How should believers respond to witnessing Jesus' power, as seen in Mark 5:14? Verse Focus “Those tending the pigs ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, and the people went out to see what had happened.” (Mark 5:14) Immediate Human Response in the Passage • The herdsmen “ran off and reported” — they could not keep silent about what they saw. • Their report drew an audience; people “went out to see” Jesus for themselves. • The chain reaction shows how quickly news of Christ’s power can spread when eyewitnesses speak up. Lessons for Every Believer Today • Speak Up Promptly – When Jesus works, delay is disobedience. – Psalm 66:16: “Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for my soul.” • Point People to Jesus, Not Ourselves – Like the herdsmen, our story’s purpose is to lead others to Christ, not to center on us. – John 1:36-37: John points, disciples follow Jesus. • Expect Curiosity—and Questions – Openness about Christ’s power invites seekers. – Acts 2:12: “What does this mean?” naturally follows visible works of God. • Maintain Awe and Reverence – Witnessing supernatural authority should deepen holy fear (Mark 5:15). – Hebrews 12:28: “Let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.” • Choose Alignment, Not Distance – Some in the region begged Jesus to leave (Mark 5:17); the delivered man begged to stay (Mark 5:18). – Our right response is to stay near, follow, and obey. Supporting Scriptures • Acts 4:20 — “For we cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • Mark 5:19 — “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you…” • 1 Chronicles 16:24 — “Declare His glory among the nations, His wondrous deeds among all peoples.” • 2 Peter 1:16 — Eyewitness testimony verifies Christ’s power and majesty. Putting It into Practice This Week • Recall a recent instance of God’s power in your life; write it down in two or three sentences. • Share that account with at least one person—family member, coworker, or neighbor. • Invite the listener to “come and see” by reading the passage with you or attending church. • Spend time in worship, expressing awe for Christ’s authority over every realm, physical and spiritual. |
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