Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
October 29, 2022: SOAP #4713: Job 20; Mark 3-4

SCRIPTURE:  Mark (NIV) 3:13 Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve—designating them apostles— that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons.

OBSERVATION:  It was a simple calling, but it was a clear calling.  Jesus outlined their priority. 

They were called “to him!”  Their first priority of ministry was “to him!”  Being with Him prepared them to be sent out.  Their first priority prepared them for their second priority, to be sent out to minister to others. 

In ministry to others, there was also two parts:  first was to proclaim the Kingdom of God, and second was to demonstrate its authority by healing the sick and driving out demons. 

APPLICATION: The Kingdom of God that we are to preach is not some future government under which we will live in heaven.  It is a kingdom that has invaded earth and is to be proclaimed and demonstrated as having an effect here and now!  

The Kingdom of God does change our eternal destination, but it also changes our present lives where we presently live!  

PRAYER:   Holy Spirit, help me treasure that my first calling is to Jesus. Teach me to value the time I have to spend with Him.  Teach me to draw on His strength and wisdom to enable me to minister to others. Amen

Pastor Leon
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