‘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 The late A.W. Tozer once preached a message about how to handle the fears, anxieties and troubles of life. He showed that trying to conquer these fears and troubles by ignoring the issue and its cause, whether through optimism or denial, was totally ineffective. Instead, he insisted we needed someone who could take these fears and troubles on and work them for our good. Someone who can face them, conquer them and handle them for us. We need Jesus, who came with authority (Mark 1:27); and to whom all authority in Heaven and Earth has been given (Matthew 28:18). We need to cast all our anxieties on Him, because He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). We need His peace, because in this world whilst we do face many troubles, we can remember that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). We can freely subscribe to our Heavenly Father’s wisdom and authority, trusting His voice in our hearts, for in Jesus, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). Read: Mark 1:21–28 Read the passage through as a group from a couple of different translations. The following questions are based on the Swedish Bible Study method: Light Bulb – What shines out of this passage or stands out to you? Questions – What questions do you want answered? Cross – How does this passage relate to Jesus? Where can you see Jesus? 3. Look Forward Living out God’s Word | 10–20 minutes Arrow – How can you apply this passage to your life today? Talk Bubble – Who is one person who would benefit from you sharing what you have learnt in this passage today? Pray Reflect in prayer on how you can submit to Jesus’ authority in your own life and learn to trust Him more each day. Praying for those on your Relational Map. Contacts If you would like more information or further help please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au