Reflection/Application Questions for Mark 9.30-50

These questions are provided for your further study and meditation of today’s message. Thoughtfully writing out answers to these questions will help you to reflect on the point of today’s message. It is also helpful to discuss your answers with others. This can take place with friends, your family, accountability partners, or mission small groups (MSGs) of CrossView Church. For MSG meetings ask someone about it at lunch. You can also email info@crossviewchurchla.org or call 213-908-5173.

1. What struck you from Jesus’ words in Mark 9.30-50? Why do those words strike you?

2. What’s wrong with wanting to be the greatest? What’s right about wanting to be great and first?

3. What does being first really look like according to Jesus? How is true greatness expressed? (see vv. 35-37)

4. What opportunities do you have in your neighborhood, at work, school, or with the church to grow in greatness the way Jesus defines it? Be specific. And then write out how you plan on seizing one or two of those opportunities.

5. Who are our allies as followers of Jesus Christ? What is the standard to judge who is on your side (vv. 40-41)? How can you express this week your partnership with other allies that you haven’t expressed in a while.

6. What are two reasons to take drastic action in your life (see vv. 42 and 43, 45, 47)? What does Jesus tell you to do if these things happen?

7. What are some sins in your life, the church’s life, or ways we cause others to sin that we need to battle against and destroy? Be specific here and fight vagueness or rushing.

8. What drastic actions do you think Jesus is calling you to do with fighting these things? Who will you partner with and share so that you drastically fight sin in your life and in our church? When will you tell them?