Mark 1:29-34
29 As soon as they left the synagogue, they went with James and John to the home of Simon and Andrew. 30 Simon's mother-in-law was in bed with a fever, and they told Jesus about her. 31 So he went to her, took her hand and helped her up. The fever left her and she began to wait on them. 32 That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and the demon possessed. 33 The whole town gathered at the door, 34 and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. he also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was. NIV 84
Lesson Notes
Mark 10:42-45 42 "Jesus called them together and said, "You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave to all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
John 13:3-5 3 "Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over everything and that he had come from God and would return to God. 4 So he got up from the table, took off his robe, wrapped a towel around his waist, 5 and poured water into a basin. Then he began to wash the disciples' feet, drying them with a towel he had around them."
Three actions of service in Mark 1:31
1 He goes to her, he moves toward her need.
2 He takes her hand, he gets personally involved in her need.
3 He helps her up, he serves her need in a very practical way.
Three takeaways from Jesus' first day of ministry
1 Jesus Christ uses his authority to serve others.
2 Jesus Christ serves us in our deepest need.
3 Disciples of Jesus Christ are saved to serve.
Discussion Questions
1. Jesus uses His authority to serve others. How can we reflect Jesus’ servant-hearted use of authority in our roles at work, home, or church this week?
2. Jesus serves us in our deepest need. What needs, burdens, or struggles are you carrying right now that you can bring to Jesus for healing and restoration?
3. Disciples are saved to serve. Where in your life is God calling you to step into service— either in small, everyday ways or through a larger commitment?
4. Verse 31 has been called the gospel in miniature: He comes to us, takes us by the hand, and lifts us up. Can you think of a time when Jesus “lifted you up” out of something? How did that experience shape how you now serve others?