This week is very special as we have Simon Oatridge preaching on Mark 4:35-41which is all about God’s people learning in a practical way how to put their faith in Jesus in the storms of life. As it is fathers day there will be an introduction of a new grandchild by John Hall. Rebecca will be reading from Psalm 107:23-32 and Leisa Sanders will also be leading us in prayers, but this will be coming out as a separate Youtube or will be shared on Zoom. Alison will end with the hymn, 'how great thou art.'
https://youtu.be/NQVxIyUu7JA
Rupert
Intro: COVID19 and our fears
The storm and the Saviour – 3 questions:
- A question of fear v38: “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?
- A question of faith v40: “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?
- A question of identity v41: “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!”
Discussion Questions:
Earlier in the day, before the calming of the storm, Jesus has been teaching about the kingdom of God that comes through his word v3, 9, 15-16, 18, 20, 23, 24, 33.
- How does this miracle give us confidence in the power of God’s word to save?
- How do Mark’s “irrelevant details” help us believe it is an eyewitness, reliable account?
The disciples doubted God’s care for them with their question of fear: “Don’t you care if we drown?”
- How do we doubt God’s care for us in the storms of life?
- How was this true for the disciples?
- How has this been true for you?
- Why do you think the disciples respond in this way?
- What does Mark want us to conclude about Jesus?