Sunday Sermon – September 3, 2023 – “Insiders and Outsiders” – Mark 2:1-12
September 3, 2023
Insiders and Outsiders
Mark 2:1-12
Sunday, September 3, 2023
Dr. Kelly B. Burton
We feel out of breath following Jesus and we are only in chapter 2! It’s hard to keep up with the King who is preaching, healing, and forgiving. In chapter 2 we read about the first confrontation between the religious leaders and Jesus. But don’t overlook another group of people who are in direct contrast to the four friends who let the paralytic down through the roof. They are the masses, the crowds who are always present but never commit to Christ. I call them spectators, or outsiders. Resolute faith is first and foremost with Jesus. Don’t be a spectator.
Sermon in a Sentence: Resolute faith is first and foremost with Jesus. Don’t be a spectator.
The people in the story show us two very different responses to Jesus:
2:1-5 Committed followers are resolute in their faith and show it.
Pay attention to the “crowds.” What do they not do?
2:6-12 Spectators are slow to believe and demonstrate doubt in their hearts.
Another interruption! What is Mark trying to teach us?
