Preparing for the Kingdom Invasion

Gospel of Mark: Kingdom Invasion

Week #2: Preparing for the Invasion

VIDEO INTRODUCTION

opefully, reading the entire Gospel was a fruitful exercise and allowed you to catch the flow of the narrative and allow you to see some major themes. In the beginning of Mark’s Gospel, he introduces us to John the Baptist who is preparing the way for Jesus and the kingdom invasion that will come through Jesus’ ministry. As you work on this lesson, be thinking about how you can prepare your own heart to be invaded by Jesus and his kingdom.

READ Mark 1:1-13

1. In v. 1, Mark tells us his story is about “Jesus Christ [Messiah], the Son of God,” but then he immediately introduces a different character, John the Baptist. Why do you think he does this?

1. Verses 2 and 3 combine quotes from two Old Testament books: Malachi and Isaiah. What phrase do we find in both verses 2 and 3?

1. Malachi and Isaiah wrote hundreds of years before Jesus came. Why do you think it matters that Jesus’ coming was previously announced as part of God’s plan?

1. Do you think the people in the Judean countryside and in Jerusalem were prepared to hear from God? What evidence do you see of any spiritual hunger (see vv. 4-5)?

1. What does John the Baptist do to prepare the people for Jesus and the invasion of God’s kingdom?

1. How do the events surrounding Jesus’ baptism prepare him for his testing in the wilderness?

§         Is it possible for a follower of Jesus to have this same type of affirmation? Why or why not?

§         Would this affirmation help you with temptations you face? Why or why not?

TAKE AWAY

• How can you prepare yourself for the invasion of Jesus and his kingdom in your own life?

• Are there ways you can be a participant in this kingdom invading those around you: family, neighborhood, workplace, or community?

BLOGGING

The following questions will be posted on-line for comments:

• What stood out to you about the way John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus?

• Was there anything in this passage that would hint that Jesus is being prepared for his public ministry? If so, explain.

• Do you think people’s hearts today are prepared for the message of Jesus? Do you see any evidence of spiritual hunger? Explain.

• What are ways today that we can prepare for the invasion of the kingdom in our lives?

• What other personal application did you get from this lesson?

• Do you have any other comments about this week’s passage and lesson?