25/3 - Journey to the Cross - Mark 11:12-33
Some thoughts from our Zoom time this morning…
Gospel of Mark 11:12–33 – Discussion Reflections
1. Faith and forgiveness in prayer
Verse 24 highlights two big obstacles to prayer: not enough faith and holding onto unforgiveness (also echoed in the Epistle of James). How might a lack of faith or unresolved forgiveness be affecting our prayer life?
2. The fig tree and authority
In the opening verses, Jesus curses the fig tree, which links into the wider theme of authority running through the passage. What is Jesus showing about his authority through this action?
3. Hearts that want to argue, not learn
By verse 33, it’s clear the religious leaders aren’t really seeking truth—they want to win the argument and protect their image. When we talk about Jesus with others, how do we discern between honest questions and arguments for the sake of arguing?
4. Zeal for God’s house
Jesus shows deep passion for purifying the temple. It had become a place of commerce and even exploitation, rather than worship. What does Jesus’ zeal challenge us about how we treat worship and church today?
5. A place of prayer, not profit
The temple was never meant for buying, selling, or personal gain—it was meant for devotion and prayer. In what ways might we (personally or as a church) drift from prayer into other priorities?
6. Recognising authority
A key theme in this passage is that authority must be recognised. The leaders question Jesus, but they are unwilling to accept his authority. Where might we struggle to fully recognise and submit to Jesus’ authority?
7. The fig tree and Israel
There’s a strong comparison between the fig tree and the people of Israel—outward signs of life, but no real fruit. What might this say to us about the difference between appearance and reality in our faith?
8. Not leaves, but fruit
This passage challenges empty religion: not just leaves, but fruit; not just activity, but prayerful dependence; not control, but submission to Jesus. Where might we be tempted to settle for “leaves” instead of real fruit?
9. From going through the motions to real faith
The overall message seems clear: Jesus challenges empty religion and calls for real faith—lives that bear fruit through trust in God, prayer, forgiveness, and obedience. Are we truly living this out, or just going through the motions?