Calming the Storm (Mark 4:35-41)

Summary

In this sermon, the speaker delves into Mark 4:35-41, highlighting the dual nature of Jesus as both man and God. Through the story of Jesus calming the storm on the Sea of Galilee, the speaker illustrates Jesus' humanity in his exhaustion and sleep, and his divinity in his command over the natural elements. The sermon emphasizes Jesus' power as the Creator and sustainer of the universe, encouraging faith and trust in Him, even in the most daunting circumstances. The narrative also underscores the disciples' growing understanding of Jesus' divine identity.

Takeaways

• 📖 The Gospel of Mark aims to demonstrate that Jesus is both fully human and fully divine.
• 💡 Mark 4:35-41 showcases Jesus' power over nature, emphasizing His divine authority.
• 🌊 The passage describes a fierce storm on the Sea of Galilee, which Jesus calms with a command.
• 😴 Despite the severity of the storm, Jesus is depicted as sleeping peacefully, showing His humanity.
• 🌀 The disciples panic and wake Jesus, questioning His concern for their safety.
• 🗣️ Jesus rebukes the wind and the waves, instantly calming the storm, demonstrating His divine power.
• 😨 The disciples react with awe and fear, realizing the divine nature of Jesus.
• 🌍 The sermon references various Bible passages (John 1, Hebrews 1, Colossians 1, Psalms) to underline Jesus' role as Creator and Sustainer of the universe.
• 🙏 The key lesson for the disciples is to have faith in Jesus' power and protection.
• 🌟 The story underscores the dual nature of Jesus as both fully human (exhausted and sleeping) and fully divine (commanding the elements).

Q & A

What is the main purpose of Mark's gospel according to the script?

Mark's purpose in writing the gospel is to make it unmistakably clear that Jesus is both God and man, the God-Man.

What significant event is described in Mark 4:35-41?

The event describes Jesus calming a fierce storm while He and His disciples were on the Sea of Galilee.

How does the script describe Jesus' humanity in this passage?

The script highlights Jesus' humanity by describing how He was exhausted from a long day of teaching and fell asleep on a cushion in the stern of the boat.

What does Jesus' action of calming the storm demonstrate about His divinity?

Jesus' action of rebuking the wind and calming the sea demonstrates His divine power and control over nature, affirming that He is God.

What natural features of the Sea of Galilee make it prone to sudden storms?

The Sea of Galilee is prone to sudden storms due to its unique location, 682 feet below sea level, surrounded by mountains that funnel winds into the basin, causing violent turbulence.

What was the disciples' reaction during the storm, and what did they ask Jesus?

The disciples panicked and woke Jesus, asking, 'Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?' They were terrified and felt they were in imminent danger.

How did Jesus respond to the storm and the disciples' fear?

Jesus rebuked the wind and said to the sea, 'Hush, be still.' The wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He then questioned the disciples about their fear and lack of faith.

What does the script suggest about the disciples' faith after Jesus calmed the storm?

The script suggests that the disciples' faith was still weak as they reacted with great fear, questioning, 'Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?'

What Old Testament passages does the script reference to emphasize God's power over nature?

The script references Psalm 65:5-7, Psalm 89:9, and Psalm 107:23-29, which speak of God's power to still the roaring seas and calm the waves.

What theological point does the script make about the control of the planet and nature?

The script emphasizes that God, not humans, controls the planet and nature. It argues that the Creator is the sustainer and consummator of His creation, dismissing human efforts to control the planet's future as nonsense.