When life pushes you against the wall, with finances, illness, or a crisis in your relationships, will God even look your way? This sermon takes us to the Sea of Galilee, where Jesus twice feeds thousands of hungry people: first Jews, then Gentiles from the Decapolis (Mark 6 and 8). The symbolism hidden in the numbers of these miracles shows that God’s care is complete and knows no boundaries, it is for everyone who hungers for His presence. So in moments of doubt, run toward Jesus, and you will receive more than you expect.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Mark 6:30-44 the crowd runs along the shore after Jesus, and He has compassion on them because they are like sheep without a shepherd. What does this picture tell us about the people of that time and who Jesus is for them?
- The second feeding in Mark 8:1-10 happens in the pagan Decapolis, and Mark uses a different word for the baskets there. What do you think this difference says about who the gospel is for?
- With five loaves and two fish, the disciples calculate the cost of 200 denarii worth of bread. In which areas of your life is it easiest for you to focus only on what is lacking instead of on Jesus?
- After two miracles, the disciples in the boat worry again about having just one loaf, and Jesus asks, "Do you still not understand?" What helps you remember the ways God has already cared for you?
- The sermon urges: when you feel far from God, run toward Jesus. What does this "running" look like in your life, especially in hard times?
- What struggle you are facing right now do you want to entrust this week to Jesus as the Shepherd of Psalm 23, and what one step toward Him can you take?
