“Seven Surprises” (1) (Mark 10:13-31)

SEVEN SURPRISES (1)

(Mark 10:13-31)

INTRODUCTION: Are you sure you’ve gotten Christianity right?

I. “GOD ALONE IS GOOD”

II. “THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF GOD’S LAW IS CONDEMNATION.”

III. “LOVE SPEAKS THE TRUTH”

Questions for Family Review/Discussion:

1. When have you been surprised recently? Tell about the circumstances.
2. What are some common misunderstandings about the biblical faith?
3. What did the pastor say was the “little-known secret to true happiness”? Why do you think this secret is so “little-known”?
4. Explain: The philosophers thought the problem was metaphysical. Jesus said it was moral.
5. Why is it surprising, even denied, that “only God is good”? What does this truth remind us about when it comes to evangelism, sharing the gospel?
6. What seemingly “wrong” answer did Jesus give to the young man’s question? Why did Jesus give this seemingly “wrong” response?
7. What three kinds of “law” do we find in the Old Testament? Why are two of these three no longer applicable to the church?
8. What are the three purposes for God’s moral law? Which of these did the Protestant reformers consider primary and central? Why?
9. Most all other religions focus on being a “nice, decent person.” Why does the biblical faith NOT focus on this? What is the biblical faith about instead?
10. Jesus commanded this young man to do the hardest thing possible for him. What was it? Why was it necessary? How does this reveal Christ’s call to each of us? How can it be “loving” to ask people to do hard things?
11. Often the church tries to choose between evangelism and social action. Which of these will usually out pace and eventually exclude the other? Why?