The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on June 24/25, “When Jesus Gets Angry” (Mark 3:1–6). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection. 

Outline

1. The Situation (vv. 1–2; would he heal on the Sabbath?)
2. The Challenge (vv. 3-4; is it lawful to do good or harm, save life or kill?)
3. The Response (vv. 4–6; Jesus and the opponents)

Main Point: Life is found in Jesus. To reject him is to reject life and choose death. Jesus embodies the life offered in the law perfectly. To receive him is to receive life; to reject him brings death. 

Discussion Questions

• The interaction in Mark 3:1–6 is the last of the five controversies in this section. How is this one different than the previous four?
• Why did the Pharisees choose the man with a withered hand as a potential trap? How would healing him constitute “work”?
• What section of Scripture does Jesus use to frame his question from the Law? Why is this context important?
• How does Jesus embody the Law in his own person? Why does Jesus respond with such anger at the hard-heartedness of the Pharisees?

Application Questions

• Are there any aspects of moralism that are a struggle for you? Do you subtly start to trust in what you do (or don’t do) to commend you to God? Do you have an appropriate anger for moralism and its tendency to seek self-justification?
• Are there areas in your life over which Jesus would be angry? Consider sharing these areas with the group. Ask for prayer and accountability. Ask Jesus to search your heart and respond to him personally.
• In this message, what 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 find life in Jesus and to rest in his fulfillment of the Law. Then pray for a grace to follow him in being like the Good Samaritan.