FOLLOW Follow in Faith – Week 7 ‘Be with Jesus. Become like Him. Do as He did.’ – John Mark Comer Focus Mark—probably the earliest Gospel—is a rapid-fire, action-filled narrative. From public crowds to private encounters, every scene centres on Jesus. Mark opens, “The beginning of the Good News about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God” (1:1). As we trace His ministry from Galilee, glimpse His glory on the Mount of Transfiguration, and reach the cross in Jerusalem, we meet the Suffering Servant who gave His life and rose again to save many. Mark presses every reader: Who do you say Jesus is? Study by: Dean Brookes Sermons can be viewed on the Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel 1. Look Back Sharing Our Journey | 10 – 20 minutes Praise, Thanks and Reflection (Share in the whole group or in sub-groups; you may include 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 Capture the things shared above and any personal needs for prayer or support. 2. Look Up Opening God’s Word | 20 – 30 minutes Setting the Scene We all face storms in life—some minor, some life-altering; some unexpected, others forecast. Before beginning the study, identify a recent or current “storm” that has caused you stress. What is your typical response when storms arise? Read: Mark 4:35-41 Close your eyes and listen while one person reads the story. Then have someone else read it in another translation. Share the images or messages you sensed. Discuss What do you discern about Jesus and the disciples in this passage? Why do you think Jesus suggested crossing the lake at night? What emotions surface in the story? How did the disciples’ fear during the storm differ from their fear afterward? How do you react when Jesus seems “asleep” in your life’s storms? According to this story, how should you respond? 3. Look Forward Living Out God’s Word | 10 – 20 minutes What can you do this week to strengthen your faith? Name one concrete action you will take to live out this scripture in the coming week. How can you share what you’ve learned with someone currently facing a “stormy” season? Pray Pray for one another—especially for specific needs shared during discussion—and for those on your relational map. Contacts If you would like more information or further help, please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au