My Corner Online

Reading through the Gospels #100

DISCIPLES PREACH REPENTANCE

Mark 6:12-13; Luke 9:6

The apostles went out to villages (that’s a plural word) to proclaim the gospel (good news) and that people should repent. That is specific. If we hear a television evangelist today preaching, "repent!" we think they are a bit too liberal, being too direct, and going overboard in their speaking.

It reminds me of the phrase “Jesus freak” and not being afraid to be one. DC Talk had a popular song about that in 1995, “What will people think when they hear that I'm a Jesus freak? What will people do when they find that it's true? (Ho, ho) I don't really care if they label me a Jesus freak. There ain't no disguisin' the truth (Ho, ho, ho-oh)”

But this is what the disciples did, and it would seem like what we are to do as well. It is a crucial part of faith in that we recognize our sins and turn from them which is why we need Jesus in the first place. If we do not recognize the need to repent, we feel no need for Jesus. The first step in sharing the gospel is getting others to realize they need Jesus. We must teach that everyone sins.

In having contact with people, they were able to cast out demons and anoint many with oil who were sick to heal them. Doing good things for others is only possible if we get out there and meet them.

June 19, 2024