“Salted with Fire” (Mark 9:42-50)

“SALTED WITH FIRE”

(Mark 9:42-50)

 INTRODUCTION: Why is a sincere warning really an act of kindness?

I. WE MUST NOT LEAD OTHERS FROM JESUS.

II. WE MUST NOT DRIFT AWAY FROM JESUS.

III. WE MUST FOLLOW JESUS WHOLEHEARTEDLY.

Questions for Family Review/Discussion:

1. Be honest, gave you ever received a traffic warning? Tell about it.
2. How are warnings most commonly received today? How has this changed over the years? Why do you think this is so?
3. What are the two essential elements of any warning? What is the usual intention of a warning?
4. What is the basic meaning of the word translated “sin” in this text? How is this different from the usual understanding of sin? So, what is Jesus condemning with such strong threats of severe punishment? Why do you think this is so?
5. What are some examples of those who lead “little ones who believe in Jesus” astray? Why do you think they do so?
6. What are some things that may cause believers to drift away from Jesus? To what do you think “hand,” “foot,” and “eye” refer? What biblical justification would you give for NOT amputating offending limbs?
7. Jesus spoke more about hell than any other figure in the Bible. Why do you think so few churches dwell on this subject today? What do you think is lost when we neglect this warning?
8. What would be a good, biblical response to someone who asks how a good God could ever send anyone to hell forever?
9. What did Jesus mean by “salt” in verse 49? How can salt lose its saltiness? What did he mean by this image, and why can unsalty people not become salty again?
10. In what way is this saltiness essential if Christians are to be at peace with one another? What is the only kind of “peace” between unbelievers?
11. Currently some of our cities are suffering unrest. What can believers do to help foster peace?