The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on July 15/16, “The Crowd and the Disciples” (Mark 3:7–19). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection.  

Outline

• The Size of the Crowd (vv. 7–9)
• The Work of Jesus (vv. 10–12)
• The Work of Discipleship (vv. 13–19)

Main Point: Jesus’ broad ministry drew large crowds, but his deeper and lasting work was to call 12 disciples as the True Israel.

Discussion Questions

• Why were such large crowds following Jesus?
• Why did Jesus spend so much time healing and casting out demons? How did those actions reinforce the good news of God’s reign entering into this fallen world?
• What do the verses about the calling of the disciples (vv. 13–19) teach us about how Jesus viewed discipleship?

Application Questions

• What were your views of spiritual warfare prior to hearing this sermon? Did any of your views, thoughts, or attitudes about it change? Discuss.
• If Satan prowls around and looks for a gateway or an opening, are there any gateways in your life that need to be closed? Consider sharing these areas with the group. Ask for prayer and accountability.
• In this sermon, which truths about discipleship landed on you? Are you being personally discipled? Are you personally discipling others?
• In this message, which truths landed on you that you need to share with others in your life? How can you share these truths? Devote it to prayer!

Prayer Focus 

Pray for a grace to be a disciple of Christ and to make disciples who follow Jesus.