Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

October 28: Job 19; Mark 1-2

Scripture: Mark (NIV) 1:7 And this was his [John the Baptist] message: After me comes the one more powerful than I, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. 8 I baptize you with water, but he will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.
Mark 1:10 Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove.

Observation: It is interesting that here in the first chapter of Mark we have the Holy Spirit given priority in the ministry of Jesus. First: John announced that Jesus would baptize people with the Holy Spirit. Second: the Holy Spirit is seen in the form of a dove descending on Jesus when Jesus was baptized in water by John. Jesus, in coming to earth, continued to be God, but emptied himself of his “God” characteristics and walked on earth as a man. He was tempted as a man and became the sinless sacrifice paying for our sins. His ministry was under the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

Application: As the Holy Spirit had a place of priority in the life and ministry of Jesus; He must have a place of priority in my life and ministry. The Spirit’s wisdom is far superior to mine. His power is more effective than mine. It is foolish to rely on myself to live and minister for the Lord.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, continually fill me with your Holy Spirit. Continually remind me to rely on His presence, wisdom and power. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!