Mark 6:6-56: Beyond Burnout
BURNOUT IS ALL too common an experience among Christians today. One of its most disastrous consequences is a hardened heart that keeps us from being refreshed by our Lord. In this study we see the disciples suffering from burnout and catch a vision of how Jesus can help us to counteract its effects.
Warming Up to God
What is pressing on you and taking away your energy? Ask God to refresh your spirit and renew your commitment. Then consider how you could better handle your responsibilities.
Read Mark 6:6-56. »
Discovering the Word
- What do Jesus' instructions to the Twelve tell us about the kind of ministry they were to have (vv. 6-13)?
- What kind of man was Herod (vv. 14-29)?
- This flashback to the execution of John the Baptist interrupts the account of Jesus' sending out the Twelve to preach and heal. Why do you suppose Mark recounts it here?
- What differences are there between Jesus' approach to the crowd and that of his disciples (vv. 30-44)?
- Jesus and Herod, the two kings in this passage, both serve banquets. Compare the two.
Applying the Word
- When has tiredness blunted your desire to care for others?
- Recognizing the contributing factors, what steps can you take to counteract burnout and a hardened heart?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to help you to give of yourself while maintaining balance in your life so that you don't burn out.
For Further Study
Priorities by Charles Hummel