Thursday, February 13, 2020

Mark 9:2-13 Small Group Questions


Our church is currently studying the book of Mark. For twenty-eight weeks we're walking through the book and talking about the action-packed story of Jesus. Mark was more concerned with what Jesus did than what Jesus said. For this series I volunteered to write the small group questions that go along with each sermon. It seemed like a waste to leave them in a file on my computer and not share them with everyone.

Small Group Questions ||| A Life Changing Experience ||| Mark 9:2-13

As Mark continues to document the life and ministry of Jesus we experience a phenomenal event in time; the day Jesus was transformed. Many authors call it “The Transfiguration of Jesus” and rightly so. Jesus brings three of the disciples up a high mountain where He is transfigured right before their eyes. There is debate on what mountain this took place on, but the location is not a high priority. The priority is what happened on that mountain and what the men saw. This story gives us a glimpse into what Heaven will be like: saints who’ve passed away, those who love Jesus, and God will be present. Open your Bible to Mark 9:2 and study this amazing passage.

1) Share a time when you were transformed by the mighty power of God. What changed in your life because of that experience with God? As you look back on that event, how has the course of your life been altered?

2) The transformation of Jesus in Mark 9:2-8. is also found in Matthew 17:1-8 and Luke 9:28-36. Read all three accounts and talk about similarities and any differences that are provided. What sticks out most to you about the different accounts?

3) Neal mentioned that on the mount of transfiguration we get a glimpse into heaven. When you think about heaven, what has shaped your knowledge of it most? Have we allowed media or Scripture to shape our understanding of heaven? Turn to those passages in Scripture and talk about the greatness of Heaven.

4) Read Mark 9:7, Exodus 19:9 and 40:34. In both accounts we read that God came in a cloud. In Exodus God used the cloud to guide, protect, and speak to Israel. What is the significance of God speaking from the cloud in this passage?

5) On the mountain top Jesus was transformed in the presence of the disciples. The Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Rome and Corinth about the transforming work of God. Read 2 Corinthians 3:18 and Romans 12:1-2, then talk about the transforming work of Jesus that you see currently happening.

6) What are some areas that you would like to see the Gospel transform your life? Are they areas of relationship, goals, health, or spiritual transformation?

7) Near the end of our passage we read about a connection between Elijah and John the Baptist. Read 1 Kings 19:1-5 and Mark 6:21-25. Discuss the similarities.

Close your time in prayer and ask God to transform your life for Him in 2020.

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