Masterclass: The Gospel of Mark

People take classes to improve their business skills, to grow in their financial wisdom, to become more educated in their field. We take classes to develop a mastery of a skill or attribute, and these classes are to help us grow into the person we want to become. Well, this summer, we’re signing you up for a class – a class in becoming a stronger, more devoted follower of Jesus. In our summer series, Masterclass: The Gospel of Mark, we’ll be following the life and ministry of the Master Himself across all sixteen chapters of the book. We are fearfully and wonderfully made, and who better than our Creator to teach us how we can best be used for what is good.

Together, we’ll witness Jesus healing people of various types of diseases and illnesses. We’ll learn about His many parables and the incredible wisdom they hold for every area of our lives. We’ll hear His revolutionary teaching and find awe in His many miracles. And we’ll watch as He comes into conflict with the leaders of His day, and stands firm even in the face of mockery, accusations, torture, and death. And Jesus wins, so in that, we have hope, purpose, and a reason to follow His example. Jesus has secured the ultimate victory, but the battle for the souls of His people rages on… and a life transformed by the Good News does not stand idly by.

At the very beginning of His ministry, Jesus’ called out to His disciples, Simon and Andrew, two fishermen on the Sea of Galilee, “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people” (Mark 1:17). And then, after His resurrection, Jesus again appeared to his eleven remaining disciples and said, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Matthew 28:19-20). From the beginning to the end of the Gospel of Mark, Jesus makes clear the plan He has for His followers. While we wait for His triumphant second coming, we are to share the love of Christ to all.

The word “Christian” actually means little Christ. That is what we should aim to be the people around us: little reflections of the love and grace of the Lord, Jesus Christ. He freed us from the bondage of our sin and shame, so that we could live for Him and His people. Our God stepped down from His place as King in heaven to become a servant of the most lowly on earth. Now, what we do for the least among us, we do for Him. Therefore, we should lead by serving one another, and serve one another by leading them to Christ.

We invite you to join us, all summer long, as we journey together through the Gospel of Mark. We will start from the beginning, and each week we will explore a new chapter. Our messages will focus on the practical ways Jesus taught us to grow in our roles as leaders and servants. Ultimately, we aim to bring others alongside us in a life-changing walk with Christ. Will you commit your summer to taking up your cross for Jesus?