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Southside Church of Christ, Lexington, KY
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4 hours ago
4 hours ago
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?
7 days ago
7 days ago
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?
Monday Apr 13, 2026
Monday Apr 13, 2026
Mark 6:7-13
7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff - no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra tunic. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, then shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." 12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. NIV 84
7 Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. 8 These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff - no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra tunic. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, then shake the dust off your feet when you leave, as a testimony against them." 12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
Hospitality as "Making Room for Jesus": The lesson defines hospitality not just as being nice, but as actively making space in our lives for others as an expression of welcoming Christ himself.
Think Subtraction, Not Addition: Spiritual growth doesn't come from cramming more into an already full life - it comes from removing what crowds out Jesus.
Having a Front Row Seat: Jesus instructed the disciples to take only the bare minimum on their mission—no food, bag, money, or extra clothing—to force a total reliance on the work of God.
Hospitality or Hostility: Both words share the same root meaning "stranger." In the Kingdom of God, there is no middle ground; we either move toward others with openness (hospitality) or away from them in subtle rejection (hostility).
Repentance as a Hospitable Act: True repentance is more than feeling sorry; it is the act of "unlocking the door" to your heart and handing Jesus the key.
Hospitality as "Making Room for Jesus": The lesson defines hospitality not just as being nice, but as actively making space in our lives for others as an expression of welcoming Christ himself.
Think Subtraction, Not Addition: Spiritual growth doesn't come from cramming more into an already full life - it comes from removing what crowds out Jesus.
Having a Front Row Seat: Jesus instructed the disciples to take only the bare minimum on their mission—no food, bag, money, or extra clothing—to force a total reliance on the work of God.
Hospitality or Hostility: Both words share the same root meaning "stranger." In the Kingdom of God, there is no middle ground; we either move toward others with openness (hospitality) or away from them in subtle rejection (hostility).
Repentance as a Hospitable Act: True repentance is more than feeling sorry; it is the act of "unlocking the door" to your heart and handing Jesus the key.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. The sermon began with a story of generous hospitality. Do you have a similar story of generous hospitality that you could share with the group?
2. Where in your life do you need to “think subtraction”? What is one specific thing you could remove this week to create more space for Jesus?
1. The sermon began with a story of generous hospitality. Do you have a similar story of generous hospitality that you could share with the group?
2. Where in your life do you need to “think subtraction”? What is one specific thing you could remove this week to create more space for Jesus?
3. What does practicing hospitality look like for you today? How can you make room for others in your home, schedule, finances, or daily interactions?
4. Chris Hodges shares "I had invited God to come inside but I had left the door locked." Have you ever felt this way? Do you have a similar story of moving from sorrow to surrender?
Sunday Apr 05, 2026
Sunday Apr 05, 2026
Mark 16:1-8
1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance to the tomb? 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe siting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 "Don't be alarmed," he said, "You are looking for Jesus of Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" 8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. NIV 84
1 When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus' body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, "Who will roll the stone away from the entrance to the tomb? 4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. 5 As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe siting on the right side, and they were alarmed. 6 "Don't be alarmed," he said, "You are looking for Jesus of Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. 7 But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.'" 8 Trembling and bewildered, the women went out and fled from the tomb. They said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
The Resurrection Produces “Fearful Joy” The women experienced both fear and joy at the same time—an awe-filled response to encountering the power of God. The resurrection isn’t casual news; it shakes us and fills us with wonder.
The Empty Tomb Invites Investigation The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out, but to let witnesses in. Christianity is rooted in real history and eyewitness testimony, inviting us to examine the evidence.
“He Has Risen” Demands a Response These three words are the most hopeful in history—and impossible to ignore. We may accept or reject them, but we cannot remain neutral.
Their Joy Was Greater Than Their Fear The women initially fled in fear, but ultimately ran to tell others because their joy was greater than their fear. Sharing the gospel flows from a heart captivated by joy.
The Resurrection Is Personal (“And Peter…”) Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s an invitation to restoration. No failure disqualifies us; the risen Christ still calls and embraces individuals by name.
The Resurrection Produces “Fearful Joy” The women experienced both fear and joy at the same time—an awe-filled response to encountering the power of God. The resurrection isn’t casual news; it shakes us and fills us with wonder.
The Empty Tomb Invites Investigation The stone was rolled away not to let Jesus out, but to let witnesses in. Christianity is rooted in real history and eyewitness testimony, inviting us to examine the evidence.
“He Has Risen” Demands a Response These three words are the most hopeful in history—and impossible to ignore. We may accept or reject them, but we cannot remain neutral.
Their Joy Was Greater Than Their Fear The women initially fled in fear, but ultimately ran to tell others because their joy was greater than their fear. Sharing the gospel flows from a heart captivated by joy.
The Resurrection Is Personal (“And Peter…”) Jesus’ resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s an invitation to restoration. No failure disqualifies us; the risen Christ still calls and embraces individuals by name.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. In verse 8, Mark describes the women as being both "trembling and bewildered." Have you ever had a "fearful joy" moment in your walk with God where you were simultaneously awestruck by His power and overjoyed by His grace?
2. The sermon distinguished between three responses to the resurrection - between being convinced of the evidence (mind), convicted by the exclamation (heart), and converted through an encounter (relationship). Which of the three responses resonated with you the most?
3. The angel singled out Peter for restoration. Do you remember the moment when you realized that Jesus rose from the dead even to restore you and embrace you as one of His disciples? Share with the group your "and Peter" moment.
4. The women initially said nothing because they were afraid. What are the "fears" (social, personal, intellectual) that most often keep us from sharing the "joy" of the gospel with others today?
1. In verse 8, Mark describes the women as being both "trembling and bewildered." Have you ever had a "fearful joy" moment in your walk with God where you were simultaneously awestruck by His power and overjoyed by His grace?
2. The sermon distinguished between three responses to the resurrection - between being convinced of the evidence (mind), convicted by the exclamation (heart), and converted through an encounter (relationship). Which of the three responses resonated with you the most?
3. The angel singled out Peter for restoration. Do you remember the moment when you realized that Jesus rose from the dead even to restore you and embrace you as one of His disciples? Share with the group your "and Peter" moment.
4. The women initially said nothing because they were afraid. What are the "fears" (social, personal, intellectual) that most often keep us from sharing the "joy" of the gospel with others today?
Monday Mar 30, 2026
Monday Mar 30, 2026
PASSION WEEK READING GUIDE
Palm Sunday - Mark 11:1-11
Monday - Mark 11:12-19
Tuesday - Mark 11:20-13:37
Wednesday - Mark 14:1-11
Thursday - Mark 14:12-72
Good Friday - Mark 15:1-15:42
Saturday - Mark 15:42-47
Easter Sunday - Mark 16:1-8
Palm Sunday - Mark 11:1-11
Monday - Mark 11:12-19
Tuesday - Mark 11:20-13:37
Wednesday - Mark 14:1-11
Thursday - Mark 14:12-72
Good Friday - Mark 15:1-15:42
Saturday - Mark 15:42-47
Easter Sunday - Mark 16:1-8
Mark 11:1-11
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you doing this?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.' " 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, "What are you doing, untying that colt?" 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! " "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" 10 "Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. NIV 84
1 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, 2 saying to them, "Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, 'Why are you doing this?' tell him, 'The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.' " 4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, "What are you doing, untying that colt?" 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted, "Hosanna! " "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" 10 "Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!" "Hosanna in the highest!" 11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
There's no doubt, the secret's out: After keeping His identity hidden throughout much of Mark, Jesus now deliberately goes public as the Messiah. Palm Sunday is not spontaneous—it is a carefully instructed revelation of His identity.
Faithful obedience goes beyond what makes sense: The disciples obeyed instructions that likely felt confusing and uncomfortable. True allegiance to Jesus often requires trust before understanding.
There's no doubt, the secret's out: After keeping His identity hidden throughout much of Mark, Jesus now deliberately goes public as the Messiah. Palm Sunday is not spontaneous—it is a carefully instructed revelation of His identity.
Faithful obedience goes beyond what makes sense: The disciples obeyed instructions that likely felt confusing and uncomfortable. True allegiance to Jesus often requires trust before understanding.
Jesus is not just worthy of worship—He is worthy of royal worship: The crowd’s actions (cloaks, branches, shouts) were not casual—they were fit for a king. Allegiance to Jesus means honoring Him as King over every area of life.
Genuine allegiance is revealed in the day to day: The crowd celebrated on Sunday but disappeared by the end of the day. In contrast, true disciples kept following. Allegiance means following Jesus in the day to day.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Can you think of a time when God called you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What helped (or hindered) your willingness to obey?
1. Can you think of a time when God called you to do something that didn’t make sense at the time? What helped (or hindered) your willingness to obey?
2. What are some practical ways you can honor Jesus as King in our daily decisions this week (finances, time, relationships, habits)?
3. What does it look like for you personally to follow Jesus in the “in-between” days—not just on Sundays or big spiritual moments? What tends to pull you away from following Jesus consistently during the week? What is one step you can take this week to grow in that?
4. Which of the three—faithful obedience, royal worship, or daily discipleship—resonated with you the most when it comes to understanding allegiance? Which one is most challenging, and why?
3. What does it look like for you personally to follow Jesus in the “in-between” days—not just on Sundays or big spiritual moments? What tends to pull you away from following Jesus consistently during the week? What is one step you can take this week to grow in that?
4. Which of the three—faithful obedience, royal worship, or daily discipleship—resonated with you the most when it comes to understanding allegiance? Which one is most challenging, and why?
Sunday Mar 22, 2026
Monday Mar 16, 2026
Sunday Mar 08, 2026
Sunday Mar 08, 2026
MARK 12:41-44
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on." NIV
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on." NIV
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Where do you see the benefits of belonging to this church family? What ministries at Southside are most important to you?
2 Why do we shy away from topics like hell and money when Jesus teaches about them so often?
3 Read Mark 12:41-44. What is your initial impression of what Jesus does at the temple? Why did he do this? What are we to learn? How are we to respond? What part of the four verses makes you uncomfortable?
4 "How we handle money is a litmus test of our true character." What do you think about that statement?
5 Why do you give what you give? Where have you received guidance from God's Word regarding giving to your church family? What direction have you followed? What do you think about the principle of the tithe?
6 Where have you experienced the truth of Jesus' statement: "It is more blessed to give than to receive"? How would you describe your level of intention when it comes to giving money to your church family? What are you going to do with this brief, uncomfortable, challenging moment in Jesus' ministry?
1 Where do you see the benefits of belonging to this church family? What ministries at Southside are most important to you?
2 Why do we shy away from topics like hell and money when Jesus teaches about them so often?
3 Read Mark 12:41-44. What is your initial impression of what Jesus does at the temple? Why did he do this? What are we to learn? How are we to respond? What part of the four verses makes you uncomfortable?
4 "How we handle money is a litmus test of our true character." What do you think about that statement?
5 Why do you give what you give? Where have you received guidance from God's Word regarding giving to your church family? What direction have you followed? What do you think about the principle of the tithe?
6 Where have you experienced the truth of Jesus' statement: "It is more blessed to give than to receive"? How would you describe your level of intention when it comes to giving money to your church family? What are you going to do with this brief, uncomfortable, challenging moment in Jesus' ministry?
Monday Mar 02, 2026
Monday Mar 02, 2026
MARK 6:1-6
1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him, that even he does miracles! 3 Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us? And they took offense at him. 4 Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their lack of faith. NIV 84
1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him, that even he does miracles! 3 Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us? And they took offense at him. 4 Jesus said to them, "Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor." 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 And he was amazed at their lack of faith. NIV 84
LESSON NOTES
The people of Nazareth were amazed at Jesus’ words and works, yet their familiarity with Him prevented them from honoring Him. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as honoring Him. Familiarity with Jesus can either deepen worship or breed indifference.
The people were “blown away” (v. 2), but amazement alone did not lead to faith. Being impressed by Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Him.
The Gospel Offends Before It Heals. The people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense because they were offended by Jesus’ ordinary background. The gospel offends because it confronts pride, exposes sin, and calls for repentance.
Jesus was amazed at their lack of faith (v. 6). Faith (pistis) is more than mental agreement—it is faithful obedience and allegiance. The centurion in Luke 7 understood authority and responded with submission. The people of Nazareth understood Jesus’ background but refused allegiance. The measure of faith is not how long we’ve known Jesus, but how fully we obey Him.
The people of Nazareth were amazed at Jesus’ words and works, yet their familiarity with Him prevented them from honoring Him. Knowing about Jesus is not the same as honoring Him. Familiarity with Jesus can either deepen worship or breed indifference.
The people were “blown away” (v. 2), but amazement alone did not lead to faith. Being impressed by Jesus is not the same as surrendering to Him.
The Gospel Offends Before It Heals. The people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense because they were offended by Jesus’ ordinary background. The gospel offends because it confronts pride, exposes sin, and calls for repentance.
Jesus was amazed at their lack of faith (v. 6). Faith (pistis) is more than mental agreement—it is faithful obedience and allegiance. The centurion in Luke 7 understood authority and responded with submission. The people of Nazareth understood Jesus’ background but refused allegiance. The measure of faith is not how long we’ve known Jesus, but how fully we obey Him.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Are you still amazed at His grace? When was the last time you felt genuinely overwhelmed by the grace of Jesus? Has “Amazing Grace” become overly familiar in your spiritual life? What would it look like to rediscover its wonder?
1. Are you still amazed at His grace? When was the last time you felt genuinely overwhelmed by the grace of Jesus? Has “Amazing Grace” become overly familiar in your spiritual life? What would it look like to rediscover its wonder?
2. Are you still affected by His gospel? Which parts of the gospel message challenge or confront you most right now? Why do you think the people of Nazareth moved from amazement to offense? In what ways do people today admire Jesus but resist surrendering to Him?
3. Are you still allegiant to His glory? Where might there be a gap between what you know about Jesus and how you follow Him? If faith means allegiance, what does that look like in daily life (home, work, relationships, decision-making)? What is one area of clear obedience God may be calling you to right now?
3. Are you still allegiant to His glory? Where might there be a gap between what you know about Jesus and how you follow Him? If faith means allegiance, what does that look like in daily life (home, work, relationships, decision-making)? What is one area of clear obedience God may be calling you to right now?