Give to God What Is God's - Mark Chapter 12

Day 14 – Mark Chapter 12

Promise: Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. -Prov. 19:21

Consider times in a person’s life when this verse would be a comfort or even a threat. Share any occasions where despite chaos, you saw the Lord’s purpose prevail.

Read Chapter 12.

The Parable of the Tenants is short yet holds many nuances. Complete the following chart with information from verses 1-11.

Landlord’s preparation of the land included

Timing of the collection of rent

Quantity of rent

Acceptable currency of rent

Given the above information, what was reasonable for the landlord to expect? What character traits does his response demonstrate?

The landlord went away after renting out the vineyard. What of the parable explains that the landlord was attentive despite the distance?

In verses 13-17, the Pharisees and Herodians ask Jesus about paying taxes. What does Jesus’ answer say about duty to earthy authority?

Note verses 16-17. Caesar’s image is found on the coin. What is God’s image found on? How can we give it back to him?

The Greatest commandment says, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength’ (v. 30). Describe each of these words: heart, soul, mind, strength. How could these be diagrammed: as overlapping Venn diagrams, concentric circles, or some other representation?

The second commandment is to love others as ourselves. How should we treat ourselves? How should that translate to how we treat others?

The widow (vv. 41-44) offers two copper coins to the charity box at the temple. What characteristics of the woman is so lauded by Christ in his statements to the disciples? How can we also develop those characteristics?

Application: How do you love yourself? How does that reflect upon us as image bearers of God? How does that help us consider how to love ourselves and others better?