“Faithless, Fruitless, Futureless” (Mark 11:12-25)

FAITHLESS, FRUITLESS, FUTURELESS

(Mark 11:12-25)

INTRODUCTION: Why did Jesus condemn a fig tree?

I. REPUDIATE THE STAIN OF MERCENARY RELIGION.

II. RENOUNCE THE SHAME OF CALLOUS RELIGION.

III. RECOGNIZE THE STRENGTH OF FAITHFUL RELIGION.

Questions for Family Review/Discussion:

1. Think of a time you were disappointed. What was so painful about it?
2. Why did Jesus demand fruit from a fig tree out of season? What explanations have skeptics offered to explain this puzzle? Why did he destroy the tree?
3. While the Jews condemned all idolatry, what form of idolatry were they practicing in the temple itself? Why do you think they did not see this hypocrisy on their part? What kinds of similar hypocrisy do Christians fall               into today?
4. How were the Jewish leaders making a profit off temple worship? What was the original, God-given purpose(s) of the temple?
5. What are some false, self-centered reasons why people might join a church? How have the purveyors of the prosperity gospel attempted to ensnare followers by means of false motives?
6. What are true and biblical motives for following Christ? What are some ways we can honestly examine our motives in doing so?
7. In what area of the temple were the merchants doing their business? What was this location supposed to be used for? What does this say about the Jewish leaders who permitted their merchandising there?
8. What did Jesus say were the two greatest commandments? In what way(s) were the Jewish religious leaders violating both of these? What does this tell us about genuineness of their religion?
9. Why does Jesus end this conversation with a message on prayer? What two necessary dynamics does Jesus include in God-honoring prayer?
10. What work must God do to enable the selfish sinner to truly forgive others?
11. What prophetic message did the destruction of the fig tree send? Why would this be important in Mark’s day?