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Jerusalem Standoff - Part 2 of 2 (Mark 12:1-44)

Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words. Mark 12:13 (NIV)

Then the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to him with a question. Mark 12:18 (NIV)

Context:

The readings for Days 16 and 17 record the “final standoff” in Jerusalem between Jesus and the religious leaders. Because of their offense at his parable (read on Day 16), the Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees try to catch Jesus with his words. These groups represented different Jewish factions which usually didn’t get along with each other. However, they unite here in their opposition to Jesus.

Observation:

After his parable targeting the religious leaders (interpreted on Day 16), the Pharisees, Herodians, and Sadducees try to trap Jesus with questions.

As you read the stories in Mark 12:13-37, highlight the following elements using a different color for each:

• The question that is asked
• The particular group/person asking the question
• The response to the question

Interpretation:

Jesus demonstrates great wisdom in his responses in this segment:

Application:

Can you relate with the focus of the Pharisees (on tradition), the Herodians (on political power), and/or the Sadducees (on free will and this-life-only)? Specifically, what does having that particular focus look like in your life and/or in your culture? How does Scripture challenge these foci?