18/3 - Journey to the Cross - Mark 9:14-29

Some thoughts from our Zoom time this morning…

1. When Jesus is absent, we feel the struggle
While Jesus is away, the disciples are left trying to deal with a difficult situation and end up in arguments with the teachers of the law. It feels very human—“we tried, but it didn’t work.” In what ways do we sometimes try to handle things in our own strength when we feel unsure or under pressure?

2. Honest faith: “I believe, help my unbelief”
The father’s words, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief,” capture the reality of mixed faith—trust and doubt existing together. It is an honest cry for spiritual help. How does this encourage us to bring both our faith and our doubts openly to Jesus?

3. It’s not our power, but Jesus’
The disciples ask, “Why couldn’t we drive it out?” which may reveal a mindset that they thought the power was theirs rather than Jesus’ working through them. How can we guard against relying on our own strength instead of depending on Jesus?

4. The importance of prayer
Jesus explains that this kind can only come out through prayer, highlighting that what was lacking was not effort but dependence on God. What might this passage teach us about the role of prayer in facing difficult or spiritual challenges?

5. The reality of spiritual struggle
The description of the boy’s condition is intense, and it raises questions about spiritual forces and how we understand such situations today. How do we make sense of spiritual brokenness in the world, and how should we respond to it?

6. The pressure on spiritual leaders
This situation also reflects how people often look to leaders or disciples to have all the answers and fix everything. It highlights the pressure that can come with spiritual responsibility. How can we support leaders while also remembering that ultimate power and authority belong to God?

7. The crowd’s sense of wonder
When Jesus appears, the crowd is overwhelmed with wonder. There is something about him that they recognise as different, even if they cannot fully explain it. What is it about Jesus that still causes people to be drawn to him today?

8. It’s the object of faith that matters
This passage reminds us that it is not the size or strength of our faith that matters most, but the one our faith is placed in—Jesus himself. How does this shift our perspective when we feel our faith is weak?