FOLLOW

Follow the Path of Forgiveness - Week 3

‘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: Anita Venning
Sermons can be viewed on the Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel

1. Look Back

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
Word about Jesus was spreading; crowds came to hear Him preach and for healing. The house where Jesus was preaching was packed. Typical house roofs in New Testament times were made by laying branches over roof beams and packing mud over the branches. Digging through the roof was intentional and determined and would involve digging up the mud and branches to make a big enough hole.
Jesus continues to demonstrate His authority, identity, and shows He knows our greatest needs in this passage.

Read: Mark 2:1–12
Read the passage through as a group using a couple of different translations.

What stands out to you as you read this passage?
What different responses are seen among the people mentioned—the friends, the religious leaders, the paralysed man, the crowd?
What do we discover about Jesus?
Why do you think the forgiveness of sin and restoration of relationship with God is a greater priority? What does this show us about God's heart?
What was it like for you when you first knew and embraced that Jesus has forgiven all your sins?
How does knowing the love and forgiveness of Jesus help you follow His example to forgive others?

3. Look Forward

Living out God’s Word | 10–20 minutes

Where is God prompting you to put into practice something from the passage?
How will you trust God with the hidden areas and needs in your life?
How can you be encouraged to continue bringing those far from God (your relational map) to Jesus this week?

Pray
That we would know our greatest need is connection with God and that we would make time to be with Him.
Praying for those on your Relational Map.

Contacts
If you would like more information or further help please contact:
scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au