Mark Lesson 39 (2023)

JESUS, THE REJECTED STONE HAS BECOME THE CORNERSTONE

(Mark 11:27-12:12)

Open it:

1. What authorities or experts influence public opinion (such as media, politicians, religious leaders, etc.)?

Explore it:

1. Read 11:27-33. What was Jesus discussing with the Jewish religious authority in the temple courts? What were “these things” to which the religious leaders referred? What dilemma did Jesus’ question create for these men, and how does this show authority?

2. Read 12:1-5. To whom was Jesus telling this parable? What was his purpose in telling it? Why did the vineyard’s owner send so many servants to the tenants? In what ways is it possible to mistreat the messengers or messages God has sent us?

3. Read verses 6-8. Who was the last person the owner sent to his vineyard? How does verse 6 answer the question in 11:28? How did the tenants treat the owner’s son? Why?

4. Read verses 9-12. What would be the response of the vineyard owner when he discovered how the tenants treated his son? (9) What is the significance of Jesus saying he will fulfill Psalm 118:22-23? (10-11) How did the religious leaders respond to the parable Jesus told? (12)

Apply it:

1. What is one area of your life that you are holding back from the Lord for fear that he may ask too much of you? What can you do every day out of respect for God’s word?