Mark #25: Death of John the Baptist
What does it mean to be great? Our culture tells us that greatness is defined by wealth, sex, greed, power, or success. In this sermon, Pastor Byron will show us that true greatness means following Jesus as all cost. Herod thought he was a king, John the Baptist, the greatest man who ever lived served Jesus, the true king.
SCRIPTURE FOR THE WEEK:
Mark 1:1-9, Mark 6:14-29
BEFORE YOU GET STARTED:
Take 5 minutes to silently read over the section of scripture to gather insight, questions, or discussion with the group before answering the questions.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. John the Baptist is murdered for his faith in Jesus. Compare the testimony of Scripture versus the “easy-believerism” we often see in the American Church.
2. What are some things in culture that, if you spoke out against, would bring you persecution? Do you have the boldness like John to address taboo topics for the sake of the gospel? Why or why not?
3. Jesus called John the Baptist the greatest man who ever lived; how does Jesus’ definition of greatness differ from ours today?
4. Compare Herod’s power as King to Jesus’ power as the true king.
5. Are you more prone to follow “kings” such as politics, famous people, celebrities, sex, greed, and reputation? Or are you willing to humbly follow the true King Jesus at all costs?
CHALLENGE:
This week your challenge is to take an inventory of things you see in culture whether through music, movies, social media, and compare how the world’s version of greatness differs from Jesus’ definition of greatness. Be ready to discuss your observations next week over dinner.