HOW A DISCIPLE FATHERS

A disciple fathers his children differently than the way other men father their children.

(Mark 9:14-27) When they came to the other disciples, they saw a large crowd around them and the teachers of the law arguing with them. As soon as all the people saw Jesus, they were overwhelmed with wonder and ran to greet Him. “What are you arguing with them about?” He asked. A man in the crowd answered, “Teacher, I brought you my son, who is possessed by a spirit that has robbed him of speech. Whenever it seizes him, it throws him to the ground. He foams at the mouth, gnashes his teeth and becomes rigid. I asked Your disciples to drive out the spirit, but they could not.” “O unbelieving generation,” Jesus replied, “how long shall I stay with you? How long shall I put up with you? Bring the boy to Me.” So they brought him. When the spirit saw Jesus, it immediately threw the boy into a convulsion. He fell to the ground and rolled around, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?” “From childhood,” he answered. “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if You can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” “If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief?” When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, He rebuked the evil spirit. “You deaf and mute spirit,” He said, “I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up.”

1. Bring Your Children TO Jesus

(17) “Teacher, I brought you my son.”

A. He didn’t “send” is son to Jesus.

B. He had to first “come” to Jesus himself.

C. He “physically” brought his son to Jesus.

2. Discuss Your Children WITH Jesus

A. He talked to Jesus about his son.

B. He didn’t leave this part of parenting up to the boy’s mother.

C. A dad ought to be his child’s primary prayer warrior.

3. Before Your Children Trust IN Jesus

(23-24) “If you can?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for him who believes.” Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

A. He had some doubt that Jesus was really the answer.

B. The most important thing was – HE WAS THERE!

C. He “acted” on what faith he did have.

D. And his son “saw him” trusting Jesus.