CONVERSATION STARTERS

1. Read Mark 11:1-25.

2. Expectations vs. Reality – The people expected a Messiah who would take political power, but Jesus entered humbly and then confronted the dysfunction of the temple (Mark 11:1–17). Share times when you have expected Jesus to fit our own desires rather than who he truly is. How do you know today if you’re struggling to embrace the real Jesus?

3. Fruit vs. Facade – Jesus rebukes the fig tree as a symbolic critique of the temple (Mark 11:12–14, 20–21). The temple looked impressive but wasn’t fulfilling its purpose. What does this teach us about genuine faith vs. empty religion? How can we ensure our faith produces real fruit instead of just appearances?

4. Jesus & Righteous Anger – Jesus’ cleansing of the temple and his frustration with the fig tree show his intensity (Mark 11:15–19). What makes Jesus angry here and how does that challenge our view of “meek and mild Jesus”? On the other hand, how can we not use this passage as a justification for our angry outbursts? What does true righteous anger look like for Christians?obedience?

Title: Jesus Arrives
Reference: Mark 11:1-21
Speaker: Jacob Vangen, JacobV@cckc.church

Part 1: Jesus and the Donkey

Part 2: Jesus and the Temple

Either you’ll have to crown him or you’ll have to kill him. The one thing you can’t do is just say, ‘What an interesting guy.’ ~ Tim Keller, King’s Cross

Part 3: Jesus and the Fig Tree

– What are the signs of a fruitless religion?

– What fruit is my life bearing?