Discussion Prompts 12.35-43

Introduction

• What is your understanding of predictions about the Messiah in the Old Testament? 

The Text: Mark 12.35-43 Page 30.18-31.7

• Read the text aloud to each other. Look back over chapter 11 and 12 and review the different discussions and events of Jesus’ final visit to the Temple.

Discussion Questions:

• Why do you think Jesus chose to end his Temple visit with these two teaching themes, the Son of David, and the poor widow?
• What is the main thing Jesus intends to teach his listeners about his role as Son of David? How is this different than the prevailing teaching of the scribes and other religious leaders?
• Discuss everything you notice about this widow and her gift. Does the story of this woman bring to mind any other surprising stories about individuals included in Mark’s narrative? What is the most important thing Jesus wants his disciples to understand about this widow? Why would Mark choose this story to summarize Jesus’ teaching in the Temple?

Application reflections

• How are we responding to the Lord who is greater than David?
• Do you think Jesus has anything to say to us about ways we have misunderstood his identity and role as Messiah?
• What gift to the Lord and his kingdom would represent ultimate devotion and dependency for us? 

Pray