2 Thessalonians 3

1.  3:1-2 What were Paul’s prayer requests?
   Class Answers: He asked the Thessalonians to pray for them, that 1) the word of the Lord may run (spread rapidly) and be glorified; 2) they would be delivered from unreasonable (wicked) and evil men. Note: The Greek word for “unreasonable” also means “out of place, improper.”
2. 3:3-5 What would the Lord do for the Thessalonians?
   v. 3 – Establish (strengthen) them
   v. 3 – Guard them from the evil one. See also Matthew 6:13.
   v. 4 – Help them obey the commands – by working in their lives
   v. 5 – Direct their hearts into the love of (for, from?) God and the patience of (after the manner of?) Christ. [Paul’s prayer for them.]
   Note: This passage also prepares them for the admonition that follows.
3. 3:6-13 What seemed to be a problem in the Thessalonian church? How might a misunderstanding of Paul’s earlier teaching (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3) have led to this problem?
   Class Answers: Laziness, idleness – an unwillingness to work, being disorderly, busybodies – a repetition of 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12; 5:14.
4. 3:6-12 What commands does Paul mention in this passage? To whom are they given?
   v. 6 – Withdraw (keep away) from disorderly brethren. This command is given in the name of, or by the authority of, “our” Lord Jesus Christ. Note: Paul had taught them this in person (v. 10), in the  first letter, and now in this letter. If they still weren’t heeding his command, they needed to lose their fellowship and dependence on the other Christians. It would also diminish their influence on others who might also be tempted to live the same lifestyle.
   v. 10 – If any won’t work, they shouldn’t eat
   v. 12 – Work with quietness, eat your own bread (make your own living). If the early disciples lived communally, this might literally mean “bring your own bread.”  Note: This seems to be in the context of the church family, not dealing with the issue of someone who might not be part of the fellowship. It’s a matter of judgment whether or not helping someone financially is an act of love or enabling.
5. 3:7-9 What kind of model did the apostles leave with them?
   Class Answers: They worked night and day so they wouldn’t be a burden to the Thessalonians. This is also what Paul pointed out in 1 Thessalonians 2:9.
6. 3:13-15 List other instructions Paul gives to the Thessalonian Christ.ians.
   v. 13 – Be not weary in well doing (doing what is right).
   v. 14 – Note the man who does not work.
   v. 14 – Have no company with him (have nothing to do with them).
   v. 15 – Admonish (warn) him as a brother, not an enemy. It is not appropriate to gather into a clique and gossip about the brother (or sister), to treat him or her as “other.”
7. 3:16 How might verse 16 related back to verses 14 and 15?
   Class Answers: When each does his own job, peace is more likely. Peace is more possible when busybodies are not allowed to have influence.
8. 3:16-18 What is the distinguishing mark in all Paul’s letters? How are his greeting (1:1-2) and conclusion similar?
   Class Answers:  The distinguishing mark: His salutation with his own hand – his personal handwritten note at the end of the letter verified and gave the letter credibility.
   Note the “alls” in this passage: “May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with you all [including those who may have been walking disorderly]…The peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.

Questions for 2 Thessalonians compiled by Cheryl Bryan
May, 2013

2 Thessalonians 2

Note: There may be as many theories about the meaning of the first 12 verses of this chapter as there are commentators. These questions are designed to reveal what the text says within the context of the Thessalonians’ situation and as a continuation of what Paul had written in 1 Thessalonians. As we answered them in class, we also tried to answer not with our opinions, which are colored by our viewpoints about the second coming of Christ – but simply by what Paul expresses in this letter. (We did allow ourselves a little time for conjecture and discussion after we answered all the questions.)

1. 2:1 What two related things does Paul now address?
   Class Answers: 1) The coming of Christ; 2) Our gathering together with him.
2. 2:2 What might the Thessalonians be told that might alarm or shake them? By what three means would that alarm be communicated?
   Class Answers: That the day of the Lord is at hand (sometimes translated “is already here”). 1) by spirit (or prophecy); 2) by word (report); 3) by epistle (letter). CB Comment: Some things never change; there will always be those who spread rumors as if they are the truth.
3. 2:3 What two things must happen before that day comes?
   Class Answers: 1) The falling away (or rebellion); 2) the revelation of the man of sin (or the lawless one). Note the use of the word the in both phrases – this is speaking of a specific rebellion, a specific man of lawlessness.
4. 2:3-4 List the descriptions of the “man of lawlessness,” or “man of sin.”
   Class Answers: 1) Son of perdition (destined for destruction); 2) Opposes and exalts himself against all that is called God (every so-called god) or worshipped (objects of worship). 3) He sits in the temple (or sanctuary) of God, setting himself forth as God (declaring himself as God). CB Comment: The phrase “son of perdition” is also used to describe Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus.
5. 2:5-6 What should the Thessalonians remember? What do they know?
   Class Answers: They should remember that Paul told them these things. (Note the departure from the pronoun “we.”) They knew that which restrains, to the end that he may be revealed in his own season. (NRSV: …when his time comes.)
   Morris’s comment on this: “The Thessalonians knew; we do not.)
6. 2:7 What was already at work? For how long?
   Class Answers: The mystery of lawlessness (NIV: secret power of lawlessness). Until the one that restrains is taken away (NRSV: the one who restrains it is removed).
7. 2:8 What will happen to the lawless one?
   Class Answers: The Lord will slay him with the breath of his mouth and bring him to naught by the manifestation of his coming (will annihilate him by the manifestation of his coming). CB Comment: What’s important in this passage is the absolute sovereignty of God. When our Lord comes, anyone who would claim or appear to be all-powerful will be shown for what he is at the first appearance of the real Lord and Christ – like the self-important mayor of a small town diminished by the appearance of the President of the United States.
8. 2:9-10 According to what will the coming of the lawless one be? What will accompany his coming?
   Class Answers: His coming will be the working of Satan, accompanied by power, signs, and lying wonders (Morris: imitations of Christ on earth), all deceit of unrighteousness (every kind of wicked deception).
9. 2:10-12 Why does God send a strong delusion?
   v. 10 – Because they did not receive a love of the truth (they refused to love the truth). If they want to believe a lie, God will allow it. See also John 14:6; Ephesians 4:21.
   v. 11 – So they would believe a lie (what is false).
   v. 12 – They didn’t believe the truth but enjoyed unrighteousness (NIV: delighted in wickedness).
   Morris: They not only didn’t love it, they didn’t believe it.
10. 2:13 How did God choose to save the Thessalonians?
    Class Answers: By sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth, from the beginning (as first fruits). Again, Paul says “We are bound to give thanks” as he wrote in 1:3.
11. 2:14 How did God call them? For what purpose?
    Class Answers: Through “our” gospel (proclamation of good news), in order to obtain (or share in) the glory of Christ.
12. 2:15 What two things does Paul exhort them to do?
    Class Answers: 1) Stand fast (stand firm); 2) Hold the traditions they were taught either by word of mouth or by “our” letter.
13. 2:16 What have the Son and the Father done for us?
    Class Answers: They have loved us and given us eternal comfort and good hope through grace.
14. 2:17 What was Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians?
    Class Answers: That Christ and God would comfort their hearts and establish (strengthen) them in every good work and word. CB Comment: It is not for Christians to be still and wait for Christ’s coming; it is for us to work, to study, to teach.

*CB Comment – my personal observations, added while compiling these notes. – Cheryl Bryan

2 Thessalonians 1

Purposes of 2 Thessalonians: To correct misunderstandings regarding the Lord’s return; warning against idleness; the nature of the second coming; what will happen to the wicked.

1. 1:1-2 Note differences and similarities between this greeting and the one in 1 Thessalonians 1:1.
   Class Answers: Differences: In 2 Thessalonians, he writes “God our Father, not God the Father. To “grace and peace to you” in 1 Thessalonians, here he adds “from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Leon Morris (pg. 191) on this passage: The joining of God and Jesus are sources of grace and peace.
   Similarities: From Paul, Silas (Silvanus), and Timothy; to the church of the Thessalonians.
2. 1:3-4 For what four attributes does Paul give thanks or boast?
   Class Answers:
   1) Their faith was growing more and more
   2) Their love was increasing
   3) For their perseverance (steadfastness) through persecutions and afflictions
   4) For their faith through persecutions and afflictions
   Note: Paul says he is “bound to” or “must” give thanks because it is the right thing to do. Even if they don’t feel worthy of his praise, Paul is obligated to give it.
   Also note: In the original Greek manuscript (and 1901 American Standard Version), verses 3-10 are one sentence.
3. 1:5 How could persecutions and afflictions be evidence that God’s judgment is righteous?
   Class Answers: God provides strength in persecution; he didn’t leave the Thessalonians to their own devices. God was on their side. The Thessalonians were passing the test. They were working out God’s eternal purpose
   Morris (p. 196): “In the good providence of God, suffering is often the means of working out God’s eternal purpose.” It develops character. It teaches valuable lessons. For believers, it is inevitable. They are appointed (destined) to it (1 Thess. 3:3). Such suffering is a vivid token of the presence of God.
4. 1:5-7 What are three results of the Thessalonians’ perseverance and faith in suffering? (One each from verses 5, 6, and 7)
   Class Answers: v. 5 – They would be counted worthy; v. 6 – God would pay back the trouble they suffered; v. 7 – They would receive relief.
   Morris (p. 201) note on v. 7: “Now the Lord is hid from the view of the world, and it is even possible for people to deny his existence. But on that day he will be revealed in all his glory. He will be shown to be what he is.”
   This also reminds me of the revelation of Jesus in Revelation 1: Jesus with the flaming sword coming from his mouth, with eyes like flame of fire and feet like burnished bronze. Other references given in class were Revelation 19:1ff; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:3.
5. 1:6-8 How does Paul describe God’s justice?
   Class Answers: This describes the other side of God’s judgment. v. 6 – He will avenge his people; v. 8 – He will punish the persecutors and those who do not acknowledge him.
6. 1:8 What does it mean to “not know God and obey not the gospel”?
   Class Answers: To not know God is to not acknowledge him or his power. See Romans 1:28. To not obey the gospel is to acknowledge his existence but to pay no attention to what he would want us to do. Morris: To reject the divine invitation.
7. 1:9 What is the punishment for those to whom verse 8 applies?
   Class Answers: Everlasting destruction – shut out from the presence of the Lord and from the majesty of his power. According to Morris (p. 204), the Greek word used here for punish comes from the same root word as right in verse 5 and just in verse 6. He is bringing them to justice. Morris again (p. 205):
   “Those who oppose the things of God here and now are not engaged in some minor error that can easily be put right in the hereafter. They are engaging in that defiance of the will of God which has eternal consequences. Life here and now has a high and serous dignity. In particular, facing up to the gospel invitation is a choice fraught with the most solemn and lasting consequences.”
8. 1:10 When will this happen?
   Class Answers: On the day he comes to be glorified. Believers will find rest, a shared glory with Christ.
9. 1:11 With that in mind, what is Paul’s prayer for the Thessalonians?
   Class Answers: 1) That they would be counted worthy of his calling; 2) That God would fulfill their purposes and acts.
10. 1:12 What is a more immediate purpose of Paul’s prayer for them?
    Class Answers: That Jesus would be glorified by them. That they would be glorified in Jesus. We reflect Jesus’ nature to others.

1 Thessalonians 4

1. 4:1-2 What are at three motivations mentioned in these verses for living in the right way? (Hint: Who does it please, who is urging it, and by whose authority were the instructions given?)
   Class Answers: 1) To please God; 2) Because Paul was urging them to do as they had been instructed; 3) Because these instructions were given through Jesus.
   Note: The word instructions here is a little weak, because it indicates authority, as a captain giving an order. According to Morris (page 116), the word is found in only two other places in the New Testament as commands to believers: 1 Timothy 1:5, and 1 Timothy 1:18. The ASV uses the word charge in all three instances.
2. 4:3-8 What does being “sanctified” have to do with living a pure life?
   Class Answers: God calls us to be holy, set apart, which is the meaning of sanctified. Living a pure life – controlling our bodies – is what sets us apart from the “Gentiles who do not know God.” See also Romans 1:20-25.
   Note: Again, I like what Morris has to say here: Page 118: “The strong warning is probably to be understood in light of the prevalence of low standards.” Page 119: “We come to Christ in all our sin, and we receive cleansing by his atoning death. Then day by day we become more and more what God would have us to be.”
3. 4:3-8 Which members of the godhead are involved here?
   Class Answers:
   1) God. Verse 1 – please God; v. 2 – the will of God; v. 5 – Gentiles who do not know God; v. 7 – God calls us in holiness; v. 8 – Rejecting God’s authority; v. 9 – taught by God.
   2) Jesus – v. 1 – urge you in the Lord Jesus; v. 2 – by the authority of the Lord Jesus
   3) Holy Spirit. v. 8 – God gives you his Holy Spirit. In the Greek, this is “his Spirit, the holy.”
   Note: The word godhead is not used in this passage. It is the term used in Colossians 2:9 (KJV and ASV) to translate the Greek word Theotes, which means “the state of being God” or “deity.”
4. 4:9-10 How were they taught by God to love one another? (See John 13:34; 15:9)
   Class Answers: It was taught by Jesus verbally (John 13:34) and by example (John 15:9). Also see 1 Thessalonians 3:12.
5. 4:11-12 What three things does Paul encourage them to do? For what purpose?
   Class Answers: 1) To aspire to live quietly. [Interesting paradox – to “be ambitious” to be quiet.] Morris (p. 131) – this does not denote inactivity, but tranquility in the midst of being busy with the Lord’s work. 2) To mind their own affairs; 3) To work with their own hands. [These are all connected: When we are quietly taking care of our own affairs, we don’t have time to be busybodies.]
   The purpose? For reputation’s sake, to set a good example, to take care of our own needs so we’re not a burden on others.
6. 4:13 Who are those who have fallen asleep? Who are those who have no hope?
   Class Answers: Christians who have died. Apparently, the Thessalonians were concerned about those who died before Jesus came again. Morris, p. 137: “When the apostle counsels the Thessalonians not to sorrow as the pagans do, he is not urging them to endure with a deep Stoic calm the buffetings of fortune that they cannot avoid….Rather, he is rejoicing in the complete victory that Christ has won. Those who have died have simply fallen asleep in Christ, and they will wake with him.”
   Those who have no hope are non-believers. See Ephesians 2:12.
7. 4:14 What does this verse imply about those who have fallen asleep?
   Class Answers: That they are with Jesus – or will be, when he comes again. See also Matthew 24:31; 2 Thessalonians 2:1. Morris, pg. 140: “What worried the Thessalonians was not whether their friends would rise, but whether they would have any share in the great events associated with the Parousia [second coming].”
8. 4:15-17 Read these verses, form a picture of the scene in your mind, then try to describe it in your own words.
   My Answer: When Jesus appears again, he will shout a command, an archangel will call, and a trumpet will sound. Those who died in Christ will rise and meet him in the air. Then those who are still alive will rise to meet them and him. Related passages: 1 Corinthians 15:52; Revelation 10:1; 18:1; 20:1; Acts 1:11. There is no mention of the wicked here. They are mentioned, though, in Acts 24:15 and in Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians.
   Note: There’s so much we can’t comprehend about this event. In response to all our questions, Morris (p. 142) writes: “There are many things we would like to know, but the Bible was not written to satisfy our curiosity. Rather, it is intended to help us in our Christian lives.” The important message here is “Be ready.”
9. 4:18 Where will Christians be when after the Lord returns? How long?
   Class Answers: With the Lord – forever.
   Note: As I understand it, what is referred to as “the rapture” is a quiet event. There’s nothing quiet in this description of Jesus’ Second Coming. I was also curious about the origin of the word “rapture,” since it doesn’t appear in any English translation I’ve read. According to Shogren, p. 188, the Greek word for taken or caught up in verse 17 was translated into Latin as rapiemur, a form of rapio, which in English is rapture. This same word, Harpazo, is used in Acts 8:39 for Philip.
   

Luke 9 and 10

1. 9:1-6 What kind of power did Jesus give to the twelve apostles before He sent them out?
   Comments: 1) Power and authority over all demons: 2) to cure diseases; 3) to preach the kingdom of God; 4) to heal the sick
2. 9:7-17 What kind of doubt did the apostles have when there were so many who had followed Jesus to the desert place?
   Comments: This was beyond their experience, so they couldn’t imagine His ability to do such a thing. The same thing can be true of us. We tend to limit God’s abilities to what we have experienced or can imagine when in reality He can do more than we can imagine. (Hendriksen: They concentrated on the size of the crowd, not on Jesus.)
3. 9:18-27 What are two truths spoken about Jesus in this passage?
   Comments: v. 20 – He is Christ of God. v. 22 – He would die and be resurrected.
4. 9:28-36 What misunderstanding did Peter have that is evident in his suggestion about the tabernacles?
   Comments: That Jesus was just another special lawgiver or prophet – in the same category as Moses and Elijah. Moses was the representation of the Old Law; Elijah was representative of the Old Testament prophets. But Jesus is both lawgiver and prophet, the Son of God; now we listen to Him. (Hendriksen comment: Both Moses and Elijah departed the earth in unusual ways (Deuteronomy 34:6; 2 Kings 2:11).)
5. 9:37-62 What are some other weaknesses of the disciples as shown in this chapter?
   Comments: vv. 37-42 – Lack of faith. vv. 43-45 – Lack of understanding; vv. 46-48 – Pride; vv. 49-50 – Cliquishness; vv. 51-56 – Destructive anger, wanting revenge; vv. 57-62 – Misplaced priorities. Generally, a lack of faith.
6. 10:1-16 What were the main responsibilities of the seventy whom Jesus sent out?
   Comments: vv. 1-4 - To prepare the way for him, test the soil; v. 5 -  To take a message of peace; v. 9 - To preach the kingdom; v. 11 – To judge cities according to their response. Note the two meanings of “the kingdom of God has come near you.” One is a promise (v. 9); the other a warning (v. 11).
7. 10:17-20 What is more important than having the power to cast out demons?
   Comments: To have your name written in heaven. That power was important, but such power ends with death.
8. 10:21-24 How can we know God?
   Comments: Through the Son – Spending time with Him; reading the Word.
9. 10:25-37 How can we know if we love our neighbors as ourselves?
   Comments: By our acts of mercy and compassion; by our deeds. Treating others as we would be treated.
10. 10:38-42 What is the “good part” that Mary chose?
    Comments: To sit at Jesus’ feet and hear his word, undistracted by worldly concerns. Though Martha was serving, she wasn’t displaying a servant’s heart. She felt burdened by her duties and anxious about the outcome.

Luke 7 and 8

1. 7:1-10 The centurion showed great sympathy, benevolence, and humility. However, what was his greatest attribute?
   Comments: Jesus commented about his faith, calling it greater than any faith He had found in Israel.
   Note: It’s possible that this centurion had been responsible for the building of the synagogue where the man in Luke 4:31-37, was healed. William Hendriksen points out that though the elders (v. 4) told Jesus He should heal the centurion’s servant because the centurion was “deserving,” the centurion saw himself as “not worthy” (vv. 6-7).
2. 7:11-17 What was the reaction of the people after Jesus raised the widow’s son from the dead?
   Comments: Fear came upon all, and they glorified God. (However, they saw Jesus only as a prophet, a representative from God, not God Himself.) Other words for “fear” might be “awe” or “shock.”
3. 7:18-23 How was John to know whether or not Jesus was the Christ?
   Comments: By the things He did. He healed the blind, the lame, the leper, and the deaf and even raised the dead. Besides that, He preached the gospel to the poor, perhaps the greatest work of all.
   Note: John was imprisoned in the fortress at Macheurus, a Herodian palace east of the Dead Sea. (F, 12.5 on this Map of Israel.)
4. 7:24-35 What were the two different responses to the teaching of John?
   Comments: 1) Some – even tax collectors – justified God (acknowledged  He was right), and were baptized with John’s baptism. 2) Some “rejected the will of God for themselves” and rejected baptism.
5. 7:36-50 Who are the three main characters in this section? How are they different?
   Comments: Jesus: discerning, forgiving, loving; Simon the Pharisee: self-righteous, critical, judgmental; the sinful woman: repentant, sorrowful, and loving. According to Hendriksen, Luther called her tears “heart water.”
6. 8:1-15 What are the characteristics of a good and honest heart?
   Comments: One with a good and honest heart hears the word, keeps it, and bears fruit with patience. A “noble and good” heart is responsive and perseveres.
7. 8:16-21 With what attitude should we hear the word of God? (18, 21)
   Comments: 1) Taking heed, and 2) doing it. We listen with the attitude that we need to hear it, and then we put it into practice.
   Hendriksen: There are 4 ways to listen: 1)Not at all; 2) For entertainment; 3) To find fault; 4) To find wisdom and use it.
8. 8:22-25 What does His ability to calm the winds and waves indicate about the nature of Jesus?
   Comments: He had power over nature, and he was willing to demonstrate His power as the Son of God. He was disappointed in their lack of faith.
9. 8:26-39 What kind of power did Jesus have over demons? How was the man changed?
   Comments: He could command them, communicate with them. Once again, His power frightened people.
10. 8:40-48 What characteristics of the afflicted woman would be good for us to follow?
    Comments: Her faith, her courage, her fear of God.
11. 8:49-56 How complete was the recovery of the ruler’s daughter? Consider: If Jesus didn’t want anyone to know about it, why did he heal her?
    Comments: Her spirit returned. She got up immediately and needed food. One reason is because Jairus pleaded with Jesus to heal her. But it was not His time yet, so He asked the parents not to broadcast it.

John 13 and 14

1. 13:1-17 What did Jesus mean when he told Peter, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me” (vs. 8)? Multiple choice (from The Serendipity Bible):
   a. “I don’t want to share a room with anyone with dirty feet.”
   b. “To be part of me you have to learn to receive.”
   c. “You have to let my coming sacrifice cleanse you from your sin.”
   d. “As long as you live, you will need cleansing and forgiveness.”
   e. “Unless you’re a servant like I am, you can’t be my disciple.”

Class Comments: Most in the class picked “e” as one of their answers, with “b” and “c” as other choices. Note: Peter was very emphatic in his initial refusal. In the Greek, he uses a double negative [οὐ (never) μή (cannot)] for emphasis. The Serendipity Bible includes suggestions for small group studies. As is typical in the multiple questions they suggest, there is not just one right answer.

1. 13:18-30 Since “Satan entered him,” was Judas responsible for the action he was about to take? Class Comments: Yes, he was. Judas  allowed Satan to influence him, gave him an opening because of his own greed. James 1:14-15 teaches about the progression of sin, from lust to sin to death.
2. 13:31-35 How can others know we belong to Christ? How many others? How does this relate to 13:14-15? Class Comments:  Others know we belong to Christ when we love one another. All – both believers and unbelievers – will know we are of Christ. Love is demonstrated by our service. Both love and humble service are signs of discipleship. Note: According to Leviticus 19:18, even the Old Testament commanded love for neighbors. According to notes I took in a previous class, William Barclay called this a new commandment because it was “as I have loved you” – selflessly, sacrificially, with understanding and forgiveness.
3. 13:36-38 Do you think Peter understood that Jesus was speaking of His death, or just of a dangerous situation? Class Comments: He thought it would be just a dangerous situation. The disciples didn’t seem capable of understanding the nature of the kingdom of which Jesus spoke. They still looked for an earthly kingdom, free from Roman bondage. Note: Also from my FHU class notes: Peter was willing to meet a sharp dagger, but later couldn’t withstand the sharp tongue of a maiden (18:17). When Jesus told Peter he couldn’t follow Jesus, the general consensus was that Jesus was talking about the cross, although it could also include his ascension back to the Father.
4. 14:1-6 Is Jesus the only way, the only truth, the only access we have to life? What does that mean for those who follow other spiritual leaders? Class Comments: If we believe Jesus, we have to believe He is the only Way, the only Truth, the only Life. That means those following mere men  will not gain spiritual, eternal life. When they reject Christ, they reject the way, the truth, and the life. See also Acts 4:12.
5. 14:7-11 How does Philip’s question indicate his misunderstanding of who Jesus was? Class Comments: He wanted a physical showing of the Father. Since Jesus was a man and could show himself, couldn’t his father also do the same? He seemed to think that Jesus was merely an emissary of God, not the image of God himself. See also Hebrews 1:3.
6. 14:12-14 In context, what prayer requests is Jesus promising to fulfill? What is the purpose of such prayers? Class Comments: He promises to fulfill prayers asked in His name, according to His purpose, by His authority, for the purpose of glorifying his Father. Prayers for strength, peace, and the ability to carry out his will. Note the context: He is talking about works. He will fulfill the requests that are a continuation of His works.
7. 14:15-18 How much do the promises about the Holy Spirit in verses 16-18 depend on Jesus’ statement in verse 15? Class Comments: This promise is based on Jesus’ love for us, and our love for Jesus, which we show in our obedience. If Jesus’ love abides in us, we will obey Him; it will be part of our nature to do so. Note: The transliterated Greek word for Comforter in verse 16  is paraclete: one who is called to stand along beside, to help, to advocate on behalf of.
8. 14:19-24 How do we show Jesus that we love Him? What are the resulting blessings? Class Comments: By obeying him. The resulting blessings are that the Father will also love us, and both the Son and Father will make their abode with us. Question asked: But doesn’t the Father love all of us unconditionally, even those who don’t obey Him? I would answer that this doesn’t exclude God’s love for the whole world, but is an assurance to disciples that the Father will not only love them, but live in them through His Son – an assurance the unbelieving world cannot have.
9. 14:25-31 To whom was Jesus speaking in this passage? How would the Holy Spirit be a helper to them? Class Comments: He’s speaking to the disciples, those who ate supper with Him (the apostles, Luke 22:14). He would teach them all things, and bring to their remembrance all things – help they would need as they taught others in the first century without the aid of the written word we have. Question: Then would not all the promises he made be only to the apostles? As we briefly surveyed the chapter, it appeared that some of those promises were general in nature. For example, in 13:33-35, verse 33 would have to apply only to the apostles, whereas in 13:34-35 is a principle that would apply to all disciples of every time. A good study for another time!

John 7 & 8 Class Discussion

1. 7:1-13 Why did Jesus’ brothers want him to go to the feast in Jerusalem? Why did He decide not to go with them? Class Comments: They wanted him to prove himself. “If you’re so great, why not show it?” They seemed to want a confrontation with the Jewish leaders. He didn’t go with them because it was not yet his time to go. He would go with them on his terms, not theirs. His physical brothers – James, Joses, Simon, and Judas – are listed in Matthew 13:55. Though at this time they did not believe, the crucifixion and resurrection changed them. James later became a leader in the church in Jerusalem, and probably wrote the book of James, and Jude is the author of the book that bears his name.
2. 7:14-24 What is the answer to the Jews’ question in verse 15? Class Comments: He is the Word incarnate! His teaching wasn’t his own; it was from God.
3. This section seems to include a lot of confusion and controversy about the nature and identity of Christ. Note the confusion and/or controversy in the following passages:
   a. 7:25-27 – The rulers’ reaction indicates they think He is the Christ, but he couldn’t be, because “we know where he’s from.”
   b. 7:28-31 – They knew him, they knew where he was from. He claimed to know God and be from God. They wanted to arrest him, but no one touched him, because his hour had not yet come. But many believed. Would the Christ do any more than this man had been doing?
   c. 7:32-36 – Jesus: I’m going where you will not find me. The crowd thought only in the physical realm. (Would he go outside Judea, to the Jews of the Dispersion – or even to the Gentiles?) He spoke of the spiritual realm, of going to the cross – and beyond, at His ascension.
   d. 7:37-44 – Jesus speaks of living water and the Spirit. The crowd says, “This is the Prophet. This is the Christ.” But it can’t be the Christ, because He will come out of Bethlehem, while this man is from Galilee. (They were apparently ignorant of his birthplace.)
   e. 7:45-52 – The officers were afraid to seize Jesus because of the words he spoke. The priests and Pharisees accused them of being deceived. Nicodemus asks for justice, and the priests and Pharisees accuse him of being a [despicable] Galilean. Other indication of ignorance: They said “No prophet has arisen out of Galilee,” yet that was the home of the prophet Jonah (2 Kings 14:25 – Gath Hepher, 5 miles from Nazareth.
4. 8:1-11 How did the scribes and Pharisees hope to trap Jesus with this situation? Class Comments: They were trying to make him contradict himself, knowing he would forgive the woman and thereby contradict Moses’ law. Also see Matthew 5:28 – Jesus’ view of adultery was stricter than that of the law. Other notes: This passage is absent in the older Greek manuscripts. It appears in at least three other places in some manuscripts: after John 7:36, after John 21:25, and after Luke 21:38.
5. 8:12-20 What two witnesses does Jesus call to confirm that He is the light of the world? Class Comments: Himself, and His Father. Contrary to what they say, he is qualified to testify of himself. Other notes: It’s no coincidence that at this festival he calls himself the light of the world. Light ceremonies played a big part in the Feast of Tabernacles in Jesus’ day, according to The Feast of Tabernacles in the Days of Jesus. 
6. 8:21-30 What is the consequence for those who do not believe that Jesus is who He claimed to be? Class Comments: They will die in their sins. V. 28 – “But when you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I AM.”
7. 8:31-47 Who is Jesus instructing in this passage? How does their concept of freedom differ from His? Class Comments: He’s instructing Jews who believe him. As Jews who were still subject to the law of Moses, they didn’t understand what he said about spiritual freedom and felt threatened when he implied they were not free. Another misstatement here: They claimed to be under bondage to no one, but they had been in bondage in Egypt, Babylon, and Assyria and were now subjects of Rome.
8. 8:48-59 What is the significance of how Jesus identifies Himself in verse 58? (Also read Exodus 3:13-15.) Class Comments: He identifies himself as I AM, the name of the God of Abraham. At this, they took up stones to stone him, but he hid himself and left the temple. [His time had not yet come.]

John 5 & 6 Discussion

1. 5:1-15 Third Sign. The Jews accused the man of breaking the Sabbath. If that was so, according to Exodus 31:14-15, what should have been his punishment? Class Comments: Death. Even though Jesus knew what the man wanted, Jesus wanted the man to express his desire and his confession of weakness and dependency, just as in our prayers today we express our desires and weaknesses, though God already knows what they are. Verse 14: “a worse thing” refers to the spiritual consequences of sin.
2. 5:16-23 These days, some say that Jesus never claimed to be God. They say the claim was made later by His disciples, after His death. What does this passage say in that regard? Class Comments: Jesus was the Son of God, was divine, had the attributes of God, gives life.  Verse 18: The Jews interpreted “Son of God” as “equal with God.” People typically become more like their parents as they mature. Sons learn the trades of their fathers.
3. 5:24-30 According to this passage, who will be our judge? What kind of authority has he been given?Class Comments: Verse 27: Christ. He would execute judgment because he was the Son of Man. Verse 30: His judgment is righteous because of his motive – doing God’s will.
4. 5:31-47 What five witnesses testify of Jesus? (See verses 33, 36, 37, 39, and 46.) Class Comments: 1) John the Baptist – v. 33; 2) His works – v. 36; 3) the Father – v. 37; 4) the Scriptures – v. 39; 5) Moses – v. 46. Accusation: You don’t even believe Moses!
5. 6:1-15 Fourth Sign. How much bread and fish did Jesus distribute to the men, according to verses 11 and 12? [Consider: How did the people’s suggestion in verse 15 strip Jesus of authority, in a way?] Class Comments: As much as they wanted. [They wanted to make him an earthly king. It was a mockery, considering he was Creator.] Note the prayer of Jesus in verse 11.
6. 6:16-24 Fifth Sign. Describe the thoughts and actions of the crowd left behind. Class Comments:  They had seen the disciples get into the only boat, but Jesus hadn’t gone with them. Where could he be?
7. 6:25-40 What was the crowd looking for Jesus to do for them? What is the work of God? Class Comments:  They wanted food, just like Moses had provided. The work of God is for all to believe in Christ and have everlasting life.
8. 6:41-59 How do we eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood? According to verse 35, what type of hunger and thirst do these satisfy? Class Comments:  By letting His word become part of us. He is the bread of life, which he gave by dying on the cross. We eat his flesh and drink his blood when by faith we incorporate all he was into our lives, receiving daily nourishment through the Word, just as we must do with physical food. There also may be a reference to eating and drinking of the Lord’s Supper, when the sacrifice is remembered.
9. 6:60-71 Why do you think many of Jesus’ disciples left at this time? Class Comments: They were not looking for eternal life, did not understand his true mission. Sad verses in this passage: vss. 66, 67 and 70. They were following him, but did not “follow” him, as in understanding him.

John 1 and 2 Comments

Personal Note: While preparing these lessons, I came across notes I took back in 1999 in a class taught by the late and much loved brother in Christ, Dr. Dowell Flatt, professor at Freed-Hardeman University. Many of the added notes come from that class. – Cheryl

1. 1:1-5 What do you discover about the Word in this passage? Who is He? Comments: He was 1) there at the beginning; 2) was with God; 3) was God; 4) necessary for creation; 5) life; 6) the light of men. Note: He was equal with God in 1) transcending time; 2) fellowship; 3) nature. Whereas the other gospels begin with either the birth of baptism of Christ, John begins with theology. His purpose is that men might believe. He is the Christ, the Word who became flesh (John 1:14).
2. 1:6-9 Who was the man sent from God? What was his purpose? Comments: John the Baptist. He came to bear witness of the light – that all might believe, or trust.
3. 1:10-13 What is the contrast between those who were “His own” and “children of God”? Comments: “His own” refers to those of his physical family, the Jews. Children of God are those who believe on him. They are born of God.
4. 1:14-18 Because of the character of the Word, what can we also know about God the Father? (See verses 14 and 17.) Comments: We see God through Jesus. If Jesus is full of grace and truth, so is God the Father. He “dwelt among us,” or, he “pitched His tent with us.” Note: To the Greeks, the gods were distant; to the Jews, God was close only to priests and prophets. But through Christ, He is close to each one of us.
5. 1:19-28 How did John identify himself in verse 23? How did he answer the Pharisees’ question about baptism? (Also see verse 31.) Comments: As the voice of one crying in the wilderness. John answered that he was baptizing with water, but One is coming whose sandal straps he wasn’t worthy to loose. Verse 31 states that that One would baptize with the Holy Spirit. Note: Loosing sandal straps might be just the thing a servant would do for his master. John says he wasn’t worthy to do even that for the Christ.
6. 1:29-34 With what two expressions does John identify Jesus in verses 29 and 34? Comments: 1) Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world; 2) Son of God.
7. 1:35-42 By what names is Jesus known in this passage? What progression in thinking do you see in Andrew, according to how he refers to Jesus? Comments: 1) Lamb of God; 2) Rabbi; 3) Messiah – Christ – Anointed One. In verse 38, Andrew calls him “Rabbi,” or “Teacher.” in verse 41, he calls Jesus the Messiah. Note: In the Jewish culture, a rabbi was more respected than even an earthly father, who merely brings us into this world. A rabbi takes us into the next world. In Judaism were three anointed offices: prophet, priest, and king. Jesus was all three.
8. 1:43-51 More identities of Jesus! By what names and/or descriptions is he known in this passage? Comments: 1) v. 45 - Jesus of Nazareth, Son of Joseph; 2) v. 47 - Rabbi, Son of God, King of Israel; 3) v. 51 – Son of Man. Note: “Son of Man” was Jesus’ favorite reference to himself. The term appears 13 times in John; 83 times in the other gospels.
9. 2:1-8 First Sign. When this wedding took place, how many days had passed since John identified Jesus as the Lamb of God (1:29)? Comments: Day 1 – John questions by the Pharisees. Day 2 – John identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God. Day 3 – John’s disciples begin following Jesus. Day 4 – Jesus calls Philip and Nathanael. Class answers varied from 1 to 3. It’s hard to know exactly what “On the third day” refers to. It could be part of this sequence, the third day since He left for Galilee, or even the third day of the wedding feast, which typically lasted 7 days.
10. 2:9-11 What were the quantity (v. 6) and quality of the wine Jesus produced from water? Comments: Each water pot held two or three firkins (KJV), which would be from 18 to 24 gallons each. The NJKV translates it “20 or 30 gallons” each – a total of 120 to 180 gallons. The quality was better than what the host had served.
11. 2:12-17 When was another time Jesus cleansed the temple? (See Mark 11:12-17.) Comments: In Mark, the incident was during the last week of his life. Note: It could refer to the same incident, since the writer of the gospel was more concerned about theology than either geography or chronology. There are some differences, though. For instance, no scourge or whip is mentioned in the other accounts (Matthew 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 20:45-46).
12. 2:18-24 What sign would demonstrate that Jesus had the authority to cleanse the temple? Why didn’t Jesus “entrust” (NIV) himself to the crowd? Comments: The resurrection from the dead. He didn’t entrust Himself to those who believed because of the signs, because He didn’t need anyone to testify of Him. He knew what they were made of.

John 1 and 2 Questions

1. 1:1-5 What do you discover about the Word in this passage? Who is He?
   
2. 1:6-9 Who was the man sent from God? What was his purpose?
   
3. 1:10-13 What is the contrast between those who were “His own” and “children of God”?
   
4. 1:14-18 Because of the character of the Word, what can we also know about God the Father? (See verses 14 and 17.)
   
5. 1:19-28 How did John identify himself in verse 23? How did he answer the Pharisees’ question about baptism? (Also see verse 31.)
   
6. 1:29-34 With what two expressions does John identify Jesus in verses 29 and 34?
   
7. 1:35-42 By what names is Jesus known in this passage? What progression in thinking do you see in Andrew, according to how he refers to Jesus?
   
8. 1:43-51 More identities of Jesus! By what names and/or descriptions is he known in this passage?
   
9. 2:1-8 First Sign. When this wedding took place, how many days had passed since John identified Jesus as the Lamb of God (1:29)?
   
10. 2:9-11 What were the quantity (v. 6) and quality of the wine Jesus produced from water?
    
11. 2:12-17 When was another time Jesus cleansed the temple? (See Mark 11:12-17.)
    
12. 2:18-24 What sign would demonstrate that Jesus had the authority to cleanse the temple? Why didn’t Jesus “entrust” (NIV) himself to the crowd?

Mark 15 and 16 Class Comments

1. Read Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12. Then read Mark 15. Note the prophetic verses in Isaiah 53 that are fulfilled in Mark 15.
   Comments: 
   Isaiah 53:4 and Mark 15:10 – He was unjustly condemned.
   Isaiah 53:5 and Mark 15:20 – They chastised Him.
   Isaiah 53:4-6; 52:14 and Mark 15:15,19 – His visage was marred; he was wounded.
   Isaiah 53:7 and Mark 15:5 – He opened not His mouth.
   Isaiah 53:8 and Mark 15:15 – He was taken from prison and from judgment.
   Isaiah 53:8 and Mark 15:25,37 – He was cut off from the living.
   Isaiah 53:9, 12 and Mark 15:27-28 – He was numbered with the transgressors.
   Isaiah 53:9 and Mark 15:43-46 – They made his grave with the rich.
   Isaiah 53:12 and Mark 15:37 – He poured out His soul unto death.
   
2. 16:1-8 Who came to the tomb early on the first day of the week? What did they see? What were they told to do? Whom did they tell? Comments: Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James (the Less), and Salome (wife of Zebedee and mother of James and John). (These same women were mentioned in 15:39.) They saw the stone rolled away and a young man in a long white robe. They were told to see the place where He was laid and to go tell His disciples – and Peter. But out of fear, they told no one.
   
3. 16:9-11 After Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene and to the two men, whom did they tell? Comments: Mary Magdalene told those who had been with Him (the apostles?), but they didn’t believe her. The two men also told the others, but they didn’t believe them, either. Thomas was not the only one who doubted before they actually saw Jesus in His risen body.
   
4. 16:12-16 After rebuking the Eleven for their unbelief, what did Jesus tell them to do? Comments: To go to all the world, preaching to every creature. There was some discussion about whether this instruction was to the apostles only, or to all of us, and also what “every creature” means. Matthew 28:18-20 mentions that they were to teach the disciples to do everything they had been told. And at the time Colossians 1:23 was written, Paul states that the gospel had been preached to “every creature under heaven.”
   
5. 16:17-20 What was the purpose of the signs that would follow them? Comments: To confirm the gospel they preached, to prove that all they preached was in Jesus’ name, by His authority, on His behalf, because they belonged to Him (according to our comments on Mark 9:33-42).
   
6. 16:19 To where did Jesus ascend? Comments: To be seated at the right hand of God. Note that in Acts 7:56, Stephen, just before his death, sees Jesus standing at the right hand of God, as if He has risen either in concern or in honor of His servant Stephen.

Mark 11 and 12 Class Comments

1. 11:1-10 What kind of preparation did people make for Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem? Seeing they mentioned David’s kingdom, what might they have been expecting from Jesus after His entry into Jerusalem? Comments: They spread their clothes and leafy branches on the road. Some went before him, announcing His coming. They might have expected Him to sit on David’s throne, overcoming the oppressive Romans on their behalf. His own apostles seemed to expect this of him even after His resurrection (Acts 1:6).
2. 11:11-24 How does the cursing of the fig tree relate to the cleansing of the temple? Comments: We had varied answers for this. 1) Both the fig tree and the money changers showed disrespect for God, and Jesus got rid of them both.  2) The money changers were as deceptive as the fig tree. 3) In both cases, Jesus showed His authority.
3. 11:25-26 Do the verses about forgiveness relate to the previous incidents? If so, how? Comments: One common thread is the subject of prayer. In verse 17, Jesus declared that His house, the temple, was meant to be a house for prayer, not monetary gain. In verse 22, Jesus taught that we must pray without doubting. In verse 25, He taught that when we pray we must also have an attitude of forgiveness. Even with faith, the Father will not grant our request for forgiveness if we are unwilling to forgive others.
4. 11:27-33 What are the answers to the Pharisees’ questions? Comments: Jesus’ answers to them were the same as their answers to His question. If they couldn’t answer, neither would he. Of course, we know the answers to be that 1) He did these things by His own authority; 2) His authority came from His Father.
5. 12:1-12 Who or what are represented in this parable by 1) the vineyard; 2) the owner; 3) the vinedressers (tenants); 4) the servants; and 5) the son. Comments: 1) The vineyard was the people (or land) of Israel; 2) the owner was God; 3) the tenants were Jewish religious leaders; 4) the servants were the Old Testament prophets; 5) the son was Jesus Christ.
6. 12:13-17 What device did the Pharisees and Herodians try to use before they asked their question? Comments: Flattery. Jesus called them hypocrites for their use of it.
7. 12:18-27 What failing did the Sadducees demonstrate by asking Jesus the question about the resurrection? Comments: They didn’t know the scriptures nor the power of God. They could recite the Levirate law, but they didn’t know the significance of God’s declaration to Moses at the burning bush.
8. 12:28-34 In what way was the scribe who asked the question “not far from the kingdom of God”? Comments: He knew the right answer to the question (in his head), but he hadn’t made the commitment to do it (in his heart). Uncharacteristic of a scribe, he wisely recognized the value of love above burnt offerings and ritual sacrifices.
9. 12:35-40 How did Jesus’ warning about the scribes (38-40) relate to their teaching about the identity of Christ (35)? Comments: The Christ, or Messiah, that they expected would, as the Son of David, be an earthly king on an earthly throne who perhaps would share his power with them. In reality, He was David’s Lord, and thereby greater than David. The scribes couldn’t recognize that Christ was standing before them in the person of Jesus. He warned the people that the scribes would be condemned for their arrogance and hypocrisy.
10. 12:41-44 What lesson can we learn from the widow and her giving? Comments: To give not of what we have in abundance (left over), but sacrificially. Giving means giving up something, to give up things we think we need. The poor widow gave up her security.

Mark 9 and 10 Class Comments

1. 9:2-13 After the Transfiguration, why did Peter make the suggestion he made? What may have been one of the reasons they kept quiet about His resurrection? Comments: Because he didn’t know what else to say; they were all afraid. The disciples didn’t understand what was going on. Moses and Elijah represented the Hebrews’ Law and Prophets. They disappeared from the scene, and God announced that the disciples were to listen only to His Son.
2. 9:14-29 What was happening as Jesus approached the crowd? What word did the man use that might indicate his lack of faith? (Notice how Jesus repeats it back to him.) Comments: A crowd was gathered around His disciples, who were disputing with the scribes. [Because, in this account, a man interrupted with his question, the scribes never answered Jesus’ question about the nature of the dispute.] Some in the class thought the word was “can”; others thought it was “if.” Both words indicate the man’s lack of conviction that Jesus was able to heal his son. Jesus uses both “if” and “can” when He refers to the man’s faith.
3. 9:30-32 Why did Jesus not want anyone to know where He was? Comments: Because He was busy teaching His disciples about His betrayal and death.
4. 9:33-42 What are the three things Jesus mentioned that are done “in My name”? What does that mean? Comments: 1) Receiving a little child (v. 37); 2) Working a miracle (v. 39); 3) Giving a cup of water (v. 41). Various answers given in class for its meaning; 1) By My authority; 2) On my behalf; 3) For My sake; and 4) Because you belong to Me.
5. 9:43-50 Does Jesus intend for us to cut off offensive hands and feet and pluck out offensive eyes? What teaching technique was He using? How does He describe hell? Comments: Not literally. He is using hyperbole (exaggeration) to make the point. Hell is described as a fire that is never quenched, where their worm (maggot) does not die. Gahenna, translated as Hell, was a place outside the city of Jerusalem where trash was thrown and burned. In the Old Testament, Isaiah 66:24 mentions “their worm.” The class also discussed what “seasoned with fire” in verse 49 meant. We concluded that it has to do with  self-sacrifice. Leviticus 2:13 and Ezekiel 43:24 speak of offering salt with sacrifices. It was also noted that having this “salt” – a spirit of self-sacrifice – within us also creates peace among us.
6. 10:1-12 How serious is divorce and re-marriage? Comments: A one-word answer: “Very.” Divorce and re-marriage constitute adultery, which breaks one of the Ten Commandments and goes against the original design for marriage: two becoming one. Breaking this unit causes tremendous pain to everyone involved. The corresponding passage in Matthew allows for an exception of sexual immorality, but in such cases, divorce is not required.
7. 10:13-16 With what kind of attitude should we receive the kingdom of God? Comments: As a little child, when means that we receive it openly, without question. We also receive it as a gift, given to us with no obligation to give anything in return. Our service to God is a result of our gratitude for the gift.
8. 10:17-22 What did the young man assume about obtaining eternal life before he asked Jesus the question? Comments: That he must do certain things, keep certain commandments. He also assumed that he had done everything he needed to do. Note that among Jesus’ instructions to him was to take up the cross, which to the people of that day indicated a full self-sacrifice, or death.
9. 10:23-31 What did Jesus mean when he taught that those who have left their houses and families will receive a hundredfold in this life? Comments: Their Christian family will become huge. Physical possessions are much less important than what they would gain in spiritual blessings. This is also a warning against pride, against  relying on physical possessions to give us value.
10. 10:32-34 Describe the emotions of the disciples and followers as they followed Jesus into Jerusalem. To whom did He reveal the details? Comments: The disciples were amazed; the followers were afraid. (This answer varied with translations. The NKJV doesn’t distinguish  between those who were amazed and those who were afraid.) It was only to the Twelve that He revealed the details of what was going to happen.
11. 10:35-45 According to their question, what view of the kingdom did James and John appear to have? What were the cup and baptism that Jesus referred to? Comments: They pictured a throne of glory and power, which they hoped to share. The cup and baptism Jesus spoke of seems to indicate some type of persecution they would experience.  Note that in the corresponding passage in Matthew, it’s their mother who asks. Also, James and John may have been remembering Matthew 19:28, where Jesus promises the Twelve that they would sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Note Revelation 5:5-6 and its emphasis on victory through sacrifice. The power of the Lion is seen in the Lamb that was slain.
12. 10:46-52 Why would the crowd tell Bartimaeus to keep quiet? What was his response to them? Comments: A variety of reasons: Don’t bother him. It’s degrading to beg. Because the sight of beggars was common, their hearts were hardened against him. They thought he was crazy. His status was too low to deserve talking to this celebrity. He was too loud. He only wanted attention.  His response was to cry all the more.

Mark 5 and 6 Class Comments

1. 5:1-20 In this incident, what do both the demons and Jesus do that you might not expect of them? Comments: The demons worshipped Jesus through the man. (See James 2:19.) Jesus 1) negotiated with the demons and granted their wish, 2) put them into something else, in this case, swine.
2. 5:21-24, 35-43 What is the significance of Jesus’ command to the girl? What other orders did He give? Comments: 1) In verse 41, he doesn’t tell her to “wake up,” or “arise from the dead.” He tells her to stand up, like she was already alive. When He told the mourners she wasn’t dead, but just sleeping, had He already raised her ? 2) It was instantaneous. The moment He touched her hand, she was fully awake, mobile, and hungry.
   
   Other orders?  1) He told the ruler not to be afraid, but to believe; 2) He told those following Him to stay behind, except for Peter, James and John; 3) He told everyone to leave the room (except for the parents and the three apostles); 4) He commanded them not to tell anyone; 5) He told them to give the girl something to eat. [It just occurred to me that the reason Jesus told the crowd that she was just sleeping was so they wouldn’t know that He had actually raised her from the dead.]
3. 5:25-34 Why was the woman with the issue of blood healed? Comments: Because of her faith. She not only had faith, she acted on her faith, by touching the hem of His garment.
4. 6:1-6 What was stronger than the evidence Jesus’ hometown people saw with their own eyes? What was Jesus’ reaction? Comments: Prejudice. They were too familiar with Him as a child growing among them. They saw only what they were pre-disposed to see.
5. 6:7-13 When Jesus sent out the Twelve, what were they to take with them? Comments: A staff, sandals, and only one tunic (no changes of clothing). They were to rely on God’s providence and the generosity of their neighbors. (Also see 1 Corinthians 9:14.)
6. 6:14-29 What was Herod’s attitude toward John before John’s death? What about after his death? (Also see Matthew 14:1-12.) Comments: He feared John, because he was a just and holy man; in Matthew it says he also feared the multitude. But apparently he had a greater fear of Herodias and her daughter Salome. Afterwards he thought that Jesus might be John risen from the dead. Coming back to haunt him, perhaps? (Burton Coffman’s comment on Mark 6:17 provides background on the Herods in the New Testament. A particularly critical sentence: The Herods’ names in the New Testament recur “like a sour note in a symphony.”
7. 6:30-44 What had Jesus’ planned to do when He and the apostles sailed to the other side of the lake? What was His attitude when His plans were changed? Comments: He had planned to rest a while with the apostles. When people followed Him, He had compassion on them because of their need for leadership, for teaching, because they were ignorant of God’s will. Jesus’ compassion always led to action.
8. 6:45-52 At least two miracles are recorded in this passage. How are they different from other miracles that Jesus did, which usually involved healing people? Comments: 1) He walked on water; 2) The wind ceased when He entered the boat. Neither of these miracles had anything to do with people. And both seemed to happen in the natural course of events. The ability to walk on water and calm the sea was just a part of who Jesus was.
9. 6:53-56 Identify words in this section that indicate how desperate the crowds were for healing. Comments: Ran – wherever – begged – began to carry on beds.

Mark 3 & 4 Class Comments

1. 3:1-6 In this account of a Sabbath healing, how does Jesus respond emotionally to the hardness of the Pharisees’ hearts? How does He respond physically? Comments: He is both angry and grieved at the hardness of their hearts, but He still heals the man’s hand. It is amazing that after seeing this miracle, the Pharisees and Herodians plot against Jesus to destroy Him.
2. 3:7-12 From what parts of Israel did the multitude come? Find the places on the map. Comments: The multitude came from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea (the southernmost region shown on our map), beyond the Jordan (probably Perea), Tyre, and Sidon (the northernmost city on the map.) According to our calculations, from Sidon to Idumea was about 160 miles. Sidon would be about 40 miles northwest of Capernaum; Jerusalem about 80 miles south.
3. 3:13-19 What did Jesus call the apostles to do? Which ones had He already called (as recorded in Mark 1:16-20 and 2:13-14)? Comments: Jesus called the apostles 1) to be with Him; 2) to preach; 3) to have power to heal sickness and to cast out demons. Mark 1:16-20 records His calling Simon, Andrew, James and John. Mark 2:13-14 records His calling Levi, the son of Alphaeus. Levi is called Matthew in Matthew 10:3. Coincidentally, in that list and here, James is called the son of Alphaeus. We concluded that their fathers had the same name. If they had been brothers, they would have been identified as such, like Peter and Andrew and James and John.
4. 3:20-30 Had the scribes blasphemed against the Holy Spirit? How? Comments: Yes. Jesus gives the warning about blasphemy because they had ascribed his casting out demons to Beelzebub rather than to the Holy Spirit. One of the definitions of blasphemy is “the act of claiming for oneself the attributes and rights of God.” We also noticed verse 21 in this section: “When his own people [family] heard about this, they went out to lay hold of Him, for they said, ‘He is out of His mind.’” We likened this to Jesus’ experience in his hometown (Mark 6:1-6), where they couldn’t recognize Him as being remarkable.
5. 3:31-35 What relationship do we have with Jesus when we do God’s will? Comments: We are His family – His mother, brothers and sisters. Note that He did not include a father here.  (Of course, his earthly father Joseph was not among those seeking him, either.) Hebrews 2:10-13 goes into detail about Christ as the captain of our salvation, One who is not ashamed to call us “brethren.” Another observation about this passage: Verse 21 indicates that Jesus’ family was concerned about His mental health (“He is beside himself,” or “He is out of His mind!”). In verse 31 His mother and brothers came to see Him. Might there be a connection between the two incidents?
6. 4:1-20 What keeps us from bearing fruit? Comments: We saw this from two different views: 1) We don’t bear fruit, because we don’t sow the seed. 2) We don’t bear fruit, because, as mentioned in verse 12, we see and hear but don’t perceive. Also noted was that like the rocky ground, we are too shallow, and like the thorny ground, we permit the cares of this world to keep us from bearing fruit. We may not die, but as Christians, we’re barren.
7. 4:21-25 What is the “lamp”? Comments: Several answers here, all connected. 1) The lamp is the Christian, because in Matthew 5:14 Jesus tells His disciples they are the “light of the world.” We are not to hide our lights. 2) The lamp are the actions that show we are Christians. 3) The lamp is the word of God, the lamp for our feet and the light for our paths (Psalm 119:105).
8. 4:26-29 What is the lesson of the Parable of the Growing Seed? How does it complement the Parable of the Sower? Comments: Again, several different but related thoughts. 1) Both parables show that the gospel contains its own power. Sometimes it grows in unexpected places, like a flower growing out of a rock. 2) Planting (and watering) is what we do; growing is what God does. 3) The Parable of the Sower describes what happens on earth as Christians sow the seed and produce fruit; the Growing Seed describes the final harvest, which is heaven.
9. 4:30-34 How do we plant the seed of the kingdom? How does it grow? (See also 1 Corinthians 3:5-7.) Comments: We teach the gospel to people, which, according to 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, is the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 3, to discourage sectarianism, Paul teaches that while he and Apollos may have sown and watered, God gave the increase.
10. 4:35-41 In this incident, how does Jesus both calm and cause fear? Comments: The disciples feared what the wind would do to them. Then – after Jesus calmed the sea, they saw that Jesus had more power than even the wind, and they “feared exceedingly,” asking “Who can this be?”

Mark 1 and 2

1. 1:1-8 What was John’s purpose? What do you think is meant by “Make straight paths for Him”?
   
2. 1:9-13 Describe Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River.
   
3. 1:14-20 What did Jesus call Simon and Andrew to do? What does this mean?
   
4. 1:21-28 In verse 27, what new doctrine, or teaching, are the people referring to?
   
5. 1:29-39 Why did Jesus leave Capernaum even though everyone was looking for Him?
   
6. 1:40-44 How did the leper inhibit Jesus’ desire to fulfill His purpose?
   
7. 2:1-12 What are the three manifestations of Jesus’ godhood in this incident? [Consider verse 9. Which is easier?]
   
8. 2:13-17 In verse 16, how do you think the Pharisees would want to answer their own question? [Consider: What would your reaction be if you saw a religious leader eating with someone who had taken advantage of you financially?]
   
9. 2:18-22 Read John 3:29. Is it a coincidence that Jesus speaks of a bridegroom?
   
10. 2:23-28 How does the story about David apply to Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath? (See 1 Samuel 21:1-6.)

Matthew 26-28 Class Comments

1. 26:1-16 What did the woman understand that the disciples did not? For whose benefit did Jesus make the statement in verse 11? [Consider: Did Judas's action here have anything to do with what had transpired with the woman? (See also John 12:3-8.)] Comments: She seemed to understand that Jesus’ death was imminent, something the disciples didn’t seem to realize until it actually happened. Judas’s action may have stemmed from his greed. Part of the money spent on this oil could have gone into his own pocket. In John 12, it is Judas who voices the objection.
2. 26:17-35 Who was with Jesus at this Passover meal? What announcement did Jesus make while they were eating? How did the others react? Comments: The Twelve ate this Passover meal with Jesus (verse 20). There’s no indication that other disciples were present (Mark 14:17; Luke 22:14). Jesus made two announcements: 1) that one would betray Him, and 2) that they would all fall away. Their reaction to the first was “Surely it’s not I, Lord?” and to the second, “I will never disown you.”
3. 26:36-50 What was Jesus’ prayer? How many times did He pray it? Why did Jesus want the three men to stay awake with Him? Comments: Three times Jesus prayed, “Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me, nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” In verse 41, he urges them to stay awake and pray to prevent them falling into temptation. He also wanted them to “watch” with Him, possibly indicating He needed their companionship in His anxiety. But they were exhausted and not aware of the imminence of His death.
4. 26:51-56 Which of the disciples here was fulfilling God's plan? Which one attempted to thwart it? (See also John 18:10.) Comments: Ironically, Judas was fulfilling God’s plan, while Peter tried to thwart it by striking the servant of the high priest.
5. 26:57-68 What was ironic about the high priest putting Jesus "under oath"? Comments: For one thing, verse 59 states that moments before, they had been seeking false witnesses. Second, they were asking the Son of God to take an oath before God. Third, they knew He wouldn’t lie about His identity; the evidence they could not get from false witnesses they sought to get from His telling them the truth.
6. 26:69-75 Why was Peter so adamant in his denials? Describe his distress. Comments: He was afraid, and also somewhat in a state of shock. Jesus had suddenly become vulnerable. This man with power over sickness, winds and water had always escaped arrest before. When Peter realized he had fulfilled Jesus’ prediction, he wept bitterly.
7. 27:1-10 What caused Judas to repent? [Consider: What did Judas expect to happen when he betrayed Jesus?] Comments: He saw Jesus had been condemned. Like Peter, he apparently believed that Jesus would miraculously escape. That’s always what had happened before. While the KJV and ASV render this “repented himself,” others translate if “remorseful” or “full of remorse,” indicating that this was not the kind of repentance that brought about a change in Judas’s life.
8. 27:11-26 In Pilate’s mind, why had the chief priests and elders brought Jesus before him? [Consider: Was Pilate's hand washing an act of courage or weakness?] Comments: Because of envy. A sign of weakness. He was passing the buck. In John 19:12, the Jews remind Pilate that if he releases Jesus he is no friend of Caesar, so Pilate also fears loss of political power.
9. 27:27-44 What added to the physical cruelty of the cross? What groups participated in this cruelty? Comments: Taunting and insults. The governor’s soldiers (27-31); passersby (39-40); chief priests, scribes, and elders (41-43); and the robbers crucified with him (44) also reviled him.
10. 27:45-56 Describe the events that occurred when Jesus died. [Consider: Before He died, what may have been even worse than His physical pain? (verse 46)] Comments: He cried out (45); they offered Him vinegar (47); He “yielded up His spirit” (50); the temple veil tore from top to bottom, the earth quaked, graves opened, and some were resurrected (51-53); guards confessed (54); while the women looked on (55). Even worse than His physical pain was being forsaken by His Father as Jesus took on the sins of all the world for all time.
11. 27:57-66 Who buried Jesus’ body? What was the next demand made of Pilate by the chief priests and Pharisees? Comments: Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy disciple. The chief priests and Pharisees asked that the tomb be secured and guarded so the disciples wouldn’t steal the body and claim that Jesus had risen from the dead.
12. 28:1-10 When they saw the angel, how did the guards react? How did the angel calm the women? Who else appeared to them? Comments: They fainted away as if dead. The angel calmed the women with “Do not be afraid. I know you seek Jesus.” The risen Jesus also appeared to them with “Do not be afraid.”
13. 28:11-15 After recovering from their shock, to whom did the guards immediately go? Whose guards were they? (27:65) Comments: The guards immediately went to the chief priests, even though they were responsible to the governor.
14. 28:16-18 Who has all authority? [Consider: What significance does that hold for us?] Comments: Jesus has all authority – on heaven and on earth. This means that he is the primary authority for what we believe, teach, and do.
15. 28:19-20 What command did Jesus give in these verses? What promise? Comments: He told the apostles to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach the disciples what they had been taught by him. Question raised in class: Since not all of us are able to go abroad, does this mean the first commandment applies only to the apostles? His promise was that we don’t have to do this alone. He will be with us to the end.

Matthew 23-25 Class Comments

1. 23:1-12 Besides a condemnation of the attitude of the Pharisees, what is Jesus cautioning against? [Consider: Were the Pharisees evil, or just human, and showing a human tendency?] Comments: He’s cautioning his followers not to be hypocritical nor to follow a natural desire to feel important when compared to others. The Pharisees certainly displayed a human tendency for self-service, and they had let it harden their hearts to the point they had become malicious.
   
2. 23:13-36 In your own words, list at least three ways in which the scribes and Pharisee were hypocrites. Comments: 1) they were false teachers; they took advantage of widows while praying long prayers for show; they proselytized men then corrupted them; they needed to make oaths in order to be believed; they appeared to be one thing when they were really another.
   
3. 23:37-39 How does Jesus’ lament in this passage relate to what He has just said to the scribes and Pharisees? Comments: His heart aches at the way they have rejected them, much as we would feel if we were rejected by our children. One important difference is that He had the power to make them do what He wanted, but He didn’t use it.
   
4. 24:1-14 What does Jesus prophesy in this passage? What does He promise? Comments: Jerusalem would be destroyed; deceivers would come, claiming to be Christ; there would be many tribulations – both manmade and natural; the apostles would be persecuted; the love of some would grow cold; the gospel would be preached to all nations. [Paul, writing in Colossians (AD 60-63), states in 1:6 that the truth of the gospel had come to the whole world. In 1:13, he states that the gospel has been preached to every creature in heaven. Apparently, this is talking about the world as they knew it, the Mediterranean region.]
   
5. 24:15-24 *When the disciples see the “desolating sacrilege” (“abomination of desolation”) coming, who is to flee into the mountains? What instructions and desire are expressed here? Comments: Those in Judea were to flee to the mountains. They weren’t to go back to get anything to take with them. His desire was that none of the women would be pregnant nor nursing, and that the flight would be neither in the winter nor on the Sabbath. This answers the disciples’ first question in verse 3: When will these things be?
   
6. 24:25-31 Is this speaking of the second (and final) coming of Christ, or of something else? (Read Isaiah 13:10 and Ezekiel 32:7 for similar language. To what does the same expression refer to in those passages?) Comments: In context, Isaiah 13:10 is speaking of the destruction of Babylon. In context, Ezekiel 32:7 is speaking of the destruction of Egypt. In light of the language that is used here, and the fact that they would see it coming, it seems that he is talking about the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. It essentially marked the end of Old Testament Judaism as well, for without the temple, there could be no worship, no genealogies that would support a Levitical priesthood. This answers the disciples’ second question in verse 3: What will be the sign of your coming? The destruction of Jerusalem was the sign that the Son of Man was ruling in heaven.
   
7. 24:32-35 In what generation would these things happen? Would there be a warning? Comments: These things would happen in the generation of that time. Yes, as the fig tree foretells summer, so the coming of the armies of destruction would foretell the end of Jerusalem.
   
8. 24:36-51 When "that day and hour” come, will there be a warning? [Consider: How is Jesus referring back to the disciples' question in verse 3?] Comments: Jesus compares “that day and hour” to the coming of the flood. There would be no way to know the exact day. The important thing is to be prepared.  Because they were looking for a Messiah who would set up an earthly kingdom, the questions the disciples asked in verse 3 referred to the same event. The destruction of the temple, the coming of the Son of Man, and the end of the age were all the same to them. This is the answer to the disciples’ question in verse 3 about the “end of the age.” This is not a “sign” of the Son of Man, but the “coming” of the Son of Man at the final judgment.
   
9. 25:1-13 What is the difference between the foolish bridesmaids (virgins) and the wise bridesmaids? How does Jesus apply this parable (verse 13)? Comments: Preparation. The foolish took no extra oil, whereas the wise ones did. The application? Watch! For you don’t know the hour when the Son of Man will come.
   
10. 25:14-30 Why did the one-talent slave (servant) hide his talent in the ground? What would his master have done with it? Comments: He was afraid he would lose it and be punished. His master would have at least put it into a bank to gain interest. [True service involves risk, doing things that might be uncomfortable for us to do. ]
    
11. 25:31-46 What is the difference between those on the Lord’s right hand and those on the left? Comments: The righteous – those on the right – obeyed the second greatest commandment to love their neighbors as themselves by helping others and taking care of their needs. The unrighteous – those on the left – thought they could serve Jesus only if He was standing in front of them. To serve others is to serve God.

Matthew 5-7 Class Comments

Notes from Thursday Class Discussion

The Sermon on the Mount

1. 5:1-12 Who was listening to this sermon? Why might they appreciate these blessings? (Also read 7:28.) Class Answer: His disciples – those who wanted to learn from Him, not just be healed by Him. The beatitudes (“blessed” could also be translated “happy”) assured them that even though they would go through difficult times as His disciples, they would be blessed by God. They also encouraged those who at this time were without either political or religious power.
   
2. 5:13-16 What are the qualities of salt and light that Jesus emphasizes here? What is the purpose of letting our lights shine? Class Answer: Salt enhances flavor and preserves. In the same way, the influence of Christians gives life meaning and also slows the moral decay of the world around us. As lights, we can show the way to the Savior and glorify God.
   
3. 5:17-20 What law is Jesus talking about? What did Jesus say about lawbreakers? Class Answer: His listeners would understand this as the Law of the Old Testament. Those who broke it would be the least in the kingdom. We weren’t sure exactly what this meant, except to refer to those who are weak. Still, like the Corinthians with all their problems, they are still in the kingdom.
   
4. 5:21-37 In these verses, how is Jesus “changing” the commandments and traditions of the (Old) law? Class Answer: He is not changing them, but fulfilling them. He is stating their intended purpose, which had been interpreted as external actions only. Not just “do not murder,” but do not hate, do not call others names, be reconciled to those with whom you disagree. Not just “do not commit adultery,” but don’t lust and bring your  body under control. And don’t treat divorce lightly. It causes adultery, against which there is a clear commandment. Not just “don’t break an oath,” but tell the truth without having to make an oath.
   
5. 5:38-48 What should be our attitude toward those who treat us badly? Class Answer: To rise above bad treatment. With all his power, Jesus never physically resisted authority, though he did combat false teaching and hypocrisy. We are to love  and try to understand those who hate or resent us, though that doesn’t mean we enable them. Prayer helps us to learn to love others.
   
6. 6:2-18 What should be our motivation when we give, pray, or fast? Class Answer: To please God and to glorify Him.
   
7. 6:19-34 List at least three attitudes we should have about material wealth. (19-21; 24; 25-34) Class Answer: Humility, happiness and contentment. Wealth doesn’t last; it causes divided loyalties; worrying about it shows a lack of faith.
   
8. 7:1-6 What are at least two things we should consider before we begin to judge someone? Class Answer: We will be judged by the same standard; we all have our own failings – planks in our eyes.
   
9. 7:7-12 What does our Father in heaven want to give us? Class Answer: Good things, just as we would give our own children. Note about 7:12, known as the Golden Rule: it includes acts of commission and omission – things we do for other people we would want done for us, and things we choose not to do that might hurt others.
   
10. 7:13-27 How can we tell the difference between true and false followers of Jesus? (verses 16, 21, 24) Class Answer: By their fruits, by watching their actions and the results of their actions, though that may take time. Also, by whether or not they do the Father’s will.
    
11. 7:28-29 Why were the crowds astonished at his teaching? Class Answer: This carpenter’s son spoke with wisdom that should have been beyond his experience. He also spoke with authority – beyond what they had heard from others – like someone who had not just learned from a book, but as someone who really knew.