

Why does Jesus teach clearly to some but with such great mystery to others? This next passage of Mark gives us the answer and helps us to better understand why we should respond to Jesus in our own lives.

I am focusing on Jesus' explanation of the parable of the four soils. What conditions are needed for fruitfulness in the life of a Christian? There are two key factors: 1) What do I fear most, and 2) What do I desire most?

Who is Jesus' family? Who's testimony and witness does he want? Answer to both questions: People who follow him.

Jesus has the authority to forgive sin. But we have to agree with him that we need forgiveness.

Jesus has incredible authority, everything obeys him. With one exception: People. The kingdom of God is wherever Jesus is king. It is wherever his commands are obeyed. It is as simple and as hard as that. Will we obey him? Or will we obey the god of this world?

Is Jesus King of your life? Then you will follow him. We immediately leave what we are doing and go in the direction he wants us to go.

There is great power in confession of sin to one another and prayer for one another.

So much of the context in this part of James is confronting our perspective. Do we see God as Lord or myself? Do we value what God values or what the world values? This video highlights three areas from James 5:7-12 that who whether we are living with God's perspective on life. But there is actually one other proof from the passage that I didn't cover in the video. Can you find it?

Are you laying up treasure in heaven? Or are you "living in luxury and self-indulgence?" As a resident of Loudoun county Virginia this passage should make you very nervous. Spend some time meditating on this passage and let the Holy Spirit speak to you through it. How should you respond?

This week we are digging into James 4:13-17. James is forcing us to ask, "Are you building your little kingdom or are you building God's?" We subtly do this whenever we make our plans without including God. James calls this boasting in your arrogance and evil. I asked myself, "is that really that bad?" Seems a little harsh doesn't it? It is a question for the heart. Have you submitted your plans to God? Is he the Lord of your future?