The Way of The Will 120426

Key Text: Mark 3:22-35

The passage explores how Gospel of Mark (alongside other Gospels) presents Jesus redefining the meaning of law, identity, and obedience under the new covenant.

1. From Law to New Covenant

·      Jesus challenges rigid religious practices (fasting, Sabbath), teaching that rules were made to serve people—not control them (Mark 2:27–28).

·      The illustration of new wine in old wineskins shows that the new covenant cannot fit into old legalistic frameworks.

·      Religious hypocrisy (e.g., Pharisees in Matthew 23:15) distorts God’s intent and leads others astray.

·      The tearing of the temple curtain symbolises a new covenant established through Jesus—one that cannot be mixed with old legalism.

2. True Purpose of Church

·      Church is not about routine or obligation.

·      It is a community journey where people learn to live the life of Jesus together.

3. The Will of God

·      ‘Will’ (Greek: thelema) refers specifically to God’s purpose: to bless humanity through Christ Jesus.

·      Doing God’s will is essential (Matthew 7:21, Luke 11:28, John 15:14).

·      Following Jesus requires a decision—neutrality is not possible.

4. Redefinition of Family & Identity

·      In Mark 3:22–35, Jesus redefines family:

·      Those who do God’s will are His true family.

·      This expands—not rejects—biological family.

·      Spiritual identity now outweighs earthly identity:

·      Not based on background or heritage. But on obedience and relationship with God. Believers become part of a new family through Christ.

5. Surrender Before Action

·      God’s will begins with yielding, not striving.

·      True obedience requires daily surrender:

·      Letting go of personal plans, desires, and control

·      Holy Spirit fills those who are yielded, not self-driven.

6. Empowerment by Holy Spirit

·      Obedience is not achieved by human effort but through the enabling of Holy Spirit. It is He who: Convicts, Guides, Transforms desire (“have to” → “want to”) Through the Spirit, believers reflect God’s character and authority.

7. Obedience as Evidence of Relationship**

·      Relationship with God is shown through action, not just knowledge.

·      Being near Jesus is not enough—alignment with Him is required.

Obedience connects believers to God like a true relationship, not just proximity.

Conclusion

·      The central question is: Are you actively doing God’s will—living in obedience to be a blessing through Christ?

·      True discipleship is not just hearing or agreeing, but acting.

·      Through obedience, believers become part of God’s family and live out the Jesus-centred life.