Mark 1:14–15
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 has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Scripture Insights
These are the first words spoken by Jesus in the Gospel of Mark. They highlight the essence of Jesus’s preaching ministry: God’s promised salvation is here; repent and believe!
As we focus on bringing people to Jesus, today’s scripture gives us this simple message we need to share with non-believers. It isn’t about being good enough already, or a list of rules and requirements. It’s simply about asking for forgiveness of sins, turning from the old, believing in Jesus, and striving to grow in faith to become more like him.
As we share the good news, we aren’t called to have all the answers, point out weaknesses, share all our personal ideas, rules, or beliefs on minor issues, or make sure they join our church. We simply need to share what it means to repent and believe, and express the joy we have through our faith in Christ and his leading in our lives.
Let’s take Jesus’s example. Make it simple and be clear: being a Christian means to repent and believe. After that, God will go to work in the new believer’s life, and hopefully use us to disciple!
Today’s Prayer
Lord, we pray right now for you to open our eyes to opportunities to share the simple message of salvation. Deliver us from any hesitation. Empower us with your words, and may your power and presence in us enable us to share freely. Remind us that you go before us and are already working in each soul.
—Barbara Tarantino
Lay Leader (Ohio)
