On this Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost we will be reading from the Gospel according to Mark. In our Scripture lesson this week, we hear Jesus challenged by the religious authorities, who are trying their best to trip Jesus up and have him create offense to those listening. We will explore aspects of Jesus' teaching through the lens of our relationship with God and others - focusing on understandings of righteousness through relationship or through the law.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Mark. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Mark 10:2-16).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Although the Gospel lesson is focused on the rules of marriage and divorce, the subject for reflection in our study is on Jesus' attitude and teaching toward "keeping rules" versus "following God's intentions." With this in mind, after reading the Scripture lesson, what do you believe Jesus is teaching about human relationships and remaining open-minded towards others, especially those you love?
Read the "WHAT..." paragraph in the study guide below and reflect on the author's words that state "human beings should not rupture what God unites." This statement seems to be very "black and white," without any recognition of the varieties of circumstances in life: why do you think the author makes this statement, and is it absolute, or a "goal" to work toward? When/if divorce does occur, how might people respond or live in the future to make the ruptured relationship a reason for learning and understanding God's intentions?
Read the "WHERE..." paragraph below, and after reflecting on the author's paragraph, consider these questions: how was Jesus' answer "more offensive" than what the religious authorities anticipated? What was Jesus' point in teaching that divorce should not really be a choice for people to consider?
Read the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below and reflect on the author's point that the disciples (and we) often don't understand what Jesus is teaching. Reflect also on Jesus' use of children to teach how one should love others...remembering the important cultural aspect of the first century - children had very little importance in society. Considering that Jesus is using children to show his followers how to accept those who are considered without importance - what does this say of how we should act and be accepting towards those we love and are in relationship with?
Read the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below, and give thought and your response to the author's statement that we receive God's kingdom only through complete dependence on God, not by adherence to any set of rules. How does this agree or disagree with what you heard Jesus teaching his followers in our lesson?
コメント