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The Beginning of Jesus’ Mission
Mark 1:1-13 introduces Jesus as the Son of God and tells how John the Baptist prepared the way for Him. John preached in the wilderness, calling people to turn back to God and be baptized. One day, Jesus came to be baptized by John, and as He came out of the water, the heavens opened, and God’s voice declared, “You are my beloved Son.” Then, the Spirit led Jesus into the wilderness, where He fasted and was tested by Satan for forty days. Through it all, Jesus remained faithful, ready to begin His mission of bringing God’s kingdom to the world.
John the Baptist Points to Jesus
John 1:19-34 tells how John the Baptist explained that he was not the Messiah but was sent to prepare the way for Him. When religious leaders questioned him, he told them he was the voice calling people to get ready for the Lord. The next day, John saw Jesus and declared, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” He explained that God had shown him that Jesus was the one who would baptize with the Holy Spirit. John’s mission was clear—to point people to Jesus, the Savior sent by God.
Jesus Calls His First Followers
John 1:35-51 tells how John the Baptist pointed to Jesus, calling Him the Lamb of God. Two of John’s followers, Andrew and another disciple, went to see Jesus and spent time with Him. Andrew then brought his brother, Simon Peter, to Jesus, who gave him a new name, Cephas (Peter). The next day, Jesus called Philip to follow Him, and Philip invited Nathanael, who was doubtful at first. But when Jesus showed that He knew Nathanael’s heart, Nathanael believed. Jesus promised that they would see even greater things, revealing that He was the way to God.
Jesus’ First Miracle and His Passion for God’s House
John 2:1-25 tells how Jesus performed His first miracle at a wedding in Cana. When the wine ran out, His mother told the servants to do whatever Jesus said. He turned water into wine, showing His power and care for others. Later, Jesus went to the temple in Jerusalem and saw people misusing it for profit. He drove them out, saying the temple should be a house of worship. When people questioned His authority, He hinted at His future death and resurrection. Many began to believe in Him, but Jesus knew their hearts and stayed focused on His mission.
Jesus Teaches About New Life
John 3:1-21 tells how a religious leader named Nicodemus visited Jesus at night to learn more about Him. Jesus told Nicodemus that to see God’s kingdom, a person must be “born again,” not physically, but spiritually. He explained that just as Moses lifted up a bronze snake to save people in the past, He Himself would be lifted up to bring eternal life to those who believe. Jesus also shared the well-known truth that God loves the world so much that He sent His Son so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life.
John the Baptist Points to Jesus
John 3:22-36 tells how John the Baptist’s followers noticed that more people were going to Jesus for baptism. But John wasn’t jealous—he reminded them that his mission was to prepare the way for Jesus. He compared himself to the best man at a wedding, joyful to see the groom, Jesus, take center stage. John explained that Jesus came from heaven and speaks God’s truth. He said that those who believe in Jesus will have eternal life, but those who reject Him will miss out on God’s gift. John’s message was clear—Jesus is the Son of God, and He alone gives life.
Jesus and the Woman at the Well
John 4:1-42 tells how Jesus met a Samaritan woman at a well and asked her for a drink. She was surprised because Jews usually avoided Samaritans. Jesus told her about “living water” that gives eternal life. He also knew everything about her past, yet He spoke with kindness. She realized He was the Messiah and ran to tell her town. Many people came to see Jesus and believed in Him because of what He said. This story shows that Jesus came for everyone, no matter their background, and offers true life to all who believe in Him.
Jesus Heals a Dying Boy
John 4:43-54 tells how a royal official came to Jesus, begging Him to heal his sick son. The boy was near death, and the father desperately wanted Jesus to come to his house. But instead of going with him, Jesus simply said, “Your son will live.” The man believed Jesus’ words and returned home. On the way, his servants met him with good news—his son had recovered at the exact moment Jesus had spoken. This miracle showed that Jesus’ power is not limited by distance and that true faith means trusting His word.
Jesus Rejected in His Hometown
Luke 4:16-30 tells how Jesus returned to His hometown of Nazareth and read from the Scriptures in the synagogue. He declared that He was the fulfillment of God’s promise to bring good news, freedom, and healing. At first, the people were amazed, but when Jesus explained that God’s blessings were not just for them but for others too, they became angry. They refused to believe in Him and even tried to throw Him off a cliff. But Jesus walked away unharmed. This moment showed that while some reject Jesus, His mission to bring salvation continues.
Jesus Calls Disciples and Heals Many
Mark 1:16-39 tells how Jesus began His ministry by calling Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John to follow Him. They immediately left their fishing nets to become His disciples. Jesus then went to a synagogue, where He taught with authority and cast out an evil spirit, amazing everyone. Later, He healed Simon’s mother-in-law and many others who were sick or troubled. Even though crowds kept looking for Him, Jesus made time to pray alone. He then traveled to other towns, preaching and healing, showing that His mission was to bring God’s kingdom to everyone.