Whole-Hearted Love for God
Discussion Questions
Sermon Overview:
Jesus is pleased when we respond to his worth with extravagant love.
1. Those who recognize Jesus' worth respond with extravagant love. (vv. 1-3, 10-11)
2. Jesus is pleased by our responsive love. (vv. 4-7)
3. Jesus' worth is particularly seen in his death out of love for us. (vv. 8-9)
Digging Deeper:
Read Mark 14:1-11
1. Mark (the author of this gospel), frequently “sandwiches” one story into the middle of another (often referred to as a “Markan sandwich”). We see that here in 14:1-11 (vv. 1-2 and vv. 10-11 are “the bread”, vv. 3-9 are “the meat”). What are some of the contrasts this “sandwich” helps us see?
2. Mark goes out of his way to make sure we, his readers, see the extravagant nature of the woman’s gift. What are some of the details he includes that help us see this? Why do you think Mark is so determined to help us see this? What does the value of the gift communicate about the worth of the one to whom it is given?
3. Those gathered around the table are scandalized by what in their eyes is the woman’s “wastefulness.” (v. 4). What accounts for this contrast in perspectives (between those grumbling about this “waste” and the woman)? What did the woman see that the others did not?
4. In order to respond (like the woman) to Jesus’ worth with extravagant acts of love, we must first recognize his worth. How does that happen? Are there things we can do to see Jesus’ worth more clearly?
5. What gets in the way of you recognizing the worth of Jesus? (This could be other things you’re drawn to more than Jesus, distractions, etc).
6. While we don’t have the opportunity to express a love for Jesus the exact same way the woman did, there are ways we can be extravagant in our outpouring of love for Christ. What are some examples of “extravagant love” for Jesus you have witnessed? What might it look like for you to display extravagant love for your Savior?
7. Why is it crucial that we distinguish between displays of love to Jesus because he loved us, and displays of love to Jesus so that he will love us? What are some of the disastrous consequences that can result from failing to get this distinction right?
8. Because Jesus loved his people, he died for them (vv. 8-9), showing his worth. What are some ways we can seek to be regularly mindful of and grateful for Jesus’ loving sacrifice for us?
9. A life of extravagant love for Jesus is a life that will not look “normal”; it will be markedly different from the lives of those around us. How might our acts of love for Christ (e.g. - extravagant uses of our time, energy, money) point those who don’t know Jesus in our lives to the worth of Christ?
Prayer