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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