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The Greatest of All Philosophers
Mark 1:22 'The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law.' (NIV)
A British doctor was asked, 'What are the most common problems you see in your surgery each week?' He replied, 'The most common issues I deal with not physical at all - they are deeper than that. People would desperately like to know who they are, why they are here and where they are going. If we could give people answers to those questions we would solve many of the problems we face with physical sickness.' These same crucial questions have plagued the minds and hearts of human beings since the dawn of time. Different religions have attempted to provide answers and philosophers have spent lifetimes on these issues. When Jesus appeared on the scene, people were taken by complete surprise. 'How can a carpenter's son have such an incredible understanding of life?' they asked. 'Where did this guy get his incredible outlook and philosophy? He seems to understand that the big issues of life better than anyone we've ever heard before.' Jesus lived at a time when there were many teachers. His world was filled with philosophers who travelled along the busy highways of world trade. Many of those highways intersected in the packed market places of the Middle East. So, the people to whom Jesus spoke were familiar with the world of ideas. But what Jesus had to offer them was so fresh, so unusually perceptive, that they had to stop and take it in. Fortunately, we too can take in the words Jesus everyday, just by turning the pages of a single book. The greatest philosopher who ever lived is within easy reach. But in his case, he gives us power to live up to his teaching!
Prayer: 'Thank you, Jesus, for the incredible teaching you gave us during your ministry on this earth. As I read your word today, and think on it, teach me new things about yourself and your will for my life.'
© 2003-2004 Mal Fletcher
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Mal, I watched you on God TV last Saturday & was so encouraged to hear you speak about 'making God famous'. Thanks for your commitment to Europe, it really encourages me!
Gillian, United Kingdom
I've been listening to a lot of the EDGES shows online and find them highly intellectual and factual and extremely interesting. They're so useful in building my understanding of real issues seen from Christian eyes... I love it! Thanks.
Joel, UK
I thoroughly enjoyed your article on 'UFO's: are we alone?'.
David, Australia
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