The disciples do not know Jesus when they see him walking on the water. Not only do they fail to recognize him, but they become even more afraid when they see him because they think He’s a ghost! By stark contrast, the people at Gennesaret in the second story recognize him immediately and know that he brings healing and salvation. I want to focus on how if you know Jesus, then you know who He is and what He offers. If you know him, you recognize him in any context. This sermon explores what might cause us not to recognize him. How it’s dangerous for us to be away from Him. How we need to know Him, REALLY know Him, so that He will bring us peace and confidence and salvation at all times, even if we are far away, in a storm, etc.
IYKYK = ______________________________________________
In the Gospels, it can sometimes seem like knowing Jesus is an IYKYK situation.
Let’s take a look at who knows Jesus in Mark 6:45-56…
The disciples fail to recognize Jesus. In stark contrast, the people of Gennesaret immediately recognize Him!
If you know Jesus, then in your greatest need you see Him, you take heart, and you are no longer afraid.
If you don’t know Jesus, then even in your greatest need you see Him and are afraid.
Knowing Jesus is not some kind of IYKYK exclusive, inside information situation. Anyone can know Jesus. Here’s how…
Sermon Discussion Questions | “IYKYK”
How do you feel if you find yourself on the wrong side of an IYKYK situation (Translation: how do you feel if you are on the outside looking in on an inside joke, insider information, etc)?
What is the difference between the disciples’ reaction to seeing Jesus (Mark 6:45-52) and the people’s reaction at Gennesaret (Mark 6:53-56)? Why do you think this is the case?
What would make someone look at Jesus and be afraid?
What does it mean to “know Jesus?” How can I know Him?
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