Discussion Questions Mark 8.27-9.1

Introduction

• This section is the turning point of Mark’s narrative. Jesus’ identity is proclaimed by Peter. But Jesus’ understanding of the Christ, the Messiah, is a shocking surprise to his disciples. The rest of Mark’s narrative unfolds the implications of following Jesus: suffering, rejection, death and resurrection. Jesus’ words should shock us just as much as they did the disciples, and the crowds.

The Text: Mark 8.1-26, Page 17.26-19.13

• Read the text aloud to each other.

Discussion Questions:

• Why does Jesus chose this time and place to discuss the disciples’ understanding of his identity?
• What do you think Peter meant by naming Jesus as the Christ?
• How did Jesus’ teaching about the Son of Man conflict with Peter’s, and other 1st century Jews’, understanding of the Messiah?
• Compare the role of Satan in the parable of the sower to Peter’s role here. Why does Jesus call Peter Satan?
• Why does Jesus address his comments about coming after him not only to the disciples, but to the crowds?
• How would you sum up Jesus’ comments about coming after him?
• Why might Jesus’ words here be considered something to be ashamed of?

Application reflections

• Who do people today say Jesus is? Who do we say Jesus is?
• Can we relate to Peter’s objection – that suffering, rejection, death and resurrection are central to the Christ’s purpose?
• Compare the idea that God loves us and has a wonderful plan for our life with Jesus’ description of discipleship. Are they the same? Is the message today different than the message then?
• How did Jesus model losing his life? What does it mean for us to lose our lives for his sake and the gospel?
• Can we follow Jesus without experiencing suffering, rejection, death, and resurrection ourselves?
• What is there to be ashamed of in Jesus’ model and description of discipleship? Are we expressing shame about Jesus’ lifestyle and description of discipleship?

Pray