‘Be with Jesus. Become like Him. Do as He did.’ - John Mark Comer Focus: Mark, likely the earliest of the four Gospels, is a rapid, fast-paced and action-filled book. It is a diverse collage or mosaic of scenes—ranging from public gatherings, crowds, small groups, and private encounters—in which the unifying element is always Jesus. Mark begins with the bold claim that this “is the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God” (1:1). We gradually get a clearer view of Jesus as we grapple with who He is, the mystery of His Kingdom, and what it means to follow Him. We travel from Galilee at the start of His ministry, see a glimpse of His glory at the Transfiguration and finally go to Jerusalem where He is crucified. Ultimately, we encounter the Suffering Servant who gave up his life, yet rose again, to save many. And Mark challenges all readers to decide for themselves, who do you say Jesus is? Study by: Ivan Cooper Sermons can be viewed on the Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel 1. Look Back Sharing Our Journey | 10–20 minutes Praise, Thanks and Reflection Invite people to share from one or more of the questions below. It can be done as a whole group or in subgroups. It can also involve a worship song. What are you thankful for? Where have you seen God at work? How has God used you? How have you gone living out God’s Word since our last gathering? Where have you struggled to follow the way of Jesus? Has anything happened in the lives of those on your relational map who are far from God? (See the Relational Map Video) Pray In prayer capture the things you have shared above after also inviting people to share any personal needs for prayer or support. 2. Look Up Opening God’s Word | 20–30 minutes Setting the Scene Jesus didn’t choose those others expected as His first disciples. He didn’t search for the most educated or knowledgeable. Nor did He look for those with money, power or fame. He chose ordinary fishermen, utilising both their occupation and background as a picture for all they would do for His Kingdom. Later, the Jewish leaders were shocked at the boldness of Peter and John, who they knew were but ordinary, untrained men; yet they couldn’t deny that these men had been with Jesus (Acts 4:13). Amongst others, Jesus went on to choose Matthew, a tax collector, who many considered a traitor working for the Romans. Yet, He also chose Simon, a Zealot, who likely sought national freedom from the Romans. And most surprisingly, Jesus later chose Paul, a strict and highly trained Pharisee, who had been brutally persecuting His church. Paul would come to realise that compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ, everything else he knew was worthless (Philippians 3:8). And Jesus continues to call out to all people, everywhere, no matter their background, occupation or social standing, saying, “Come and follow me” (Mark 1:17). Read: Mark 1:16–20 Read the passage through as a group from a couple different translations. The following questions are based on the Discovery Bible Study method: Reread the passage another time individually. How would you retell the scripture in your own words? What do we discover about God in this scripture? What do we discover about People in this scripture? What does this scripture say about how we should live as a follower of Jesus? 3. Look Forward Living out God’s Word | 10–20 minutes What is one thing you will do this week to live out God’s word? How will you apply/obey what Jesus said this coming week? Who will you share your story with this week? Pray Reflect in prayer on how Jesus is calling you to follow Him and consider what ‘nets’ you might need to leave behind to answer His call. Praying for those on your Relational Map. Contacts If you would like more information or further help please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au