Death and Taxes
Death and taxes are two of life’s certainties, and Jesus responded to questions about those topics to redirect our attention to timeless truth. Remembering the source and owner of all the parts of our life, as well as life itself, radically changes our perspectives. How can we be just as challenged as Jesus’ original audience when we remember where and how God has placed his stamp of authority?
What did you hear from the weekend message that created agreement or disagreement, spawned questions or challenges, or inspired further reflection or action?
Read through the escalating conflict between Jesus and both political and religious leaders in Jerusalem from Mark 12:13-44 before returning to read each section of the passage a second time in response to questions below. Ask the Lord to give you insights for your faith and life today.
From Mark 12:13-17, how is God’s image stamped on all of life, including your life, and what are some of the implications of this truth?
From Mark 12:18-27, what is the “serious error” that Jesus charges the Sadducees with and how would you describe the difference between God’s promises that last forever (see Mark 12:26-27) and our contracts, covenants, or promises that are temporary (see Mark 12:18-24)?
From Mark 12:28-34, how does a correct relationship with God inspire correction in all of our relationships with people?
From Mark 12:35-40, how do you imagine Jesus’ audience responding to the idea that Messiah is the “Lord,” who shares in kingdom authority and reign with God (see Mark 12:36)? How might your perspective on life adjust when you remember that Jesus really is the Lord over all?
How does the example of the widow giving her “life” sacrificially and generously inspire, teach, and motivate you (see Mark 12:41-44)?
Searching for the Generous Life
Just like modest investments can grow over time, our investment into God's kingdom generates growth and produces eternal dividends. The apostle Paul presented the Macedonian believers as an example of generous giving to the Corinthian church and to us. Let's explore...
Searching for Reconciliation
Confronting others concerning biblical/theological compromise is never easy or pleasant. Such encounters must be handled with sensitivity to the needs of others, directed by spiritual wisdom and the Scriptures, and guided by the Holy Spirit. Paul closed chapter two of...
Searching for Courage
On the surface, hearing God and following His commands seems straightforward. However, when God calls us to do something that generates fear in us and feels daunting, second-guessing His call becomes reasonable. Finding the courage to obey such a call is overwhelming....
Searching for the Abundant Life
Jesus explicitly explained his purpose when He said “…I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly” (Jn 10:10). He said similar things many times, and these ideas are repeated, over and over again, by those who wrote the New Testament. Yet many people,...
Searching for Real Friendship
Some relationships may imitate friendship, but there’s no substitute for the real thing. Exploring the relationship between David and Jonathan in the Bible, we’ll identify some distinguishing features of friendship that are often overlooked and discover how to infuse...