Mark 6:1-13

Mark 6:1-13

The preventive power of unbelief is amazing.  Jesus is well into His ministry.  He has done amazing things and great works of power or miracles.  But in His own town He is limited in what can be done.  Here is the example of the contrast between unbelief and doubt.  Doubt is more akin to the questions that honestly seek answers.  Unbelief is rejection that seeks an excuse to justify that rejection.   Nazareth had decided to reject Him; the citation of family association was merely a flimsy excuse.   Don’t miss the tragedy!  In the presence of God and all that He might do for them, they rejected Him because their minds were made up.   Jesus could only marvel at their rejection.  What blessings and what an opportunity they rejected. 

In contrast, the people to whom Jesus sends His disciples experienced healing and the liberation from demonic powers.  On this trip, Jesus specifically gave the disciples authority over the demonic powers.  This mission was to be as much about training for the disciples as it was teaching for the people.  The disciples learned to do ministry quick and light.  We must not think that ministry requires a building, a truckload of equipment and a 3-5 year plan.  They went with nothing but a walking stick and their clothes.  If the Lord calls, the needs will be provided along the way.  But we must not presume upon the Lord’s promise for what is not His agenda.

"Lord, help me to make your agenda mine. AMEN"