October 12, 2025
Lord, Have Mercy
Pastor Ricky Smith

Sermon Notes

Mark 10:46-52
And they came to Jericho. And as he was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great crowd, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart. Get up; he is calling you.” And throwing off his cloak, he sprang up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Rabbi, let me recover my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him on the way.

1. Faith Cries Out Despite Opposition

A desperate cry in the right direction will change your destiny.

2. Jesus Stops and Calls

3. Faith Follows Jesus

When Jesus opens our eyes, following Him the rest of our days is the only option.

Next Steps

• I confess my sin and turn to Jesus as King for the first time.
• I commit to following Jesus by taking one step in a direction I’ve avoided.
• I choose to see others in need and will invite them to church.

Deep Dive

1. Read Romans 10:9-13. How does this verse relate to Bartimaeus’ story?
2. Read Isaiah 55:6. How do you practically seek the Lord in daily life?
3. What does it mean to follow Jesus “on the way”?

Springboards

1. Read Mark 11:1-11. What do you think is most significant about Jesus’ entry to Jerusalem?
2. Were the people worshiping Jesus in their reaction? Why or why not?
3. In what ways do people today misunderstand the mission of Jesus?