What can we learn about faith from the disciples' actions in Mark 11:6? The verse in focus “and they answered as Jesus had instructed, and the people let them go.” (Mark 11:6) Quick setting of the scene • Jesus has sent two disciples to untie a colt that does not belong to them. • He has already told them they will be questioned, and has given them the exact words to say. • Their reply matches His words perfectly; the bystanders immediately allow the colt to be taken. What their response reveals about genuine faith • Exact obedience, not creative editing – They “answered as Jesus had instructed,” nothing more, nothing less (cf. John 2:5). – True faith receives Christ’s word as complete and sufficient (John 14:15). • Confidence in Christ’s foreknowledge – Jesus predicted the objection before it happened (Mark 11:2–3). – Acting on His word, they discover He rules over future details (Psalm 139:4; Isaiah 46:10). • Courage when actions appear risky – Untying someone else’s animal could look like theft. – Faith risks misunderstanding in order to honor Jesus (Acts 5:29). • Dependence on Jesus’ authority, not personal influence – Their simple phrase, “The Lord needs it,” carries more weight than lengthy explanations (Matthew 28:18). – Faith leans on His name, not our persuasiveness (Colossians 3:17). • Action that precedes understanding – They didn’t yet see how a borrowed colt fit into Jesus’ mission. – Faith walks “by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7). • Obedience that unlocks provision – Because they obeyed, the needed colt was released. – God still releases resources through responsive faith (Philippians 4:19). • Faith’s growth through small assignments – This seemingly minor task prepared them for greater responsibilities (Luke 16:10). – Each step of obedience strengthens trust for the next (Hebrews 11:8). Putting it together Faith listens carefully to Jesus, obeys immediately, trusts Him with the unknown, and discovers that His authority opens every necessary door. |
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