25/02/2024
It ain’t easy…but worth it
HOME GROUP RESOURCE: It ain’t easy….but worth it
Reading: Mark 8:27 – 38
Reflection:
Take some time to listen to the needs of the group and to support and comfort each other through fellowship and prayer.
- What are some things/people/ideas that you struggle to say “no” to?
- Read Mark 8:27 – 38. What stands out to you, or grabs your attention, in the story?
- Considering the below quote, what is the difference between denying the self and self denial? “Denying self is not the same as self-denial. We practice self-denial when, for a good purpose, we occasionally give up things or activities. But we deny self when we surrender ourselves to Christ and determine to obey His will.” (Wiersbe)
- Taking up our cross means we will experience: rejection, suffering, shame, and death. How can we experience these in our daily lives?
- What does verse 35 mean for you?
- Why can’t we buy our salvation? (verse 36).
- Being ashamed of someone means we do not want to associate ourselves with that person. How can we, in our lives, be ashamed of Jesus and his gospel?
- What is one thing you can apply to your life from this passage?
Perhaps there is a need for a prayer of repentance too. For those who have been ashamed of Jesus and his gospel in the past, who have not been denying themselves but rather pursuing a worldly life that ultimately leads to death. If necessary, spend some time praying over those who are seeking God’s forgiveness.