30 Days In The Gospel Of MarkSample

Thought:

“Gospel” means “good news.” Jesus had a very specific purpose on Earth: to be our good news and to tell us about this good news. In these verses of Mark, we see the beginning of Jesus’ ministry. From the start He invited His disciples to join Him in spreading the good news. Following Jesus isn’t always easy. The disciples had to leave things behind, like their jobs and even their families, in order to follow Him. Being a disciple of Jesus today can still be just as hard. It may cost you your time, such as the time you invest in this challenge. It may cause you to lose friends. It may even cost some people their lives. But the reason the story about Jesus is not just news but is good news is that following Jesus is worth the cost! The first disciples saw this soon after they left everything behind to follow Christ. The people of Capernaum were astonished at the authority Jesus taught with and the power He had over unclean spirits. Not only does Jesus have authority to explain the Scriptures and heal us, but He also has the authority to save us from our sins! That’s why following Jesus is worth the cost.

1. What are some things Jesus expects us to be willing to leave for Him?

2. What job/purpose does Jesus give His disciples?

3. How was Jesus’ teaching different than the scribes’ teaching?

4. How does this passage show us Jesus is stronger than unclean spirits?

Engage:

Jesus’ disciples weren’t all alone—they had each other in addition to Jesus. Find some friends who follow Jesus from camp, church, or another community and talk to them about one reason following Jesus can be hard for you. Think of one way you can encourage each other in your walk with God. 

Deeper Waters:

Write Jesus a letter about the things you are willing to give up to follow Him. Write about the things that are difficult or scary for you to risk giving up, too. Ask Him to help you submit fully to Him so that you are willing to follow Him no matter what the cost is.