Introduction

• What are the kind of things that frightens people today?

• Why do these things frighten people?

• (We are afraid of things that we think have the power to harm us, over which we have no control.)

• Fear can be good when it keeps us from harm (e.g., Do not swim in a river full of crocodiles.)

• Fear can be bad when it stops us from living (e.g., What will people think of me? What if I get infected with a virus?)

Jesus Christ is the Lord who controls creation

• Explain: where do the storms come from? Why is the water breaking into the boat? What will happen if the boat sinks? Why are the disciples afraid?  

• Explain: why is Jesus sleeping? What do the disciples expect Jesus to be doing?

• Explain: what does it mean for Jesus to command the seas and waves? What does that show about his power and authority? What does it tell us about who he is?

• Ask:

  • As you sit and think about what has happened this week, do you believe that God has revealed himself in the person of Jesus Christ and that he truly has power and authority over all creation?

  • Do you believe that this world is not just a product of time and chance, random events taking place with no plan or purpose, but that it has been made by God and is ruled by him for his glory?

  • Do you believe that when we pray to God in Jesus’ name we are not just uttering empty words to make us feel better, but we are actually speaking to God, speaking to the King who controls this world?

Jesus Christ can be trusted

• Explain: why does Jesus rebuke the disciples? Why did the disciples’ fear increase after Jesus calmed the storm?

• Explain: how can we know that Jesus has our best interests at heart? What does it mean for him to be fully man? What does it mean for him to be fully God?

• Explain: how does Jesus transform our fear into faith? What do we need to know about him and what he has done for us? Who does he need to send to live in our hearts and minds?

• Explain: faith in Jesus Christ does not mean the end of troubles. We are called to trust Jesus in the midst of troubles. Refer to the teaching from the Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Days 9 and 10.

• Encourage: how should we respond when we are afraid today? What do we need to remember about Jesus?

Conclusion

• Mark 4:35-41 shows us that Jesus Christ is the Lord who controls creation. He calls us not to fear but to trust him. He is the King who cares for you; with him you are safe. So do not fear or panic when life does not go according to plan. Trust him to know what is best. Trust him to care for you.