What Jesus Did! 'Greeted by the Crowd' — Mark 9:14-15

Sunday, June 9, 2024

When [Jesus, Peter, James, and John] returned to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd surrounding them, and some teachers of religious law were arguing with them. When the crowd saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with awe, and they ran to greet him.
— Mark 9:14-15 NLT

Key Thought

People were not quite sure what to think or do about Jesus. Some argued with his disciples about the small points of his ministry. I find it interesting that those who gave Jesus' disciples the hardest time were the religious teachers. The regular folks, "the crowd," saw something in Jesus that was awesome. Jesus' nature drew people to him. I wonder what would happen if we as "religious people" focused primarily on sharing Jesus with the masses who do not fully know him and on serving others and then let our reputation take care of itself! [1]

[1] Matthew 5:16; Titus 2:7-8.

Today's Prayer

O God, forgive me when I'm concerned primarily about my reputation while ignoring the lost and hungry souls around me. Please help me to get my priorities straight and seek out the people who need to know you and whom I need to serve. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

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Illustration

Illustration of Mark 9:14-15 NLT — When [Jesus, Peter, James, and John] returned to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd surrounding them, and some teachers of religious law were arguing with them.

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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