Sermon Discussion Questions: Trustworthy Witnesses
TEXT: Mark 1:1–11
The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon from January 13, 2019 “Trustworthy Witnesses.” These questions can be used for discussion in small groups, family devotions, or for personal reflection. (PDF Link)
Main Idea: The gospel is a person not a religious path.
Outline:
I. The Witness of the Prophets (Mark 1:1–3)
II. The Witness of John the Baptist (Mark 1:4–8)
III. The Witness of God Himself (Mark 1:9–11)
Discussion Questions:
1. How does Mark use of the term “gospel” (good news) help us understand the significant continuity between out OT and NT and the true identity of Jesus Christ? (Cf. Isaiah 52:7; Mark 1:14–15)
2. How does the testimony of the prophets substantiate Mark’s claim in verse 1? (Cf. Malachi 3:1–2; Isaiah 40:3–5)
3. How does the testimony of John the Baptist substantiate Mark’s claim in verse 1? (Cf. 2 Kings 1:7–8; Malachi 4:5–6; Mark 9:11–13)
4. How does the testimony of God the Father substantiate Mark’s claim in verse 1? (Cf. Psalm 2:7; Isaiah 42:1)
5. How do the supernatural events that occur at Jesus’ baptism emphasize Jesus divine identity? How do these events emphasize God’s sovereign initiative in the gospel?
Application Questions:
6. So how is the gospel different from religion?
7. How does the fact that, even though no one could clearly see it, God was actively working for centuries to affect our redemption through Jesus Christ help us trust him more today?
8. Given the fact that God was faithful to fulfill his OT Messianic promises—as we have seen this week—how can Mark’s gospel encourage us to believe, embrace, and pursue God’s NT promises?
9. How can the fact that God—by his own loving initiative (1 John 4:10)— has forever torn open the heavens and forever opened a path to his throne of grace in Jesus Christ encourage you and I in prayer?
10. List and pray for opportunities to share the good news of the gospel with the people in your circle of influence who do not know Jesus.