Mark 1:14-15 New International Version (NIV)
Jesus Announces the Good News 14 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
Read Mark 1:14-15 The Gospel writer, Mark, in his typical fashion, throws in a random detail about John the Baptist with no elaboration or explanation. Matthew’s Gospel and the Jewish historian, Josephus, tell us that was arrested and ultimately killed by Herod Antipas for being too critical of his marriage. But Mark sticks this little nugget in to highlight that John’s ministry has been completed and now Jesus is taking over. Jesus is the kingdom of God and has brought the kingdom of God into this world. No more “preparing the way.” All that is left is repentance and faith. Repent! Which means “be transformed.” Give up. Let God’s kingdom take over. Believe! Which means “trust in God’s promise.” Give up. Trust that God’s kingdom is for you!