Mark 8:1—9:1: Who Do You Say I Am?
WHO DO YOU say I am?" The whole Gospel of Mark so far has been supplying evidence for answering this question. It's a question Jesus asks each of us, and the answer we give ultimately determines our destiny. But our answer involves more than what we say with our lips. Our real answer is to be found in the way we live our lives.
Warming Up to God
What need in your life has God met recently? Spend time praising God and thanking him for meeting your needs.
Read Mark 8:1—9:1. »
Discovering the Word
- Why do you suppose the disciples, having witnessed the feeding of the 5,000, have such a hard time believing Jesus can supply the needs of 4,000 here (8:1-13)?
- What do the disciples fail to understand in verses 14-21 and why?
- What unusual thing happens while Jesus is curing the blind man (vv. 22-26)?
- How is Peter in verses 27-33 like the blind man in verses 22-26?
- What does Jesus say it means to acknowledge him as the Christ and to follow him?
Applying the Word
- When have you acted like the disciples in verses 1-13, not expecting God to work just after he has met a need in your life?
- Is your life characterized more by seeking to lose your life or to save it? Explain.
- In what way do you need to "lose your life"?
Responding in Prayer
Ask Jesus to help you see more clearly those areas where you are not yet following him.
For Further Study
Following After God by Daniel Hill