Mark 3: A Mixed Response

After a whirlwind introduction to John the Baptist and to the inaugural events of Christ's public ministry, Mark continues his concise portrait of Jesus the Servant. The healing of a man's withered hand on the Sabbath prompts the Pharisees to begin counseling together how to destroy Jesus. This in turn leads to Christ's withdrawal to the Sea of Galilee with a great multitude from many places, where He names the twelve apostles.*

Questions/Things to Consider:

• How did Jesus' own family members respond to his ministry? Why?
• Jesus sometimes walked away from conflict, but not in this chapter. He had to challenge the accusation that He was one with Satan. Why do you think He didn't walk away from the conflict in this instance?
• If you had lived during the time of Christ, and had been among the masses watching and listening to Him, do you think you would have followed Him? Why or why not? What would have been some of the obstacles/incentives?

* Excerpts taken from "Mark: The Humanity of Christ," John MacArthur, 2006.