Francis visited the site where scholars believe Jesus multiplied the fish and loaves to feed over 5,000 people. Jesus was in high demand during those days. After his apostles had returned from their missionary outing, they tried to get away for a break. But the crowds followed, and Jesus showed compassion for them.
How would you characterize Jesus’s response to having his recharge time interrupted?
He spends a full day teaching, then directs his followers to feed the crowd who had not eaten all day. Read 6:38–44. How did the apostles’ attitude differ from their master’s?
Francis notes the significance of the miracle of the bread and fish. What difference does it make that Jesus can create something out of nothing?
The Pharisees prove yet again that Jesus’s miracles and teaching have not made an impact on their own thinking. Note the timing of their complaint about the disciples’ unwashed hands.
Why does Jesus rebuke the Pharisees in 7:6–13? In what ways are they hypocrites?
Consider your own righteousness. Have you added self-made “rules” that reveal someone’s deeper holiness, in your sight? In what ways have you added to the gospel, like the Pharisees did?
Jesus clarifies what defiles a person in Mark 7:14–23. Francis noted that we often make the same mistake, blaming all sorts of external issues for our sin, as opposed to realizing the real issue is within our hearts. We have to change from the inside out. What “external” things are you blaming your sin on? What has to happen for you to allow Jesus to change your heart?
After reiterating the results of both of his multiplication miracles in Mark 8:20–21, Jesus asks, “Do you not yet understand?” You can almost feel the sadness and confusion coming off the page. After all he’s done, how can the disciples still not understand who Jesus is? But before we jump to condemn the disciples, how do we, too, respond to Jesus in a similar way? Do you live in a way that exhibits a clear understanding of who Jesus is and what he’s done for you?
Throughout our passage this week, Jesus has been teaching the disciples important lessons about not only what he’s doing in the world, but also how he wants them to live. Mark gives us a repeated set of stories to double-down on the point—discipleship is all about living the way Jesus lived.
But living in faithful obedience to Jesus starts with surrendering our hearts to him. Francis reminded us that it’s not so much about what we do, but more about the condition of our hearts.
As we conclude today’s lesson, take a moment as a group to be silent before God. Have you allowed Jesus to change your heart? What areas of your life are you still holding on to? If you feel comfortable doing so, have a few people share with the group.
