After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!” Mark 1:14 (NIV)
The first words spoken by our Lord, as record in the Gospel of Mark are the highlight of the New Testament message. They are bright words of hope painted on a backdrop of despair.
John’s ministry was abruptly brought to an end. The voice of truth was silenced by those who had no intention of repenting. They only dabbled in religion because of self-interest. The believer should always beware of such people. People that have a self-centered desire for embracing religion are dangerous and as John the Baptist learned, they are not your friends.
John had finished his work on earth. He had cleared the path, prepared the people for the message of hope; and now Jesus would begin his ministry in earnest proclaiming the message the world needed. The Messiah was here and God’s kingdom was near!
Jesus announces a radical change from the law, which continually condemned people. His message is one of hope and grace. For the first time there was real hope for sinner! That hope was not be found by self-effort for that had failed; but rather, the hope was in the Promised One – the Messiah.
To even partially understand grace and especially to receive grace, you must believe and embrace the massager, Jesus. He is the good news. He is the gospel. Follow @pastorbarr
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” - Acts 4:12
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Thank you, great information
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