Study Guide;
Read the scripture
Discuss meaning
Relate to now
Jesus Begins to Preach
MATT 4:12-17
“Repent, the kingdom of heaven is near”
Started with the ‘spiritually hungry’ – Galileans of Galilee (v15)
Jesus is culturally sensitive (v17) - specifically uses phrase ‘Kingdom of heaven’ rather than ‘Kingdom of God’ because, out of respect and reverence, Jews do not pronounce God’s name.
Matthew’s audience: the Jews.
MARK 1:14-15
“The time has come” (v15) God is acting in a ‘now’ context. The Kingdom of God/Heaven is near, it’s urgent.
Marks audience: the Christians in Rome.
LUKE 4:14-15
Holy Spirit was with Jesus (v14) when he returned to preach.
Sought out synagogues, sought out opportunities for fellowship and gained integrity (v15).
Luke’s audience: the Gentiles
JOHN 4:43-45
Shows perseverance, for returning to Galilee as a prophet has no honor in his country. (v44) Be a good example before witnessing, or even after being convicted of wrong doings. Don’t be discouraged to share what is truth.
John’s audience: new Christians and spiritually seeking persons.
The Wrap Up
What we learn from this starting point of Jesus’s ministry is to seek out the spiritually hungry. Be friends with non-Christians, look for opportunities to share. Be consistent with the message of other prophets (e.g. John the Baptist - “Repent”). Be culturally sensitive by respecting what the people consider to be sacred. Have a non-judgemental attitude. Also, to share the Gospel effectively we must pray and be empowered by the Holy Spirit; for without God we are useless in any ministry, particularly one that saves. Finally, actions speak louder than words so be a good example in your daily living before witnessing. If you’ve done wrong things before, don’t be discouraged to share what is truth and how God has changed you.