Jesus by the Book, (Mark) Bible-Study Questions for Discussion and Reflection

Read Mark 10:35-45.

Here Jesus Christ describes himself as a servant. The word used for servant/slave in Mark 10:44 is the Greek word “doulos” designating the lowest ranked servant. This person under Roman law had no rights and belonged completely to his master. Jesus laid aside his rights in order to serve humanity. Jesus’ death is the supreme example of servanthood.

[Q] What were James and John ultimately asking by requesting of Jesus to sit at his right and left in glory?

[Q] What motivated James and John to make this request of Jesus?

[Q] What did Jesus mean when he asked, “Can you drink the cup I drink”?

[Q] In your opinion, is the indignation expressed by the other disciples justified?
How does Jesus use their reaction as an opportunity to teach?

[Q] In what ways does what Jesus’ statement in Mark 10:45 answer the question he asked in Mark 8:37?

The message, Jesus by Mark reveals five ways in which Jesus provides a model of a servant: submission, empathy, sacrifice, urgency, and training. Which of these characteristics are evident in the following encounters with Jesus?

Mark 2:1-12—

Mark 3:1-6—

Mark 5:21-43—

Mark 7:24-30—

Mark 8:1-10—

Mark 10:46-52—

Mark 15:33-41—

[Q] In light of Jesus’ model of a Servant how are you being challenged to grow a servant?