What can we learn about faith from Jesus' actions in Mark 5:37? The Immediate Context “ And He did not allow anyone to accompany Him except Peter, James, and John the brother of James.” — Mark 5:37 Why Jesus Limited the Company • He was on the way to raise Jairus’s daughter, moving into a setting thick with grief and unbelief (Mark 5:38–40). • By bringing only three disciples, He surrounded Himself with witnesses prepared to believe, shielding the moment from doubt and distraction. • Peter, James, and John would later testify to His power (Acts 2:32; 2 Peter 1:16), so this was part of their training. Lessons About Faith • Faith flourishes in an atmosphere of expectation. Jesus chose companions whose hearts were ready to trust Him. • Guard the environment. Persistent unbelief can stifle what God desires to do (Mark 6:5–6). • Quality over quantity. A small, faith-filled circle can accomplish more than a crowd clouded by skepticism. • Intimacy with Christ deepens faith. The three disciples repeatedly experienced private moments with Jesus (Mark 9:2; 14:33), strengthening their confidence in Him. • Faith is meant to become testimony. Those who witness God’s power are entrusted to proclaim it (Acts 4:20). Living Out These Lessons • Choose companions who encourage belief and obedience. • Remove voices of doubt when you’re standing on a promise from Scripture. • Seek personal, private time with the Lord; faith grows in closeness. • Record and share God’s faithfulness so others’ faith can rise. Supporting Scriptures • Mark 5:40 — “He put them all outside…” • Luke 8:51 — “Only Peter, John, James, and the child’s parents…” • Matthew 13:58 — “He did not do many miracles there, because of their unbelief.” • 2 Kings 4:32–33 — Elisha closes the door before raising the Shunammite’s son. • 1 Corinthians 15:33 — “Bad company corrupts good character.” • Hebrews 10:23–25 — Stir one another to faith and good works. |
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