Worship Guide
Message & Sermon Notes
Kingdom Joy: From Monster to Missionary
Mark 5:1-20
Pastor Jason Carlson
Mark 5:1-20
We discover the possibility of Kingdom joy in:
1. The plight of the monster (v. 1-5)
“There are two equal and opposite errors into which our race can fall about the devils. One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them. They themselves are equally pleased by both errors and hail a materialist or a magician with the same delight.” – C.S. Lewis, The Screwtape Letters
Mark 5: a case of severe demonization (“Legion”)
1) Defiled- he was unclean, naked & living in tombs (v. 2)
2) Dominating- he couldn’t be subdued (v. 3-4)
3) Distressed- tormented & self-destructive (v. 5)
John 8:44
John 10:10
1 Peter 5:8
Romans 8:22
1 John 5:19
Ephesians 6:12
2 Corinthians 4:4
1 Timothy 4:1
Romans 12:2
2. The power of the Master (v. 6-17)
And thou this world with devils filled should threaten to undo us, We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us. The prince of darkness grim, we tremble not for him; His rage we can endure, for lo, his doom is sure. One little word shall fell him. - Martin Luther, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” (A.D. 1529)
1 John 3:8b
Luke 8:30-31
2 Peter 2:4
Jude 6
Revelation 9:1
James 4:7
Isaiah 65:1-5a
Mark 4:24-25
Ezekiel 36:26
Romans 6:23
2 Corinthians 5:17
3. The promotion of the mission (v. 18-20)
John 15:5
John 3:16
Sermon Discussion Questions
Questions for reflection:
1. What are some examples from today’s popular Christmas stories that reflect the joy of gospel transformation?
2. Why is the story of Jesus and the demonized man in Mark 5 really a Christmas story?
Questions for discussion:
1. How should we as Bible-believing Christians understand and respond to the reality of the spiritual realm?
2. In what ways do we see Jesus’ authority over demonic powers in today’s passage? What encouragement should that give us as his followers?
3. In the Gerasene people and the man saved by Jesus we see two different responses to his power and authority. What were they? And which do you most identify with today?
4. How does today’s story encourage you to share your testimony with others?
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