A man with an evil spirit (Mark 1: 21–28)

• What is the first miracle recorded in Mark's Gospel?

  Exorcism of a man with an evil spirit
• On which day does the first miracle in Mark's Gospel take place?

  Sabbath day
• Where does the first miracle in Mark's Gospel occur?

  In the town of Capernaum
• What type of miracle is described in Mark 1:21-28?

  Exorcism miracle
• What was the common belief about evil spirits at the time of Jesus?

  There were millions of evil spirits
• What did people believe evil spirits could do?

  Possess people and cause illnesses
• How does the evil spirit refer to Jesus?

  As "God's holy messenger"
• What does the spirit's recognition of Jesus signify?

  It recognized Jesus as the Messiah
• What does this miracle illustrate about the nature of good and evil?

  It shows the contest between good and evil
• What authority did Jesus demonstrate in this miracle?

  Authority over the evil spirit
• Why is the Sabbath important for Jewish people?

  It is a day of worship and rest
• What does the third commandment state about the Sabbath?

  “Keep holy the Sabbath day”
• What do Jews believe about keeping the Sabbath holy?

  It shows thanks to God for creation
• What did God do on the seventh day according to Jewish belief?

  God rested
• What is the significance of the Sabbath for family gatherings?

  It is when the family worships together
• What is prohibited on the Sabbath day?

  No work is allowed
• What are the arguments for and against Christians working on Sunday?

  Arguments for:

  • Obey commandments and keep holy the Sabbath
  • Sunday is a day for worship and family

  
  

  Arguments against:

  • Worship can occur any day
  • Some jobs require Sunday work (e.g., medical staff)
  • Financial necessity may force Sunday work
• Why do some Christians believe they should not work on Sunday?

  To obey commandments and keep holy the Sabbath
• What is the rationale for Christians who argue against working on Sunday?

  Worship can happen any day of the week
• Why might some people have to work on Sundays?

  To save lives or provide for family
• Who are examples of people that may need to work on Sundays?

  Medical staff
• What is the main reason some people work on Sundays?

  They may have no other choice