Today’s passage: Mark 9:33-50
Helpful thoughts:
- Three major thoughts are presented in this passage:
- The “greatest” in the kingdom of God is the servant of all.
- The one who is not against us is for us.
- Radical amputation (If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off).
- All three of these thoughts have been taught extensively independently, but they are being taught together here by Christ as one larger lesson.
- All three teachings are connected to how we relate to other people.
- If we think too highly of ourselves, we won’t see those whom God has given us to serve.
- If we think the only good ministry that exists has to come from us, we will thwart others (And ourselves). God is the one at work, we are His vessels.
- Our sin hurts others, damages peace in the church, and prevents us from being effective in the world.
Questions to consider:
- In what way are these three passages different, and how are they the same?
- What is the main application of these teaching from Jesus? How are we to view ourselves in relation to others (Philippians 2:3-4)?
- Why is a knowledge of how my sin hurts others and prevents effective ministry such a better motivation to seek repentance than seeing change as a personal achievement? Which motivation is rooted in love and more like Christ? How might you practically and specifically apply these thoughts to fight against sin in your own life?