“Prayer Is Power”

Mark 1:21–35 (NIV)

  1. Introduction
    1. Jesus is huge!
    2. We have access to world-altering power!
  2. A Day With Jesus

    Mark 1:21–34

    Jesus Drives Out an Evil Spirit

    21They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. 23Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an evil spirit cried out, 24“What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”

    25“Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” 26The evil spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.

    27The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to evil spirits and they obey him.” 28News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.

    Jesus Heals Many

    29As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30Simon’s mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. 31So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them.

    32That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. 33The whole town gathered at the door, 34and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.

  3. How Did He Do It?

    Jesus Prays in a Solitary Place

    35Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.

    1. He tapped into the power of prayer
    2. Keys to Prayer
      1. It was early.
      2. It was private.
      3. It was powerful.
      4. Everyaction and miracle was based on God’s will
    3. There is a direct connection between doing and praying.
    4. Here’s the message we need to hear:
      1. Jesus radically changes lives.
      2. Jesus prays.
      3. Conclusion?
        1. Prayer is power.
      4. We can throw ourselves before God Who is the source of power and change.
      5. Prayer changes things!
  4. Conclusion
    1. Jesus is the ultimate power!
    2. God is sovereign and will do what is best for us.
    3. God is listening!
    4. Are you talking?