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TEXT: Mark 4:35-41; 5:1-20
OBJECTIVE
The students will be capable of telling that the Lord has power over the universe as well as over men. He can bring peace to elements as well as to the hearts of individuals.
REFERENCE INFORMATION
Peace, according to Webster is defined as “a state of tranquility or quiet; freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions; harmony in personal relations; a state or period of mutual concord between governments, or a pact or an agreement to end hostilities between those who have been at war or in a state of enmity.”
When the Lord created this world, He intended that peace should be universal. There were no predatory animals—all ate of the plants and fruit trees. But sin entered into mankind and peace was eroded. At some point, certain animals became carnivorous, some became enemies of man, and most became fearful of man. The beautiful tranquility of nature was gone. Hatred arose in the heart of man and murder was committed in the first family. Very shortly after the confusion of tongues at the building of the tower of Babel, the various peoples began to war against each other and so it has gone ever since.
The Prophet Isaiah knew where the source of perfect peace was to be found. He foretold of the One who would bring peace to this earth. He also spoke of the time when nature would again be at peace—the wolf and the lamb, the leopard and the kid, the calf and the young lion, all being led by a little child; the cow and the bear feeding together; and the lion eating straw like the ox (Isaiah 11:6-9).
When Jesus was here on earth, He not only was able to calm a troubled sea, but He was able to give peace to a troubled soul. Today Jesus is still seeking to bring peace to the sin-burdened life. And the Christian is looking forward to the day when Jesus will reign in righteousness and there will be perfect peace.
QUESTIONS
Our Lord was a miracle-working Savior on earth, both in the lives of men and in nature. We know He is the same in our day. He gave peace to those who had no peace—He will do the same today. He caused the winds to cease and calmed the raging water—He can do the same today as He puts at rest the storms in the lives of men.
- Note the scriptural description of the storm on the Sea of Galilee as given in the text: “There arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.” Have you ever been on a ship at sea during a storm? What significance is shown by Jesus’ restfulness during the storm?
Response: He displayed no fear but exemplified perfect trust in His heavenly Father. Help your class recognize that at times in life they may be surrounded by problems and cares which would ordinarily cause a person to be extremely troubled in spirit. But if their trust is in the heavenly Father, they have a peace and assurance that is unassailable.
- What caused the Lord to awaken from His sleep? And what was His response?
Response: The Lord was awakened by the disciples. He immediately rebuked the winds and said to the sea, “Peace, be still.” Discuss with your class the simple manner in which a great storm was turned into a great calm by just a few words. Perhaps they will never be involved in a physical storm in which it is necessary to cry to the Lord for deliverance. However, ask your class to point out some of the trials which may come to them to cause them to call on the Savior. How can these be stilled by the Lord?
- The Lord rebuked His disciples for being afraid. Why? Is there never reason for us to fear? What lesson can we apply to our own lives from this happening?
Response: Fear is the opposite of faith. Jesus wants His people always to have faith in God. Circumstances may at times cause temporary fear, but “perfect love casteth out fear.” The Lord often encouraged those about Him: “Fear not,” “Only believe,” “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth,” etc. Allow a few moments to talk about the fears by which mankind is often bound. Encourage your class to cite specific examples from their own experience, or the experiences of others. Were there any situations that were beyond the Lord’s help?
- “What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” the disciples wondered after the calming of the storm. Name several other instances in which Jesus displayed His power over nature. (See Matthew 14:20,25; 17:27; 21:19.) What do these miracles prove, and what should be our response?
Response: Jesus increased the loaves and fishes to feed five thousand men as well as the women and children. He walked upon the water. He knew that Peter would find tribute money in the mouth of the first fish that he caught. The fig tree withered at Christ’s word when He found no fruit. Your students should conclude that all the miracles Jesus did, prove that He is the Son of God, and that He has all power in Heaven and earth. Our response should be a desire to serve Him. He came to give us everlasting life. The unavoidable result of ignoring or refusing to serve Him is eternal punishment.
- In what condition did Jesus and the disciples find the demoniac? What was the cause of this condition?
Response: He was bound by the powers of demons as a result of sin. The discussion should bring out that if one sells out to the devil, the same depravity results today. Many are in the same condition as the demoniac. However, in modern times, medical terms are often used to define spiritual problems.
- What were the results of man’s efforts to help the situation?
Response: Man failed to improve the situation. This answer will show the futility of man-made remedies in dealing with satanic forces. Help your students see that no case is too hard for Jesus. This might be a good opportunity to present to your class the testimonies of some who have experienced deliverance from the powers of the devil. You may choose to distribute a tract such as “Delivered in a Moment of Time” (No. 79), or “Down Skid Road to Despair” (No. 108).
- How was the man healed? What was the evidence of his healing?
Response: Jesus commanded the devils to come out of the man. This answer will show the class that a simple command of Jesus will cause evil spirits to leave. As evidence of the completeness of the demoniac’s healing, the people found him sitting, and clothed, and in his right mind. Have your students compare this miracle with the calming of the sea. Lead the discussion to the availability of God’s help for them.
- What was the attitude of the citizens of the city and country? What did the man who was delivered want to do? What instructions were given to him by the Lord?
Response: The citizens prayed that Jesus would depart from their coasts. The man who had been delivered from the demons wanted to go with Jesus. However, Jesus desired that he remain in his own country to tell his friends what great things the Lord had done for him. This should lead to a discussion of the importance Jesus placed upon being a witness to others of His great power to bring peace to troubled hearts and minds.
- For what purpose was the Son of God manifested? See 1 John 3:8.
Response: To destroy the works of the devil. The answer will show that a distinct purpose was given to Jesus. Help your class talk about the importance of allowing Jesus to be the Christ of every crisis, that both spiritually and physically they might enjoy perfect peace.
CLASS ACTIVITIES
Prepare an interview of the demoniac after Jesus had healed him. Sample interview questions:
— I hear you have had a real change in your life. What kind of a life did you used to live?
— You are so different now. How did this change come about?
— Do you have peace in your heart?
— How did Jesus bring this peace into your heart?
— Can anyone have this same peace that you have?
On a large sheet of paper, have students write graffiti statements or draw pictures related to the lesson theme of peace (Peace is . . .). The students’ statements and pictures are then discussed to arrive at a definition of peace.
After reading Mark 4:35-41, have the class summarize the message it portrays. Then allow the students to work in small groups to illustrate the sequence of events in the Scripture passage. Have each group display and explain their work to the class.
Write the word PEACE vertically on a large sheet of paper or chalkboard. Have the students write words or phrases (horizontally) which relate to peace. When the writing is completed, discuss with your class the words or phrases written. Example:
Passeth all understanding
Ends frustration
All men want it
Christ is the giver of it
Eternity in Heaven
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