Sermon Discussion Questions: Authority in Action
Mark 1:16–34
The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon from February 17, 2019 “Authority in Action.” These questions can be used for discussion in small groups, family devotions, or for personal reflection. (PDF Link)
Main Idea: The authoritative words and actions of Jesus reveal his true identity.
Outline:
I. Worshipers were Amazed at his Teaching (Mark 1:21–22)
II. Demons were Conquered at his Command (Mark 1:23–28)
III. Application: Mankind is Locked in a Clash of Kingdoms
Discussion Questions:
1. Why were the worshipers in Capernaum “knocked out” / “thunderstruck” by Jesus’ teaching?
2. What is the contrast in authority between Jesus and the Scribes?
3. Review the passages relating to the origin of demons (Gen 1:1; Heb 11:3; Col 1:16; Job 38:4–7; Gen 1:31).
- How do these passages clarify how Satan and his demons are related to God?
- How do these passages help clarify their scope of power and authority in relation to God and mankind?
- Did any of these passages help clarify and or correct any misconceptions you had about Satan and his demons? (Cf. Rev 20:10)
4. Discuss Jesus’ confrontation with the demoniac.
- What was the demon trying to do?
- How does Jesus reveal his undeniable authority over the demon, especially when we consider the spiritual/magical practices of the first-century?
5. How do the first two conflicts in Mark (his temptation by Satan and this confrontation with the demoniac) help us truly grasp the spiritual nature of Jesus mission? (Cf. 1 John 3:8)
Application:
Take a moment to read Ephesians 2:1–3 and Ephesians 6:10–12.
- How have you thought about the spiritual realm, especially the Satan and his demons, in the past?
- How did/does your understanding of them impact your everyday life?
- Discuss the “two ditches” of the spiritual realm as a group (practical atheism and practical animism).
- Share with one another which end you trend towards, explaining why you do and how it has impacted your Christina life.
- How can a Biblically balanced view of the spiritual realm help overcome sinful infatuation with the world, promote personal sanctification, and fuel faith-filled personal evangelism? (Cf. 2 Corinthians 4:3–6; 1 Corinthians 7:29–31; 1 John 2:15–17)