Read: Mark 1:14-20
The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news! (v. 15 NIV)
With volitional doubt—doubt based on a stubborn refusal to give in to God’s will for life—the means by which Jesus overcomes our unbelief is a strong call to repent and believe. More facts don’t help this kind of doubt, because information isn’t the issue. The issue is choice.
I have an old friend who revels in his doubt. He is a seasoned believer, a lifelong member of the church, but he has chosen to doubt because he likes the feeling of liberation, of walking on the wild side, of being different. He doesn’t need more information. He needs to decide that simple, childlike faith in Jesus is better than his cherished doubt. He needs to repent of his chosen doubt.
My friend wouldn’t agree, but the issue for him is a refusal to believe the message Jesus always preached. “The kingdom of God has come near.” Jesus meant that it was near in himself. “I am the king of all things, including your life.” If my friend would cry, “Jesus, I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!” I suspect that Jesus would reply, “I’d love to. Now, repent and make me Lord of your mind and your will. Bend your knee to me.”
Do it now. “The time has come!” Repent and believe the good news that Jesus is King.
As you pray, use the words of the hymn, “Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way! Thou art the potter, I am the clay. Mold me and make me after Thy will, while I am waiting, yielded and still.” (Have Thine Own Way)
About the Author
Stan Mast
Rev. Stan Mast is a retired pastor, who served four churches in the West and Midwest regions of the United States. He finished his career with three years of teaching at Calvin Seminary. He is happily married to Sharon, and they have two sons and four grandchildren.
