Apr 17, 2022
He is Risen – Easter Sunday – Deric Bartlett
By: Deric Bartlett
This week, Pastor Deric wraps up the Mark series with a special Easter message titled 'He is Risen' based on Mark 16.
ICEBREAKER: If you had to lose one of your senses, which would you choose to lose?
1. In Mark’s Gospel account, women play a prominent role [Mark 15:40-41, 47; 16:1-8]. What was that role, and why was it so critical [cf. Mark 14:3-9; Luke 23:55-24:1; and John 20:1-2]?2,
2. Why did the women bother to go to the tomb to bring spices to anoint Jesus’ body since He was already dead [Mark 16:1]? What would that accomplish now that His voice was silenced, His miracles were memories, and His kingdom was seemingly lost? What did their act indicate about them [cf. Acts 2:25-28; Romans 4:18-22; and Romans 5:1-5]?
3. Does the stone over the entrance of Jesus’ tomb have any parallels to the message of salvation [Mark 16:3-4]? If so, what themes does it illustrate [cf. Daniel 6:17; Matthew 27:62-66; and Matthew 28:2]?
4. What is the complete gospel message as declared by the angel in Jesus’ empty tomb [Mark 16:6]? Also consult Acts 4:10-12; Romans 1:1-6; and 1 Corinthians 15:3-8.
5. What is the message of restoration the angel gave to Jesus’ followers in Mark 16:7? How does this encourage you today in your failings and shortcomings [cf. 2 Corinthians 13:11; Galatians 6:1-2; and 1 Peter 5:10]?
6. What effect does the abrupt ending of Mark’s Gospel have on the story he has told of Jesus’ life [Mark 16:8]? Why do you think he chose to end it so suddenly [cf. Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1; and Acts 1:8]
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The resurrection completes
the inauguration of God’s kingdom…
It is the decisive event demonstrating
that God’s kingdom really has been
launched on earth as it is in heaven.
The message of Easter is
that God’s new world has been
unveiled in Jesus Christ and that
you’re now invited to belong to it.”
the inauguration of God’s kingdom…
It is the decisive event demonstrating
that God’s kingdom really has been
launched on earth as it is in heaven.
The message of Easter is
that God’s new world has been
unveiled in Jesus Christ and that
you’re now invited to belong to it.”
N.T. Wright
WatchNotesDownloadDateTitle
- Apr 17, 2022He is Risen – Easter Sunday – Deric BartlettApr 17, 2022He is Risen – Easter Sunday – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric wraps up the Mark series with a special Easter message titled 'He is Risen' based on Mark 16.
ICEBREAKER: If you had to lose one of your senses, which would you choose to lose?
1. In Mark’s Gospel account, women play a prominent role [Mark 15:40-41, 47; 16:1-8]. What was that role, and why was it so critical [cf. Mark 14:3-9; Luke 23:55-24:1; and John 20:1-2]?2,
2. Why did the women bother to go to the tomb to bring spices to anoint Jesus’ body since He was already dead [Mark 16:1]? What would that accomplish now that His voice was silenced, His miracles were memories, and His kingdom was seemingly lost? What did their act indicate about them [cf. Acts 2:25-28; Romans 4:18-22; and Romans 5:1-5]?
3. Does the stone over the entrance of Jesus’ tomb have any parallels to the message of salvation [Mark 16:3-4]? If so, what themes does it illustrate [cf. Daniel 6:17; Matthew 27:62-66; and Matthew 28:2]?
4. What is the complete gospel message as declared by the angel in Jesus’ empty tomb [Mark 16:6]? Also consult Acts 4:10-12; Romans 1:1-6; and 1 Corinthians 15:3-8.
5. What is the message of restoration the angel gave to Jesus’ followers in Mark 16:7? How does this encourage you today in your failings and shortcomings [cf. 2 Corinthians 13:11; Galatians 6:1-2; and 1 Peter 5:10]?
6. What effect does the abrupt ending of Mark’s Gospel have on the story he has told of Jesus’ life [Mark 16:8]? Why do you think he chose to end it so suddenly [cf. Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1; and Acts 1:8]7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“The resurrection completes
the inauguration of God’s kingdom…
It is the decisive event demonstrating
that God’s kingdom really has been
launched on earth as it is in heaven.
The message of Easter is
that God’s new world has been
unveiled in Jesus Christ and that
you’re now invited to belong to it.”N.T. Wright - Apr 10, 2022Forsaken – Deric BartlettApr 10, 2022Forsaken – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'Forsaken' based on Mark 15:21-47.1. ____________ did ‘forsaken’ mean to Jesus at the Cross?
2. ____________ forsook Jesus at the Cross?
3. ____________ was Jesus forsaken at the Cross?
4. ____________ did Jesus endure being forsaken at the Cross?ICEBREAKER: What TV shows are you hooked on or were recently hooked on?
1. Why was Simon of Cyrene compelled to carry Jesus’ cross on the way to Golgotha [Mark 15:21]? What does this tell you about Jesus’ suffering to that point [cf. Isaiah 52:14-53:5; Matthew 27:26; and John 19:1]?
2. Reflect on the taunts of the passersby in Mark 15:29-30. What would have been the consequences if Jesus had had enough of the suffering and saved Himself [cf. Mark 10:45; Luke 24:26; and Philippians 2:8]?
3. Why did Jesus disregard the challenge to miraculously come down from the cross in the sight of all the religious leaders [Mark 15:31-32]? Also, consult Psalm 42:9-11; Luke 16:29-31; and Hebrews 2:9-10.
4. What or who tore the curtain of the temple, and why was it torn [Mark 15:38]? Also, consider Romans 5:2; Ephesians 2:11-22; and Hebrews 10:19-22.
5. It is possible that the centurion of Mark 15:29 was part of the battalion that mocked and beat Jesus [Mark 15:16-20], forcibly conscripted Simon to carry the cross, helped crucify Jesus, and participated in dividing up His clothes. What had this Roman soldier witnessed that prompted him to utter his confession, “Truly this man was the Son of God” [cf. Matthew 16:16; John 1:32-34; and John 20:28]?
6. What do you learn about Joseph of Arimathea from Mark 15:43? What do his actions in verses 43-46 reveal about his faith [cf. John 19:38-42; 1 Corinthians 15:9; and Philippians 3:4-11]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“No pain, no palm;no thorns, no throne; no gall,no glory; no cross, no crown.”William Penn - Apr 3, 2022Amazed by Jesus – Deric BartlettApr 3, 2022Amazed by Jesus – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'Amazed by Jesus' based on Mark 15:1-20.1. Jesus is the _______________ (v. 1)
2. Jesus is the _______________ (v. 2ff)
3. Jesus is the _______________ (v. 5)
4. Jesus is the _______________ (v. 6-15)
5. Jesus is the _______________ (v.16-20)ICEBREAKER: What is something you do better than most people and something you do worse than most people?
1. Why do you think Pilate was amazed at Jesus’ silence [Mark 15:5]? How did Jesus’ silence indict the entire Jewish Council’s legal proceedings against Him [cf. Acts 2:36; Acts 4:10; and 1 Peter 2:23]?2. Why do you think Pilate asked Jesus if He was the King of the Jews [Mark 15:2]? In what sense did he understand it? In what sense did Jesus mean it [cf. Jeremiah 23:5-6; Zechariah 9:9; and Matthew 2:2]?3. Barabbas was likely viewed as a popular hero by the general Jewish public due to his involvement in an insurrection attempt against the Romans [Mark 15:6-7]. How does the exchange of Barabbas for Jesus illustrate our salvation [cf. Romans 5:6-8; 2 Corinthians 5:14-21; and 1 Peter 3:18]?4. How would you characterize Pilate according to his words and decisions in Mark 15:1-15? Are his actions understandable, or inexcusable? Why? [cf. Matthew 27:24-26; John 18:33-38; and John 19:8-12]?5. Four times in Mark 15:1-20, Jesus is called “The King of the Jews”. Add in Mark 15:26, and it is five times. What do you think was Mark’s intent in repeating it so often [cf. Psalm 2:1-12; Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 7:13-14; and Revelation 19:11-16]?6. Jesus endured such horrific mistreatment, scorn, and abuse at the hands of the Roman battalion [Mark 15:16-20]. How does this scene portray humanity? How does it portray our Saviour [cf. Isaiah 52:13-53:12; Luke 24:25-27; and Hebrews 13:13]?7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“To endure the cross is not a tragedy;it is the suffering which is the fruit ofan exclusive allegiance to Jesus Christ.”Dietrich Bonhoeffer - Mar 27, 2022Jesus Is On Trial Still – Deric BartlettMar 27, 2022Jesus Is On Trial Still – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric resumes the continues "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'Jesus In On Trial Still' based on Mark 14:53-72.1. The ___________ witness: v. 53, 61-62
2. The ___________ witnesses: v. 55-65
3. The ___________ witnesses: v. 54, 66-72ICEBREAKER: Besides war and diplomacy, what would be the best way for countries to settle disputes?
1. What do you imagine was going on in Peter’s heart as he followed Jesus from a distance and then entered the courtyard [Mark 14:54]? What might tempt us to also follow Jesus at a distance today [cf. Mark 8:38; 2 Timothy 1:8; and 1 Peter 4:12-19]?
2. The Council found no clear testimony against Jesus [Mark 14:55-59]. How does this vindicate Jesus’ extraordinary character? What does the persistence of the religious authorities show about human corruption [cf. 1 Kings 21:1-14; Psalm 27:12; and Acts 7:51-8:3]?
3. The Council thought they were judging Jesus in Mark 14:60-61. What was the truth according to Jesus in Mark 14:62 [cf. Psalm 110:1-2; Isaiah 53:7; and Daniel 7:13-14]?
4. In one of the Bible’s most distressing and disturbing verses, Jesus was despicably and shamefully mistreated [Mark 14:65]. What does this scene reveal about our Saviour? What does it reveal about humanity [cf. Isaiah 50:6; Mark 10:33-34; and Hebrews 12:2]?
5. Why was Peter’s denial of Christ such a grievous sin [Mark 14:68]? What caused him to betray his Lord in this way [cf. Genesis 18:15; Matthew 10:32-33; and 2 Timothy 2:11-13]?
6. Following Peter’s third denial and the rooster crowing a second time, Peter recalled Jesus’ prediction that he would deny Him, and wept [Mark 14:72]? What does this show about Peter and the way forward after sinning [cf. 2 Kings 22:18-19; Psalm 51:16-17; and 1 John 1:9]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Our redemption through the suffering
of Christ is that deeper
love within us which not only
frees us from slavery to sin,
but also secures for us the true liberty
of the children of God,
in order that we might do all things
out of love rather than
out of fear - love for him
that has shown us such grace
that no greater can be found.”Peter Abelard - Mar 20, 2022The Garden Where Jesus Prayed – Deric BartlettMar 20, 2022The Garden Where Jesus Prayed – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric resumes the continues "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled "The Garden Where Jesus Prayed" Based on Mark 14:32-52.1. He ______________ His burden with others; v. 32-332. He ______________ His burden alone: v. 33-343. He ______________ through the agony of it all; v. 34-424. He ______________ Himself into the hands of sinners: v. 41-50ICEBREAKER: What household chores do you actually enjoy? Why?
1. As you read Mark 14:33-35, notice the words used to describe Jesus’ emotional state in the Garden of Gethsemane. What do these terms reveal about our Saviour at that moment in His life [cf. Isaiah 53:3; Philippians 2:5-8; and Hebrews 5:7-10]?
2. Why do you think Jesus brought along His disciples, and specifically Peter, James, and John, when He entered Gethsemane to pray [cf. Acts 1:8; Acts 1:20-22; and Philippians 4:6-7]?
3. What principles of prayer do you pick up from Jesus’ Gethsemane prayer in Mark 14:36 [cf. Mark 9:22-24; John 15:7; and Romans 8:15]?
4. What insights do you learn about resisting temptation from Mark 14:38 [cf. Luke 21:36; 1 Corinthians 10:13; and James 1:13-15]?
5. Why was Judas’ choice of a kiss fitting for his act of betrayal [Mark 14:44-45]? Also consider Genesis 27:18-27; 2 Samuel 20:8-10; and Proverbs 27:6 for more clues.
6. How did Jesus’ words to the crowd sent to arrest Him in Mark 14:48-49 highlight the drama between human responsibility and divine sovereignty [cf. Isaiah 53:1-12; Luke 19:47-48; and John 18:20-21]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“The suffering of Jesus was notonly his humanity strugglingwith the physical agoniesof the cross, but Jesus’ deityand humanity inseparablycoming to grips with theawesome agony of Calvary.It is not Jesus’ humanitywhich dominates this text,but the disciples’ humanity.It is His deity and humanity,dying for man, that is in focus.It is supernatural sufferingthat is in view here.”Bob Deffinbaugh - Mar 13, 2022Strike the Shepherd – Deric BartlettMar 13, 2022Strike the Shepherd – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric resumes the continues "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled "Strike the Shepherd" based on Mark 14:12-31.
1. The Shepherd is struck down as the _________________ (v. 12-16)2. The Shepherd is stuck down to _________________ (v. 17-21)3. The Shepherd is struck down to _________________ (v. 22-25)4. The Shepherd is struck down to _________________ (v. 26-31)
ICEBREAKER: What is the biggest adventure you have experienced in life?
1. Why did Jesus’ death take place during the feasts of Passover and Unleavened Bread [cf. Mark 14:12]? What did the symbolism of these feasts represent [cf. Isaiah 53:1-12; John 1:29; and 1 Peter 1:17-21]?
2. Jesus experienced a brutal betrayal of trust by someone close to him [Mark 14:18]. How does His story help you address your personal pain inflicted by others [cf. 2 Samuel 15:1-17:23; Psalm 41:9; and John 6:70]?
3. How could Judas deceive all the other disciples so that none of them suspected him as the betrayer [Mark 14:19]? What is the warning to us [cf. Proverbs 26:23-26; Romans 16:17-18; and 2 Corinthians 11:12-15]?
4. According to Jesus’ words in Mark 14:22-25, what is the significance of the bread and wine at the Lord’s Supper, what do they represent, and what do they look forward to in the future [cf. Jeremiah 31:31-34; 1 Corinthians 10:16; and 1 Corinthians 11:26]?
5. Jesus predicted the falling away of His disciples [Mark 14:27]. However, He promised to meet them in Galilee later [Mark 14:27]. How do these words challenge you but also encourage you [cf. Mark 16:7; John 16:32; and John 21:1-14]?
6. Peter’s bravado was both laudable and laughable [Mark 14:29-31]. What does his example show us about our human frailties and our need for a forgiving Saviour [cf. Psalm 103:14-16; Matthew 26:41; and 2 Corinthians 12:7-10]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“I know of nothing which
I would choose
to have as the subject
of my ambition
for life than to be kept
faithful to my God till death.”C. H. Spurgeon - Mar 6, 2022The Plot to Kill Jesus – Deric BartlettMar 6, 2022The Plot to Kill Jesus – Deric BartlettBy: Deric Bartlett"This week, Pastor Deric resumes the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled "The Plot to Kill Jesus" based on Mark 14:1-11.1. The __________ to kill Jesus (evil in surprising places) v. 1-22. The __________ for Jesus (the alternative to hatred and betrayal) v. 3-93. The __________ of Jesus (more than knowledge) v. 10-11ICEBREAKER: What are some of your favourite inspirational scenes from movies? Why?
1. How do you account for spiritual leaders who are able to observe religious festivals and yet persistently plan to arrest and assassinate an innocent Man [Mark 14:1]? What does this tell you about humanity [cf. Ecclesiastes 9:3; Jeremiah 17:9; and Mark 7:20-23]?
2. What was the reason stated by the religious leaders for not arresting Jesus during the festival [Mark 14:2]? What does it indicate when people plot evil secretly [cf. Deuteronomy 27:24; Psalm 64:1-10; and Jeremiah 9:1-9]?
3. Why do you think the woman in the story (who was Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus) chose such an expensive and extravagant way of honouring Jesus [Mark 14:3]? How do you think you would have reacted if you had witnessed this event [cf. 1 Chronicles 29:1-9; Luke 7:37-38; and John 12:1-3]?
4. Deep-seated emotions erupted when the onlookers witnessed Mary’s extravagant act [Mark 14:4-5]? Why? What did the onlookers overlook [cf. 2 Samuel 6:12-23; 2 Samuel 23:13-17; and 2 Samuel 24:18-25]?
5. Jesus stood up for Mary [Mark 14:6-9]. What were His reasons for commending her? How does this encourage you when your devotion to Jesus is questioned [cf. Acts 9:3-6; Philippians 1:27-30; and 2 Thessalonians 1:3-10]?
6. Notice the abrupt switch in Mark’s storytelling from Mary’s beautiful devotion to Jesus to Judas’s brutal betrayal of Jesus in Mark 14:10-11. How do you account for this? What do you learn from the examples of these two people [cf. Psalm 41:9; Psalm 55:12-14; and Obadiah 1:8-16]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?"God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him”John Piper - Aug 29, 2021The Second Coming of Jesus Christ – Deric BartlettAug 29, 2021The Second Coming of Jesus Christ – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues his 5-part series with a message titled 'The Second Coming of Jesus Christ' based on Mark 13:24-37ICEBREAKER: What is the best part of an action/adventure movie? I would suggest that it’s when the “hero” shows up and “wins the day”! What would be some of your favorite movie or show scenes like this? 1.When we see the word, “but” in Scripture, it often means a switch or a change in direction of some sort. Compared to the descriptions in verses 19 to 23, how is the perspective significantly changing here in verses 24 and 25? 2. These verses are very similar to a number of old testament passages (Isa.13:6-10; Isa.34:4; Ezek.32:7-8). With this background in mind, how would you describe what Jesus is telling us here? 3. What do the words “they will see” taken from the ESV translation of verse 26 indicate about the posture of Jesus followers? How might we be prepared to “see” what Jesus describes? 4. While there is an element of excitement and awe generated from this passage, this is also a word of caution from Jesus. Why so? Read Daniel 7:9-10 for some additional insight and a clue. 5. How should this passage inspire Jesus’ church today and in the limited time we have ahead of us? 6. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message? “Preach Jesus Christ and Him crucified. The Lion of the tribe of Judah will soon drive away all His adversaries.” Charles Spurgeon
1. The second coming will rock the world (v. 24-25) 2. The second coming is a revelation of Jesus Christ to the world (v.26) 3. The second coming is proof that Jesus is preeminent in all things (v. 27) 4. The second coming fills God’s people with expectation and hope (v. 28-37)
- Aug 22, 2021The Tribulation – Deric BartlettAug 22, 2021The Tribulation – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'The Tribulation' based on Mark 13:14-23.
1. The Antichrist and the Temple
2. The Rapture and the Tribulation
3. The Great Tribulation and Armageddon
4. The Repentance of Israel and the Return of JesusICEBREAKER: What is the biggest mistake you have made at work?
1. From the very phrase “abomination of desolation” in Mark 13:14, what conclusions can you draw? What emotions does it arise in you [cf. Daniel 9:27; Daniel 11:31; and Daniel 12:11]?
2. What do the various directives of Mark 13:14-18 emphasize about the dangers associated with the “abomination of desolation” [cf. Genesis 19:17; Judges 6:2; and Zechariah 14:5]?
3. How does Jesus’ prediction of severe end-time tribulation help you process the current situation in our world [cf. Daniel 9:26; Daniel 12:1; and Joel 2:2]?
4. What do you learn about the character of the Lord from Mark 13:20? How does this help ease your troubled mind [cf. Isaiah 65:8-9; John 15:19; and Romans 11:5]?
5. What kinds of people are we to be watching out for in the last days? What characterizes them according to Jesus’ forewarning [cf. Deuteronomy 13:1-5; Matthew 7:15-20; and 2 Peter 2:1-3]?
6. How are you putting into practice Jesus’ admonition to “be on guard” in Mark 13:23 [cf. Acts 20:28-35; Philippians 3:2-11; and 2 Peter 3:17-18]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“God, who foresaw your tribulation, has specially armed you to go through it, not without pain but without stain.” (C.S. Lewis) - Aug 15, 2021The Last Days – Deric BartlettAug 15, 2021The Last Days – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'The Last Days' based on Mark 13:1-13.1. Jesus communicated in prophetic language to keep us on God’s agenda (v. 1-2)2. You’ve got Questions, Jesus has the Answers (v.3-4)3. There is a time frame for the Last Days4. Jesus’ description of the Last Days is sobering (v. 3-13)5. The next stage of God's plan is tribulation (see v. 14-23) ICEBREAKER: Who likes books or movies that are set in future times? Why do you like or dislike them? Have any scenes in particular excited or startled you? 1. Bearing in mind the statement previously directed at Jesus in verse 1, what seems to be the motivation behind the question posed by Peter, James, John and Andrew in verse 4? Are they concerned, serious, curious? Similarly, how might you categorize the tone of Jesus’ response to their question? 2. Identify 4 spiritual dangers Jesus seems to be warning the disciples about in the early going of this chapter as He responds to the statement and to their question. Pay particular attention to verses 2 to 5. 3. How does Jesus describe the posture of a Christian through these times and events described in verses 9 and 10? How will you prepare yourself, should you face such times? 4. What encouragement do you find regarding how you might be able to stand in the midst of extremely difficult circumstances? See verse 11. Read Acts 4:8 and 6:8-10. Find other examples in Scripture you might share. 5. Jesus doesn’t “pull His punches”. He describes the “end” in very stark and foreboding terms. How do we then approach the possibility of us living through the “end”? Read Rev. 2:10. 6. How might we learn from this exchange between Jesus and His disciples? How should we approach these future events? See 1Thessalonians 4:13-17 for a similar passage. 7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message? “Let this one great, gracious, glorious fact lie in your spirit until it permeates all your thoughts and makes you rejoice even though you are without strength. Rejoice that the Lord Jesus has become your strength and your song – He has become your salvation.” (Charles Spurgeon)
- Aug 9, 2021The Coming of Christ Pt. 1 – Deric BartlettAug 9, 2021The Coming of Christ Pt. 1 – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'The Coming of Christ, Pt. 1' based on Mark 13:1-2.
1. Start the journey.
Prophecy is a MAJOR GENRE of the Bible, so don’t neglect prophetic texts
2. Pick a lane, honestly.
You need a framework from which you read prophecy
3. Drive carefully.
Prophetic and apocalyptic Scripture humbles even to the greatest students
4. Enjoy the panoramic view.
Prophetic and apocalyptic Scripture helps frame our lives from beginning to end
5. Remember the destination.
Your future is bright (which is a gross understatement)
ICEBREAKER: Who is the funniest person in your family?
1. Why do you think one of Jesus’ disciples was in such awe of the temple precincts [Mark 13:1]? How does this factor into the context of the verses that follow [cf. Mark 11:15-17; Luke 21:5; and John 2:20]?
2. What does the fact that Jesus knew the future reveal about Him [Mark 13:2]? What difference does this make in your life today [cf. Isaiah 42:1-9; Isaiah 44:1-8; and John 1:43-51]?
3. How do you think the news of the temple’s approaching destruction would have affected Jesus’ disciples [Mark 13:2]? Why [cf. Jeremiah 6:1-30; Micah 3:1-12; and Zephaniah 1:1-18]?
4. Why is nature such an effective tool to reveal God’s truth [Mark 13:28]? Also consider Psalm 8:1-4; Psalm 19:1-6; and Romans 1:19-20.
5. What do you learn about Jesus’ words from Mark 13:31? What impact does this make in your life [cf. Isaiah 40:8; John 3:31-36; and John 14:23-24]?
6. Jesus told His followers 4 times in Mark 13:32-37 to “stay awake”. Why is this so important, and how are you doing this in practical terms [cf. Matthew 24:42-44; Matthew 26:40-41; and Ephesians 6:18]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message? “For this time it will be God without disguise; something so overwhelming that it will strike either irresistible love or irresistible horror into every creature. It will be too late then to choose your side.” (C.S. Lewis) - Aug 1, 2021Secret Identities:More than Meets the Eye – Brad LehmanAug 1, 2021Secret Identities:More than Meets the Eye – Brad LehmanBy: Brad LehmanThis week, Pastor Brad continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'Secret Identities: More Than Meets the Eye' based on Mark 12:35-44.1. THE CONTENDER [Mark 12:35-37]: Only Jesus qualifies as the Saviour King.
2. THE PRETENDERS [Mark 12:38-40]: Trade the charade parade.
3. THE SURRENDER [Mark 12:41-44]: Complete surrender completes salvation.
Humility reveals your secret identity.
ICEBREAKER: Who is the oldest person you know personally? What interesting stories have they told you?
1. What was the role of the Holy Spirit to ensure the inspiration and authority of Scripture [Mark 12:36]? Also consider Acts 1:16; Acts 28:23-27; and 2 Peter 1:19-21.2. What do you learn about the coming Messiah from Psalm 110 [quoted by Jesus in Mark 12:36]? Also examine Acts 2:34-35; 1 Corinthians 15:20-28; and Hebrews 1:8-13.
3. Why is faked spirituality so reprehensible in the sight of God [Mark 12:38-40]? Look up Matthew 6:1, 5-6; Matthew 23:2-12; and Luke 11:42-44 for more insights.
4. How are believers to treat those who are powerless and vulnerable in society [Mark 12:40]? Also study Proverbs 31:8-9; Isaiah 1:16-17; and James 1:27.
5. How should Christians contribute to the work of God to receive His blessing [Mark 12:41]? Gain more clues by turning to 1 Chronicles 29:6-9; 2 Corinthians 9:6-9; and Philippians 4:14-20.
6. What do you find inspirational about the circumstances and actions of the widow as she contributed to the Lord’s work [Mark 12:44]? Explore Acts 11:27-30; 2 Corinthians 8:1-7; and James 2:1-7 for further ideas.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Do you wish to be great? Then begin by being little. Do you desire to construct a vast and lofty fabric? Think first about the foundations of humility. The higher your structure is to be, the deeper must be its foundation. Modest humility is beauty's crown.” (Saint Augustine)
- Jul 25, 2021Riptide – Brad LehmanJul 25, 2021Riptide – Brad LehmanBy: Brad LehmanThis week, Pastor Brad continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'Riptide' based on Mark 12:28-35.
1. The Questioner [Mark 12:28]: Look for open hearts.
2. The Question [Mark 12:28-31]: Prioritize God’s priorities.
3. The Quest [Mark 12:32-34a]: Be a rogue among the religious.
4. The Conquest [Mark 12:34b]: Fight the riptide by fleeing to Jesus.ICEBREAKER: What, in your opinion, is the most amazing animal?1. According to Mark 12:28, why did the scribe pose his question to Jesus? What was so extraordinary about Jesus [cf. Matthew 7:28-29; Matthew 13:54; and Matthew 22:34-35]?
2. Why do you think both Moses in Deuteronomy 6:4-5 and Jesus in Mark 12:29-30 included the affirmation of God’s oneness [cf. 1 Corinthians 8:6; Ephesians 4:4-6; and 1 Timothy 2:5]?
3. What does it look like in real life to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength [Mark 12:30]? Also consider Joshua 22:5; Psalm 18:1-3; and John 21:15-17 for more insights.
4. What does it look like to love your neighbour as yourself [Mark 12:31]? Also look up Luke 10:29-37; John 15:12-14; and Romans 12:9-21.
5. Why is loving God and loving others more important than the religious rituals God prescribed in the Old Testament [Mark 12:33]? Also examine 1 Samuel 15:22-23; Isaiah 1:10-20; and Micah 6:6-8.
6. Was Jesus condemning or commending the scribe when he told him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God” [Mark 12:34]? Why? Study Matthew 6:33; Acts 17:24-28; and Ephesians 2:13 for further clues.
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“To love you as I should, I must worship God as Creator. When I have learnt to love God better than my earthly dearest, I shall love my earthly dearest better than I do now. In so far as I learn to love my earthly dearest at the expense of God and instead of God, I shall be moving towards the state in which I shall not love my earthly dearest at all. When first things are put first, second things are not suppressed but increased.” (C. S. Lewis)
- Jul 18, 2021Checkmate – Brad LehmanJul 18, 2021Checkmate – Brad LehmanBy: Brad LehmanThis week, Pastor Brad continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'Checkmate' based on Mark 12:18-27.
1. The ________ of the Game: Hard hearts are _______ to the truth.
2. The ________ of the Game: Checkmate, because only one ________ can be left standing on the board at the end of the game.
3. The _________ during the Game: Bad ideas produce _______________.
4. The _________________ to end the Game: The __________ transforms everything!Conclusion: Jesus declares “__________” to make me His __________.
ICEBREAKER: What was something you thought would be easy until you tried it?
1. What are the implications of a belief system that denies the resurrection [Mark 12:18]? Can you think of modern examples? Consider also Acts 17:32; Acts 23:6-10; and 1 Corinthians 15:12-19.
2. Although it seems strange to us, how would the practice of levirate marriage provide for the vulnerable in that ancient society [Mark 12:19]? Look up Genesis 38:1-14; Deuteronomy 25:5-10; and Ruth 4:5 for more insights.
3. How is it possible to be familiar with the Scriptures and yet not know them [Mark 12:24]? What is the difference? What is the remedy [cf. Colossians 3:16; 2 Timothy 2:15; and 2 Timothy 3:14-17]?
4. The Sadducees were religious leaders, but Jesus said they did not know the power of God [Mark 12:24]. What are some possible reasons that would prevent someone from knowing God’s power [cf. Genesis 18:14; Jeremiah 32:17; and Matthew 19:26]?
5. What do you find remarkable about Jesus’ teaching in Mark 12:25? How does it make you feel [cf. Romans 7:2-3; 1 Corinthians 7:39-40; and Colossians 3:18-19]?
6. How does Jesus’ explanation found in Mark 12:26-27 give you hope for the future [cf. John 11:21-27; 1 Corinthians 15:51-58; and 2 Timothy 1:10]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?
“Jesus Christ did not come into this world to make bad people good; he came into this world to make dead people live.” (Lee Strobel) - Jul 11, 2021God & Government – Deric BartlettJul 11, 2021God & Government – Deric BartlettBy: Deric BartlettThis week, Pastor Deric continues the series "The Gospel of Mark: Servanthood and Sacrifice in a Selfie World" with a message titled 'God & Government' based on Mark 12:13-17.
1. Don’t __________ when conflicting factions align to discredit Jesus (v.13)
2. Don’t __________ by hypocritical rhetoric that is meant to disgrace Jesus (v. 14-16)
3. Don’t __________ to a false or forced narrative that is meant to derail Jesus (v. 17)
ICEBREAKER: What was something you thought would be easy until you tried it?
1. In the context of the latter part of Mark 11 and into Mark 12, open hostility and conflict broke out between Jesus and the Jewish religious authorities. What does this signify for those who desire to live godly lives today [cf. Matthew 5:11-12; John 15:18-21; and 2 Timothy 3:10-13]?
2. What does the writer’s comment that some of the Pharisees and Herodians were sent to trap Jesus in His words reveal about the hearts of these religious leaders [Mark 12:13]? Consider also Psalm 34:12-16; Romans 1:28-32; and 1 Peter 2:1.
3. Few words are more deceitful than those recorded in Mark 12:14. What was accurate in the adversaries’ assessment of Jesus? What was inaccurate [cf. Proverbs 26:22-28; Acts 13:4-12; and 2 Corinthians 11:12-15]?
4. Knowing the Lord disapproves of hypocrisy [Mark 12:15], what would be appropriate replacement virtues to pursue [cf. Ephesians 6:5-8; 1 Timothy 1:5; and 1 Peter 1:22-25]?
5. What do you learn about the character of God from the way Jesus dealt with these adversaries who were putting Him to the test [Mark 12:15]? Examine also Exodus 17:1-7; Matthew 4:7; and 1 Corinthians 10:6-13.
6. In your thinking, what things belong to God, and what things belong to Caesar (i.e. the civil government) [Mark 12:17]? How did you determine your answer [cf. Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 13:1-7; and 1 Peter 2:13-17]?
7. What did you find helpful or challenging about this Sunday’s message?“Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” (Paul of Tarsus)
