Monday, July 15, 2013

the Fundamentals: Community- Jesus Style (Mark 6:30-44) Questions for Reflection and Discussion

All four gospels report the account of Jesus feeding the five thousand (Matthew 14:15-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; and John 6:1-14). Most often the events of Jesus’ ministry are examined through the lens of the response of the crowds to His teachings and miracles. This study will focus on Jesus’ leadership (coaching) of His small community of twelve men-- the twelve disciples/apostles.

Read the four accounts of Jesus feeding the five thousand making a list of Jesus’ instructions to His disciples. What is the significance about each instruction?

Mark 6:30 and Luke 9:10 report that the apostles are returning to Jesus. Where did they go and what were were they doing?

 Matthew 10:5-8-- Mark 6:7-13-- Luke 9:1-6--

 In Mark 6:31 Jesus instructs His disciples, “Come away by yourselves to a desolate place and rest for a while.” John further reveals that after crossing the Sea of Galilee, they “went up on the mountain, and there (Jesus) sat down with his disciples” (John 6:3). Jesus frequently spent time away with His disciples. What does this tell us about the importance of retreat and rest?

 John 1:38-39; 2:12-- Matthew 17:1-8; Mark 9:2-8; Luke 9:28-36-- Luke 11:1-13-- Matthew 24:1-3; Mark 13:1-4; Luke 21:5-7--

 What motivated Jesus to cut short time with His disciples? (See Matthew 9:36; Mark 6:34) What is significant about how the food was distributed to the crowd? (See Mark 6:40)

 Application The feeding of the five thousand begins with the disciples finding Jesus to report “all that they had done and taught” (Mark 6:30). How is the Holy Spirit leading you to incorporate sharing of seeing God at work in your family time small group or ministry team?

 Memorize This:  Proverbs 13:20— Whoever walks with the wise becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm. © ESV


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