“The Storm Isn’t for Weathering”

Mark 4:35-41 January 28, 2018 Sermon Series: “Mark’s : The Crown and The Cross” Rev. Dr. Henry Hansen

THE BIG IDEA :35-41 addresses the storms we face in life and their meaning. The storm is less about a need for weathering than about what comes through the storm. This passage begins with smooth sailing at sunset, then an unpredictable typhoon wreaks havoc upon the boat with the disciples and in it. The disciples demonstrate fear over their circumstances but this Scripture concludes on a word of worship when the disciples ask “who then is this that even the winds and waves obey him?” Jesus is interested in removing fear from the disciples’ lives so that the deep needs of their souls might be met by their faith in him. God will get us to the other side of the lake (our circumstances) and we are just passing through. But God’s greater concern is to get us from death to life – resurrection glory and life in his presence today.

GETTING STARTED 1. When have you experienced unprecedented weather conditions that significantly impacted your day or week? 2. If the storm isn’t for merely weathering, then what does God want to teach us through storms? You might recall the multiple “nautical lessons” Henry taught during the message.

LEARNING & LIVING OUT SCRIPTURE Together, read Mark 4:35-41.

3. Why is it important to note that Jesus had a destination in mind when heading out from ? 4. This is the only place in the where Jesus is found sleeping. What do you make of that detail? What idea might that convey theologically about Jesus’ relationship to God? (Unlike Mark, Matthew even notes Jesus is resting on a pillow!) 5. The word “rebuke” is used to describe Jesus calming the storm. This same verb is used when Jesus exorcises demons. What does the use of this word communicate? (Bear in mind that Henry shared the first-century belief that water had spiritual forces in it.) 6. Jesus addresses the disciples’ state of fear. What does that tell you about Jesus? 7. At the end of the passage, the disciples are “terrified.” Why? 8. If you have extra time, read through Jonah 1. scholars Dale Bruner and Tim Keller state that Jesus is the new Jonah. Draw parallels between Jonah 1 and this passage from Mark.

LIVING OUT “REAL LIFE” 9. When has Jesus used a hardship to deepen your character, sense of wonder, or life together with him? Why do storms have that effect on us? Why do you believe Jesus allows storms into our lives?

THE “EXTRA-MILE” 10. Find someone in your life facing a storm and come alongside them through prayer and your presence.

SHARING & PRAYER REQUESTS

If you are facing a storm, share that with your group for prayer.