Mark 14:43-72: Betrayed!
THE PERSECUTION OF enemies is one thing, the abandonment of friends another. In this study we find Jesus not only betrayed by one of his disciples but abandoned by all the others and ruefully denied by one of his closest friends. All this added to the cruel and unlawful treatment by the Sanhedrin. This account reveals how intense pressures can test the quality of our discipleship.
Warming Up to God
We all betray Christ in the things we say or do. How have you betrayed him recently? Spend time in sincere confession. Hear the words of forgiveness.
Read Mark 14:43-72. »
Discovering the Word
- How does Jesus respond to his betrayal?
- What aspects of Jesus' trial before the Sanhedrin (vv. 53-65) does Mark emphasize?
- Up until this point Jesus has regularly disguised his identity, but in verse 62 he openly confesses his identity as the Christ. Why do you think he does this now?
- How is the charge against Jesus both justifiable and unjustifiable?
- What mix of motives brings Peter into the high priest's courtyard yet keeps him from acknowledging his relationship to Jesus (vv. 66-72)?
Applying the Word
- How are your motives mixed in following Jesus?
- In what circumstances are you most tempted to be ashamed of Jesus or to deny him?
- What warnings and encouragement can you draw from Peter's experience?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to keep you from betrayal.
For Further Study
The Cost of Commitment by John White