Keys to the Kingdom (Week 1)
In our new series Keys to the Kingdom: The Secret Language of the Parables, we’re exploring Jesus’s teachings—hidden in story form—found in the gospel according to Mark.
Warm-Up: What's a hobby, sport, game, or activity that seemed confusing at first until someone explained how it worked? What changed once you understood the "rules" or framework?
Read Mark 4:10-12.
1. Jesus said that parables reveal "the secret of the Kingdom of God." Why do you think Jesus often taught through stories instead of simply giving people information?
2. What makes stories memorable or impactful? Is there a parable of Jesus that has particularly stuck with you over the years?
3. In his sermon, Pete emphasized that God's Kingdom is not just about heaven someday, but about God's work in our lives right now. Where have you seen evidence of God's Kingdom at work recently?
Read 2 Samuel 12:1-7.
4. Nathan's story to David helped him see something he was blind to in his own life. Have you ever had a moment when God used another person, Scripture, or a difficult experience to reveal something you couldn't see about yourself? How did you respond?
Read Mark 2:21-22.
5. The parable of the wineskins teaches that Jesus didn't come merely to patch up our old lives but to make us new. What is the difference between asking Jesus to improve our lives and surrendering our lives to Jesus? Have you experienced that difference personally?
6. This week, Pete challenged us to consider whether we sometimes try to fit Jesus into our existing worldview rather than allowing Him to reshape it. What is one area of your life where Jesus may be inviting you to deeper surrender?
(*Video available after Sunday services)
