What obstacles might prevent us from sharing God's work in our lives? Setting the Scene In Mark 5 Jesus frees a man possessed by a legion of demons. The formerly tormented man begs to stay with Jesus, but the Lord gives him a different mission. The Clear Call to Share “But Jesus would not allow him. ‘Go home to your own people,’ He said, ‘and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and what mercy He has shown you.’” Obstacles That Hold Us Back • Fear of Rejection – The townspeople begged Jesus to leave (Mark 5:17). Their response signals the very resistance we fear today. – Cross-reference: John 12:42-43—many believed but kept silent “for fear…they loved the glory of men.” • Feeling Unqualified or Inarticulate – The healed man had no formal training, yet Jesus sends him immediately. – Cross-reference: 1 Corinthians 1:26-29—God delights to use the “weak.” • Lingering Shame over Past Sin – Publicly sharing means revisiting painful chapters. – Cross-reference: Psalm 32:5—confession brings freedom; Romans 8:1—no condemnation in Christ. • Cultural Intimidation – Our setting may mock or marginalize faith, just as Gadara pushed Jesus away. – Cross-reference: Acts 4:18-20—apostles refuse to be silenced. • Spiritual Opposition – Ephesians 6:12 reminds us we battle unseen forces that prefer a muted church. • Busyness and Distraction – Luke 10:40—Martha was “distracted with much serving,” missing the better portion. Modern schedules crowd out testimony. • Self-Focus or Complacency – Revelation 3:17 warns against lukewarm comfort that forgets desperate need for Christ. Truth That Disarms the Obstacles • Our story is God’s tool: Revelation 12:11—“They overcame…by the word of their testimony.” • The Spirit supplies words: Luke 12:12—He “will teach you…what you ought to say.” • Christ’s approval outweighs human opinion: Galatians 1:10. • Salvation’s mercy outshines past failure: 1 Timothy 1:15-16—Paul, the “foremost” sinner, becomes exhibit A of grace. Practical Steps Forward 1. Reflect daily on “how much the Lord has done” in your own life—fresh gratitude fuels boldness. 2. Identify a specific person or circle (“your own people”) where your story naturally fits. 3. Keep it simple: what life was like before Christ, what happened when He met you, and what life is like now. 4. Pray for open doors and discernment (Colossians 4:3). 5. Trust the outcome to God; your task is faithful telling, His is sovereign saving. |
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