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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
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Mark 9:33-37
33 And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. 35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” 36 And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.” ESV
33 And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. 35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” 36 And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.” ESV
LESSON NOTES / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
G.O.A.T = Greatest of all time. From athletics, to art, to music, to acting, and so much more, there are a lot of G.O.A.T debates that people engage in. With that, people use different arguments and examples to define true greatness. Our gauge for who or what is the “Greatest of all time” is based on how we see true greatness.
1.) Are there any G.O.A.T arguments that you find yourself passionate about?
2.) What are some core tenants of greatness in an area of interest for you?
G.O.A.T = Greatest of all time. From athletics, to art, to music, to acting, and so much more, there are a lot of G.O.A.T debates that people engage in. With that, people use different arguments and examples to define true greatness. Our gauge for who or what is the “Greatest of all time” is based on how we see true greatness.
1.) Are there any G.O.A.T arguments that you find yourself passionate about?
2.) What are some core tenants of greatness in an area of interest for you?
Mark 9:33-34. As Jesus and the disciples were on their way to Capernaum, the disciples got into a heated conversation around this topic: "Who among them was the true G.O.A.T?". Upon entering the house, Jesus asks the disciples this question, “What were you discussing on the way?” (vs. 33) The disciples' response? “But they kept silent…” (vs. 34). They didn’t say any words, but their silence still spoke. At the hearing of Jesus’ question, the disciples were embarrassed and afraid. They were embarrassed by their actions and they were afraid of being exposed. In our humanity, fear and embarrassment are barriers to honesty. Combined, fear and embarrassment produce shame. Yet, here's the gospel truth: We have nothing to hide because the cross of Jesus has already exposed us.
1.) What embarrassments of your life are hindering your honesty with God and with others?
2.) What spaces and rhythms of vulnerability do you have in your life?
1.) What embarrassments of your life are hindering your honesty with God and with others?
2.) What spaces and rhythms of vulnerability do you have in your life?
Mark 9:35. The world measures greatness by who's in first and who's in charge. Yet, as Jesus defines greatness, He flips greatness on its head. He even says this in Matthew 18:4 “Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” Humility admits that "I need Jesus and I need others" as we acknowledge and accept our own limitations. In our humility, we see the relational dynamic we are to share with those around us. This relational dynamic shows us that humility is a give and receive relationship between us and others. By walking in humility and service towards others and allowing ourselves to receive the humility and service of others, we walk in the footsteps of Jesus (Philippians 2:4-8)
1.) Is it difficult for you to accept the help of others? Why or why not?
2.) How has Jesus' upside down definition of greatness affected or challenged your work? Relationships?
1.) Is it difficult for you to accept the help of others? Why or why not?
2.) How has Jesus' upside down definition of greatness affected or challenged your work? Relationships?
Mark 9:36-37. Hospitality was a normal part of Jewish culture. In fact, it was expected. At the same time, another cultural norm was that children were extreme blessings. While children were, and still are, a tremendous blessing, they are still helpless, dependent, and small. In relation to social status, children did not rank very high. Yet, in Jesus' real life example of greatness, He uses a child to show what true greatness is. In an argument where the disciples were debating who’s the biggest, Jesus says that greatness is seen in who welcomes the smallest. In other words, to be great is to show hospitality to those who can do nothing for you.
1.) Read this quote. "Our homes, imperfect as they are, must be a haven from the chaos outside. They should be a reflection of our eternal home, where troubled souls find peace, weary hearts find rest, hungry bodies find refreshment, lonely pilgrims find communion, and wounded spirits find compassion.” In what ways does this quote challenge/encourage you?
2.) As you think about what it means to show hospitality (be both host and guest), what feelings or thoughts are invoked within you? Why?
"True Greatness". When discussing true greatness, Jesus highlights what true greatness is: To be great is to be honest (vs. 33-34). To be great is to be humble (vs. 35). To be great is to show hospitality to those who can do nothing for you. (vs. 36-37)
1.) As you think about "true greatness", which of these tenants of greatness most challenges you? Most encourages you?
1.) Read this quote. "Our homes, imperfect as they are, must be a haven from the chaos outside. They should be a reflection of our eternal home, where troubled souls find peace, weary hearts find rest, hungry bodies find refreshment, lonely pilgrims find communion, and wounded spirits find compassion.” In what ways does this quote challenge/encourage you?
2.) As you think about what it means to show hospitality (be both host and guest), what feelings or thoughts are invoked within you? Why?
"True Greatness". When discussing true greatness, Jesus highlights what true greatness is: To be great is to be honest (vs. 33-34). To be great is to be humble (vs. 35). To be great is to show hospitality to those who can do nothing for you. (vs. 36-37)
1.) As you think about "true greatness", which of these tenants of greatness most challenges you? Most encourages you?
Monday Jun 15, 2026
Monday Jun 15, 2026
Mark 9:13-29
14 And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15 And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed and ran up to him and greeted him. 16 And he asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” 17 And someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute. 18 And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” 19 And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” 20 And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. 21 And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” 25 And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” 26 And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. 28 And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” 29 And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.” ESV
14 And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15 And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed and ran up to him and greeted him. 16 And he asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” 17 And someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute. 18 And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” 19 And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” 20 And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. 21 And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 And Jesus said to him, “‘If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” 25 And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” 26 And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. 28 And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” 29 And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.” ESV
LESSON NOTES
Raphael's sixteenth-century oil painting brilliantly merges two contrasting biblical scenes into one canvas: the radiant Transfiguration at the top and a dark, chaotic struggle at the bottom. This artistic choice reflects our daily reality, where the "good" and the "hard" are often crammed into the very same portrait of life.
Faith requires recognizing that Jesus is both willing and able. While the leper in Mark 1 questioned Jesus's willingness ("if you are willing"), the father in Mark 9 questioned His ability ("if you can"). True reliance trusts both His infinite compassion to care and His absolute power to act.
Every single person at the base of the mountain—the disciples, the crowd, and the teachers of the law—was struggling with faith. The father of the boy was simply the only one honest enough to admit his unbelief out loud, showing that bringing our questions to God is a healthy, biblical practice.
Prayer and fasting are not transactional tools used to gain leverage or build personal holiness. Rather, they are relational practices designed to make us intentionally helpless, shifting our reliance away from our own understanding and entirely onto God.
"Helplessness, not holiness, is the way to access the presence of God." Timothy Keller
Raphael's sixteenth-century oil painting brilliantly merges two contrasting biblical scenes into one canvas: the radiant Transfiguration at the top and a dark, chaotic struggle at the bottom. This artistic choice reflects our daily reality, where the "good" and the "hard" are often crammed into the very same portrait of life.
Faith requires recognizing that Jesus is both willing and able. While the leper in Mark 1 questioned Jesus's willingness ("if you are willing"), the father in Mark 9 questioned His ability ("if you can"). True reliance trusts both His infinite compassion to care and His absolute power to act.
Every single person at the base of the mountain—the disciples, the crowd, and the teachers of the law—was struggling with faith. The father of the boy was simply the only one honest enough to admit his unbelief out loud, showing that bringing our questions to God is a healthy, biblical practice.
Prayer and fasting are not transactional tools used to gain leverage or build personal holiness. Rather, they are relational practices designed to make us intentionally helpless, shifting our reliance away from our own understanding and entirely onto God.
"Helplessness, not holiness, is the way to access the presence of God." Timothy Keller
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Icebreaker: Have you ever had a "mountaintop moment"—a time when God felt especially close or life felt especially meaningful—followed immediately by a difficult challenge or disappointment? What was that experience like?
1. The father cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" Why do you think this prayer has resonated with Christians for centuries? What makes it so relatable?
2. Do you more often question God's willingness to help or His ability to help? Why do you think that is?
3. Prayer and fasting are relational rather than transactional. What is the difference between using spiritual disciplines to get something from God and using them to grow closer to God?
4. If faith is fundamentally reliance on Jesus, what is one practical area of your life this week where you need to rely less on yourself and more on Him?
Icebreaker: Have you ever had a "mountaintop moment"—a time when God felt especially close or life felt especially meaningful—followed immediately by a difficult challenge or disappointment? What was that experience like?
1. The father cried out, "I believe; help my unbelief!" Why do you think this prayer has resonated with Christians for centuries? What makes it so relatable?
2. Do you more often question God's willingness to help or His ability to help? Why do you think that is?
3. Prayer and fasting are relational rather than transactional. What is the difference between using spiritual disciplines to get something from God and using them to grow closer to God?
4. If faith is fundamentally reliance on Jesus, what is one practical area of your life this week where you need to rely less on yourself and more on Him?
Sunday Jun 07, 2026
Sunday Jun 07, 2026
Hebrews 1:1-3
1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. NIV 84
1 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets at many times and in various ways, 2 but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom he made the universe. 3 The Son is the radiance of God's glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
A.W. Tozer famously wrote, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”
We know God because He chose to make Himself known. The Christian faith is built on divine revelation. God is not hiding from us; He is revealing Himself to us.
The beauty, complexity, and order of creation point beyond themselves to the One who made them. Creation cannot tell us everything about God, but it clearly testifies that there is a Creator behind the creation.
Creation gives us a wide-angle view of God. Scripture brings us closer. Jesus gives us the clearest possible picture. Hebrews says Jesus is “the exact representation of God's being.” If we want to know what God is like, we must look at Jesus.
The sermon builds toward the cross as God's fullest revelation of Himself. Creation reveals God's power. Scripture reveals God's voice. Jesus reveals God's character. The cross reveals God's heart.
A.W. Tozer famously wrote, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”
We know God because He chose to make Himself known. The Christian faith is built on divine revelation. God is not hiding from us; He is revealing Himself to us.
The beauty, complexity, and order of creation point beyond themselves to the One who made them. Creation cannot tell us everything about God, but it clearly testifies that there is a Creator behind the creation.
Creation gives us a wide-angle view of God. Scripture brings us closer. Jesus gives us the clearest possible picture. Hebrews says Jesus is “the exact representation of God's being.” If we want to know what God is like, we must look at Jesus.
The sermon builds toward the cross as God's fullest revelation of Himself. Creation reveals God's power. Scripture reveals God's voice. Jesus reveals God's character. The cross reveals God's heart.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. What was the first thing that came to your mind when you heard the question, "What comes into your mind when you think about God?" What do you think that reveals about your relationship with Him?
2. What aspects of creation most powerfully point you toward the existence and greatness of God? Why do you think those things affect you so deeply?
3. God spoke "at many times and in various ways." Why do you think God chose to reveal Himself progressively throughout history rather than all at once? What does that teach us about His relationship with humanity?
4. The sermon emphasized that Jesus is the exact representation of God's being. What aspect of Jesus' life or ministry most helps you understand what God is really like?
5. The cross reveals God's heart. What specific truths about God do you see most clearly when you look at the crucifixion of Jesus?
1. What was the first thing that came to your mind when you heard the question, "What comes into your mind when you think about God?" What do you think that reveals about your relationship with Him?
2. What aspects of creation most powerfully point you toward the existence and greatness of God? Why do you think those things affect you so deeply?
3. God spoke "at many times and in various ways." Why do you think God chose to reveal Himself progressively throughout history rather than all at once? What does that teach us about His relationship with humanity?
4. The sermon emphasized that Jesus is the exact representation of God's being. What aspect of Jesus' life or ministry most helps you understand what God is really like?
5. The cross reveals God's heart. What specific truths about God do you see most clearly when you look at the crucifixion of Jesus?
Sunday May 31, 2026
Sunday May 31, 2026
Mark 9:2-13
2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” 8 And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only. 9 And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. 11 And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” 12 And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things. And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.” ESV
2 And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, 3 and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. 4 And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. 5 And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” 6 For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. 7 And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” 8 And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only. 9 And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. 11 And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” 12 And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things. And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.” ESV
LESSON NOTES
Your who must determine your do. The structure of Mark's Gospel highlights a profound truth. The first half focuses on who Jesus is; the second half focuses on what Jesus came to do. His who determined His do. The world says, "What you do determines who you are." The gospel says, "Who you are in Christ determines what you do."
The transfiguration was a "preview of coming attractions." Peter, James, and John were given a glimpse of Jesus as He will appear in His second coming. The veil of His human likeness was briefly lifted so they could see the unveiling of the coming King.
Jesus is not just a rabbi. Peter instinctively called Jesus "Rabbi," but the transfiguration revealed that Jesus is much more than just a respected teacher. A rabbi asks for your agreement, but a Lord requires your allegiance.
Your who must determine your do. The structure of Mark's Gospel highlights a profound truth. The first half focuses on who Jesus is; the second half focuses on what Jesus came to do. His who determined His do. The world says, "What you do determines who you are." The gospel says, "Who you are in Christ determines what you do."
The transfiguration was a "preview of coming attractions." Peter, James, and John were given a glimpse of Jesus as He will appear in His second coming. The veil of His human likeness was briefly lifted so they could see the unveiling of the coming King.
Jesus is not just a rabbi. Peter instinctively called Jesus "Rabbi," but the transfiguration revealed that Jesus is much more than just a respected teacher. A rabbi asks for your agreement, but a Lord requires your allegiance.
Jesus is not just another priority. Peter wanted to build three shelters—one for Jesus, one for Moses, and one for Elijah. The temptation today is similar: to place Jesus alongside all our other priorities rather than above them. Jesus does not want a place among your priorities; He deserves the throne of your heart.
Jesus is the suffering Messiah. The disciples had all kinds of ideas about what the Messiah was going to come and do. And none of these ideas included a Messiah who would suffer greatly, experience rejection by his own people and be hung on a cross between two criminals.
Jesus is the one and only source of glory. Just as the moon only reflects the light of the sun, Moses only reflected the glory of God. Jesus, however, does not reflect the glory of God — He is the radiance of the glory of God. Our purpose is not to create significance for ourselves but to reflect the glory of Christ to the world.
Jesus is the suffering Messiah. The disciples had all kinds of ideas about what the Messiah was going to come and do. And none of these ideas included a Messiah who would suffer greatly, experience rejection by his own people and be hung on a cross between two criminals.
Jesus is the one and only source of glory. Just as the moon only reflects the light of the sun, Moses only reflected the glory of God. Jesus, however, does not reflect the glory of God — He is the radiance of the glory of God. Our purpose is not to create significance for ourselves but to reflect the glory of Christ to the world.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Icebreaker: Imagine you could get a five-minute preview of any future event in your life - a career, retirement, a family milestone, or something else. What would you choose to see, and why?
1. How does our world encourage us to find our identity in what we do rather than in who we are in Christ? How have you experienced it? What are the consequences of that mindset?
2. What is the difference between just agreeing with or admiring Jesus as a teacher and obeying Him as Lord? How can we tell which one we're actually doing?
3. What are some good things (family, career, hobbies, ministry, etc.) that can subtly compete with Jesus for the throne of our hearts?
4. The Father said, "Listen to Him." Why do you think Christians often struggle with Jesus' teachings about sacrifice, self-denial, and taking up our cross? What does faithful obedience look like in those areas today?
5. The sermon ended with the phrase "Jesus only." What currently gives my life meaning and significance? What competes with Jesus for my attention and affection? Am I reflecting Christ's glory or pursuing my own?
Icebreaker: Imagine you could get a five-minute preview of any future event in your life - a career, retirement, a family milestone, or something else. What would you choose to see, and why?
1. How does our world encourage us to find our identity in what we do rather than in who we are in Christ? How have you experienced it? What are the consequences of that mindset?
2. What is the difference between just agreeing with or admiring Jesus as a teacher and obeying Him as Lord? How can we tell which one we're actually doing?
3. What are some good things (family, career, hobbies, ministry, etc.) that can subtly compete with Jesus for the throne of our hearts?
4. The Father said, "Listen to Him." Why do you think Christians often struggle with Jesus' teachings about sacrifice, self-denial, and taking up our cross? What does faithful obedience look like in those areas today?
5. The sermon ended with the phrase "Jesus only." What currently gives my life meaning and significance? What competes with Jesus for my attention and affection? Am I reflecting Christ's glory or pursuing my own?
Sunday May 24, 2026
Sunday May 24, 2026
Mark 8:31-9:1
31 And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35 For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 37 For what can a man give in return for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” 9:1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” ESV
31 And he began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 And he said this plainly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. 33 But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man.” 34 And calling the crowd to him with his disciples, he said to them, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 35 For whoever would save his life[a] will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. 36 For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? 37 For what can a man give in return for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of Man also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” 9:1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.” ESV
LESSON NOTES / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Icebreaker: As you think back to your childhood/over your parenting, what books do you remember reading the most? What was/is your or your kids favorite?
Lesson Note 1: The necessary path Jesus had to walk included great suffering.
Question: As you think about how Jesus handled/walked this path, what draws you closer to Him? What amazes you?
Lesson Note 2: Jesus' necessary teaching invoked a strong response from Peter. "Our feelings express our intuitive view of how well our situation is providing for and protecting what we love...What you care about shapes what you feel. Your emotions are always expressing the thing you love, value, and treasure, whether you understand them or not." (Untangling Emotions) Jesus revealed that the unexpected path of the Messiah would achieve glory through suffering.
Question: Have you ever received news that you didn't expect? How did you respond? Over the past week or so, what have been the most dominating emotions you have experienced? What do you think these emotions reveal about what you love, value, and treasure?
Lesson Note 3: The root of the devil's temptation in Matthew 4:8-10 is repeated in Mark 8. The devil's temptation to Jesus, both personally and through Peter, was for Jesus to receive the glory without the suffering, to receive the crown without the cross. yet, Jesus always had His mind on the things of God (Hebrews 2:14-15). Jesus understood that there was a necessary path He had to travel on His journey.
Question: As you examine your season of life, what temptations or pressures push you the hardest towards the path of least resistance?
Lesson Note 4: The necessary path of Jesus illuminates the necessary path of all His disciples must travel. In Jesus' sudden shift to "the crowd" He shows us that the conditions to follow Him are the same for every single person:
- To "deny (myself)" combats the lie that I am the center of my life. It is to radically oppose self-idolatry.
- To "take up (my) cross" combats the lie that I control my life. It is the daily crucifixion of my own selfish agenda.
- To "follow Jesus" combats the lie that I am the compass of my life. It is to humbly abide with Jesus as he directs the pace and the path of my life.
Question: Do any of these aspects of Jesus' teaching stick out the most to you? Why?
Lesson Note 5: These concluding verses of Jesus' teaching provide some proper perspectives for disciples as we journey through our lives:
- Verse 35 - Proper perspective on authentic living: For the disciple of Jesus, authentic living is not found in self-centeredness, but it is found in Christ-centeredness.
- Verse 36-37 - Proper perspective on what is truly valuable: For the disciples of Jesus, the value of the soul far outweighs the value of worldly gains.
- Verse 38 - Proper perspective on our personal choices - For the disciple of Jesus, the choice to boldly follow Jesus is always the right choice even when my flesh, my circumstances, and the culture tell me its not.
Question: As you process these proper perspectives that Jesus gav, how do they speak to you in your current season of life?
Lesson Note 6: The lifestyle of denying self, bearing our cross, and following Jesus is very hard, but it does not end in defeat. Christ reveals that the necessary path He walked will lead to death, but it will also lead to resurrection. Just as the suffering of Jesus led to His glory, in Jesus, our suffering will also be transformed into glory (1 Peter 5:10-11).
Question: In what ways do these words of Jesus bring you hope, comfort, etc in your current rhythms of life?
Icebreaker: As you think back to your childhood/over your parenting, what books do you remember reading the most? What was/is your or your kids favorite?
Lesson Note 1: The necessary path Jesus had to walk included great suffering.
Question: As you think about how Jesus handled/walked this path, what draws you closer to Him? What amazes you?
Lesson Note 2: Jesus' necessary teaching invoked a strong response from Peter. "Our feelings express our intuitive view of how well our situation is providing for and protecting what we love...What you care about shapes what you feel. Your emotions are always expressing the thing you love, value, and treasure, whether you understand them or not." (Untangling Emotions) Jesus revealed that the unexpected path of the Messiah would achieve glory through suffering.
Question: Have you ever received news that you didn't expect? How did you respond? Over the past week or so, what have been the most dominating emotions you have experienced? What do you think these emotions reveal about what you love, value, and treasure?
Lesson Note 3: The root of the devil's temptation in Matthew 4:8-10 is repeated in Mark 8. The devil's temptation to Jesus, both personally and through Peter, was for Jesus to receive the glory without the suffering, to receive the crown without the cross. yet, Jesus always had His mind on the things of God (Hebrews 2:14-15). Jesus understood that there was a necessary path He had to travel on His journey.
Question: As you examine your season of life, what temptations or pressures push you the hardest towards the path of least resistance?
Lesson Note 4: The necessary path of Jesus illuminates the necessary path of all His disciples must travel. In Jesus' sudden shift to "the crowd" He shows us that the conditions to follow Him are the same for every single person:
- To "deny (myself)" combats the lie that I am the center of my life. It is to radically oppose self-idolatry.
- To "take up (my) cross" combats the lie that I control my life. It is the daily crucifixion of my own selfish agenda.
- To "follow Jesus" combats the lie that I am the compass of my life. It is to humbly abide with Jesus as he directs the pace and the path of my life.
Question: Do any of these aspects of Jesus' teaching stick out the most to you? Why?
Lesson Note 5: These concluding verses of Jesus' teaching provide some proper perspectives for disciples as we journey through our lives:
- Verse 35 - Proper perspective on authentic living: For the disciple of Jesus, authentic living is not found in self-centeredness, but it is found in Christ-centeredness.
- Verse 36-37 - Proper perspective on what is truly valuable: For the disciples of Jesus, the value of the soul far outweighs the value of worldly gains.
- Verse 38 - Proper perspective on our personal choices - For the disciple of Jesus, the choice to boldly follow Jesus is always the right choice even when my flesh, my circumstances, and the culture tell me its not.
Question: As you process these proper perspectives that Jesus gav, how do they speak to you in your current season of life?
Lesson Note 6: The lifestyle of denying self, bearing our cross, and following Jesus is very hard, but it does not end in defeat. Christ reveals that the necessary path He walked will lead to death, but it will also lead to resurrection. Just as the suffering of Jesus led to His glory, in Jesus, our suffering will also be transformed into glory (1 Peter 5:10-11).
Question: In what ways do these words of Jesus bring you hope, comfort, etc in your current rhythms of life?
Sunday May 17, 2026
Sunday May 17, 2026
Mark 8:22-30
22 And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man and begged him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” 25 Then Jesus[c] laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 And he sent him to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.”
27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.
22 And they came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man and begged him to touch him. 23 And he took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village, and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 And he looked up and said, “I see people, but they look like trees, walking.” 25 Then Jesus[c] laid his hands on his eyes again; and he opened his eyes, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. 26 And he sent him to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.”
27 And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” 28 And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” 29 And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” 30 And he strictly charged them to tell no one about him.
- The Trap of "Snake Oil" and False Promises The history of "snake oil" reveals a pattern where human desperation for healing leads to exploitation by those promising instant, miraculous cures. Unlike these false promises, faith in Jesus is not a "magic tonic" for immediate relief of all earthly problems, but a commitment to a deeper restorative work.
- The Significance of the Two-Stage Miracle (Mark 8:22-26) In an unusual account, Jesus heals a blind man in stages, first restoring partial, blurry vision before providing total clarity. This intentional "two-stage" healing serves as a physical parable, illustrating that spiritual understanding and healing often happen gradually rather than all at once.
- Jesus Will Heal You, and His Timing is Better Jesus offers ultimate physical, emotional, and spiritual healing, yet He maintains authority over the timing and the journey. While we may desire instant transformation, the biblical concept of being "saved" refers both to our immediate forgiveness as well as a progressive process of growing in holiness and becoming more like Him over time.
- Living as a "Work in Progress" True spiritual growth requires admitting that we still have healing to do in our hearts and our misunderstandings of God. Because every believer is in a different stage of this process, we must extend the same patience and grace to others—and to ourselves—that Jesus showed His disciples.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Icebreaker
Icebreaker
- Jeremy talked about the history of "snake oil" and other fake cures. What is the most "too good to be true" product or health trend you have ever seen advertised or perhaps even tried yourself?
Discussion Questions
- In the account from Mark 8:22-26, Jesus heals a blind man in two distinct stages rather than all at once. Why do you think Jesus might choose a gradual, progressive process for healing or spiritual growth in our lives today instead of providing an instant "fix"?
- The healing of the blind man suggests the disciples had "blurry" spiritual vision—requiring a long time together before Peter eventually realized He was the Christ. In what areas of your own faith do you feel like you are still moving from "blurry" vision to clarity?
- The sermon mentioned that while Jesus will heal us, "His timing is best". How can we maintain our trust in His goodness when we face a "no" to our prayers for immediate relief, similar to Paul’s experience with his "thorn in the flesh"?
Reflection Questions
- "Do you believe you still have some healing to do?". How does admitting that you are still a "work in progress" help you remain open to God's ongoing transformation in your heart?
- If a church is made up of hundreds of people who are all in different stages of a "messy" healing process, how should that reality change the way we extend grace and patience to one another during disagreements or personal failures?
- Sometimes we are hardest on ourselves, believing that areas of our lives that seem slow to heal are a sign that Jesus has forgotten us or abandoned us. When healing is slower than we'd like, how can we give ourselves grace?
Monday May 11, 2026
Monday May 11, 2026
Mark 8:1-21
1 During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, 2 “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.” 4 His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?” 5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. 6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 About four thousand men were present. And having sent them away, 10 he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha. 11 The Pharisees came and began to question Jesus. To test him, they asked him for a sign from heaven. 12 He sighed deeply and said, “Why does this generation ask for a miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, no sign will be given to it.” 13 Then he left them, got back into the boat and crossed to the other side. 14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.” 16 They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.” 17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. 20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?” NIV 84
1 During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, 2 “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. 3 If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, because some of them have come a long distance.” 4 His disciples answered, “But where in this remote place can anyone get enough bread to feed them?” 5 “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied. 6 He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When he had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people, and they did so. 7 They had a few small fish as well; he gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. 8 The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 9 About four thousand men were present. And having sent them away, 10 he got into the boat with his disciples and went to the region of Dalmanutha. 11 The Pharisees came and began to question Jesus. To test him, they asked him for a sign from heaven. 12 He sighed deeply and said, “Why does this generation ask for a miraculous sign? I tell you the truth, no sign will be given to it.” 13 Then he left them, got back into the boat and crossed to the other side. 14 The disciples had forgotten to bring bread, except for one loaf they had with them in the boat. 15 “Be careful,” Jesus warned them. “Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod.” 16 They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.” 17 Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? 18 Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And don’t you remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” “Twelve,” they replied. 20 “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” 21 He said to them, “Do you still not understand?” NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Faith Is More Than Admiration — It Is Trust: The tightrope illustration reminds us that it is easy to admire from the crowd, but much harder to trust personally when we are the ones “getting in the wheelbarrow.” The disciples had seen Jesus perform miracles, but they still struggled to trust Him in their own moment of need.
Faith Is More Than Admiration — It Is Trust: The tightrope illustration reminds us that it is easy to admire from the crowd, but much harder to trust personally when we are the ones “getting in the wheelbarrow.” The disciples had seen Jesus perform miracles, but they still struggled to trust Him in their own moment of need.
Compassion Is More Than Feeling — It Moves Us to Action: In both feedings, Jesus is deeply moved by the needs of the people. Compassion is not simply feeling bad for someone; it is allowing someone else’s need to move us toward action.Jesus cares about both spiritual hunger and physical hunger.
Jesus Provides More Than Enough: The crowds were not merely given a snack— both crowds “ate and were satisfied,” and both meals ended with leftovers. Jesus provides generously and completely.
Jesus’ Mission Includes Everyone: The feeding of the 5,000 primarily involved Jewish people; the feeding of the 4,000 occurred in Gentile territory. Together, these miracles reveal that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the nations.
The "One Loaf" Paradox: The disciples worried about having only one loaf of bread while the "Bread of Life" was sitting in the boat with them. We often obsess over our limited resources (the bread) while ignoring the presence of the Provider. If Jesus is in the boat, you already have more than enough.
Jesus’ Mission Includes Everyone: The feeding of the 5,000 primarily involved Jewish people; the feeding of the 4,000 occurred in Gentile territory. Together, these miracles reveal that Jesus came not only for Israel but for the nations.
The "One Loaf" Paradox: The disciples worried about having only one loaf of bread while the "Bread of Life" was sitting in the boat with them. We often obsess over our limited resources (the bread) while ignoring the presence of the Provider. If Jesus is in the boat, you already have more than enough.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. The disciples forgot previous miracles when facing a new personal challenge. What practices help you to remember God’s faithfulness during stressful seasons?
2. If "faith elicits compassion and compassion prompts action," how have you seen your own faith move you toward a specific action lately? What "gut-level" needs in your community is God pointing you toward?
3. The Greek word for "satisfied" in these stories describes being "stuffed" or "gorged" like after a Thanksgiving meal. Do you view your relationship with God more as a "light snack" to get you through the day, or as a source of total satisfaction?
4. Jesus warned about the “yeast” of the Pharisees and Herod. What attitudes, distractions, or influences today can slowly keep us from seeing Jesus clearly?
5. If Jesus is "in your boat," why does the "one loaf" (your limited finances, time, or energy) still cause you anxiety? How can we practically shift our focus from the scarcity of the loaf to the sufficiency of Christ this week?
1. The disciples forgot previous miracles when facing a new personal challenge. What practices help you to remember God’s faithfulness during stressful seasons?
2. If "faith elicits compassion and compassion prompts action," how have you seen your own faith move you toward a specific action lately? What "gut-level" needs in your community is God pointing you toward?
3. The Greek word for "satisfied" in these stories describes being "stuffed" or "gorged" like after a Thanksgiving meal. Do you view your relationship with God more as a "light snack" to get you through the day, or as a source of total satisfaction?
4. Jesus warned about the “yeast” of the Pharisees and Herod. What attitudes, distractions, or influences today can slowly keep us from seeing Jesus clearly?
5. If Jesus is "in your boat," why does the "one loaf" (your limited finances, time, or energy) still cause you anxiety? How can we practically shift our focus from the scarcity of the loaf to the sufficiency of Christ this week?
Sunday May 03, 2026
Sunday May 03, 2026
Mark 7:31-37
31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged him to place his hand on the man. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man's ears. Then he spit and touched the man's tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!"). 35 At this, the man's ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly. 36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. 37 People were overwhelmed with amazement. "He has done everything well," they said. "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." NIV 84
31 Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. 32 There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged him to place his hand on the man. 33 After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man's ears. Then he spit and touched the man's tongue. 34 He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, "Ephphatha!" (which means, "Be opened!"). 35 At this, the man's ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly. 36 Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. 37 People were overwhelmed with amazement. "He has done everything well," they said. "He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak." NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
The Isaiah Prophecy: Mark uses a specific, rare Greek word for "speech impediment" (Mark 7:32) that appears only one other time in the Greek Bible—Isaiah 35:6. This purposefully connects Jesus to the prophecy that when God comes to save His people, the "mute tongue will shout for joy."
Connections: The people in the Decapolis likely knew to bring their friend to Jesus because of the formerly demon-possessed man (from Mark 5) who went home and told everyone what the Lord had done. One person's testimony can pave the way for many others to find healing.
Jesus Meets Us Where We Are: By using physical touch and signs (fingers in ears, touching the tongue, looking to heaven, a deep sigh), Jesus communicated with the deaf man using "sign language." He meets us exactly where we are, but loves us too much to leave us there.
A Groan Of Compassion: Jesus’ "deep sigh" (v. 34) was a non-verbal expression of grief. It represents a "hybrid of frustration and sadness" over the brokenness of the world. As Christians, the Holy Spirit gives us the "gift of sighing"—the capacity to groan with compassion for the suffering around us.
The Isaiah Prophecy: Mark uses a specific, rare Greek word for "speech impediment" (Mark 7:32) that appears only one other time in the Greek Bible—Isaiah 35:6. This purposefully connects Jesus to the prophecy that when God comes to save His people, the "mute tongue will shout for joy."
Connections: The people in the Decapolis likely knew to bring their friend to Jesus because of the formerly demon-possessed man (from Mark 5) who went home and told everyone what the Lord had done. One person's testimony can pave the way for many others to find healing.
Jesus Meets Us Where We Are: By using physical touch and signs (fingers in ears, touching the tongue, looking to heaven, a deep sigh), Jesus communicated with the deaf man using "sign language." He meets us exactly where we are, but loves us too much to leave us there.
A Groan Of Compassion: Jesus’ "deep sigh" (v. 34) was a non-verbal expression of grief. It represents a "hybrid of frustration and sadness" over the brokenness of the world. As Christians, the Holy Spirit gives us the "gift of sighing"—the capacity to groan with compassion for the suffering around us.
A Package Deal: When Jesus speaks "Ephphatha" (Be Opened), it is a double miracle. He doesn't just open our ears to hear the Gospel; he loosens our tongues so we can speak plainly about his mercy. You cannot have one without the other.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Go back and read Isaiah 35. Does reading it again give you more insight into the interaction between Jesus and the deaf and mute man? How have you see glimpses of God transforming our sighing into singing?
2. Who first helped “bring you to Jesus”? Who is someone in your life right now that you could bring to Him? What is a practical step you could take this week toward this end?
3. Jesus used physical touch and signs to communicate with the man. How has God "spoken your language" - how have you experienced Jesus meeting you where you are?
4. Jesus sighed deeply when faced with this man's struggle. When you look at the "brokenness" in your own community or circle of influence, what specifically causes you to feel that same "groan of compassion"?
5. In what ways might you be spiritually “deaf” or “mute” right now? Do you need to hear God more clearly, or speak more boldly—or both? What would it look like for you to live out “Ephphatha” this week? How can you intentionally open your life to God’s voice and be more vocal about your faith?
1. Go back and read Isaiah 35. Does reading it again give you more insight into the interaction between Jesus and the deaf and mute man? How have you see glimpses of God transforming our sighing into singing?
2. Who first helped “bring you to Jesus”? Who is someone in your life right now that you could bring to Him? What is a practical step you could take this week toward this end?
3. Jesus used physical touch and signs to communicate with the man. How has God "spoken your language" - how have you experienced Jesus meeting you where you are?
4. Jesus sighed deeply when faced with this man's struggle. When you look at the "brokenness" in your own community or circle of influence, what specifically causes you to feel that same "groan of compassion"?
5. In what ways might you be spiritually “deaf” or “mute” right now? Do you need to hear God more clearly, or speak more boldly—or both? What would it look like for you to live out “Ephphatha” this week? How can you intentionally open your life to God’s voice and be more vocal about your faith?
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Monday Apr 27, 2026
Mark 6:45-52
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. 47 When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. NIV 84
45 Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. 46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. 47 When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. 48 He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, 49 but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, 50 because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." 51 Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, 52 for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened. NIV 84
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Have you ever experienced - spiritual amnesia - where your past faith experiences don't automatically translate into present trust? Discuss with your group.
2. Which of the three actions encourages you most when in a time of suffering—that Jesus prays for you, sees you, or comes to you? Why?
1. Have you ever experienced - spiritual amnesia - where your past faith experiences don't automatically translate into present trust? Discuss with your group.
2. Which of the three actions encourages you most when in a time of suffering—that Jesus prays for you, sees you, or comes to you? Why?
3. Can you think of a time in your life when you felt terrified? Think of a specific example and share it with your group.
4. These three verses were shared as ways God speaks to us in our terrifying situations - Psalm 46:10, Matthew 6:25-33, 1 Peter 5:7 - how have you experienced God coming to you in your terrifying situation?
5. The sermon defines a hard heart as an issue of faith. Can you relate to believing, obeying, and even loving Jesus—but still struggling to trust Him fully?
5. The sermon defines a hard heart as an issue of faith. Can you relate to believing, obeying, and even loving Jesus—but still struggling to trust Him fully?
Sunday Apr 19, 2026
Sunday Apr 19, 2026
Mark 7:1-30
1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly,[a] holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash.[b] And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.[c]) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written,
“‘This people honors me with their lips,
but their heart is far from me;
7 in vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’
8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.”
9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)[d]— 12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”
What Defiles a Person
14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”[e] 17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?”[f] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith
24 And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[g] And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. 25 But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” 29 And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.
1 Now when the Pharisees gathered to him, with some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem, 2 they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands that were defiled, that is, unwashed. 3 (For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands properly,[a] holding to the tradition of the elders, 4 and when they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash.[b] And there are many other traditions that they observe, such as the washing of cups and pots and copper vessels and dining couches.[c]) 5 And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” 6 And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written,
“‘This people honors me with their lips,
but their heart is far from me;
7 in vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’
8 You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.”
9 And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God in order to establish your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘Whoever reviles father or mother must surely die.’ 11 But you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, “Whatever you would have gained from me is Corban”’ (that is, given to God)[d]— 12 then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, 13 thus making void the word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And many such things you do.”
What Defiles a Person
14 And he called the people to him again and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: 15 There is nothing outside a person that by going into him can defile him, but the things that come out of a person are what defile him.”[e] 17 And when he had entered the house and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. 18 And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a person from outside cannot defile him, 19 since it enters not his heart but his stomach, and is expelled?”[f] (Thus he declared all foods clean.) 20 And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. 21 For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, 22 coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
The Syrophoenician Woman's Faith
24 And from there he arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon.[g] And he entered a house and did not want anyone to know, yet he could not be hidden. 25 But immediately a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit heard of him and came and fell down at his feet. 26 Now the woman was a Gentile, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 And he said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs.” 28 But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs.” 29 And he said to her, “For this statement you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” 30 And she went home and found the child lying in bed and the demon gone.
LESSON NOTES
Tradition vs. Commandment (Mark 7:1-13)
Tradition vs. Commandment (Mark 7:1-13)
- The Conflict: Pharisees and teachers of the law criticize the disciples for eating with "unwashed hands"—a ritual tradition, not a command from God.
- The Absurdity: The Pharisees focused on hand-washing rituals even while witnessing Jesus perform miraculous healings.
- The Danger of "Corban": Jesus highlights how human traditions can actually be used to bypass God's commands, such as using religious dedication as an excuse to avoid caring for aging parents.
The Source of Defilement (Mark 7:14-23)
- Outer vs. Inner: Jesus teaches that nothing entering from the outside defiles a person; rather, defilement comes from what is already inside the heart.
- The Heart’s Inventory: Evil thoughts, greed, malice, and arrogance all originate within and are what truly make a person "unclean".
- The World's Unluckiest Bear: The story of the albino grizzly bear (and the fact that the story itself was a hoax) illustrates how easily we are fooled by outward appearances and how quickly we judge others based on surface-level information.
A Surprising Model of Faith (Mark 7:24-30)
- The Syrophoenician Woman: Outwardly, she was "unclean" by every cultural standard—a Gentile woman with a daughter possessed by an unclean spirit.
- The Contrast: While the "religiously perfect" Pharisees and the chosen disciples failed to understand Jesus, this "unclean" woman demonstrated profound faith and humility.
- The Result: She recognized Jesus' authority (calling him "Lord") and her daughter was healed because of her faith-filled response.
Application
- Avoid "Externalism": Be careful not to turn people into "issues" or "projects" based on their outward behavior.
- Hold Traditions Loosely: We must be willing to let Jesus' word contradict our habits and preferences.
- Practice Inner Formation:
- Confession: Engaging in the discipline of confessing sins to one another to bring the heart into the light.
- Spiritual Disciplines: Intentional practices like prayer to shape our inner selves.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Ice Breaker: Based on the sermon’s opening poll, are you "Team Cadbury Egg" or "Team Reese’s Egg"? If you had to pick one "compound coating" or fake version of a food you love that you absolutely cannot stand, what would it be? Have you ever been disappointed upon discovering the ingredients of something?
Ice Breaker: Based on the sermon’s opening poll, are you "Team Cadbury Egg" or "Team Reese’s Egg"? If you had to pick one "compound coating" or fake version of a food you love that you absolutely cannot stand, what would it be? Have you ever been disappointed upon discovering the ingredients of something?
Discussion Questions:
- Tradition vs. Truth: Jesus used the example of "Corban" to show how religious traditions can actually help us avoid doing what God truly wants. Can you think of modern "traditions" or "religious checklists" that might accidentally give us an excuse to avoid the harder work of loving others or obeying God?
- The "Joey the Bear" Reflection: Jeremy shared that many people feel judgmental toward the conservationists in the bear story until they realize the story itself is a hoax. How does this "double-blind" story challenge the way you view or judge the "Pharisees" in your own life?
- The Heart of the Matter: Jesus lists several "evils" that come from within the heart (greed, malice, slander, arrogance, etc.). Why is it often easier for us to focus on "clean hands" (outward behavior and rituals) than to deal with these internal heart issues?
- Learning from the "Outsider": The Syrophoenician woman understood Jesus better than his own disciples did at that moment. What does her interaction with Jesus teach us about how we should approach God when we feel "unclean" or unworthy?
- Practical Steps: The lesson suggested confession to others as a way to "cut past the external". What makes the idea of confessing struggles to another person so intimidating, and how might it lead to the "transformed heart" Jesus is looking for?