Study Guide - Mark 10:32-45

Introduction - Jesus preached a kingdom and a gospel at odds with the world’s values. In a world that values age and wisdom he said you must become like a child without status or influence. In a world that values wealth, he said that it’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. And he said that in order to be great you must be the slave of all. But Jesus didn’t just teach these values. He himself embodied them on the cross.

READ Mark 10:32-45

1. What was so amazing about Jesus going to Jerusalem? (verses 32-34)

Application – In what ways is the gospel story shocking or disturbing to people today?  In what ways do we modify it to make it less startling?

2. Why is the request of James and John so shocking, and yet so predictably human? (verses 35-38)

Application - In what ways do you see the tendency in you to grasp for status or rank or authority?

3. How does Jesus define greatness in his kingdom? (verses 42-44 - see also 10:13-16 and 10:17-31).

Application: What might it look like for you to become the servant of others at work? School? Church? Among your family or flatmates?

4. How is the gospel the basis for serving to one another? (verses 45)