Mark 8

Verses 1 – 12

At It Again!

It’s a story we have heard before. Jesus does it again!

• Why does Jesus decided to feed the crowd?
• Who does he use to feed them?

When we get close to Jesus, we will often come across his compassion for people, and be moved to do something about it.  

Often we will feel like our resources or ourselves are inadequate, but God wants to use you anyway.  It’s up to him to help them through you anyway.

• What things “break your heart”?
• What would you do about it if resources weren’t an issue?
• What can you do with the little in your hands?

Verses 13 – 21

Do You still Not Get it?

The disciples have just been a part of a miracle involving bread.  They are now worried about what they are going to eat as they forgot the bread!

• Have you had exciting times that have encouraged your faith?
• What things have inspired you and increase your faith?
• What happens when a worry comes along? Do you hang onto these times or do you forget about them?

Don’t let minor worries make you forget about your faith.

Verses 22 – 26

Jesus had to try twice.

• Have you ever prayed for someone to be healed?
• What happened?
• How many times did you pray?

In this story Jesus prayed twice to bring full healing.  If Jesus needed 2 times, how many times do we sometimes need?! Its ok to keep asking for healing, if we don’t see it the first time.

Verses 27 – 33

Who Am I?

Jesus was famous, and people knew the culture of prophets, wise men, messiahs.   Everyone was trying to work out who Jesus was – this guy who was wise, taught about life in a striking way, who healed the sick and calmed spirits. 

It was important for him to know who his closest followers thought he was.  They said: ‘The Christ – The Messiah” – a massive, bold, earth-shattering claim.

• Who do you say Jesus is?
• Why does he tell them to keep it quiet?  – All about timings, people knowing too much too soon would not be helpful to the plan of events.

Verses 34 – 38

A Follower’s Life.

To be a follower of Jesus you have said yes to:

1. Letting God Lead
2. Letting Jesus be in the driving seat, and letting him have control.
3. Embracing suffering – Jesus will show you how.
4. Self sacrifice, not doing self help, like everyone else.
5. Not being embarrassed about Jesus in front of your friends – or Jesus will be embarrassed about you in front of God.

Big Asks!

• Which do you find the most difficult?
• How can we do each of these?

There is grace and forgiveness when we don’t get these things right, it is a journey. But know that being a Jesus Follower isn’t just about self help or an add on belief, it is about being committed to having Jesus in charge in every area of your life.

• Recommit all your life to Jesus now, and ask him to help you in all of these areas.  He says he will.