Date:
Speaker: Tony Murphy
READ Mark 8v14-21 & 27-29
This is the sequel to the previous week when we saw the difference between being part of the crowd and being a disciple.
In the readings, we see that Jesus spent quality time with his disciples away from the crowd, and this is where the teaching, the challenges and the discussion went on. This is an important picture for church, showing how vital small groups are for growing as a disciple of Jesus.
In v14-21 we see that in this small group setting, Jesus starts a conversation, where teaching follows. he invites questions and answers them
In v 27-29, it is in a small group setting where he challenges the group, “Who do you say I am?” It is in this setting that Peter first announces that, “You are the Christ,” a message that he went onto preach to thousands of people.
Similarly, significant conversations might start in the church “crowd” environment, but finish in a small group setting.
DISCUSSION
- What did the disciples learn in today’s reading?
- In reading Mark’s Gospel, what other things have you seen disciples learn in small group settings?
- Share any key interactions (challenges, discussion, encouragements) you have had with Jesus in a small group setting