Mark 9:31-50

Jesus had been performing miracles of provision and miracles of healing.

Once again we will see that the disciples did not understand what was going on.

The Verses

31. As they were on their way to Capernaum, Jesus was telling the disciples about His impending death.

32. Their lack of understanding caused them to be afraid…once again.

33. Jesus often used questions to make His points. How would you have felt if Jesus had asked out of the blue what you were arguing about? Do we ever argue among ourselves about things concerning our faith? Why do we sometimes set ourselves up as better than others? (Philippians 2:3 “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”)

34. What was their response?

35. What is the meaning of verse 35, in your opinion?

36. How do we become as little children? How does that relate to Jesus’ telling us to grow in the faith? (Hebrews 5:14; 6:1 & James 1:4)

37. Jesus introduces the phrase, “…in my name…” Who is honored when we welcome those “of lower estate” than us?

38. John used the phrase “…in your name…” What does that phrase mean? Not everyone who claims the name of Christ belongs to Christ.

39. The great commentator, Matthew Henry, said: “Two reasons Christ gives why such should not be forbidden. (1.) Because we cannot suppose that any man who makes use of Christ’s name in working miracles, should blaspheme his name, as the scribes and Pharisees did. There were those indeed that did in Christ’s name cast out devils, and yet in other respects were workers of iniquity; but they did not speak evil of Christ.”

40. You are either for Christ or against Him. You are free to choose. You are not free not to choose. You are NOT free to choose the consequences of your choices. Your choices choose for you.

41. What reward is Jesus talking about in the last part of verse 41?