What can we learn about Jesus' presence from Mark 9:15? Setting the Scene - Jesus is coming down from the Mount of Transfiguration with Peter, James, and John (Mark 9:2-14). - The remaining disciples are entangled in an argument with scribes over a demon-possessed boy (9:14). - Into this tension-filled scene Jesus appears, and Mark 9:15 records the crowd’s response. Verse in Focus “As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were filled with awe and ran to greet Him.” (Mark 9:15) Immediate Reactions Recorded - “As soon as” – no delay, instinctive. - “All the people” – universal, collective reaction. - “Filled with awe” – not mere curiosity; reverential wonder. - “Ran to greet Him” – eager movement toward Him, not away. Truths We Learn about Jesus’ Presence • His presence commands attention – Without a word, He becomes the center of the scene. Cf. Luke 5:1: “the crowd was pressing in on Jesus to hear the word of God.” • His presence produces awe – The Greek term (ekthambéō) denotes amazement mixed with reverence. Similar reaction: Mark 1:22, 27. • His presence draws people, not repels them – They “ran to greet Him,” contrasting with sinful flight from God in Genesis 3:8. • His presence is approachable – Though glorious (fresh from Transfiguration), He allows the crowd to come close. Compare Hebrews 4:16: “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” • His presence brings hope into turmoil – Arguments, failure, demonic oppression give way to anticipation of deliverance. Cf. Isaiah 9:2: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” • His presence reveals divine authority in human form – The reaction mirrors OT encounters with God’s glory (Exodus 34:30), yet here the glory is embodied in Jesus. See John 1:14; Colossians 1:15. Relating to the Larger Biblical Picture - Old Testament previews: whenever God visibly manifests, people fall in awe (Exodus 33:10; Judges 13:20). - Gospel pattern: crowds instinctively flock to Jesus (Mark 3:7-10; 6:33-34). - Post-resurrection promise: His presence continues with believers through the Spirit (Matthew 28:20; John 14:16-18). Living in the Light of His Presence Today - Expect Him to command your attention in Scripture, prayer, and daily providence. - Cultivate reverent awe; routine familiarity dulls wonder. - Run toward Him, not merely walk—eager, prioritized pursuit (Hebrews 12:1-2). - Approach with confidence, knowing He welcomes those who seek Him (James 4:8). - Carry His presence into conflict-ridden spaces; He still brings order and deliverance. Jesus’ presence then and now remains the same: awe-inspiring, welcoming, and transformative for all who come running. |
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