Tony Arsenal’s sermon, titled “What Manner of Man is This?”, focuses on Mark 4:35–5:43 and explores the miracles of Jesus, the question of His identity, and the theological implications of His divine and human nature. Arsenal begins by addressing the structure of the passage, emphasizing how the calming of the storm, the exorcism of the demon-possessed man, and the healing of Jairus’ daughter and the bleeding woman all reveal critical aspects of Jesus’ nature. The central question posed by the text—“Who is this man?”—is answered by examining both Jesus’ humanity and divinity, offering a rich exploration of the hypostatic union.
Arsenal highlights that Jesus’ miracles were not performed merely as acts of compassion but as demonstrations of His authority as both truly God and truly man. Drawing from Philippians 2:5–11, He explains how Jesus, though in the form of God, took on the form of a servant, fully embodying human frailty while retaining His divine nature. This double nature is vital for understanding Jesus’ role as our sympathetic High Priest, who both shares in our suffering and intercedes on our behalf.
The sermon also delves into the historical development of Christological doctrines, referencing the early church councils, such as Nicaea and Chalcedon, which defended the biblical teaching that Jesus is one person with two natures—united without confusion, separation, or division. Arsenal connects these theological truths to practical applications, showing how Jesus’ humanity ensures He understands our struggles, and His divinity guarantees His power to save. The sermon concludes with a call to trust in Jesus as both Savior and Lord and a reminder of the hope and inheritance we have in Him.
Key Points:
- The Miracles of Jesus Reveal His NatureArsenal discusses how Mark 4:35–5:43 uses Jesus’ miracles to highlight His authority over nature, demons, illness, and death, while simultaneously portraying His human limitations, such as fatigue and hunger.
- The Hypostatic UnionJesus is fully God and fully man, a truth affirmed by Scripture and historic church councils. Arsenal explains how this union is essential for Jesus to be our Savior and High Priest, capable of making atonement for sin and interceding for His people.
- Jesus as Our Sympathetic High PriestJesus’ humanity ensures He understands our pain and suffering, while His divinity gives Him the power to save and intercede. This provides profound comfort and hope for believers facing trials and tragedies.
Application
- Trust Jesus in the Storms of LifeJust as Jesus calmed the storm for His disciples, He has the power to bring peace to the chaos in our lives. Trust in His sovereignty and faithfulness.
- Take Comfort in Jesus’ HumanityJesus fully understands our struggles, as He experienced human frailty and suffering. This makes Him a compassionate and relatable Savior.
- Rest in the Assurance of SalvationThrough Jesus’ perfect life, atoning death, and resurrection, believers have a secure inheritance and the promise of eternal life. Let this truth shape your daily walk with God.
Questions for Reflection:
- What does the question “What manner of man is this?” reveal about how people in Jesus’ time viewed Him?
- How does understanding Jesus’ dual nature as truly God and truly man deepen your faith?
- In what ways can you rest in the knowledge that Jesus is your sympathetic High Priest?
Other Scriptures for study:
- John 3:34 – The anointing of Jesus by the Holy Spirit.
- Philippians 2:5–11 – The humility and exaltation of Christ.
- Hebrews 2:10–18 – Jesus as our faithful High Priest.
Confessional Resources:
- Chalcedonian Definition – Explains the hypostatic union of Christ.
- Nicene Creed – Affirms the divinity of Jesus Christ.
- Westminster Confession of Faith, Chapter 8 – On Christ the Mediator.
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