- Read Mark 2:23-28 and then read 1 Samuel 21:1-6. Briefly summarize in your own words what happened in these 6 verses between Jesus and the Pharisees.
- What opportunity is Sabbath rest intended to give and why was Jesus showing that he was interpreting the Sabbath law appropriately in this situation?
- Read Deuteronomy 23:24-25. Why should eating the heads of grain not be considered unlawful by the Pharisees?
- What was Jesus trying to teach in verses 2:27-28?
- Jesus entered the synagogue again on the Sabbath and encountered a man with a shriveled hand. What were the motives of the Pharisees for watching Jesus closely in this situation?
- What question did Jesus pose to the watching crowd and why did they react the way that they did?
- What causes hardness of heart in a person?
- What does Jesus’s grief over their hardness of heart tell us about the character of God?
- Who were the Herodians and what is surprising about the alliance between them and the Pharisees? (Consider using blue letter bible to find out more about the Herodians)
Application
- How has Sabbath rest been a gift from God to me? How do I receive and use this gift?
- What man-made traditions or expectations am I tempted to adopt that the Lord is not requiring of me?
- Is there anyone in my life that I am more concerned about them receiving correction, reprimand or justice instead of the healing mercy and grace that only Jesus can give?
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