“Dogs and Crumbs” (Mark 7:24-30)

DOGS AND CRUMBS

(Mark 7:24-30)

 INTRODUCTION: What is so excellent about this woman’s faith?

I. SUFFERING CAN TURN US TO JESUS.

II. FAITH WILL LEAD US TO JESUS.

III. PERSISTENCE WILL KEEP US WITH JESUS.

Questions for Family Review/Discussion:

1. Can you recall the Christian testimony of an unlikely person who came to faith (or perhaps yourself)? Share the details.
2. Why do you think Jesus traveled to a Gentile land and sought anonymity there? What conclusions, if any, do you draw from this about ministry and Christian service?
3. What kinds of “strikes” did this woman have against her when it came to interactions with Jews? What kinds of such “outcasts” might Christians be overlooking today?
4. Suffering can turn people’s thought to Jesus. Can you think of an example of this happening? How can the church be prepared when sufferers come to call?
5. What is the distinction between praying for relief and coming to Jesus?
6. How will the believer in glory likely answer the question: “Did my life turn out as I had expected or hoped it would?”
7. Was Jesus’ reference to “dogs” intended as an insult to this woman or her daughter? What did Jesus mean by this comparison?
8. How does the woman’s reply demonstrate remarkable faith (vs. 28)?
9. Why do you think genuine faith necessarily includes persistence? What are some circumstances that try your persistence in faith?
10. Are you a Gentile? If so, then what does Jesus say about you in vs. 27? As a Gentile, what hope do you have in Jesus the JEWISH Messiah?