Lecture Notes: Faith and Belief in the Bible
Opening Prayer
- Praise for truth of the Word.
- Request for help to apply Biblical principles.
- Praise for the work to be done through us by the Word.
Introduction to the Gospels
- Different Perspectives:
- Matthew: Jesus as the King.
- Mark: Jesus as the Servant.
- Luke: Jesus as the Son of Man.
- John: Jesus as the Son of God.
- Genealogy:
- Matthew traces back to David.
- Luke traces back to Adam.
- John traces back to God.
- Mark does not include genealogy (focus on servanthood).
Story from Mark Chapter 5
Context and Setting
- Fast-paced narrative in Mark.
- Jesus travels and gathers crowds by the Sea of Galilee.
Jairus’s Request
- Jairus, a synagogue ruler, asks Jesus to heal his dying daughter.
- Desperation overrides societal expectations and fears.
The Woman with the Issue of Blood
- Suffered for 12 years, spent all she had.
- Cultural implications: Social outcast, ceremonial uncleanliness.
- Significance of Number 12: Symbolizes perfect government.
- Healing through Faith: Touched Jesus’ garment and was healed.
- Faith Declaration: "Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole."
The Interruption
- Jairus’s journey interrupted by the healing of the woman.
- News arrives that Jairus's daughter has died.
- Jesus’ Response: "Be not afraid, only believe."
Lessons in Faith and Belief
- Jesus' Master Keys: Encouragement to maintain faith.
- The Power of Belief: Faith overcomes fear and enables miracles.
- Walking by Faith: Trust in God's word over earthly circumstances.
- Doubt vs. Faith: Doubt arises from sight, faith from hearing.
Raising of Jairus’s Daughter
- Reaction of the Crowd: From wailing to mocking Jesus.
- Jesus’ Actions: Only allowed believers to stay; performed the miracle.
- Outcome: Damsel arose and was alive.
Key Takeaways
- Faith’s Influence: Guides action, speech, and outcomes.
- Exercise Faith: Cultivate a mindset of only believing.
- Role of Belief: Vital in personal and spiritual growth.
- Dynamic Faith: Leads to transformative action.
Conclusion
- Faith in God’s truths requires trusting beyond physical evidence.
- Encouragement to act on belief and reflect faith through actions.
- Importance of surrounding oneself with believers when pursuing spiritual goals.
- Final advice: "Be not afraid, only believe."
Reflection Questions:
- How does faith influence your actions and decisions?
- What steps can you take to cultivate belief in your daily life?
Recommended Video: Watch the video on "No Limits" for further insight and inspiration.