Mark 8:31-35

Read Mark 8:31-35

Helpful Background Information: 

• If you’ve been following along during our study in Mark, you’ll know that our teaching text for this week (Mark 9:30-50) is not the first time that Jesus spoke to His disciples about how things would shake out. Back in chapter 8, for the first time in this gospel account, Jesus talked about the suffering He would endure. What’s striking is that this came right after Peter identified Him as the long awaited Messiah. It seems as though Jesus was affirming the title that Peter applied to Him but also clarifying what that role entailed. Peter’s confusion is evident in verse 32, as he rebukes Jesus for talking about His suffering and death. For Peter, this wasn’t how he thought things were supposed to go. Yet, Jesus insists all the more that suffering was a necessary part of God’s plan for Him—and not only that, but Jesus also says that suffering would be part of the plan for anyone who wanted to follow Him. 

Reflection Questions: 

• Compare and contrast the words of Jesus in Mark 8:31 with Mark 9:31. What similarities do they share? What details does each include or leave out?

• Next, compare and contrast the response of the disciples in Mark 8:32 with Mark 9:32-34. What might the response of Peter and the other disciples reveal about what they thought was most important? What do you think they were focusing on?

• In each case, Jesus corrects misunderstandings and clarifies what God’s priorities truly are. Reread Mark 8:34-38 along with Mark 9:35-37. Based on these two passages, put in your own words what God’s idea of greatness is.

• In light of your previous response, what would it look like for you to embrace God’s perspective in the way you live and relate to the people around you? Give at least one example.