StoneBridge Deli

In this sermon series, we will be looking at a literary device in the Gospel of Mark called a "Markan Sandwich." At a few points in this gospel, Mark will take two stories and put them together. One story will begin, Mark will then shift to a seemingly unrelated story, then Mark will return to the original story. The first story is the bread, the second story is the meat. Though both stories seem to be unrelated, Mark is teaching us something by combining them.

SERMON OUTLINE:

I. First Story

II. Second Story

III. Communion

IV. "This is my body"

NEXT STEPS:

We will be celebrating communion next week. Prepare yourself in the following ways:

1. Ask for forgiveness from someone you've wronged.

2. Offer forgiveness to someone who wronged you, either explicitly or in your heart.

3. Settle an outstanding dispute.

GROWTH GROUP / PERSONAL REFLECTION QUESTIONS

1) In Mark 14:17-31, Jesus predicts Peter's denial. What can we learn from this episode about human weakness and the challenges of following Jesus?

2) Why do you think Jesus specifically singles out Peter as the one who will deny him? What might be the significance of this interaction between Jesus and Peter?

3) Despite Jesus' prediction, Peter insists that he will never deny Jesus. What does this reveal about the nature of human pride and our tendency to underestimate our own weaknesses? How does Peter's response to Jesus' prediction of his denial reflect his self-confidence and devotion to Jesus?

4) Jesus also predicts that all the disciples will abandon him. What do you think might have been going through the minds of the other disciples when they heard this prophecy? How might their fear and doubt have played a role in their subsequent actions?

5) In what ways do we see Jesus' deep understanding of human nature in this passage? How does Jesus' knowledge of the disciples' weaknesses and failures affect the way he interacts with them?

6) Jesus institutes the Lord's supper in the middle of announcing his betrayal and his abandonment. He knows his disciples will fail him and he continues to institute the Lord's supper with them. What do you think this signifies?

7) Does this passage challenge your understanding of communion? How does communion fit with discipleship?

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