During October at our 7pm services, we’re looking at the Gospel of Mark.
3 October 2021 - 7pm Service
Hope Has a Name Series
During October at our 7pm services, we’re looking at the book of Mark. The apostle Mark’s gospel is fast paced and concise, sharing an overview of key facets about Jesus’ ministry and the good news He gives to us. This week, Matt is looking at what Mark says about God’s plan to prepare the way for Jesus and ultimately His restoration for the world.
You can go deeper with this topic on your own or in your small group using the discussion notes below.
DISCUSSION NOTES
Read Mark 1
Have you ever wondered why John the Baptist needed to come before Jesus? Surely God could have arrived unannounced onto the scene of human history.
1. In what way did Jesus need someone to prepare the way for him?
If the Incarnation was just about God showing us what he was like (Col 1v19 and Heb 1v3) through Jesus’ teaching, healing, miracle and lifestyle then maybe he wouldn’t have needed any preparation. But God is interested in forgiving us, rescuing us and restoring a friendship with him once again.
2. From reading John’s message to people, what was the content and how did he “prepare the way”?
John 1v31 but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.”
In the wilderness with all the trimmings of life removed, people became aware of themselves and their hearts were softened to realise that they weren’t that good.
3. How do you see these four things working out in your life as you seek to follow Jesus and prepare a way for Him to break into your world?
Repentance
To turn round from going my own way and start following God’s way. Galatians 5v19 The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Ephesians 5 v3 But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. 4 Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.
Confession
To admit and own up to my faults and failings.
James 5v16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.
Forgiveness
Shame taken away, restored to God, washed clean, guilt removed.
John 1:29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
How can we live a holy life making way for Jesus? We need the power and work of the Holy Spirit. How do you allow Jesus to fill you with his Spirit?