Sermon Application Questions

The first chapter of Mark begins with terms that were typically attached to emperors ("beginning", "Son of God", and "gospel"). This book is set up in direct contrast to the empire at the time.
Rod posed the question: what king do you bow to? To which kingdom do you belong?

Vs. 15: "the time is come, the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news (gospel)"
Rod talked about the word gospel- God's rule breaking in to restore us - a world changing event. He said if the gospel isn't changing you, then maybe it never saved you. How do you feel about that statement? How does this affect your life moving forward?

Rod talked about God showing up in the desert. Why do you think that throughout the narrative of His story He shows up constantly in the desert?

Vs 12- the desert is where Jesus came face to face with evil. But God spoke to him from heaven "You are my son, whom I love, with you I am well pleased"
Rod spoke about how God models what every son/daughter should hear from their father...how when we are in the desert we also will hear from God these words, we will find God in the desert with us. He said unless we have desert in our lives we will never know him- Do you find this to be true? What has been a season in your life when you experienced desert and how did God meet you there?

Rod talked about the word "repent," meaning to turn in the opposite direction. Making a radical change from the path you are on and returning to God's path.
2 Chronicles 7:14 says "If my people, which are called by my name, will humble themselves, pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will heal their land."

Thinking about repentance- how does this move you? What does repentance mean to you?

Rod posed the questions: "What would you give for a new start? Freedom from worry, fear, addiction, health in your marriage...what would you be willing to do to have the kingdom of God break into your life?" He said, repent...and glory will fill our souls.