The First Missionary | Dr. Conrad Vine

Study Guide: “The Freedom to Share Our Testimony”

Key Scripture Passages:

1. Mark 4:35–5:20 – Jesus calms the storm and heals the demon-possessed man.

2. Psalm 107:23–32 – God’s power over storms and deliverance.

3. Matthew 20:1–16 – The parable of the 11th-hour workers (mentioned in the broader service).

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I. Introduction: The Power of Testimony

Main Idea: Our personal stories of God’s intervention are powerful tools for evangelism.
Discussion Questions:

1. Why is sharing a personal testimony often more effective than theological debates?

2. How does the demoniac’s transformation (Mark 5:15–20) model the impact of testimony?

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II. Breaking Barriers: Jesus’ Mission to Save

Key Points:

• Jesus crossed cultural, religious, and spiritual barriers (Jewish vs. Gentile, clean vs. unclean) to save one man.

• The storm (Mark 4:37–39) symbolized spiritual opposition; Jesus’ authority over nature revealed His divinity (Psalm 107:29).

Discussion Questions:

1. What “barriers” might prevent us from sharing our faith today (e.g., fear, societal norms)?

2. How does Jesus’ willingness to engage with the demon-possessed man challenge us to reach marginalized people?

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III. The Value of a Soul

Key Points:

• The loss of 2,000 pigs (Mark 5:13) showed God prioritizes people over material wealth.

• The villagers’ rejection of Jesus (Mark 5:17) mirrors modern choices to prioritize comfort over discipleship.

Discussion Questions:

1. How can we avoid “choosing pigs over people” in our daily priorities (finances, time, etc.)?

2. What does this story teach about God’s view of human worth?

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IV. The Call to Witness

Key Points:

• Jesus commanded the healed man to share his story locally (Mark 5:19), not with theological arguments but with personal experience.

• The result: A harvest of 4,000 believers (implied in Mark 7:31–37).

Practical Application:

1. Prepare Your Testimony:

   • Before Christ: What was your life like?

   • Meeting Christ: How did you encounter Him?

   • After Christ: How has He changed you?

2. Pray for Opportunities: Ask God to bring someone across your path this week who needs to hear your story.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why might people respond better to personal stories than doctrinal explanations?

2. What fears hold you back from sharing your testimony, and how can you overcome them?

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V. Reflection and Action Steps

1. Journal Prompt: Write out your testimony in 3–5 sentences.

2. Group Activity: Role-play sharing your testimony with a partner.

3. Challenge: Identify one person this week to share with and pray for divine timing.

Closing Thought:
“The demoniac’s story began with chains and ended with a mission. Your testimony—no matter how messy—can lead others to Christ.”

Prayer Focus:

• Thank God for His deliverance in your life.

• Ask for courage to share your story.

• Pray for receptive hearts in your community.

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Bonus Study (for Further Reflection):

• Matthew 20:1–16 – How does the “11th-hour worker” parable relate to urgency in sharing our faith today?

• Revelation 12:11 – Overcoming Satan “by the blood of the Lamb and the word of [our] testimony.”

“Go home and tell how much the Lord has done for you.” —Mark 5:19