Lesson Three TEACHING THE PEOPLE 1. Read chapter 4 of the Gospel of Mark. 2. Read this lesson and do exam number three.    We have seen that Christ, the Servant of God, healed the sick.   But men need more than a healthy body; they need to know God and also know what God wants from men.   For this reason, in this chapter, the Lord teaches us much.    Many people were around the lake when Jesus taught the story of the sower (verses 1-9).   Later, He explained it to His disciples.    Some of the seed fell in the path, and the birds ate it up.   This happens when people hear the Gospel without understanding it.   Satan snatches away the Word.   Satan hates God and people.   He does not want the Word of God to get into the human heart.    Some of the seed fell on very rocky ground where there was not much soil. It grew quickly, but when the sun came up it was scorched.   There are people who hear the Gospel with gladness, but when a trial comes they return to their old life.    Some of the seed fell among thorns.   The thorns grew and choked out the good seed so that it could not bear fruit.   This happens when people hear the Gospel, but the cares of this life and worldly things push it out of the heart. The love of other things will not let the Gospel grow.    Some of the seed fell on good ground and produced much fruit.   When you hear the Word of God, ask God to fill your heart and let you understand it.   In this way it will produce results.    Jesus and the disciples entered a ship to go to the other side of the lake (verses 35-40).   A strong wind came up and the waves began to fill the ship. Christ was not afraid.   He had peace because He knew God was in control, but the disciples were fearful and awoke Him.   He, as the Son of God, rebuked the wind and there was a great calm.    In the problems of life, Christ is the only one who can give us life.   Why not turn to Christ now?   He loves you and will forgive your sins and give you peace. 5