Dr. Matthew R. St. John Bethel Church January 25, 2015

Taking it Home 

We know the rest of the story. The crowd which shouted, “Hosanna!” will be replaced by a crowd shouting, “Crucify Him!” As we reflect on this moment in Mark’s account, return to the categories of popularity, prosperity, and political influence. Recognizing that each of these categories can be stained by sin, here are some thoughts on how the categories could be seen in a positive light:  Popularity: state of being admired; liked or supported by many people  Prosperity: state of flourishing or thriving; successful to the point of being able to be generous  Political Influence: influencing the forming, directing and administrating of government; having power.

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Was it wrong for the crowd to want these things? How can you relate to these desires? Do they affect you?

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How does Jesus respond to the desire for popularity, prosperity, and political influence according to Mark 10:45?

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In light of Proverbs 20:6 and Matthew 15:8, what would faithful living look like for a follower of Jesus?

The Coming Kingdom Mark 11:1-11

The Coming Kingdom Notes:

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At Home Study Guide For the week of January 25, 2015

Growing Deeper 

Identify several of the characters of the story of Mark 11:1-11 (disciples, crowd, religious leaders, colt owner, etc.). What would it have been like for you to be in their sandals in this story?

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Read Genesis 49:9-10 as well as Zechariah 9:9-10 and 1 Kings 1:38-40. What do you notice about the use of a colt in these passages? What stands out to you that makes Jesus riding a colt significant in Mark 11?

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Consider the prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27: in 490 years Jesus will enter Jerusalem. Why is this significant?

Mark 11:1-11

Quick Review: The categories of popularity, prosperity, and politics may be helpful for us to grasp what is happening in Mark 11:1-11. Riding in on a colt invited the crowd and His disciples to see Jesus as a political leader. These people were desperate for something greater. They longed for a leader who would deliver them from Roman occupation. This crowd had experienced the prosperity of being near Jesus; He drove away demons and took away their sickness. After the feeding of the 5,000 they wanted to make Him king but Jesus had nothing to do with them. Now the crowd has returned and grew when those inside Jerusalem came out to welcome Jesus. Jesus represented a popular movement of hope and expectation. In this moment, Jesus was the greatest thing to happen to the Holy City in 100’s of years. To be a part of the celebration must have been exhilarating. The messiah has come just as Daniel and the prophets of old had promised. The excitement and joy of the crowd would have been overwhelming for anyone nearby. Mark is presenting Jesus as the one who will save Israel. Hosanna!

My Story 

When has it been popular for you to follow Jesus?

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What are some of the benefits you’ve experienced in following Jesus?

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Is it wrong to follow Jesus when you experience good things and people seem to like you more because you are identified with Him? Why or why not?