Mark 1:35-39 (NKJV) Preaching in Galilee
(Matt. 4:23–25; Luke 4:42–44)
35 Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed. 36 And Simon and those who were with Him searched for Him. 37 When they found Him, they said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.”
38 But He said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.”
39 And He was preaching in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and casting out demons.
V35 “Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.” Jesus is giving us an example of the need for prayer for fellowship, worship, and requests. Jesus is giving another example of prioritizing prayer. So should we. Whether someone prays all night or only in an emergency prayer (Jesus help me!) makes no difference. It is whom we seek for deliverance (Psalm 40:17). We also need fellowship with God. Compare 1 John 1:3.
V36 “And Simon and those who were with Him searched for Him.” They wanted to know, but the crowd was asking for Jesus. Most likely they wanted healing, not to worship.
V37 When they found Him, they said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.” Not an exaggeration. Would to God all would seek Jesus as Cornelius did (Acts 10:1-3, etc.).
V38 “But He said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.” Jesus was not willing. He had many other towns to visit, preach the Gospel, and show mercy to those wishing to be healed physically and spiritually. Jesus seeks for the lost, so they can hear the Gospel, believe, and be saved (Luke 19:10).
V39 “And He was preaching in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and casting out demons.” He was preaching the Gospel. May we all have the boldness of the Lord Jesus.
We learn:
- Many people seek Jesus’s help and blessings, but very few believe in Him as their personal Messiah.
- Jesus has all the authority of God, because He is.
Questions:
- Why do you seek God’s help?
- What is your ministry?