25th Sunday after Pentecost Mark 12:38-44

Ancient Lens

What's the historical context?

Context in Mark

Recall the context. In chapter 11, Jesus entered Jerusalem to much acclaim and briefly entered the temple (vv. 1-11). The next day, he returned to the temple, and drove out the money-changers, eventually leaving again for Bethany for the night (vv. 12-26). At the end of Mk 11, he returned to the temple again.

It was understandably tense that day. The religious leaders, having decided to kill him (Mk 11:18), were eager to challenge him, and do so:

• 11:28-33: The chief priests, the teachers of the law and the elders: "On whose authority do you do these things?"

• 12:13-17:…

1. What are some examples of “giving freely” that you have witnessed?

2. Why is it important for Jesus to point out a positive example right after a general warning?

3. What are some systems that become corrupted and may do more harm than good? Think about this from different sides of political/social issues to see the greater theme, even on your side of the political aisle.

4. How can a personal response “from the heart” have a greater impact than an effort to correct corrupt systems?

5. Describe a time that you have looked beneath the surface and found…