Holy Devotion
Bible Devotional
Mark 5:16-20 - Evangelism on the road

Scripture:

Mark 5:16-20
16 Those who had seen it described to them how it had happened to the demon-possessed man, and all about the swine.
17 And they began to implore Him to leave their region.
18 As He was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed was imploring Him that he might accompany Him. 19 And He did not let him, but He said to him, "Go home to your people and report to them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He had mercy on you." 
20 And he went away and began to proclaim in Decapolis what great things Jesus had done for him; and everyone was amazed.
NASU


Thoughts:

The healing of this demon-possessed man is like a precise, surgical incision of evangelism.  Jesus miraculously delivers him (verse 16), and then is asked to leave (verse 17).  And yet, this man will stay as a witness to his fellow countrymen (verses 19-20).  And so the gospel is spread, even though the One who originally shared cannot stay.

Clearly this is a unique work of God, however I do think it gives us insight into evangelism.  More than one Christian might fear to share their faith when away from their home.  The concern being, if a person is saved as a result, who will disciple them? 

In this story though, the Lord does not have this concern, I believe for the simple reason that He knows that He will disciple him by the work of the Spirit (who was soon to come).  Truly it is God himself who disciples all of us, guiding us to the people He will use and teaching us through His word.  We can rest at ease, and share no matter where we go.  He really will complete the good work He begins!

Philippians 1:6
6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.
NASU


Prayer:

Thank You, Lord.  I have seen Your sovereign, sanctifying hand in my own life through the years.  Guiding me to each stop along the path of discipleship that You have for me. 

I further thank You that in Your omnipresence, none of us are ever alone or unprotected.  Including anyone that I may have the privilege of leading to You, while away from my normal surroundings. 

Amen

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