Mark 1:1-13

John 1:1

Why is the coming of Jesus good news?

  1. The coming of Jesus is good news because of the identity of Jesus (1:1)

  2. The coming of Jesus is good news because of the promise of Jesus (1:2-8)

  3. The coming of Jesus is good news because of the obedience of Jesus (1:9-11)

  4. The coming of Jesus is good news because of the help of Jesus (1:12-13)

Hebrews 4:14-16

Discussion questions:

  1. Why is it critical to how we live our lives today that Jesus is both Messiah (the Christ) and the Son of God? What would change if he were only one and not the other?

  2. Mark makes it clear that the coming of Jesus was according to God’s plan - that is why he highlights the many prophets, including John the Baptist, who spoke of Christ’s coming before he came. In other words, Mark makes it clear: our God does what he says he will do. He keeps his promises. What specific promises of God do you need to rest in/believe today?

  3. Jesus did not merely die a substitutionary death; he also lived a substitutionary life. (That is why he submitted himself to baptism.) How does the fact that the righteous life of Jesus is credited to his people by faith change the way you live your life today?

  4. Jesus knows, and relates to, every trial and temptation you will face, for he was tempted and tried as we are. How does this encourage you when you are tempted? How does this change your response to God even when you succumb to temptation? (See Hebrews 4:14-16.)