9/3 - Journey to the Cross - Mark 6:14-29

Some thoughts from our Zoom time this morning…

· How does the story of Herod show the power of crowd-pleasing and peer pressure, and what can we learn about the danger of choosing what is wrong just to satisfy others?

· When we face moments of pressure, how can we rely on godly integrity to make the right choice instead of giving in to circumstances?

· What might the phrase “finally the opportune time came” teach us about being aware of the devil’s schemes and also being ready to declare the gospel?

· Why might Mark place this account of Herod within the wider contrast between Herod as an earthly king and Jesus as the true King?

· Since Herodias could not kill John herself, what does her use of others reveal about manipulation and strategy—was allowing her daughter to dance a calculated way to achieve her goal?

· How can building up hatred and anger in our hearts become like poison in our lives, and what would it look like instead to release grudges and lean into God?

· What does John’s boldness in calling even the rich and powerful to repentance teach us about the gospel being for everyone?

· In what ways might fear hold us back from proclaiming the truth of the gospel, and how can John’s example challenge us to speak with courage?

· How does unrighteousness lead to self-centred and destructive behaviour, and how does John’s selfless boldness contrast with that?