Mark 12 - March 8, 2013

March 12, 2013 - Mark 12

 

 

In this last week of Jesus' life He tells numerous parables to describe what is about to happen to Him.  He aptly answers the hard questions of those who try to trap Him, and shares further teaching for His followers about how they should live.

 

 

12:1-12 In this parable, the owner of the vineyard is God and the servants first sent are the Old Testament prophets.  Who is the son and who are the tenants?  Why does this story cause the religious leaders to desire Jesus' arrest?

 

 

12:13-17    How was this a trap for Jesus?  What responsibilities do we have to our government that do not infringe upon our responsibilities to God?   What governmental rules is God calling you to challenge?

 

 

12:18-27     The Pharisees believed in resurrection, the Saducees denied it.    Why do you think the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage?   Do you think this speaks to a transformation in relationships in heaven?

 

 

12:28-34   Write down the two parts of the Great Commandment.  How does this commandment encompass all of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20 or Deut. 5)?  Which part of the Great Commandment is harder to follow?

 

12:35-37    Another claim of pre-existence by Jesus.  He was before King David.

 

12:38-41    Why does Jesus warn against the Pharisees?   How might their actions lead people astray?

 

12:41-44    Why does Jesus find the widow's small offering orthy of praise?  Why might such a poor woman give anything?  Are you giving out of your poverty or out of your wealth?