Kevin Wilson 360

The Narrative of Jesus’ Life

The city named in this passage, Capernaum, became a center for Jesus’ ministry.

Excerpt from the Gospel

Mark 1:21 And they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath he entered the synagogue and was teaching. 22 And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. 23 And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, 24 “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God.” 25 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” 26 And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying out with a loud voice, came out of him. 27 And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” 28 And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee. (ESV)

Sharing your Faith

• How did Jesus’ teaching and healing ministry benefit Jesus?
• In what way is Jesus teaching still authoritative today?
• How does Jesus amaze you?

Pray for One Another

Each person is invited to share a prayer request. Another participant will volunteer to offer the petition. Once everyone has chosen a prayer request, take turns offering the prayers aloud.

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This devotion is for the 4th Sunday after the Epiphany, following the LCMS three-year lectionary. You can download a free copy of all the 2017-2018 Conversations about Faith & Life devotions on the Resources page.