What happens when Jesus doesn’t fit into our religious categories?

In Mark 2:18–22, Jesus is questioned about fasting—but His answer reveals something far bigger than a debate over spiritual practices. In this sermon, Something New Is Here, David Baalbergen walks us through one of the key controversies in Mark’s Gospel and shows how it exposes a deeper misunderstanding of who Jesus truly is.

Jesus identifies Himself as the Bridegroom, the One whose presence brings joy—not mourning. He explains that He is not patching up an old system, nor pouring new wine into old wineskins. He is ushering in a New Covenant, one accomplished through His own life, death, and sacrifice. Where God once commanded fasting on the Day of Atonement, Jesus fulfills that command perfectly for us—fasting, suffering, and giving Himself so that sinners might be reconciled to God once and for all.

This sermon explores:

Why fasting wasn’t the real issue—the identity of Jesus was

Joy and sorrow in the coming and suffering of the Bridegroom

How Jesus fulfills the Day of Atonement as our High Priest

What it means to live in freedom, joy, and trust under the New Covenant

If you’re weary of legalism, curious about how the Old Testament connects to Christ, or longing to understand the beauty of the gospel more clearly, this message is for you.

📍 East Brainerd Baptist Church

1047 Graysville Rd

Chattanooga, TN

🕚 Sunday Worship | 11:00 AM

🌐 https://eastbrainerdbaptist.org

We would love for you to join us in person as we worship Christ, celebrate the joy of the gospel, and prepare together for the wedding feast of the Bridegroom.