Comprehensive Teaching Outline for Lesson 26: Discipleship and Its Cost

I. Introduction

• Congratulate participants for completing the Gospel of Mark study
• Encouragement to reflect on growth in Christ and group community
• Emphasis on transformation into Christ’s image through ongoing discipleship

II. Recap and Transition

• Acknowledgment of the study’s conclusion and leaders’ roles
• Introduction to the final lesson theme: Applying what has been learned
• Focus: Discipleship is not passive; it requires action

III. Observations from the Gospel of Mark

• Jesus’ lifestyle: compassion, obedience, confrontation with the religious
• Disciples’ journey: confusion, growth, failure, and persistence
• Key takeaway: Proximity to Jesus matters

IV. Defining a Disciple

• Not just a learner, but one who adopts the teacher’s values and lifestyle
• Goal: Replicate the life of Jesus in character and mission
• Discipleship = Full surrender, not addition of Jesus to one’s life

V. Misconceptions and Clarifications

• Cannot be a Christian without being a disciple
• Following Jesus implies obedience and surrender, not convenience
• Life of a disciple contrasted with worldly thinking (e.g., social media analogy)

VI. Biblical Affirmation: Identity and Struggles

• Affirmation of Jesus as way, truth, life (John references)
• Common struggles: distraction, laziness, self-centeredness
• Contrast: Holy Trinity (life-giving) vs. unholy trinity (sin-deceiving)

VII. Jeremiah 2:13 – Living Water vs. Broken Cisterns

• Analogy of satisfaction and sustainability in God vs. worldly sources
• Warning against relying on insufficient, self-made sources of life

VIII. 2 Peter 1:3–8 – Growth in Godly Character

• God provides everything needed for life and godliness
• Instruction to build on faith with virtues: knowledge, self-control, love, etc.
• Result: Effective, fruitful life in Christ

IX. Four Daily Practices for Discipleship

1. Daily Devotion
   • Time with God through Word and prayer
   • Consistent spiritual nourishment
2. Daily Dedication
   • Daily choice to follow Christ as Lord
   • Renewal of commitment
3. Daily Dependence
   • Relying on the Holy Spirit and Christian community
   • Discipleship model: mentors above, peers beside, mentees below (tic-tac-toe grid)
4. Daily Declaration
   • Lifestyle that proclaims the Gospel
   • Living with eternal perspective and Kingdom focus

X. Conclusion and Encouragement

• Thankfulness for participant commitment and progress
• Final charge: Stay close to Christ and brothers
• Call to live out the Gospel of Mark practically

Outline for Teaching Video on Mark 16: The Tabernacle of God

I. Introduction

• Excitement about exploring Mark 16
• Thesis: Mark 16 reveals the tomb as the tabernacle of God — the most dangerous and most pleasurable place

II. The Incomparable Presence of God

• Illustrations of Danger and Value:
  • Fort Knox – immense protection due to immense value
  • Sun – proximity means danger, even at a fraction
• God’s Presence as Danger and Delight:
  • Exodus 33:20 – no one can see God and live
  • Isaiah 6 – “I am disintegrated” in God’s presence
  • Psalm 16:11 – eternal pleasures at God’s right hand

III. Mark 16 as the Tabernacle

• Initial emotions: trauma – Mark 16:5, the women were alarmed
• Then ecstasy – Mark 16:8, “trembling and bewildered” rooted in ecstasis

IV. Background on the Tabernacle

• Purpose: God desires to dwell with His people
• Design:
  • The veil – marked separation, guarded by cherubim
  • The mercy seat – place of atonement via sacrificial blood

V. Three Historical Tabernacles

1. Mount Sinai:
   • God on mountain, people below
   • Moses as intercessor
   • Storm as veil, people afraid
2. Garden of Eden:
   • God’s presence, man’s hiding (Gen 3)
   • Storm-like presence of God
   • Animal sacrifice and cherubim guarding access
3. Mark 16:
   • Present tense language – draws reader into current reality
   • Jesus grants free access to God’s presence

VI. Tabernacle Elements in Mark 16

• Mountain: Jerusalem on Judean hills
• Garden: John 19:41 – tomb in a garden
• Veil: The stone rolled away (Mark 16:4)
• Angels:
  • Sitting, not guarding – access is safe
  • Contrast with Eden where cherubim guarded with flaming sword
• High Priest: Jesus as intercessor (Hebrews 9)
• Sacrificial Lamb: Jesus’ blood fulfills atonement
• Mercy Seat: Tomb represents throne where justice and mercy meet

VII. The Empty Tomb: A Theological Statement

• Jesus is not there — He’s gone ahead (Mark 16:7)
• God’s people are also not there — Jesus is out gathering them
• The tabernacle is open, but the world has yet to enter

VIII. Present-Day Implications

• Hebrews 4:16 – confidence to approach God’s throne
• Ephesians 3 – church reveals God’s wisdom to heavenly beings
• Believers now have:
  • Safe access to God’s presence
  • Full joy and eternal pleasures
  • Responsibility to go global with this good news

IX. Conclusion: Reflective Questions

• Who is Jesus to you?
• Do you live in the freedom of God’s presence?
• Are you overwhelmed by His pleasure and peace?
• Are you going global with the message of Jesus?

X. Final Exhortation

• The tomb is open, the throne is accessible
• God invites all to enter — safely, fully, forever — through Jesus

Outline for Lesson 24 Teaching Video

I. Introduction

• Focus: The cross of Christ — what Jesus did for us and what He calls us to do.
• Scripture Reference: Mark 15:21–47.

II. The Absence of the Disciples

• Observation: The absence of the Twelve at the cross.
• Scripture Highlight: Mark 14:50 – “They all left him and fled.”
• Application: The danger of becoming “non-following followers.”

III. Jesus’ Example of Self-Denial and Obedience

• Jesus took up His cross, denied Himself, and fulfilled the Father’s will.
• Reference: John 8:34 and the call to follow Him by taking up our cross.

IV. Simon of Cyrene’s Role

• Forced to carry Jesus’ cross (Mark 15:21).
• Contrast with the missing disciples.
• Background: A bystander from North Africa, unexpectedly part of the story.
• Possible later significance: Father of Alexander and Rufus, linked to early church believers (Romans 16:13).

V. Peter’s Failure and Redemption

• Peter’s denial of Christ despite prior bold declarations (Mark 14:27–31).
• Peter’s self-preservation leading to spiritual breakdown and weeping (Mark 14:72).
• Contrast: Jesus laid down His life willingly; Peter tried to save his own.
• Application: The cost of following Christ vs. self-protection.

VI. The Roman Centurion’s Declaration

• At Jesus’ death, the Centurion declares, “Truly this man was the Son of God” (Mark 15:39).
• Significance in the Gospel of Mark — affirmation by a Gentile, not by the disciples or Jewish leaders.
• Comparison to the divine declaration at Jesus’ baptism (Mark 1:1, 1:11).
• Symbolism: The tearing of the temple curtain (Mark 15:38) parallels the tearing of the heavens (Mark 1:10).

VII. Divine Revelation and Human Proclamation

• God reveals Christ’s identity at the start and end of His ministry.
• Transition: Human voices now proclaim Jesus as the Son of God.
• Encouragement: God uses unexpected people for His purposes.

VIII. The Legacy of Simon and His Family

• Strong indication Simon’s family became followers of Christ.
• Reference to Alexander and Rufus as known believers (Romans 16:13).
• Legacy: A family choosing to serve and follow the Lord.

IX. Conclusion and Application

• The disciples eventually returned to faithful following after witnessing the resurrection and receiving the Holy Spirit.
• Challenge: What will our response be?
• Call to action: Follow Christ with obedience, lay down our lives, and proclaim His lordship in word and action.
• Scriptural closing reference: Philippians 2 – Christ’s humility and obedience as our model.

X. Closing Prayer

• Petition for strength to bear the cross, live out faithfulness, and leave a lasting legacy.

Introduction

• Warm greeting to the audience
• Overview of the lesson topic: Crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ
• Reference to Mark 10:45 – Jesus as a servant and ransom for many
• Prayer for guidance and understanding

The Crucifixion of Jesus Christ

Historical Context

• Definition of crucifixion as a form of execution
• Its historical use by Persians, Carthaginians, and Romans
• Abolishment by Emperor Constantine out of reverence for Christ

Process and Brutality of Crucifixion

• Various forms of torture before execution
• Victim carrying the crossbeam to the execution site
• Nailing or binding to the cross
• Physical suffering, humiliation, and exposure to the elements
• Psychological and emotional torment

Spiritual Significance

The Nature of Sin and the Need for Atonement

• The heart of man is evil continually (Genesis 6:5)
• Human inability to pay the penalty for sin
• God’s perfect justice demanding punishment

God’s Love and Wrath Displayed

• Agape love as the highest form of selfless love
• Christ’s willing sacrifice for sinners (Romans 5:6-8)
• God’s wrath against sin satisfied through Jesus
• Illustration of God’s justice and mercy through the atonement

The Resurrection: The Ultimate Victory

• God’s knowledge that Jesus would be raised from the dead
• Jesus’ suffering was real, but His resurrection confirmed His triumph
• Implications of the resurrection for believers

Call to Personal Reflection

Application Questions

• How often do you reflect on Christ’s suffering for you?
• Does the reality of the cross stir your heart to worship?
• Encouragement to meditate on Jesus’ sacrifice daily

Invitation to Salvation

• Warning for those who reject Christ’s sacrifice
• Encouragement to place faith in Jesus for salvation
• References to Hebrews 11:6 and Ephesians 2:4-9

Practical Steps for Reflection

• Daily meditation on the crucifixion
• Use of scripture passages and hymns for reflection
• Encouragement to engage in group discussions (specific questions listed: 3, 9, 12, 13, 15)

Conclusion

• Final encouragement to grow deeper in understanding
• Benediction and closing prayer

Lesson 22 Teaching Video Outline

Introduction

• Introduction by Scott Newbauer
• Scripture focus: Mark 14:53 – 15:20
• Encouragement to read parallel passages:
  • Matthew 26:57 – 27:31
  • Luke 22:54 – 23:25
  • John 18:12 – 19:16
• Reminder: Anchor interpretation in the Word, not media portrayals
• Opening prayer

Overview of the Passage

• Events cover ~8-9 hours, from Jesus’ arrest (midnight) to his sentencing (9 AM)
• Old Testament prophecies foretold these events
• Jesus is not a victim—He willingly lays down His life
• Five key sections in the passage:
  • Jesus before the Council
  • Peter denies Jesus
  • Jesus before Pilate
  • Pilate sentences Jesus
  • Jesus is mocked

Main Theme: Confrontation

• Definition: To face someone or a situation head-on
• Everyone in this passage confronts Jesus
• Purpose of the Gospels: Not just history, but a call to believe
• Intellectual knowledge vs. heart transformation

Four Key Confrontations

1. Confrontation with the Religious Leaders (Mark 14:53-65)

• The Sanhedrin (70 members) had already decided Jesus must die
• False witnesses failed to align in testimony
• Caiaphas’ direct question: “Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”
• Jesus’ response: “I am” → Declared guilty of blasphemy
• Key takeaway: The religious leaders’ hard hearts prevented them from seeking truth

2. Confrontation with Peter (Mark 14:66-72)

• Peter’s bold declaration vs. his three denials
• Luke 22:60-62: Jesus’ direct eye contact with Peter after the rooster crowed
• Peter’s bitter weeping—deep personal grief
• Hope in restoration: John 21, Peter’s later testimony (1 Peter 1:3-9)
• Key takeaway: Jesus convicts, not to shame, but to restore

3. Confrontation with Pilate (Mark 15:1-5)

• Pilate was politically motivated, indifferent to Jewish law
• Jesus remained silent despite Pilate’s questioning
• Pilate sought a way out by offering Barabbas’ release
• Key takeaway: Pilate cared more about reputation than truth

4. Confrontation with the Crowd and Soldiers (Mark 15:6-20)

• The crowd was manipulated by the religious leaders
• Mob mentality: “Crucify him!”
• Soldiers mocked and abused Jesus
• Key takeaway: Many were misled but later came to faith (Acts 6:7)

Broader Implications

• Encounters with Jesus continued:
  • Thieves on the cross
  • Roman centurion
  • Post-resurrection appearances
  • Saul’s conversion
• Everyone must confront Jesus—neutrality is not an option

Reflection Questions

• Have you truly faced Jesus, not just intellectually, but in your heart?
• What is your response when faced with hardship—do you turn to Him?
• How do you react when convicted by Jesus?

Closing Prayer

• Pray for hearts to be softened and lives to be changed
• Encourage discussion in small groups

Lesson 21 Teaching Video Outline

Speaker: Jim Erickson (Filling in for Mike Crawford)

Main Theme: Jesus’ Final Day Before His Death – Finishing Well

Introduction

• Appreciation for leaders and their role in guiding discussions.
• Encouragement to interpret scripture rightly and apply it to life.
• Call for feedback and willingness to clarify any misunderstandings.

Overview of the Passage

This lesson covers 52 verses, focusing on six key scenes that highlight the intensity, emotional depth, and fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus’ final hours.

Six Key Scenes

1. Context (Verses 1-2)

• The religious leaders’ motives are revealed – they seek to kill Jesus discreetly.
• Significance of Passover week – historical and symbolic connection to Jesus as the sacrificial Lamb.

2. The Alabaster Flask (Verses 3-9)

• Mary anoints Jesus with an extravagant oil worth a year’s wages.
• The disciples misunderstand the significance, but Jesus affirms her act.
• Symbolic anointing of Jesus before His death.

3. Judas’ Betrayal (Verses 10-11)

• Judas actively decides to betray Jesus.
• Tension between free will and God’s sovereignty.

4. The Last Supper (Verses 12-25)

• Jesus shares the Passover meal with His disciples.
• Institution of the Lord’s Supper (Communion) as a new covenant.

5. Peter’s Denial & Jesus in Gethsemane (Verses 32-42)

• Jesus predicts Peter’s denial – Peter refuses to believe it.
• Jesus prays in Gethsemane, showing submission to the Father.

6. Jesus’ Arrest & Desertion by His Disciples (Verses 43-51)

• Jesus is arrested; all His disciples flee.
• Possibly Mark himself is mentioned as the young man who ran away naked.

Application Points

1. Responding to Others’ Actions (Verses 1-2, 10-11)

• Are you letting the motives or actions of others justify your own responses?
• Do you get stuck trying to understand free will vs. God’s sovereignty?

2. Heart of Gratitude (Verses 3-9)

• Mary expressed deep gratitude. Are you cultivating gratitude for Christ’s sacrifice?

3. Remembering the Cost of Freedom (Verses 12-25)

• Are you taking time to reflect on what Jesus’ sacrifice cost Him?
• How intimate is your devotional life with God?

4. Grit vs. Grace (Verses 32-42)

• Peter relied on his own strength but failed – are you relying on grit instead of God’s grace?
• Grit without dependence on God is just pride.
• Are you making supplications from a heart of submission to God’s will?

5. Jesus’ Presence in Loneliness (Verses 43-51)

• Jesus was abandoned by His closest friends – He understands loneliness.
• Are you turning to Jesus when you feel alone?
• Jesus’ final words in Matthew:
  

  “And behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

Conclusion

• Encouragement to reflect on Jesus’ suffering and example of obedience.
• Challenge to cultivate gratitude, deepen devotional life, and rely on God’s grace.
• Jesus is always with us – we are never truly alone.

Closing Prayer

May we walk closely with God, reflect on Jesus’ sacrifice, and live in obedience to His will.

Teaching Video Summary: Mark 12 & 13

Introduction

This teaching video explores Mark 12 & 13, emphasizing Jesus’ rejection by humanity. Using an analogy of organ transplant rejection, we reflect on how people resist what is essential for life.

The World’s Rejection of Jesus

• The Pharisees and Sadducees attempt to trap Jesus.
• The irony of trying to outwit “The Word” (John 1).
• Flattery fails against Jesus, who depends solely on the Father.

The Question of Taxes (Mark 12:13-17)

Jesus’ response to paying taxes to Caesar highlights a deeper truth: as the coin bears Caesar’s image, we bear God’s image and belong to Him.

Humility and the Greatest Commandment (Mark 12:28-44)

• “Love God and love your neighbor” requires humility.
• The widow’s offering as an act of total surrender.

Rejection and Humility Throughout Scripture

Examples from the Old Testament (Noah, Abraham) show that surrender leads to renewal and blessing.

The World’s Hostility Toward Jesus’ Followers (Mark 13)

• Jesus warns of inevitable persecution.
• Faithful proclamation of the Gospel remains a necessity.
• Standing firm in faith over seeking worldly power.

Application: Living in Dependency on Jesus

• Commit to Christian community.
• Surrender entitlement, pride, and anger.
• Depend on Jesus, rather than focusing on personal obedience.
• God’s goodness and mercy continually pursue us.

Lesson 19: The King, Prophet, and Priest

Instructor: Jeremy Thomas

Focus: The final week of Jesus’ life (Mark 11 – Mark 12:12)

Introduction

Imagine a birthday party piñata—colorful, promising, but empty inside. This illustrates the theme of today’s lesson: how things that appear full of life can actually be spiritually hollow.

I. Jesus as the King Who Offers Peace

Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem (Mark 11:1-6)

• Jesus sends disciples to get a colt, fulfilling Zechariah 9:9-10.
• Obedience to Jesus requires faith, even without full understanding.

The Crowd’s Expectations

• The crowd shouts “Hosanna” (Save us now!).
• They expected a military savior, but Jesus came to bring eternal peace.
• Many later turned against Jesus when he did not meet their desires.

II. Jesus as the Prophet Who Speaks Truth

Cursing of the Fig Tree (Mark 11:12-14, 20-26)

• The fig tree had leaves (outward signs of life) but no fruit.
• Symbolic of Israel’s spiritual condition—rituals without righteousness.
• Jesus teaches that true faith must bear spiritual fruit.

III. Jesus as the Priest Who Calls for Purity

Cleansing the Temple (Mark 11:15-19)

• Jesus overturns tables, challenging corruption in worship.
• The temple should be a “house of prayer for all nations” (Isaiah 56:6-8).
• Instead, it had become a “den of robbers” (Jeremiah 7:11).

Response of the Religious Leaders

• They plot to kill Jesus instead of repenting.
• Parable of the Tenants (Mark 12:1-12) foretells their rejection of God’s Son.

IV. Application for Today

Lessons from the Fig Tree and the Temple

• Beware of hollow religion—faith should produce real transformation.
• Trust God even when He doesn’t meet our expectations.
• True disciples bear fruit and follow Jesus wholeheartedly (John 15).

Conclusion & Prayer

Are we truly bearing spiritual fruit? Let us abide in Christ and trust His ways.

“Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord… he is like a tree planted by water…” – Jeremiah 17:7

Closing Prayer: Lord, make us true disciples, not just outwardly religious, but deeply rooted in You. Amen.

Lesson 18: The Rich Young Ruler and Discipleship

Introduction

Many of us hold onto possessions for sentimental reasons, but do they hold us back from what truly matters? In this lesson, we examine what Jesus teaches about wealth, faith, and discipleship.

Review of Lesson 17

• Jesus spoke more about hell than heaven.
• Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ alone.
• Discipleship requires humility and selflessness.

Mark 10 Overview

Jesus’ journey to the cross (Mark 8:31 – 10:52) was a time of deep discipleship. He continued teaching, healing, and guiding his followers, showing that discipleship happens in everyday life.

Themes in Mark 10

1. Pride vs. Humility

• The Pharisees test Jesus on divorce.
• The rich young ruler values wealth over Jesus.
• James and John seek positions of honor.
• Jesus emphasizes childlike faith and servanthood.

2. The Rich Young Ruler (Mark 10:17-31)

His Question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”

Jesus’ Response: Challenges his understanding of goodness and lists key commandments.

The Man’s Claim: “I have kept all these since my youth.”

Jesus’ Challenge: Sell all possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him.

The Man’s Reaction: He leaves saddened, unable to part with his wealth.

3. Jesus’ Teachings on Wealth and Salvation

• Wealth can be a barrier to faith.
• Salvation is impossible through human effort but possible with God.
• Those who leave worldly security for Christ will receive eternal rewards.

Application & Reflection

The Ultimate Question: “What do you think of Jesus?”

• Jesus knows our hearts and what we treasure most.
• The issue isn’t wealth but where we place our trust.
• It’s not about how we start but how we finish in discipleship.

Ask yourself:

• What is taking preeminence in my heart?
• Am I progressing in my walk with Christ or drifting away?
• Where is my treasure—on earth or in heaven?

Group Discussion Questions

Take time to reflect and discuss these questions in your group:

• Questions 1 and 6 from Day 2
• Questions 4 and 6 from Day 3
• Question 4 from Day 4
• Question 3 from Day 5

Conclusion

May we be found treasuring Christ above all things. Let’s remain steadfast in our faith, ensuring that our discipleship journey is not just about how we start but how we finish.

“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 10:45

Lesson 17: Mark 9:30-50 Teaching Video Outline

Speaker: Scott Neubauer

Introduction

• Encouragement to read Mark 9:30-50 and parallel passages (Matthew 17-18, Luke 9).
• Overview of the geographical journey from Mount Hermon to Capernaum.
• Understanding the big picture: Jesus’ journey towards His crucifixion.
• Key biblical perspective: Jesus is seen throughout the Bible.
• Opening prayer.

Overview of Mark 9:30-50

Scene setting: Two parts of the journey

• Traveling through Galilee (outdoor journey).
• Indoors in Capernaum (private teaching moment).

Differences from previous passages:

• No large crowds, no Pharisees, no miracles.
• Intimate teaching moment with the twelve disciples.

Key takeaway: Jesus remains in control despite the disciples’ misunderstandings.

Three Key Themes

A. Humility

• Definition: Freedom from pride and arrogance.
• Modern contrast: Lack of humility in sports, social media, and daily life.
• Jesus’ ultimate humility:
  • Foretelling His death and resurrection.
  • Choosing to suffer crucifixion for salvation.
• Key scripture: Philippians 2:5-8.

B. Pride

• The disciples’ argument: Who is the greatest?
• Jesus’ response:
  • “If anyone would be first, he must be last and servant of all.”
  • Illustrates humility by placing a child in their midst.
• Warning against pride:
  • Destroys unity (in churches, small groups, workplaces).
  • Leads to exclusivity and competition.
• Story of the underground church in Iraq:
  • Unity among believers despite differences.
  • The importance of humility in the Christian community.

C. Warnings

• Leading others into sin: Mark 9:42
  • Serious responsibility in discipling young believers.
  • Followers of Christ must be examples, not stumbling blocks.
• Seriousness of sin: Mark 9:43-48
  • Jesus’ radical language about cutting off sin’s influence.
  • Sin originates from the heart (Mark 7:21-23).
  • Solution: Renew the mind (Romans 12, Colossians 3).
• The reality of hell: Mark 9:47-48
  • Hell is real and the consequence of rejecting Christ.
  • Quote from William Booth: “Five minutes in hell would change how we live.”

Application

• Remember Jesus’ sacrifice:
  • Communion as a reminder of His humility and suffering.
• Self-examination on pride:
  • Reflection on the “Proud People vs. Broken People” chart (Vertical Endeavor resource).
• Final prayer:
  • Surrender to God’s will, repentance, and a commitment to humility.

Closing Prayer: “Our Heavenly Father, we thank you. I thank you for your goodness and graciousness. I thank you for the example that Jesus set. It’s a reminder that we are wholly dependent on Him. I pray that your word would sink in and change people’s lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”