Opening Remarks

• Introduction and context before the election
  • Importance of faith over political outcomes
  • Prayer for leaders and the country
• Reminder of the teachings on Jesus’ power and authority

Overview of Mark Chapter 3:7-35

• Review of recent lessons and introduction to this chapter
• Visualization of scenes from the narrative
  • Healing on the Sabbath
  • Crowds seeking Jesus
  • Family’s concern about Jesus
  • Accusations by the scribes
  • Jesus’ response about his true family

Key Themes

Pressure

• Jesus faces immense pressure from various groups
• Sources of Pressure
  • Followers seeking healing
  • Religious leaders feeling threatened
  • Disciples trying to understand his mission
  • Jesus’ humanity under pressure
• Jesus’ response: retreating to pray and selecting disciples

Identity

• Common views of Jesus’ identity
  • Some consider him a teacher or myth
  • Family thinks he is out of his mind
  • Scribes accuse him of being possessed
• C.S. Lewis’ perspective on Jesus’ identity
• Jesus’ response to accusations
  • Refuting claims of demonic possession
  • Warning against blasphemy of the Holy Spirit

… it’s not about specific actions like cursing, murder, or adultery, but rather the persistent, willful rejection of the Holy Spirit’s testimony about Jesus’ divinity and role as Savior. It involves repeatedly choosing to deny the truth of the Gospel, calling light darkness and vice versa. The warning is particularly directed at those who know and understand the message of Christ but continue to ignore it. The focus is on a continuous, habitual rejection, not a one-time lapse, underscoring a deep and ongoing refusal to accept Christ.

Call

• Jesus’ true family: those who do God’s will
• Definition of God’s will: desire for all to be saved
• Personal call to each individual

Applications

• Practical responses to pressure
  • Quiet, pray, involve others
• Reflection questions
  • Where are you with Christ?
    • Encouragement to accept the gospel
    • Support available from leaders and small groups
  • How to help those who have wandered
    • Use love and prayer rather than logic to reach out
    • Importance of kindness in bringing others back to faith

Closing Prayer

• Blessing for those listening and engaging in group discussions