The Mercy and Mission of Jesus

The Mercy of Jesus

• Jesus withdrew to the sea with disciples, a large crowd followed.
• People from Galilee, Judea, Idumea, beyond Jordan and Tyre/Sidon came to him.
• Jesus told disciples to prepare a boat due to the crowd.
• Many were cured, those with diseases pressed to touch him.
• Demonic spirits recognized Jesus as the Son of God.
• Jesus sternly warned against revealing his identity.

The Mission of the Twelve

• Jesus summoned twelve disciples (disciples).
• Appointed them to preach and drive out demons as his representatives.
• Included Simon (Peter), James and John (sons of thunder), Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James (son of Alphaeus), Thaddeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot.

Blasphemy of the Scribes

• Crowd gathered, Jesus' relatives sought to restrain him.
• Jerusalem scribes called him possessed (Beelzebul).
• Jesus responded in parables about a kingdom divided.
• Jesus declared sins and blasphemies would be forgiven except blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which will never be forgiven.
• This was associated with claims that Jesus was possessed.

Jesus and His Family

• Jesus' mother and brothers came to see him.
• A crowd told Jesus about his family seeking him.
• Jesus identified his followers as his brothers, sisters and mother.
• This illustrates that the criteria for being part of Jesus' family involves following/obeying his will.

The Parable of the Sower

• Jesus taught by the sea, a large crowd gathered.
• Jesus taught in parables.
• Sower sows seed, different outcomes for different soils: path (birds eat), rocky (no roots), thorns (choked), rich (fruitful).
• Whoever has ears to hear should do so.

The Purpose of the Parables

• Jesus explained parables to his disciples more deeply.
• The mystery of the kingdom of heaven was explained to them.
• Outsiders were given parables to prevent understanding of the gospel.
• Parables included the sower, rocky ground, path, thorns and rich soil.
• Jesus used parables since people wouldn't be converted and forgiven.

Parable of the Lamp

• A lamp is not meant to be hidden.
• A parable about being visible to others.
• Measure used to judge others - similar measure will be used.
• If someone is generous they will get more.

The Mustard Seed

• Kingdom of God is compared to a mustard seed.
• Small at first, large with strong branches, accommodates birds.
• This parable illustrates the growth of faith and potential.

Explore the key events surrounding Jesus' ministry, focusing on his interactions with the crowd, the appointment of the twelve disciples, and the accusations from the scribes. This quiz covers significant themes and teachings that reflect the impact of Jesus' actions and identity. Test your understanding of these biblical narratives and their relevance today.