Category Archives: evangelism

the Holy Spirit and real disciples

Luke 9:51-10:24.  In this series of stories, Jesus and his disciples begin their journey toward Jerusalem.  Along the way, readers learn how the Holy Spirit works in the lives of real disciples. Real disciples are not surprised when their master … Continue reading

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ministry in the power of the Holy Spirit

Luke 4:14-44.  Having endured his wilderness experience and overcome the devil’s temptation, Jesus returned to Galilee, and began his prophetic ministry.  His tactic appears clear: he would heal the sick and deliver people from demonic bondage during the week, and … Continue reading

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the Holy Spirit at the Jerusalem temple

Luke 2:22-52.  These stories highlight how the Holy Spirit was manifesting himself at the temple in Jerusalem.  He was not in the greatness of the buildings nor the glory of the worship.  It was the humble faithfulness of an old … Continue reading

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words from the Holy Spirit

Luke 1:57-80.  The message of a prophet burns in his spirit.  He cannot wait to say what God has revealed to him.  Zechariah had been made deaf and mute because he would not believe Gabriel’s message.  He was not free … Continue reading

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disciples: found napping

  Mark 14.  Mark highlights the irony in that Jesus had just warned his disciples to stay awake (13:35, 36) and then follows with several stories that show that they are found napping – literally and figuratively.  Significant events are … Continue reading

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disciples: preaching and hardened hearts

Mark 6.  One of the facts of discipleship that we must be aware of is that our ministry will not always be accepted and appreciated.  Many hearts are hardened to God’s truth.        Even Jesus’ hometown of Nazareth … Continue reading

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disciples: sick and social outcasts

   Mark 2–3 Jesus didn’t only call fishermen. He also called Levi, son of Alphaeus — the man we know as Matthew. A tax collector. A collaborator with Rome. A man the religious elite would have crossed the street to … Continue reading

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disciples: fishers of men

   Mark 1 When Jesus began His ministry in Galilee, He did not search for scholars, strategists, or seasoned leaders. He walked along the shoreline and chose four fishermen — men with calloused hands, weathered faces, and hearts shaped by … Continue reading

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