Grow Guide | Jan 14, 2024
Series Theme: It’s Time
Reading: Mark 2:1-12
Connecting Questions
Talk about a friend who is life-giving to you.
When you have been “sick,” who and what contributes to your feeling better?
Prayer for Illumination
Eternal God, you have placed us in a world of space and time, and through the events of our lives you bless us with your love. Grant that in the new year we may know your presence, see your love at work, and live in the light of the event that gives us joy forever - the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen
Context
It is time! The season of Epiphany, we celebrate Emmanuel—God with us—in Jesus Christ. He is the light of our world. As the wise ones sought Jesus by a star, not fully understanding his identity and power, so do we. Come explore the many opportunities to grow in faith and carry on the work of Jesus Christ at Easter. So glad you are here!
From Pastor Paul Berge at EntertheBible.org:
This section consists of three cycles of stories about Jesus’ ministry in Galilee and surrounding regions. The material in this section highlights the disciples’ failure or inability to understand Jesus’ miracles, teachings, and parables.
This first cycle includes the call of the first four disciples, five healing stories, five conflict stories, and a summary statement.
Look at the Book
Open to Mark 1. Reread Mark 1:1; why was this verse so important?
Jump to Mark 2:1. Where is Jesus? Find a Bible map and place him on it.
What is the response to Jesus coming “home?”
What do you use to describe home?
What was Jesus doing in verse 2 and what do you think that means?
What is a “word” of encouragement that was meaningful to you? Why?
What do we learn about the man and his friends?
How do people block the way to Jesus today?
What does Jesus see from the commotion? How is that shocking?
For Martin Luther: Baptism works forgiveness of sins, rescues from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this, as the words and promises of God declare. Why do you think “forgiveness” is at the center and not “healing?”
Why did Jesus forgive and heal? What does that say about the heart of God?
What has been something in your life that has amazed you that God has done? (Verse 12, we have never seen anything like this.”
What would you like to talk about that we haven’t yet?
Taking it Home
Who is someone in your life who has a chronic condition? Send them a text or personal note today to let them know you’re supporting them like the four friends. Ask, how might I support you?
Write down four friends who have carried you in life. Thank God for them.
May the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, our Lord. Amen.