What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! (Mark 1:27)
Seminary is completely different from other graduate schools. I took four graduate level theology classes at a Christian university before deciding to transfer into a graduate seminary program. During my first seminary class, I realized I was in for a new experience. Unlike my previous theology classes, the seminary classes included more than truth. They were primarily focused on how, as Christ-followers, we could both deepen our own relationship and understanding of truth, while effectively sharing truth in the world with believers and nonbelievers alike. It was a new form of teaching, one in which leaders are prepared to change the world.
The spectators watched as Jesus commanded the impure spirits. They also noticed the reaction of the impure spirits: obedience. Jesus was not a normal teacher of the law. He was completely different from all the teachers previously seen by the spectators. He had a new level of authority. One that was not meant to just teach the law, but one that was meant to change the world.
Jesus did not come simply to save the lost. He came to change the world. To restore a broken and sinful creation back to its original nature. And, he invites those who follow him to participate in his plan. It is not only our right; it is also our responsibility.
Be willing to change the world by sharing Jesus’ life-changing truth.
Tara Klein—a lover of words—shares her imperfect, unconventional Christian journey as a female, mother, and wife to invite others into God’s unconditional love.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
