Patterns of God’s Grace
Mark 1:16-28
December 28, 2025
Dr. Kelly B. Burton
In these two paragraphs I see two encounters Jesus initiated with people. The four fishermen heard that Jesus wants to make them fishers of men and they promptly surrendered their jobs and themselves. We should learn how to count the cost from these four new followers. The man in the Capernaum synagogue was swallowed up by Satan. The demon had completely taken over his mind, his affections, and his will. Only the unusual authority of Jesus could deliver him. Jesus’ teaching cut to his heart and caused a violent struggle of allegiance. Christ set him free from destructive life patterns. Learn what Jesus teaches and do what He says.
Sermon Idea: Jesus pursues us with grace, so learn what He teaches and do what He does.
I see two invitations to respond promptly and completely to Jesus:
1:16-20 He Passionately Pursues Us in Order to Change Our Affections
We are not to look for characteristics of these men that attracted Jesus.
We are to focus on their prompt and complete surrender to Jesus.
1:21-28 He Displays Unusual Authority Over Destructive Life Patterns
This poor man illustrates how fully he was swallowed up by destructive life patterns orchestrated by Satan himself.
What was it that triggered his crying out? The answer lies in what Jesus was doing in verse 21!
