Be Generous
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Scripture Lesson: Mark 9:33–37
Be Generous
Actions Speak Louder than Words
Week #3
- Everyone thinks they are someone.
Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to him. “Teacher,” they said, “we want you to do for us whatever we ask.” “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. They replied, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” - Mark 10:35–37
- Jesus brings them back to reality.
“You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said. “Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” - Mark 10:38
- Some people just don't get it.
“We can,” they answered. Jesus said to them, “You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with, but to sit at my right or left is not for me to grant. These places belong to those for whom they have been prepared.” When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. - Mark 10:39–41
- Jesus sets them straight.
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” - Mark 10:42–45
Points to Ponder
- Do you agree or disagree with this statement; The most generous type of living we can do is to serve others. Explain your answer.
- Do you agree or disagree with this statement; Often, we choose not to help others because we believe their past behavior has put them into their present situation? If you answered, "Yes," to this question, how does the fact that Jesus helped you despite the sins you committed, change how you will react to people in these circumstances.