The power of the Gospel challenges the nation (Mark 6aq)

Mark 6:1-29

Key Verse 16 But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!”

1.    [1-3] When and where did Jesus teach (1-2; Cf. 1:21-28)? After hearing his teaching, what were many of the people amazed by (2)? What had been their understanding of Jesus (3a, b)?  After all, how did they take Jesus and his teaching (3c)? 

2.    [4-6a] What was Jesus’ understanding of their offense (4)? What could Jesus do (5)? Discuss why Jesus was amazed(wondered:NAS) at their lack of faith (6a).

3.    [6b-13] In response to their lack of faith, what did Jesus do (6-7; Cf. Luke 10:1)? What instructions did Jesus give them (8-11)? Why such instructions? What did they do as they went out (12-13; Cf. 3:14,15)?

4.    [14-29] How did people respond to the disciples’ work (14b-15)? Why?  How did Herod take this (14a, 16)?

5.    [17-29] Why did Herod arrest John (17-18)? Why did he not kill him (19-20)? Why did he become distressed (21-26a)? What decision did he make (27a)? Why (26b)?  Discuss what Herod meant by saying, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!”

6.    Discuss the impact of disciples’ mission works on the nation, on King Herod, and on the disciples (ref. Luke 10:17-24).