In this sermon, Pastor Mark explores the story of Jesus calming the storm from Mark’s Gospel, using it to address how believers can find peace amid life’s turbulent circumstances. The message delves into the historical context of the Sea of Galilee and first-century fishing boats to help us understand the disciples’ fear during the violent storm. Pastor Mark emphasizes that the disciples misunderstood both Jesus’s intentions and authority—moving from fear of the storm to an even greater fear (awe) of Jesus when He calmed the waters with just His words. He defines this “fear of the Lord” as being filled with awe when God’s holiness and kindness outweigh everything else in the room. Through vivid descriptions of modern storms—financial anxiety, marital distance, chronic illness, and spiritual weariness—Pastor Mark challenges listeners to recognize that Jesus has already conquered the greatest storm: eternal separation from God. He concludes with three key principles: faith isn’t denying the storm but defying its verdict, safety is found in a person (Jesus), not a place, and peace comes from the presence of God’s Word rather than the absence of waves.
Reflection Questions
- What stuck out in today’s message? What did you find challenging and encouraging? Did you learn anything new?
- If you had to describe your reaction to chaos in one word—calm, fix-it, freak-out, or freeze—which would you choose? Explain.
- Read Mark 4:35–41. What details in the passage stand out to you about Jesus’ humanity and His divinity?
- What is significant about the disciples’ questioning Jesus by asking, “Don’t you care if we drown?” What have the disciples misunderstood about Jesus?
- Why did Jesus rebuke His disciples?
- Why do you think the disciples were more afraid after the storm was calmed?
- How do you relate to the disciples’ fear or frustration in this story?
- Do you have a greater fear of the storms that are happening in life or fear of God? How can you tell in your thoughts and actions?
- How might remembering Jesus’ presence and power change the way you face current challenges?
- Pastor Mark mentioned 3 types of responses to fear of the Lord, which resonates with you during this season, and why?
- Faith isn’t the denial of the storm, not the final verdict,
- Safety isn’t a place, it’s a person, and
- Peace isn’t found in the absence of the storm, but the presence of Jesus in the midst of it.
