Mark 14:1-31 – Jesus Agonizes in the Garden; Jesus is Betrayed and Arrested; Caiaphas Questions Jesus; Peter Denies Knowing Jesus
1. What is Jesus referring to when He says "take this cup from me" in verse 36?
2. In the garden of Gethsemane we read about Jesus' intense struggle to follow God's will for Him to go to the cross. Why do you think this is recorded in Scripture? Does it offer any encouragement to you when your will differs from God's will. Feel free to share examples.
3.In verse 38 Jesus says- "Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing but the body is weak." What does Jesus mean when He says the Spirit is willing but the body is weak? How did Jesus get His body in line with the Spirit? How might you do so?
4. (extra credit) Who do you think is the naked man is V. 51 and 52 and why does Mark include this odd event in the middle of this scene?
Discussion #2 – Verses 53-72
5. The High Priest asks Jesus a question in v. 60 and another question in v. 61. Why do you think Jesus was silent for the first question but responded to the second question?
6. The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin ( the high court of the Jews) were looking for "evidence against Jesus so that they could put Him to death, but they did not find any." V. 55 Why do you think these leaders were so intent in wanting to kill Jesus? Why are some people today so hostile toward Jesus?
7. What is your response to Jesus having to go to the cross? Was it really necessary? Do you feel that it is a true historical event?
--questions by Christl
