Contributing – meeting another’s needs in this material world. 6. Leadership – guiding and guarding others with specific purpose. 7. Showing mercy – sympathising with those undergoing trials and testing. 8. Wisdom – spiritual perception passed on to another. 9. Knowledge – spiritual answer to an enquiry from another. 10. Faith – firm conviction of trust in God leading to taking action. 11. Gifts of healing – the ability to make whole under God. 12. Miraculous powers – the ability to do supernatural things under God. 13. Prophecy – speaking God’s message to the people. 14. Discernment – judging by evidence seen and unseen whether or not something is of God. 15. Speaking in tongues – making sounds or verbalising a language not learned. 16. Interpreting tongues – explaining the meaning of such tongues. It is wrong for any Christian to be ignorant about spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:1). It is wrong for any Christian to try and imitate spiritual gifts. It is right for all Christians to desire to be used by God in some way (1 Corinthians 12:31; 14:1, 12). It is God who distributes the gifts as He wills (1 Corinthians 12:6, 11, 28). It is wrong to dictate to God what He must do for you! But He does promise that if you seek Him He will give you the desires of your heart. This may involve Him in changing your desires! Ask God to help you discover what He wants for you. Consider your natural abilities because He made you the way you are for a reason. Any Christian may be used by God for any purpose at any time. Listen to advice from fellow Christians who are known and respected in your church. Accept whatever God gives to you. Amplify the ministries in which you can see God is using you. Avoid trying to be what God is not making you! Discussion guide for ‘Becoming what God wants me to be in the body of Christ’ Bible reading 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 1. The church is left on earth to be and to do what no other organisation can – to be the Body of Christ. Explain what this should look like to people outside. 2. Discuss what the difference is between a spiritual gift and a natural ability? Consider the first part of Romans 12:6; 1 Corinthians 12:4,7; Ephesians 4:7. 3. In Ephesians 4:11-12 who does the “works of service” – the leaders or the people? Why? 4. It is therefore important for you to know where, when and how you may play your part. Where would you begin seeking this out? 5. What can we learn from the way: Samuel began his ministry? 1 Samuel 3. Paul began his ministry? Acts 9:26-30 & 11:25-26. Timothy began his ministry? Acts 16:1-5. 6. Many of the roles in a local church are not mentioned in the Bible. They may include caretaking the building and equipment, cleaning, preparing rooms for meetings, planning refreshments, advertising events, playing music or singing, welcoming folk, entertaining visitors, working with children and young people, teaching skills, financial management, planning for the future, training, discipling new Christians, pastoral visiting people, caring for those in special need, etc. Ask God to show you your role (or your roles). Be available. 7. Discuss with others from your church how they think you can be used in the church. Do what you are asked by God to do.

The Master's Instructions about the Bible. (Matthew 7:24-27). The parable Jesus told in Matthew 7:24-27 shows that the foundation for any Christian’s life lies in the words of Jesus. God’s word will make him or her firm in his convictions and faithful in his conduct. God’s word will not fail him. God’s word in a human life is dynamite! It is able to overcome temptation (Psalm 119:11; Matthew 4:3-4). It is able to quicken the conscience (James 1:22-25). It is able to condemn sin (Galatians 3:21-25). It is able to feed the soul (Psalm 1:1-3; 1 Peter 2:2-3). It is able to break opposition (Ephesians 6:17). The Bible is a miracle of God. The original Scriptures involved many human authors inspired by God the Holy Spirit. They included Moses, Joshua, David, Solomon and others. The Jewish priests made heavy work of copying them out, letter by letter, onto clay and papyrus parchments. The ink used could have been a mixture of soot, lamp-black and gum. The original languages included Babylonian, Syrian, Aramaic and some Arabic, but mainly Hebrew in the Old Testament, and Greek in the New Testament. The Bible as we have it now was brought together and generally accepted during the fourth century. It was not until 1380-82 that the whole Bible was available in English. As a reward for his hard work, incidentally, John Wycliffe was banished from England, the reading of his Bible was banned, and further his very bones were exhumed and burned in 1428! William Tyndale’s was the first translation into English from the original Hebrew and Greek. He printed the New Testament in 1525. Tyndale also suffered great opposition and hardship. He was shipwrecked. He lost many manuscripts. He was pursued by secret agents, betrayed by his friends, and eventually other people copied, published, and financially profited from his work before he did! In 1607-11 King James’ Authorised version was published. It took at least fifty years to be widely accepted, which means that popularity of some modern versions has a fair way to go yet. There are still many languages of the world which have no complete Bible, in spite of valiant efforts by translators. The wonder of God’s word! He designed and purposed it. He provided it. He has protected it. The seed he has planted still continues to grow. (For an overview of how the Bible came to Sudan, see my 'Christian Theology in a Sudanese Context'). Never forget that a Christian lives spiritually by the word of God (Matthew 4:4). A Christian learns about God and His will from His word (Acts 17:10-11). A Christian genuinely loves God’s word (Psalm 119:127). In chapter 38, (the Value of God’s word, Psalm 119), there are outlines of Bible books suggesting how they are broken down into a chronological order of events, and what sort of literature they are. To get a little more from your Bible reading it is helpful to have some background information on each book. Various commentaries and dictionaries are available to help you, but never let them take the place of the Bible. As one of our Bible College lecturers in Old Testament Synthesis used to say at the end of every lesson: ‘Do read the Bible, won’t you.’ Discussion guide for ‘The authority of God’s word’ Read the parable in Matthew 7:24-29, and answer the first five questions using just one word: 1. What should we do with the words of Jesus? 2. What will they become in our lives? 3. What did outsiders recognise in Jesus’ words? 4. What were the disciples told to do with the words of Jesus, in Matthew 28:20? 5. Who was going to help them, John 14:26? Look at what the Bible’s words can do for you (second paragraph above). Using the references in the paragraph, along with your own experiences, describe and explain how you think this works: 1. How does the Bible help to stop you sinning? 2. How does the Bible quicken your conscience? 3. How does the Bible condemn sin and point you to Christ? 4. How does the Bible feed your soul? 5. How is the Bible able to break your opposition? 6. Explain your understanding of “Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God”, Matthew 4:4, Deuteronomy 8:3. 7. How can a Believer ensure he or she uses “every word” from God? 8. What are the dangers in only using your own favourite parts of the Bible? Types of literature found in the Bible: Old Testament History OT Poetical books OT Prophecy Genesis – law Job Isaiah Exodus – law Psalms Jeremiah Leviticus – law Proverbs Lamentations Numbers – law Ecclesiastes Ezekiel Deuteronomy – law Song of Solomon Daniel Joshua Hosea Judges Joel Ruth Amos 1 & 2 Samuel Obadiah 1 & 2 Kings Jonah 1 & 2 Chronicles Micah Ezra Nahum Nehemiah Habakkuk Esther Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi New Testament History NT Letters NT Prophecy Matthew Romans Revelation Mark 1 & 2 Corinthians Luke Galatians John Ephesians Acts Philippians Colossians 1 & 2 Thessalonians 1 & 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 & 2 Peter 1, 2 & 3 John Jude A suggested chronological order: Old Testament (read down column 1, then 2, then 3) Genesis 1 Kings 5-22 Habakkuk Job 2 Kings 1-14:20 2 Kings 22-25 Exodus Joel Obadiah Leviticus 2 Kings 14:21-25 Jeremiah Numbers Jonah Lamentations Deuteronomy 2 Kings 14:26-29 1 & 2 Chronicles Joshua Amos Ezekiel Judges 2 Kings 15-17 Daniel Ruth Hosea Esther 1 & 2 Samuel 2 Kings 18-19 Ezra 1-4 Psalms Isaiah Haggai 1 Kings 1-4 Micah Zechariah Proverbs Nahum Ezra 5-10 Ecclesiastes 2 Kings 20-21 Nehemiah Song of Songs Zephaniah Malachi New Testament (read down column 1, then 2) Matthew Romans Mark Acts 20:3-28 Luke Ephesians John Philippians Acts 1-14 Colossians James Hebrews Galatians Philemon Acts 15-18:11 1 & 2 Peter 1 & 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy Acts 18:12-19:10 Titus 1 Corinthians 2 Timothy Acts 19:11-20:1 1, 2 & 3 John 2 Corinthians Jude Acts 20:2 Revelation

The Master's Instructions about the Bible. (Psalm 119). From a simple study of the Bible’s longest chapter, Psalm 119, we can learn the value of the Bible. Whenever we read the word we should also receive it into our hearts. This means we should not quickly forget it, but faithfully keep it and remind ourselves of the truths as often as we can. We should rejoice in God’s truth. The fact that we can know it in our minds, sow it in our hearts, and show it in our lives should lift us up. We must always respond to it too, allowing it to challenge our way of life and attitudes of heart. 1. The Bible is the way to full blessing (vv.1-2) 2. It is the way to pure living (v.9) 3. It is a defence against sin (v.11) 4. It is a source of spiritual strength (v.28) 5. It renews spiritual life (vv.37, 93) 6. It is worthy of absolute trust (v.42) 7. It can stop us straying from God (v.67) 8. It has value other than worldly values (v.72) 9. It is eternal and sure in the midst of change (v.89) 10. It gives supernatural wisdom (vv.98-100) 11. It shows where we are and the way ahead (v.105) 12. It resolves mysteries (v.130) 13. It gives understanding (v.169) Paul told Timothy that the value of the Bible in ‘teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness’, was ultimate perfection in the man or woman of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17). A Bible that is never read is of no use. A Bible that is studied is much use. There are many ways of studying the Bible. A varied spiritual diet will be as beneficial to your Christian life as a balanced physical diet is to your body. Make sure that you study the Bible for yourself and do not rely all the time on other people to do it for you and deliver it to you in paperback, online or from the pulpit. Discussion guide for ‘the value of God’s word’ Bible reading Psalm 119 1. What are some good ways of reminding ourselves of God’s truth frequently in our lives? Use your own experiences, and what you have heard from others, for your answer. 2. Why must we always respond to God’s truth as we read or hear it? What is the danger if we do not do this? Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. What do you think is meant for your life by: 3. “God-breathed”? 4. “useful”? 5. “teaching”? 6. “rebuking”? 7. “correcting”? 8. “training in righteousness”? 9. “thoroughly equipped”? 10. Now put 2 Timothy 3:16-17 into your own words: 11. Explain what a “varied spiritual diet” is. 12. Why is a “varied spiritual diet” good for the Christian’s life? 13. Describe practical ways of obtaining this variety.

The Master's Instructions about the Bible. (2 Timothy 2:1-26). It is possible to read the Bible out loud in about seventy-eight hours. If ever you have flown in a plane you will have noticed that you can see different perspectives at different points of your journey – though some flights are so busy you cannot see anything. On a journey from Khartoum to London I had some lovely views of the river Nile meandering through the deserts of Egypt. The view from such a height was quite different from the one a few days earlier in Khartoum itself when the hustle and bustle of activity on the river hardly let me notice the river itself. Some Bible study should be digging for details and some Bible study should be gazing at great themes. All Bible study should be immersed in prayer. You may want to study one Bible book Read it through several times and jot down or mark any words that keep recurring, any themes that are developed, any beginnings that come to their climax, any natural breaks in the story. You may want to study a particular chapter Again read it through several times and also read the preceding chapter to set it into the context. This is always important when reading small parts of Scripture. Twice the Bible says: ‘There is no God,’ but you find it does not mean that when you see the context! (See Psalm 14:1; 53:1). In both of these methods of study ask yourself questions and look for the answers in your reading. It will be helpful if you note down your answers in a form you can keep through the years. What is the main thrust of this scripture? Are there any other significant matters raised? Can I summarise the teaching in a couple of sentences? Is there an example I should seek to follow or avoid? Are there any commands I should obey? Are there any promises I should claim? Perhaps you can compare your findings with those of a friend, or with a commentary. You may want to study a special word or topic Use a concordance to discover all the occasions that a particular word appears in Scripture, or in one Bible book. Look words up and group them into ‘definitions’, ‘demonstrations’, or ‘different meanings’ and also have a column: ‘Don’t quite know where this fits!’ www.biblegateway.com is a good starting place if you have internet access. Consult an expository dictionary or commentary to define the exact meaning of the word. Decide for yourself how this can be developed in your own daily lifestyle (or how it can be avoided). Then study any words that are nearly the same or have a bearing on the original subject. You may want to study a character’s life and reputation Again you will find a concordance helpful in discovering every Bible reference to this person. Set them into context by reading the surrounding passages. Pick out the main incidents in his or her life. Apply this by asking more questions. Build your recorded answers into a useful resource book for your own ministry. How did he meet God? How did God call him to do what he did? What were his strong points? What were his weaknesses? What does God want me to learn from his life? We are to do our best to present ourselves to God as people who correctly handle the word of God (2 Timothy 2:15). It involves labour, learning and living. For the Bible studies found in the following two sections of this book, read at least twice through Mark’s gospel (for ‘Mark’s Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ’ starting at chapter 40 here) and read at least twice the book of Acts (for ‘the Life and Ministry of Peter’ starting at chapter 50). Write down any verses that mean something special to you as you do so. Note any questions that come to you. The outlines given on the life of Jesus and the life of Peter are only a guide. See if you can build on them for yourself. Pray before you read and ask God to speak personally to you. After reading the passage you may find a commentary or Bible-reading aid will help answer some of your questions, or maybe it will clarify the issues raised. The Bible says: ‘Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ’ (Romans 10:17). It is a good idea to make a habit of grasping what God gives you in the Bible sermons you hear. A simple outline, such as the one below, may help you pick out the ‘bones’. Bible passage read: Subject: Speaker: Date: Place: then, from the Bible sermon or Bible teaching: Introduction: First main point: Second main point: Third main point: Fourth main point: etc. My response. What should I do? How should I do it? Discussion guide for ‘Ways of studying God’s word’ Bible reading 2 Timothy 2:1-26 1. Describe the differences between “an overview study” and “a detailed study” of the Bible. 2. What are the strengths and the weaknesses of either method? 3. “The Bible is not an end in itself. It is a tool in the hands of God the Holy Spirit”. Discuss this in the light of John 14:26 and Matthew 7:24. 4. How can you “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of God”, 2 Timothy 2:15. Be as practical as you can in your answer. 5. What is a Bible Concordance useful for? 6. What is an Expository Hebrew or Greek Dictionary useful for? 7. What can you do if you do not have access to either of these books or online? 8. Pick your favourite verse (or two/three maximum). Study it by using the following ten questions: • What words in it need a clear definition of understanding? • Why is the correct understanding important? • What is the main truth of the text? • How does God see this truth? • How can I see and experience this truth? • What challenges does this verse present to me? • Is there a promise to claim? An example to follow? A truth about God to remember? Or a command to obey? • What other Bible verses help explain this verse? • Is there anything I need to ask a more experienced Christian about this verse? (or look up in a Bible commentary). • Can you learn the verse to be able to tell it to your friend off by heart?

Mark's life and ministry of Jesus Christ. (Mark 1:1-13). Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ. The gospel of Mark is the earliest record we have of the life and teaching of Jesus. Apparently Mark listened hard at early Christian home meetings (Acts 12:12), and also learned from his long associations with Paul, Barnabas and Peter (Acts 12:25; Philemon 24; 1 Peter 5:13). God caused Mark to write down for all to read: ‘The gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God’ (Mark 1:1). This first verse links together two important things. Firstly, the facts about Jesus Christ. Secondly, faith in Jesus Christ. Mark wrote an account of what Jesus did, so that we may know Who Jesus is. The beginning of the gospel If a race was due to start at 3pm and the athletes had assembled, put down their blocks, stripped off their tracksuits, and the starter came up holding his pistol ready and said: ‘On your marks,’ you would rightly say that the race was about to begin. It would also be true that the race began months before that when someone conceived of the idea, sent out invitations, stipulated qualifications, scheduled the time, appointed the officials, marked out the course and so on. The planning, preparation and programme all worked together to make the start possible. In verses 2-3 Mark shows that God’s prophets had pointed forward to Someone very special coming into the human race. The Person was Jesus Christ, Who is actually first seen here in verse 9. The unusual thing about the man from Nazareth in Galilee, is that He is also the Lord of heaven and earth. God always fulfils His plans, even if they seem improbable. Make it your life-long ambition to discover and do God’s will. The baptism of Jesus Christ John the Baptist prepared the people for Jesus Christ by preaching ‘repentance for the forgiveness of sins’ (v.4). Thousands came to hear him, were convinced by him and made a confession by being baptised. Jesus had no sin to confess. He was baptised to identify Himself with the people, to show that the Son of God had become a true Son of man. He was baptised to indicate His life’s purpose of bringing God and men together. By being God and becoming a man, Jesus brought God and men together. God the Father was well-pleased with God the Son. The battle Jesus knew As soon as this public declaration was made, the spiritual battle intensified. God the Holy Spirit and Satan, the power and person of evil, both struggled for supremacy in the life of Jesus Christ. Satan offered Jesus the soft option, the spectacular option and the subtle deviation. You can read about the temptations in Matthew 4:1-11. However, our Saviour chose the way of suffering and sacrifice. He chose the way of distress and death. He chose to glorify the Father and not Himself. This gospel is good news for all who know the struggle of right against wrong, of good against evil. Jesus Christ has won the war! He entered the battle wearing our human colours and lifted the standard high. Jesus was bruised and He was battered, but He was born to win. Mark’s gospel began in the heart of God. Those who live the closest to God’s heart, are the ones who will win in life’s battle. Discussion guide for ‘the place of Jesus Christ’ Bible reading Mark 1:1-3 1. From where did Mark get his information about Jesus? 2. Why is 1:1 a clear statement of Christian faith? 3. What are the “two beginnings” to this gospel of Jesus Christ, verses 1,2 and 9? 4. What was the purpose of Jesus’ baptism, Verses 9-11? 5. What do you understand for your own life by the fact that the Holy Spirit sent Jesus into the wilderness for testing, verses 12-13? 6. Do you have any questions to pray about and seek help on?

Mark's Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ. (Mark 1:14-34). In this scripture the goals that Jesus Christ set for Himself, here on earth, can be clearly seen. He made certain that His whole life worked towards these achievements. He purposed that people be converted In the New Testament the ‘good news’ is frequently linked with salvation, sharing God’s promise, peace, truth, hope and immortality. Jesus Christ offers these things to people amid whatever circumstances they find themselves. All people must repent before their lives can be changed. Many a man is genuinely sorry because of the mess sin has made of his life. He is sorry for the consequences of sin, but given the opportunity to do the same thing again without suffering the after-effects, he may well be tempted to do so. Such a man is not truly repentant. Real repentance involves a man so hating sin that the desire to sin begins to die within him. This is the cutting heart-surgery that really changes lives. ‘Believe’ simply means to take Jesus at His word. He loves us enough to die for us. He loves us enough to draw us to Himself. He loves us enough to deliver us from our own evil-doing. The good news is that you can get to heaven without riches, without fame, without education, without reputation, but you will not get to heaven without repentance and faith. He purposed that people be commissioned Mark cites many examples of folk Jesus called and commissioned. There were the fishing brothers (1:16-20); there was Levi the taxman (2:14); there were those designated by Him to be apostles (3:13-19). In Mark 6:7-13 Jesus had a particular task for particular people to do. If you think about this, you will see that Jesus was reproducing His own life and ministry in those He called and commissioned. We are warned that not everyone who was called actually followed (10:17-22). Jesus never painted over the demands of discipleship. He said that commitment was costly. If you and I are willing to give everything to God there will be great gain from Him. Mark 1:17 tells me it is my responsibility to follow Jesus and then His responsibility to fashion me as He wants. Make sure you are following Christ now. Do not fight against His will. Jesus purposed that people be in conflict Verses 21-28 show three characteristics of Jesus’ ministry. There was confrontation between Him and the powers of darkness. There was consternation in the Enemy’s ranks because they knew Who they were up against! There was also command. Jesus was neither fearful nor frivolous in the presence of evil spirits. He had authority and He used it. The devil may be a potent force, but God is omnipotent. Mark 6:7 tells us that this authority has been passed on to us. The evil spirit complied with Jesus’ command. Jesus purposed that people be compassionate He saw people as people, not merely souls to be won. Verses 29-34 reveal Him hearing of a need, helping to meet it Himself, and being wholehearted in His giving of Himself to those who came to Him. Compassion marked Jesus’ life (1:41; 6:34; 8:2) Discussion guide for ‘the purpose of Jesus Christ’ Bible reading Mark 1:14-34 1. What does the phrase “the time has come”, verse 15, teach you about the life and ministry of Jesus? 2. What is the difference between false repentance and genuine repentance? 3. Explain the promise Jesus made to those who would follow Him. What does it mean to be made “fishers of men”, verse 17? 4. Describe how the “authority” of Mark 6:7 is seen in the account of Mark 1:21-28. 5. What is the difference between seeing people “as souls to be won” and seeing people as whole people? How did Jesus exemplify the latter view? 6. What does this mean to you in your life? 7. Do you have any questions to pray about and seek help on?

Mark's life and Ministry of Jesus Christ. (Mark 1:35-39) Even in the busiest life, time must be found for prayer. On one of my filing cabinets I have recorded John Wesley’s words: ‘I have so much to do today that I must spend several hours in prayer before I am able to do it.’ By looking at the references to prayer in Mark’s gospel, we can see: The times of prayer Jesus had In verse 35 we must note He had the desire to pray and the discipline to actually do it. I do not believe it is possible to love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength, and not to have the desire to spend quiet times alone with Him. The previous day Jesus had spent in worship at Capernaum’s synagogue where He taught from the Scriptures. He encountered a man with an evil spirit and, in the public eye, there was a miracle of exorcism and healing. Going on to a family home for a meal, Jesus also shared His thoughts with His close disciples. He cured Peter’s sick mother-in-law and ended up having the whole town at the door bringing every conceivable needy person to Him for help. Yet, ‘Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed’ (1:35). It is strange how people can get up for an early job, or can get up to go off on a long holiday journey, but they cannot get up early to pray. We all know the same difficulties: going to bed early enough, getting a quiet spot, a willing spirit but a wandering mind, feeling too tired and making the excuse that ‘God knows I need my sleep’. May I suggest that if you have the desire you can determine to overcome these things? Jesus also prayed at other times: before a meal (6:41; 14:22-23), at the end of a long and arduous day, and after the ministry of the day (6:46). Jesus’ teaching on prayer I discovered five examples recorded by Mark and I will just share the key word of each with you. Prayer is a battle against the forces of evil (9:29). The church should make prayer her business (11:17). We are urged to believe in God and in prayer (11:24) and the following verse says we must be united in fellowship with Christian brothers and sisters before we pray. Lastly, Jesus says we are to pray before God and not before men (12:40). Private prayer shows more sacred devotion than public prayer meetings, though both have an important role to play. The theology of prayer Notice again in chapter 14, verse 32, Jesus’ desire to pray. See also the distress it caused Him. He discloses His real feelings to His Father in heaven (vv. 35-36). He shows His determination to see it through with God (v.39). It is verse 36 that shows us how prayer works in our lives: ‘Father, everything is possible for You.’ That is worship. ‘Take this cup from Me,’ is stating what is wanted, but: ‘Yet not what I will, but what you will,’ is showing a willingness to change mind and will, in order to conform with what God wants to do. Prayer is not an Aladdin’s lamp to make your wishes come true. True prayer makes God’s will and your will become one. Do you need to redefine your priorities? Do you need to change your lifestyle? Do you need to learn to wrestle as well as nestle? Do you need to put your private prayer time right and spend less time criticising the church prayer meeting? Remember, there will be a 6 o’clock tomorrow morning! Our Lord will be there, will you? Discussion guide for ‘the prayer life of Jesus Christ’ Bible reading Mark 1:35-39 1. Why do you think prayer was such a priority for Jesus, 1:35? 2. What is the significance of prayer in relation to Jesus’ choice in 1:38-39? (See also 11:17; 14:32). What do you learn about prayer from each of the following? 3. Mark 9:29 4. Mark 11:17 5. Mark 11:24 6. Mark 11:25 7. Mark 12:38-40 8. What do these mean to you in your own life? 9. Are there questions for you to pray about or ask help on?

Mark's life and ministry of Jesus Christ. (Mark 2:1-12) You do not have to read far in Mark’s ‘life of Jesus’ to come across a miracle. His compassion for people led Him into contact with them and resulted in many cures. We have already seen examples of this (1:40-45). The leper made the ministry of Jesus more difficult by getting so excited about the miracle that he forgot Jesus’ message. Many people today do the same thing. Miracles are basically two things. Firstly they are supernatural happenings, clearly designated by the Greek word usually translated ‘miracle’. Secondly they are signs, from a different word often translated ‘miraculous signs’ in most modern Bibles. Remember that both are significant. Have you ever seen a young child given a super new toy only to put it to one side and play with the box that it came in? Many Christians fall into that trap over God’s gracious miraculous signs. The attraction of Jesus Christ Those who had heard Jesus and seen what He was doing were so stirred up that they went and told many others. In this way many, many people heard about Jesus. This always happened (2:1-2, 13; 3:7-8, 20). The people came to where Jesus was. Some came to criticise. Some came to catch Him out. Some came to cry out for mercy. In every case, it was Jesus they came to. Then they listened to Him. Jesus took every opportunity to ‘preach the word’ to people. His teaching, the crowds who gave testimony, and the tremendous miracles, served to draw crowds around Jesus. Is there a lesson for us here? The attitude of men There were three groups around Jesus in Capernaum and the same three groups are around today. Four men had faith for a needy friend. Verses 3-5 record how they brought him to Jesus, believing He could help him. With their bare hands they tore at the roof. Their faith was shown by their actions. Jesus saw it and responded with a miracle. The teachers criticised Jesus. Verses 6-7 reveal the ‘tut-tut’ brigade! They were close to Jesus, but they were very critical and when they should have been helping, they were hindering. They tried to find fault rather than faith. Be careful you do not join their ranks today. The watchers wondered, worshipped and wanted Jesus to do something for them. If you compare verses 2 and 12 you will discover that the crowd at large witnessed these events and worshipped God for His workings. I am sure that within the crowd people were saying, ‘I wish Jesus would help me.’ The miracle Jesus performed demonstrated that He has ‘authority on earth to forgive sins’ (v.10). This is what the sign points to. Do not limit God. He still works miracles today. To some He gives a miracle of healing for His own praise; to others He gives a measure of help; to others He gives the privilege of suffering with His own promise of sufficient grace. Make sure your life attracts people to Jesus Christ and make sure that your attitude to miracles sees the supernatural signs that God is showing. Discussion guide for ‘the miracles of Jesus Christ’ Bible reading Mark 2:1-12 1. When the leper forgot Jesus’ message in the wonder of his own miracle, what happened to Jesus’ ministry, Mark 1:40-45? 2. Jesus undoubtedly worked many miracles. These helped to draw crowds of people to come, watch and listen to Him – see Mark 2:1-2; 2:13; 3:7-8; 3:20. Usually, what did Jesus do when a crowd gathered? Why did He do this? (Consider 1:15). 3. Do you think people were attracted to Jesus because of His miracles, His message or His true manliness? Why? 4. What can you learn about the dual purpose of some miracles, from Mark 2:5 and verse 8-11? 5. What does this mean for you in your own life? 6. Do you have questions to pray about or to seek Christian advice over?

Mark's life and ministry of Jesus Christ. (Mark 4:1-20) Satan did not like Jesus teaching because he knew he would lose his own grip on the people. By using the Old Testament scriptures, Jesus made His authority evident. By using parables, He made His application clear to those who would come to Him for the key. The purpose of Jesus’ parables He wanted to teach the people. They wanted to learn and so they came and listened. He wanted to teach, so he willingly spent hour after hour teaching them. He spoke sometimes to crowds, sometimes to chosen people and sometimes only to His close disciples. God endows human teachers today, but we must be careful to listen to what God Himself is saying to them and through them. The Holy Spirit is our guide into truth. He wanted to build up the people. Verse 2 says: ‘He taught them many things.’ Not one or two, but many. Some were foundational. Some were structural. Some were functional for the practical outworking of others that were theological. Scripture as a whole has many values. God’s word gives light (Psalm 119:130); it gives truth (Psalm 119:160); it gives faith (Romans 10:17); it helps overcome sin (Psalm 119:11). To try and live the Christian life without Scripture is as futile as sailing the oceans without a chart or building a house without a plan. He wanted to illustrate truth. The very word ‘parable’ means ‘to place one thing beside another in order to compare it’. It is a parallel that makes you able to understand some aspect of the kingdom of heaven. It is a simple story to illustrate a significant truth. A parable, like a good visual aid, should illustrate truth, induce understanding and instil some thought of the kingdom of heaven in the listener. The wonder of Jesus’ word This is shown by the parable in Mark 4:1-20. Perhaps Jesus looked across to the hills and saw an Eastern farmer sowing his seed amid the encircling birds. He used it as a picture of His own work and that of Christian preachers and teachers down through the years. God’s seed is planted (v.14). This is defined in Luke 8:11 as being the word of God. Just as every seed contains life, so does every word of God. Just as every seed holds potential, so does every word of God. Just as every seed will reproduce itself so will every word of God. The Bible is in itself a miracle from God – many human authors having been inspired by God to write it. Through the centuries men have banned the Bible, burned the Bible, distorted the Bible, doubted the Bible, hated the Bible and hidden the Bible only to find that God’s seed keeps on growing. This does not mean that the Bible is getting bigger, it means that what God does in the lives of men and women through His word is becoming more hour by hour. God’s servants are produced (v.8). Jesus’ own explanation given in verse 20 encourages all Christians to put God’s word into their hearts, their minds and their lives. It is beyond doubt the best investment you will ever make. God’s word can make you what God wants you to be, if you will allow it to judge you, correct you, instruct you and build you up. The strategy of Satan Our Enemy will always attack God’s word. He will snatch away the seed (v.15). He will scorch those who have no roots (v.17). He will stifle those who have desires in other directions (v.19). Do you realise that your pressing need to do something at the expense of Bible reading and study is from Satan? The thing that stops you from attending teaching classes is probably from Satan, be it tiredness, a feeling of irrelevance, laziness, other activity, or whatever. No seed snatched away ever bore fruit. No seed scorched ever bore fruit. No seed stifled ever bore fruit. Discussion guide for ‘the message of Jesus Christ’ Bible reading Mark 4:1-20 1. What is a “parable”, Mark 4:2? 2. Why did Jesus use so many parables in His teaching, see Mark 4:10-12; 4:33-34; also Matthew 13:10-17? 3. How does the parable of the Sower encourage you as a Christian, Matthew 4:3-9; 4:13-20? (Consider the seed of God’s word in your own life and in your witness to others). 4. What do you learn from the same parable about Satan and God’s word? Explain from your own life how he tries to do this. 5. Share all the other parables Jesus told, every one you can think of. Do you remember the meaning and application to life, as well as the story? 6. What does this ‘message of Jesus’ mean in your own life? 7. Are there any questions to pray about or to ask another Christian about?

Mark's life and ministry of Jesus Christ. (Mark 4:35-41; 6:45-52; 9:2-13) How would you get to know new people if they moved in next door to you? I imagine you may introduce yourself, exchange names, and over the next few weeks you would learn about each other by talking, sharing and listening. You’d probably notice their lifestyle, attitudes and actions, and you may even meet some of their friends or relatives. Jesus’ disciples had a wonderful opportunity to learn about Jesus in a similar way. We do not know much about the physical appearance of Jesus Christ, but there are five things from these verses about which we are absolutely sure. A man of His word Jesus’ intention was to cross the lake and He invited the disciples to go with Him. On the way they encountered a sudden storm that made the disciples fear for their lives. However, the squall did not affect Jesus’ word. The disciples had their minds taken up with the present storm rather than the promise in Jesus’ original invitation. We are often like them in our lives. Though they were exposed to the elements, let down by their own skill and seamanship, it is important to notice that they were only nearly swamped! The stillness proved Jesus’ words to be true. The stunned breathing of the disciples was the loudest sound when all else became calm. They were safe because of Jesus’ word. A man of faith The question Jesus asked His disciples reveals the marked difference between Him and them at this point. Mark 4:40 says: ‘Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?’ The confident have calm in the midst of any storm. Although His physical body was being tossed around, Jesus’ heart was secure in God’s will. The faithless have fear in the midst of a storm. The disciples could not drown and go over to the other side, yet Jesus had said they were going to cross over. Do you have faith to believe God can save you from any storm until His will for you is complete? A man of prayer (Mark 6:45-52) In the middle of His busy life, Jesus made the time to pray (Mark 6:46). Remember there is always time to do all that God wants you to do. It is His will that you pray. If you want to pray you will work at your prayer life. Any Christian who does not pray is dying, even while he thinks he lives. A man who cares for His disciples Mark 6:48 shows us that Jesus had the disciples in His eye even when they were at a distance from Him. The eyes of the Lord are always on those who fear Him. Jesus knew the right time to come to their aid. He did not go immediately they were in trouble. He waited until the time was right. When He arrived to help them He corrected their wrong thoughts (vv.49-50). The disciples had to reject their first impressions and respond in faith to what Jesus told them. He made their journey easier. Jesus Christ – the Son of God (Mark 9:2-13) In Mark 9, God Himself bears testimony to Who Jesus is. It is the real Jesus that Peter, James and John see here. God reveals Him to those He chooses. The resurrection was still in the future at this time, but Paul later wrote that Jesus was ‘declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead’ (Romans 1:4). In a wonderful way Jesus was, and is, like us but not like us. Christians today are like Him but not like Him. A Christian is a man or woman with this Christ in his life. How well do you know Him right now? Discussion guide for ‘the man Jesus Christ’ Bible reading Mark 4:35-41; 6:45-52; 9:2-13 1. Why do you think the disciples “were terrified” at Jesus and what He did, Mark 4:41? 2. What should have kept them calm in the storm, even though some of them were experienced fishermen? 3. Why is it important to notice that the busy Jesus still made time to pray, Mark 6:46? 4. Why were the disciples “completely amazed”, verse 51, as Jesus joined them in their boat and the sea calmed? 5. What did God reveal about Jesus in Mark 9:2-13? List as many things as you can – and at least six! 6. What does this teaching mean to you, in your own life, today? 7. Do you have any questions to pray about and perhaps seek Christian advice over?