This week we continue in our fall series The Company of Christ with a message by Pastor Jeff Manion.  We take a look at a crucial concept Jesus teaches his disciples.

What was your Thanksgiving like?

Open your journal to pages 81-82, and take turns reading through Mark 9:14-37. What do you think are some of the key words or ideas in this passage?

THE PREDICTION
Jesus predicts his death and resurrection in Mark 8, 9 and 10. Why do you think he has to do it so many times for the disciples to understand?

Pastor Jeff introduced the word “cruciform” this weekend. What does it mean, and what’s one area of life you want to pursue it in this week?

THE ARGUMENT
Some of the recent events have caused the disciples to talk about who is the most important. Why do you think we have a deep need to be valued, included and important?

Instead of condemning the disciples, we need to see ourselves in them. How can you relate to them in this passage?

THE TRAINING
Jesus’ story shows how we are supposed to serve the people often overlooked. The people we might not think are important or who may not feel important themselves. What do you think Jesus means when he says, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me?”

Sometimes we get focused on who is making us feel important or who is inviting us to things. Instead, we can turn our attention away from ourselves and look to others. How can we safely roll out the red carpet for someone who may not feel important in this unique season of life?

As you think through the people you know, who do you want to roll out the red carpet for?

WRAP UP

This week we talked about Jesus’ lesson on rolling out the red carpet for others. Turn to page 85 in your journal.  Does anyone have anything else written they want to discuss?

What challenged or encouraged you the most from today’s discussion? What’s one step you can take this week to join Jesus on his mission?

Download a printable PDF.