FOLLOW Follow the True King - Week 13 ‘Be with Jesus. Become like Him. Do as He did.’ – John Mark Comer Focus In chapter 8 of Mark we reach a pivotal point, in which Peter declares that he knows Jesus to be the Messiah. Yet, as Jesus shares that this would mean his rejection, suffering, death and resurrection, the disciples just couldn’t understand it; even after seeing a glimpse of his glory at the transfiguration soon after. As Jesus travels towards Jerusalem, the disciples' preconceived ideas continue to be challenged, and their hopes of a conquering messiah would be replaced with the paradox of a king who would overcome by dying. Most amazingly, after even the disciples would flee and abandon Jesus, Mark records that it was in fact a Roman soldier who first realises that, “This man truly was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39) Jesus shows what it means to be a kingdom leader, as he became a humble servant, willing to sacrifice his life for those he loves. And He has won the victory, for “He is risen from the dead!” (Mark 16:6) Study by: Jacqui Thomas *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 had already revealed to his two closest disciples on the Mount of Transfiguration that he was, beyond all doubt, the prophesied Messiah. Until this passage, Jesus has not divulged his messianic identity to the public, but through his many miracles, his disciples would have known this, at very least in part. At his entry to Jerusalem, the public there treated him like the king he is and shouted that he came in the “name of the Lord” and brought “the coming kingdom of our ancestor David!” There was probably some exhilarating speculation amongst the people: How will God install him as the end-time king? Will he brandish the sword? Will he summon down an angelic host? The irony, of course, is that Jesus is headed to a shameful execution—he knows it and has told his disciples of it, and that it would happen in Jerusalem (See Mark 8:31; 10:33–34). His kingly victory came through his servanthood and sacrifice. Read: Mark 11:1–11 Read this scripture together, and have a look at a couple of other versions to give you some extra insights. Discussion Questions: As you read this account of Jesus coming into Jerusalem what strikes you most about it? Let's look at the context—where does Mark record this as happening? What is significant about Bethany (Hint: John 11:18, 38–44) and the Mount of Olives, and why do you think he might have gone there? (Bethphage is a village about which little is known, but fun fact: it means “the place of unripe figs”!) Look at verses 2–6. What do you notice about the instructions he gave his disciples about what to say to the owners of the colt that he needed to use? Jesus’ symbolic use of the colt makes the point well (See Zechariah 9:9). But why else do you think Jesus chose a colt (a young, untamed donkey) instead of a more noble, trained war horse like a victorious king would usually do? Re-read verses 8–10. The people effectively lay down a red carpet of palm branches and cloaks as he enters and Mark records at least 3 things they shouted as he rode past. What do you think the people are referring to? Verse 11 – After all the accolades of the triumphal entry, he then goes to the temple as it’s closing. 3. Look Forward Living out God’s Word | 10–20 minutes If you were the owners, would you have been okay with strangers borrowing the donkey? If God calls you to give something for his service will you do it or do you worry you might lose out? If we trust God, we can be assured that God will make something important out of our faithful service. A donkey may seem too insignificant to be of any use to God’s kingdom. However, that turned out not to be the case. The Lord can take our humble offerings and turn them to gold. Are you prepared to answer the call, even when it seems like the thing God is asking you to use doesn't seem that good or special? Finally, Jesus’ choice of a donkey showed His humility and the Lord’s way of saying, “I bring peace.” As a follower of Jesus, you represent this King of Peace, and you are called upon to have peace with others (Romans 12:18). Are there areas in your life where you need to mediate for peace or start the process of reconciliation with others? Pray Has this study highlighted an area in your life that God is pressing you to give something? Maybe to be used in His service? If you are comfortable, share this with your group and pray for clarity or guidance. Or is there a situation in your life where God is asking you to bring peace? To be a peacemaker, not just a peace keeper? Again, if comfortable, share it with your group or prayer partner and pray over the situation. Pray for those on your Relational Map. Contacts If you would like more information or further help, please contact: 📧 scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au