Read Mark Chapter 3

It is lawful to do good on the sabbath- it was made to bless us!

The crowds that followed Jesus were probably Baal worshippers. And the demons recognized Jesus. But somehow, the Pharisees just weren't interested!

The powers of the apostles included healing the sick, casting out demons, and raising the dead. Dad pointed out that only Judas was replaced, and after that, as the apostles died, none of them were ever replaced.

Notice that Jesus' mother and brothers are not yet saved.

If Jesus can cast out demons, then it follows that He must be stronger than Satan.

We got into a lengthy discussion over the "unpardonable sin" and whether or not one can commit it today and lose their chance at receiving salvation. Any thoughts?

Mark 4

This is about the parable of the soils. A normal yield for the day would have been tenfold, so Jesus is greatly expanding that. Beth asked why Jesus said verse 12. Pual pointed out that Jesus didn't want the people who only wanted a handout, but weren't interested in His teaching.

Then we gave examples of bearing fruit thirtyfold: witnessing (paul), having kids (me) , providing for the family (dad).

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Dad shared a dog story. On the way home from work, an elderly woman asked dad to fetch her little white dog. He very graciously helped her. She thanked him for his good work and he mentioned how he wished that he had said something about Jesus, but didn't think of it at the time. We need to be more prepared if we really want to witness.

Then dad says that he has an announcement to make. We all get real quiet, and you'll never guess what he says................. this year we are going to give presents on Christmas day!!!!!!! Wow, what will be next?