6 April 2008
The Disciple’s Parable
The Disciple:
A seven-week series about following Jesus Christ in the world. Discipleship involves a leader (Jesus), followers (Christians), and a way of living (all that Jesus commanded). Sunday sermons and Wednesday evening Community Group discussions are devoted to this topic.
The Disciple’s Parable
Part 2 of 7
Mark 4
Scott Patty
Click here for audio of this sermon.
Why is this parable so important? (verses 10-13)
The necessity of approaching Jesus in faith.
Because Jesus and His word are inseparable, the true follower of Jesus will receive His word with faith, joy, and obedience.
1. Not all that follow after Jesus are genuine.
2. The parables reveal the heart and how one approaches Jesus.
What does this parable show us about being a disciple? (verses 14-20)
The importance of how we receive the gospel.
“A disciple of Jesus receives and accepts the word of Jesus.”
1. Every human heart responds to Jesus. There is no position of neutral.
2. The parable teaches us about four responses to Jesus and His word.
- Hard Heart: This is the heart of unbelief or a lack of trust in Jesus.
- Shallow Heart: This heart quickly shows neither real spiritual growth nor spiritual life.
- Distracted Heart: This heart has too many loves to remain devoted to Jesus.
- Heart of Faith: This heart receives the word of Jesus with faith, allows the gospel to take root, and ultimately creates real spiritual change.
“The disciple of Jesus sees other loves in his heart and works to get rid of them.
“A disciple of Jesus holds onto Jesus.”
Because God changes hearts, do not allow this message to be a discouragement. Receive the word of Jesus with faith and ask God to change you.
Want to discuss?
If you are interested in discussing the topics of this sermon further, consider attending a Community Group. You may also leave a comment at the end of this post.
For next week:
Review your notes from this sermon. Take time to apply this sermon to your life. Attend a Community Group to discuss following Jesus. Read Mark 5 to prepare for next Sunday’s message.
Category: The Disciple.
