9. “Lessons in discipleship”                                                                          Mark 9:33-39

                                                                                                                                 10:32-45

 

LEARNING TO SERVE

 

1.  We need a right view of ourselves

 

a) We naturally look for greatness

            i)   The problem erupted in Capernaum (9:33-37) and on to v.41 - see 10:13

            ii)  The problem surfaced again on the way to Jerusalem (10:35-40)

            iii) It’s easy to be like the Pharisees in Lk.18:11,12.

                 See Lk. 14:7

 

b) Paul’s advice (Rom.12:3)

 

c) Jesus said ... See Lk. 17:10

    Pride disqualifies from effective service (10:43,44)

 

2.  We need a right view of Jesus

 

a) He’s the real example (10:45)

   - think about Is. 53:4a, 5a, 6b, 12b

 

b) Jesus’ example also relates to everyday living (Jn. 13:1-17) cf. 2 Cor. 8:9

 

c) Look closely at Jesus (Phil. 2:6-8) cf. Mk 8:34

 

3.  We need a right view of others

 

a) It’s easy to write off other servants (9:38 cf. v. 41)

 

b) It’s easy to write off the world we should be serving (Lk. 9: 51-56)

 

c) Disciples learn to see people through Christ’s eyes

TALKING POINTS

 

9.  LEARNING TO SERVE                                                                         Mark 9:33-37

                                                                                                                                 10:32-45

 

 

1.  Why do we like being served or waited on?  What is particularly pleasant or satisfying?  What does that teach us about ourselves?

 

2.  Why, do you think, did the disciples argue about who was the greatest (9:34) and why did James and John want to be important (10:37)?  There seems to be nothing wrong inherently in being the leader or the boss.  So what was the trap, weakness or temptation that they were liable to fall into?  What do Christian leaders have to guard against in their own attitudes and actions?  Think also about 10:42.

 

3.  What is the primary quality of leadership or greatness that Jesus is emphasising (10:43,44)?  Why is it important?  In practice, how can this be worked out by a) church leaders (elders, deacons, pastors, etc.) b) Christians in positions of responsibility at work?

 

Give practical examples.

 

4.  Read together Is. 53:4-6,12 and Philippians 2:6-11.

 

What mental pictures of Jesus do these verses create for you?

 

Why did Paul write the Philippian passage?  See 2:5.

So, what qualities for serving can we discover here?

 

5.  Jesus’ service meant that He served - gave His life - for those who hated Him, for everyone without distinction (Mark 10:45; Rom. 5:6,8,10).  Think of some of the people you know - maybe hostile, indifferent, opposed.  How can you make Christ’s love real to them?