“Jesus’ Name’s Reward versus Sin’s Dastardliness”

Mar.11/12 Mark 9:38-50  Play AUDIO (32 kbps mp3)

FINDING THE RIGHT TARGET BEFORE TAKING AIM

●    need to remember where the real enemy is
●    Transfiguration: Jesus endorsed as THE man to listen to
●    all things possible to those who believe
●    second prediction of Passion followed by misunderstanding: greatness in serving

CLIQUES AND BELONGING: “IN” GROUP OR “IN CHRIST”?

●    cliques leave the un-cool on the outside, searching for place to belong
●    Christians find connection ‘in Jesus’ name’ / belonging to Him
●    labouring ‘in the Lord’ brings reward

CUT IT OUT: DODGING SIN’S DASTARDLINESS

●    villainous deeds help us sense God’s outrage at sin
●    beware causing others to stumble
●    take radical action when sin threatens to encroach
●    heaven and hell both very much ‘for real’
●    cut out sin - put misdeeds to death with Spirit’s help; e.g. greed, lust

SALT IN YOURSELF - NOT ASSAULTING OTHERS

●    testing part of our purification, like salt applied to offering
●    persecuted Mennonite became gentle pastor who heard others