Connection Group Questions 2.21.2021
Series: The King’s Gambit
Message: King’s Pawn
“At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness”
~ Mark 1:12
Open
It’s Lent. Did you grow up with Lent? Do you do Lent? Are you giving up anything for Lent? No wrong answers, just share.
George shared that he didn’t grow up with Lent, but came to appreciate ordering and directing his life around the church calendar and religious seasons. Share your thoughts, practices or experiences, if any.
Last Opener. We’re calling this series “The King’s Gambit.” A gambit is a chess opening in which a player sacrifices material, usually a pawn, with the hope of achieving an advantageous position. If you’re a chess player feel free to expound on this, or set us straight!
Discuss
Read Mark 1:9-15
Mark is the fast paced, action oriented Gospel. He skips Christmas and goes right to Jesus’ ministry. In the span of 7 verses he covers Jesus’ baptism, 40 days in the desert, and launch into ministry. Why the urgency? What does this tell us about Jesus and his mission?
Jesus’ baptism is a beautiful picture of the Trinity: God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. How do you understand the Trinity? How would you explain this to someone?
The Father declares of Jesus,“You are men son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” What does this tells about Jesus’ identity? Why is our identity in Christ so important, so foundational, to our life and calling? How would you describe or define your core identity? What does God declare about you?
The heavens are torn open, just at the temple curtain will be torn open, top to bottom, in Mark 15. What does this mean regarding the Holy Spirit and our lives as Christians?
Mark will use the word translated at once or immediately 47 times. Why the urgency?
The Spirit led Jesus to the wilderness to be tempted. We see God leading his people, preparing leaders, in the wilderness. Often for 40 days, or even for 40 years! Why does God use the wilderness? How does God use the wilderness? How has God shaped you in the wilderness?
George said that Lent is less about giving up “dessert” and more about going to the “desert” where there is no dessert, no water, no food, no anything! How might you willingly go to the desert to be equipped for mission and ministry?
Jesus began preaching a message that was summarized, Mark 1:15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”
What is the kingdom of God? How is it near? How does one repent and believe? Why is this good news? How can we make this our mission and message as individuals and as the church?
Apply
So, what do we think of Lent now? Can God use 40 days devoted to Him in a unique way in your life? Is there a sacrifice you might make to grow closer to your Lord? Maybe a fast? Maybe more time in prayer and scripture? Discuss and encourage one another to follow the example of Jesus and give yourself to Him as we aim to Easter.
