Mark 7 and 8

1. 7:1-13 In the scribes’ and Pharisees’ minds, what was the benefit of keeping their traditions? What was at least one tradition that resulted in neglect of family responsibilities?
2. 7:14-23 Does verse 15 mean that there can be no harm from eating with unwashed hands?
3. 7:24-30 After debating with Jewish leaders about their traditions, where did Jesus go? Can you estimate by the map how far he traveled? Was it primarily a Jewish or Gentile region? [See Appendix 1, Geographical Notes.]
4. 7:31-37 What did Jesus do before he spoke the words that healed the man who was deaf and had a speech impediment?
5. 8:1-10 What were the only circumstances under which the crowd would leave?
6. 8:13-21 With what tone of voice do you hear Jesus saying the words recorded in verses 17 through 21? What did the disciples not understand?
7. 8:22-26 What is unique about the healing of the blind man of Bethsaida?
8. 8:27-33 What connection might there be between verses 29 (Peter’s confession) and his rebuke (verse 32)?
9. 8:34-9:1 What does it mean to take up your cross? How do the verses that follow explain what it means?