The Beginning of the End (discussion questions)

Here are the discussion questions that accompany my message at Eastbrook Church this past weekend, “The Beginning of the End,” from Mark 13. This is week 3 of 4 from our series, “Remade.”

Discussion Questions:

1. What comes into your mind when you think about the end of the world?
2. This week we will be looking at Jesus’ challenging teaching about coming persecution and the end of time. Whether on your own or with a group, begin your study by asking God to speak to you. Then read aloud Mark 13.
3. This section of Mark’s Gospel can be very confusing because of the variety of prophetic, apocalyptic, and historical references. It might be helpful to consult a few other sources for further background:Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11; Isaiah 13:10; 34:4. Some of the apocryphal books also provide historical background: 1 Maccabees 1:41-64; 2 Maccabees 6:1-11.
4. There are four major places where Jesus calls people to ‘watch out’ or ‘be on your guard’ (13:5, 9, 23, 33). What is Jesus calling His disciples to be attentive to?
5. It is likely that Jesus’ words were in part fulfilled when Jerusalem fell to the Romans in A.D. 70. Take a moment to look up more information on that historical event. How does it shed light on this text?
6. At the same time, some of Jesus’ words point to a future event when He will bodily return at the end of human history. Verses 32-37 should be read in this light. What does Jesus call us to in that regard?
7. What do you think it means for us to be attentive today?
8. What is one specific thing that God is speaking to you from this study? Write it down. If you are in a small group, discuss this together.

Next week we will continue in the Gospel of Mark by looking at Jesus’ words in Mark 12:28-34. To prepare for next week’s message, please read that Scripture passage ahead of time.