New Testament Study Companion: Mark

New Testament Study Companion: Mark

by Catania Larson

http://thatgoodpart.wordpress.com

Copyright 2013

All Rights Reserved

This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-

nd/3.0/ or send a letter to Creative Commons, 444 Castro Street, Suite 900, Mountain View, California, 94041, USA.

New Testament Study Companion: Mark/Larson 2

Table of Contents Acknowledgements .............................................................................................................................. 3 About this Book ..................................................................................................................................... 4 Mark 1 ...................................................................................................................................................... 6 Mark 2 ................................................................................................................................................... 12 Mark 3 ................................................................................................................................................... 16 Mark 4 ................................................................................................................................................... 20 Mark 5 ................................................................................................................................................... 30 Mark 6 ................................................................................................................................................... 37 Mark 7 ................................................................................................................................................... 43 Mark 8 ................................................................................................................................................... 46 Mark 9 ................................................................................................................................................... 54 Mark 10 ................................................................................................................................................. 61 Mark 11 ................................................................................................................................................. 67 Mark 12 ................................................................................................................................................. 71 Mark 13 ................................................................................................................................................. 76 Mark 14 ................................................................................................................................................. 82 Mark 15 ................................................................................................................................................. 88 Mark 16 ................................................................................................................................................. 93 Appendix .............................................................................................................................................. 97


Acknowledgements There are a few people who deserve special acknowledgement here. Thanks to Emily Milmont who edited this entire book. She did it without any kind of reward or pay. I’m grateful to her, and you really should be, too. This book would have been a complete mess without her. I also want to mention that Stephanie Clawson created the cover. Again, she did this completely voluntarily, and I’m so grateful. Without her help, the cover would have been pretty hideous; instead, you can enjoy a small work of art.


About this Book This book is designed for you. Use it as you would like. How to Use This Book

This book is broken down chapter by chapter. Each chapter contains two main portions: Application and Analysis and Enrich Your Learning.

Application and Analysis The Application and Analysis portion of each chapter is a

set of questions that goes through the chapter as you read it. These questions will help you search through the chapter, analyze it, and then apply what you have learned from the scripture in your own life.

Many of the questions in this portion may seem obvious, but take time to really think about them. Usually, application of scripture is a process. First you need to search the scriptures. You need to familiarize yourself with them. You ask the basic questions: who, what, where, when? As you search the scriptures, you will then analyze them by asking: why, how? Through effective searching and analysis, application will follow naturally. There are application questions that I include in the exercises, but you may find more ways that the scriptures apply. Scriptures are always applicable.

As you complete the Application and Analysis questions, make sure to listen to the Spirit and write inspiration down in a scripture journal. You will find that even this basic exercise can be helpful to your scripture study.

Enrich Your Learning

The Enrich Your Learning portion of each chapter is a set of various exercises that will help you to study parts of the chapter in depth. The exercises in this section are pretty self-explanatory and often quite involved. I think that any given


exercise will take at least 20 minutes to complete. *** Study this book how you want to. You may want to do each question in order. You may start each chapter completing the Analysis and Application section first, followed by the Enrich Your Learning. You may find that you’d rather only do the Analysis and Application. Or perhaps you only want to do certain exercises from Enrich Your Learning. Follow the Spirit and do what you like. In a way, I’ve thought of this as a smorgasbord. Each question and activity is a dish, and it is up to you to select what you like. Prayerfully consider how you would like to study. The Spirit is the most important factor in scripture study. So listen to Him. I have tried to prepare this study guide as prayerfully as possible. I am, by no means, an expert, so I have tried to keep my own opinions out of this as much as possible. Of course, since this study guide was my creation, my influence is here. If you feel like a question I’m asking or a connection I’m suggesting is wrong, then it might be. I don’t claim to have all knowledge on the scriptures. So please, let the Spirit direct your path in this scripture study guide. A final note: you will not be able to complete the Analysis and Application Questions and Enrich Your Learning Exercises all in a single day of study. Don’t sweat it. You can choose to spend as much time as you’d like in each chapter. If you want to study the entire chapter for days, finishing each exercise I’ve created, then that’s great. Otherwise, you may only want to do one or two exercises from each chapter, and get through the New Testament a little more quickly. That’s great, too. Do what you want to do. *** I hope you enjoy this book!


Mark 1 Analysis and Application Search and ponder the following questions as you study Mark 1. You do not have to answer all of the questions, but do pause to truly think about what you are reading. Consider writing impressions in a scripture journal. Mark 1:1-8

1. Mark gives a very short explanation of Christ’s lineage. What is it?

2. Who does Mark mention came to prepare the way of the Lord? 3. Why did the people come to John the Baptist? Where did

they come from? 4. When people went to be baptized, what else did they do?

Why do you think that confessing sins was associated with baptism?

5. What did John teach the people?

Mark 1:9-11 1. Why did Jesus come to John the Baptist? 2. How was each member of the Godhead present for Christ’s

baptism?

Mark 1:12-15 1. After being baptized by John, where did Jesus go? Why did

He go into the wilderness? 2. Why do you think that Jesus took this time alone before

beginning His ministry? 3. What did Jesus teach as He went into Galilee? What do you

think Christ meant when He taught this? How was the kingdom of God fulfilled?

Mark 1:16-22 1. Whom did Christ call in these verses? 2. What was the response of being called? 3. When Jesus calls James and John, whom did they leave their

father with? What kind of social status (or class) would be needed in order to afford to have a boat and pay hired servants? What does this teach us about James’ and John’s


background? Do you think that it would have been easy to leave everything and follow Christ?

4. When Christ taught in the synagogue, why were people astonished? Why do you think that authority would make a difference in gospel teaching?

Mark 1:23-28 1. While in the synagogue, whom did Christ heal? 2. Why did Christ cast out the unclean spirit? 3. How did the people react to Christ’s actions? 4. Again, Christ has authority. Why does Christ’s

authority make a difference? Why do you think that it is important for a person who acts in God’s name to have proper authority?

Mark 1:29-34

1. After leaving the synagogue, where did Christ go? 2. What did He do? 3. Why do you think that Christ spent so much of His

time healing people? Do you think that Christ’s desire to heal was relegated only to His mortal ministry? How does He reach out to heal you now—even though He isn’t here physically?

Mark 1:35-45

1. The next day, what was Christ doing? 2. Why did Peter approach Christ? What did the

people want? 3. Notice the phrase “all men seek for thee.” Is

this always the case? Why did the people seek Christ?

4. Do you think that Jesus wanted them to seek Him? 5. Christ healed people of their physical maladies,

but do you think that this was His ultimate purpose? What is the greater healing that Jesus offers?

6. Take the time to truly ponder your relationship with Christ. Do you seek Him? Why? Are you only interested in immediate help? How can you seek Him in a way that will bring you eternal healing?

Enrich Your Learning The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ We are beginning another account of Christ’s life in the Gospel of Mark. While some of the stories and experiences will be repeated, we can still gain many insights on Christ’s life and the Atonement He performed.


The book of Mark starts out with a bang: Christ is baptized, then begins His ministry. He heals people. We will study one part of this chapter with the Atonement in mind.

1. Read Mark 1:35-38. 2. What is the time of day in verse 35? Why was

Jesus getting up so early? Why was He getting away? What do each of these things He did have to do with effective prayer?

3. Consider this kind of discipline. How do you think that Christ’s faithfulness in prayer helped Him when the time came for Him to accomplish the Atonement? How does discipline help each of us when we seek to accomplish our work?

4. Even though Christ made so many efforts to go and pray, was He able to get time alone? Why not?

5. What did Simon and the other disciples need from the Savior?

6. What was Jesus’ response to their requests? Think, now, of His compassionate response within the context of the Atonement. How did His compassion enable Him to complete His work?

7. Was Christ able to simply acquire this dedication to the gospel and compassion on the day that He performed the Atonement? How do you think that moments like these—where Christ puts off His own needs and desires in order to serve others—lead up to His work in the Garden of Gethsemane?

8. Consider His willingness to serve the people even when it wasn’t convenient for Him. What does this teach you about Christ’s willingness to bless and help you? What do you think that you need to do in order to access the blessings and power that Christ is willing to give?

John the Baptist—Character Study In Mark 1, we learn a lot about John the Baptist. Take the

time to carefully study more about John the Baptist. See why His role was so important in preparing the people for Christ’s coming. Also, learn from His example.

1. Read Mark 1:1-8. Complete the corresponding Analysis and Application questions.

2. Mark begins with a prophecy in verses 2-3. What is that prophecy?

3. Read Malachi 3:1. Who will be sent? Why do you think that prophets are sent to prepare the way of the coming of the Lord?

4. Read Isaiah 40:3. What does Isaiah teach that this messenger will preach? Keep in mind what


Isaiah prophesied and read through Mark 1:2-8. What did John the Baptist teach to the people? Not only was John the Baptist charged to prophesy of Christ and baptize, but what was his specific and singular duty as the prophet at that time? Did he fulfill his duty?

5. If you think about it, there are very few prophets that are prophesied of. Why do you think that Isaiah prophesied of John the Baptist?

6. What did John preach? 7. Where did John preach? 8. Why do you think that John preached in the

wilderness? Why wouldn’t he preach in a synagogue or more traditional place?

9. Did John’s location in the wilderness stop people from listening to and accepting His message?

10. What did John wear? What did he eat? Why do you think that these details are included in Mark’s account?

11. So…take a second to picture John. He’s in the wilderness, clothed in camel’s hair, eating locusts and honey. What does this image connote? What kind of man do you think that John was? How might he have compared to the more traditional gospel teachers at the time such as priests, Pharisees, and scribes?

12. Yet, people came to him and were baptized by him. Why do you think that people accepted John’s message, despite his humble circumstances?

13. Even though John the Baptist had acquired a following, whom did he preach of? Did he look for his own power or attention? How does he compare himself to the Savior?

14. John teaches the people that he has the power to baptize with water, but the prophet to come after him will baptize Him with what? What is the difference between these two types of baptisms? Why do you think that John wants the people to understand this distinction?

15. So far, as you have studied John the Baptist, how might you describe him? How is he an example to you?

16. To further enrich your understanding of this man, turn to the Bible Dictionary—John the Baptist. Read through what it teaches. Take time to ponder what kind of prophet he was.


17. As you consider John the Baptists qualities, what strikes you? How might you incorporate his example into your life?

Miracles There are three miracles recorded in Mark 1.

• Jesus casts out an unclean spirit (at the synagogue)—Mark 1:23-26. See also Luke 4:33-37.

• Christ heals Peter’s mother-in-law—Mark 1:30-31. See also Matthew 8:14-15; Luke 4:38-39

• Christ heals many in the evening—Mark 1:32-35. See also Matthew 8:16-17; Luke 4:40-41.

If you are doing a study of the miracles, refer to the instructions given in the Appendix. For now, we will study one of the miracles together.

1. Read Mark 1:23-28. Consider the corresponding Analysis and Application questions.

2. Where did this miracle take place? Why do you think that this setting is significant? Why do you think that this man was at the synagogue? What is a major reason we should attend our church services?

3. Why did the man cry out? 4. What did the unclean spirit say? 5. What was the unclean spirit worried that Jesus

would do? Why do you think that this was so? 6. What did Jesus do to this man and the unclean

spirit? How did Christ heal the man with the unclean spirit?

7. What happened to the man before the unclean spirit left him? What do you think that “torn” means in verse 26? For help, look in the footnotes to Mark 9:20 (also verses 14-29). As you read this cross-reference, be sure to look to the footnotes to see if you can gain more understanding. What does “torn” mean?

8. Who requested this miracle to happen? 9. How do you think it can benefit you to know that

there are physical effects of overcoming evil spirits rather than only spiritual/emotional effects?

10. After the Lord healed this man, what did the people think? What do you think made Christ different from the other religious leaders the people had before Him?


11. What are your other observations of this miracle? What principles or concepts have you learned that you can apply to your own life?


Mark 2

Analysis and Application Search and ponder the following questions as you study Mark

2. You do not have to answer all of the questions, but do pause to truly think about what you are reading. Consider writing impressions in a scripture journal.

Mark 2:1-12

1. At the start of this chapter, where is Christ? 2. Why did people gather together there? Soon, how

full was the house? 3. While there, who was brought to Christ? What

happened? 4. Who comprised the group at this house? Was it

only the faithful? Why do you think that the scribes were also gathered to see Jesus?

5. When Jesus healed the man with the palsy, what language did he use? How did the scribes respond to Christ?

6. Why do you think that they murmured in their hearts?

7. Did Christ know their thoughts? How did He know them?

8. Notice what Christ says to them. Imagine you are in the place of the scribes and someone perceives your thoughts. What would your reaction be to that person? Why do you think that the scribes were not surprised by the Lord’s ability to perceive what they were thinking?

9. After Christ addresses the scribes, He then heals the man with palsy. What did the people do who witnessed this miracle?

Mark 2:13-14

1. After healing the man with palsy, where did Christ go?

2. What did He do as He passed by? Whom did Christ call to the apostleship?


3. What was Levi’s profession? Why do you think that it is noteworthy that Christ called a tax collector to be an apostle?

Mark 2:15-22

1. As Jesus ate at his house, who was with him? What did the scribes and Pharisees think of these people who followed Jesus?

2. What did Jesus say when He heard the judgment of the scribes and Pharisees?

3. What do you think that Jesus means when He says what He does in verse 17? Who are the “whole”? Why do they not need a physician? Is there anyone who really falls under this category?

4. What was Jesus then asked? Why did His disciples not fast? What does this teach you about fasting?

5. What will happen to the bridegroom? After teaching this concept, the Lord then talks about sewing new cloth to an old garment and putting new wine in old bottles. What do you think that He means by this? (Keep in mind what Christ had been teaching to the disciples and Pharisees throughout the chapter.)

Mark 2:23-28

1. What was significant about the day that Jesus went with His disciples through a cornfield? What did they do?

2. Why did the Pharisees object to what Christ was doing?

3. What is Christ’s response? Why was it acceptable for Him to do this on the Sabbath? (Be sure to read the JST found in the back of the Bible.)


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In Mark 2, the Pharisees and disciples of John were

accustomed to fasting. They notice that Christ’s disciples don’t fast. They ask the Lord why this is so, and He responds. We will study this response in connection with the Atonement to see if there is a connection and what we might learn about Christ from this specific teaching.

1. Read Mark 2:18-20. 2. What do the people ask Christ? 3. How does Jesus respond? 4. In verse 19, to whom does the bridegroom refer? 5. How do you think that this question helps them to

understand why the people don’t fast?


6. Will the disciples of Christ always go without fasting? When will they fast again?

7. Right now, can you find a connection between this exchange of fasting and the Atonement? What do you consider to be the main purpose of fasting?

8. Because no obvious connection seems apparent, let’s do some searching. Go to the Bible Dictionary and read the entry for fasting. Really read to understand. Find the main idea that is being taught in each paragraph. According to the Bible Dictionary, when was the only fast ordered by law to be practiced (during Old Testament times)? What is the connection between fasting and the Atonement taught in the Bible Dictionary? Read the fourth paragraph in the entry for Fasting (starting with, “In Heb. 9:6-28 a contrast is drawn…”). What is the difference between the work of the high priest on the Day of Atonement and the work of Christ, the great High Priest? What have you found to be the connection between fasting and the Atonement?

9. When you come to understand this connection, why does Christ’s reply concerning fasting make so much sense as to why the disciples of Christ don’t fast while the bridegroom is with them?

Miracles In Mark 2, there is one recorded miracle.

• Man sick with a palsy is healed—Mark 2:1-12. See also Matthew 9:1-8; Luke 5:17-26.

If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then follow the directions listed in the Appendix. We will do a study of this miracle together here, too.

1. Read Mark 2:1-12. Ponder the corresponding Analysis and Application questions.

2. What was the condition of the person who was sick with the palsy?

3. Who requested this miracle of Christ? 4. When they came to the house, it was too crowded

to bring in the man who was sick. What did they do to get him into the home?

5. What was Jesus’ reaction to the diligence of these people?

6. How did Jesus choose to heal this man? 7. Why do you think that Christ offered to forgive

this man’s sins as a method of healing him?


8. What are the other circumstances surrounding this miracle? Who else witnesses it? Why is this important? What do they think of the healing?

9. Why do you think that the scribes were skeptical of Jesus’ ability to forgive sins?

10. When Jesus commanded the man to walk, what did he do? Did it take a long time for the miracle to take effect? What was the general reaction of the people who witnessed this miracle?

11. What can we learn about Christ’s power in this miracle? Additionally, are there times when our sins might have a physical effect on us? We don’t know the cause of this man’s palsy, but we know that somewhere the forgiveness of his sins was a necessary part of his healing. Why do you think that this is so? How can our choice to be repentant, along with Christ’s forgiveness, help to heal us?


Mark 3



Mark 3:1-6

1. When Christ enters the synagogue, who does He find there?

2. Who was watching Christ? Why were they watching Him?

3. When Christ senses their motive, what does He ask them? Do they answer? Why do you think that they remain silent?

4. Why was Jesus grieved for these Pharisees? 5. What happens after this? Why do the Pharisees

want to destroy Christ? Mark 3:7-21

1. After Christ healed in the synagogue, where did He go? Who was with Him?

2. What did He do for the people while near the sea? 3. After healing the people, where did Christ go

with the apostles? What did He do there? Why do you think that it is important to know He ordained the apostles?

4. As soon as He ordained the apostles, who came again?

5. What was the condition of the person brought to Jesus?

Mark 3:22-30

1. What did the scribes and Pharisees attribute Christ’s power to?

2. Did their accusation make any sense? Why/why not? How did Christ respond to this hypothesis?


3. What does Jesus teach the Pharisees about forgiveness and repentance (be sure to look at the JST for Mark 3:28)?

Mark 3:31-35

1. Who came to the spot where Jesus was teaching and called to Him?

2. What does Jesus teach the people? 3. What do you think that this teaching means?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ At the end of Mark 3, Jesus’ brothers and mother came and

called out to Him. A multitude has gathered and they can’t get to Christ. Christ uses this opportunity to teach the multitude about our relationship with Him. We will study this using the lens of the Atonement to see if we can learn more about the power of the Atonement and our relationships with Christ.

1. Read Mark 3:31-35. Complete the associated Analysis and Application questions.

2. Who came to see Jesus? What sets these people apart from the multitude that was in the house with Him?

3. Based on the fact that these visitors were Christ’s direct family and they requested to see Him, what do you think His response would have been?

4. Christ takes this moment to teach the people. What does He ask them?

5. Do you think that they understood why Christ was asking them this? Who does He say are His mother and brethren?

6. What qualifies us to be related to Christ in this way?

7. Why do you think that doing God’s will enables us to be considered Christ’s brother, sister, mother?

8. Now, think of this entire exchange in relation to the Atonement. When Christ performed the Atonement, whose will did He fulfill (see Matthew 26:39, 42)?

9. Why was it important for Christ to submit to God’s will in regards to performing the Atonement? Did it seem like something Christ wanted to do—in and of Himself? What was He asking to be released of?

10. Yet, He overcame the will of the flesh and submitted to the will of the Father.


11. What can the atonement teach us about submitting to God’s will?

12. Reread Mark 3:35. How does your understanding of this verse increase when you consider Christ’s Atonement?

13. What do you think that it means to be a brother, sister, or mother to Christ? Why do you think that submitting to God’s will help’s you to increase your relationship with Him?

Miracles In Mark 3, there are a few miracles:

• Healing of the man with a withered hand—Mark 3:1-6.

• Healing of a man possessed with devils (followed by accusations of the Pharisees)—Mark 3:21-29.

If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then follow the directions listed in the Appendix. We will study one together now.

1. Read Mark 3:1-6. Study the corresponding Analysis and Application questions.

2. What is the miracle that is performed here? 3. Who requests this miracle? 4. Where does this take place? Who else is at the

synagogue? 5. When does this happen? Why is the Sabbath day an

important part of this story? How do the Pharisees feel about healing on the Sabbath day? Why do you think that they are against it?

6. Notice the details of the miracle. What does the Savior ask the man with the withered hand to do? Who else does the Savior speak to? What does He say to the Pharisees? Why does He ask them these questions?

7. Do the Pharisees answer Christ? Why/why not? 8. How does Christ eventually heal this man? 9. Does the Lord give the man with the withered hand

any other directions or advice? Do you have any other observations?

10. What do you think that you can learn from this healing? Why do you think that Christ heals, even on the Sabbath? What does this teach us about the Savior, the Sabbath, and what is expected of us? Why do you think that the Pharisees had such a hard time seeing past the letter of the law?

Cross-reference: Past Feeling


As Mark 3 opens, we witness an experience between the Pharisees, a man with a withered hand, and Jesus Christ. It is the Sabbath day, and Christ is healing. The Pharisees don’t really agree with it. In verse 5, we learn something about the Pharisees. We will study this verse and cross-reference it to another scripture to learn more about the Pharisees and how we can learn from their examples.

1. Read Mark 3:5. 2. How did Christ look at them? What do you think

this means? Why was Jesus angry with them? 3. What does “hardness of their hearts” mean? What

does the footnote say about this phrase? 4. In what ways might the Pharisees be insensitive

or dull? 5. In your scriptures, mark the cross-reference: “1

Nephi 17:45—past feeling” 6. Read 1 Nephi 17:45. 7. In this verse, Nephi is talking to his older

brothers, Laman and Lemuel. Notice how he describes them. What are they swift to do? Slow to do?

8. What had they seen? Heard? 9. How had the Lord spoken to Laman and Lemuel? 10. Yet, did this make much of an impact on them? Why

not? 11. How do you think that the actions of Laman and

Lemuel (their easiness to do iniquity) caused them to be “past feeling”?

12. Now, think about the Pharisees. Were they able to hear the voice of the Lord, even when He spoke to them face to face? Why do you think that the Pharisees were dull or insensitive?

13. In your scriptures (in 1 Nephi), write the corresponding cross-reference: “Mark 3:5—past feeling”

14. What can you learn from these examples—both the Pharisees and Nephi’s brothers? How can you be sure that you are always able to feel the Spirit?


Mark 4



Mark 4:1-13

1. Christ is teaching by the seaside. Which parable does He tell?

2. What reason does He give the twelve apostles for telling parables?

Mark 4:14-20

1. What explanation does Christ give for the parable of the sower?

2. How can this parable help us as we seek to grow in the gospel? What can we learn from it?

Mark 4:21-25

1. Christ tells another parable. What is it? 2. What do you think that Christ means by this

parable? 3. Why would He tell it right after teaching the

parable of the sower? 4. What does the Lord then teach about gaining

knowledge? 5. How do you think that you can gain more knowledge

and become one that truly sees, hears, and understands?

Mark 4:26-29

1. Here is another parable. What is it? 2. What do you think that Christ is teaching in this

parable? Mark 4:30-41


1. Now which parable does Christ teach? Why do you think that He compares the kingdom of God to a mustard seed growing into a tree?

2. When Jesus finishes teaching, where do they go? 3. What happens as Jesus and the apostles are on the

boat? 4. What do the apostles ask Jesus as the waves toss

their boat in the sea? What do you think, did Christ care not that they should perish? Why/why not?

5. What did the Lord do? After calming the sea, what did the Savior ask the apostles? Why do you think He asked them this?

6. What did the apostles think of the Savior at this point? Do you think that they truly understood who He was?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In Mark 4, Christ teaches the people in parables. These

teachings can help us live better lives. We can also discover how these teachings may be related to the Atonement.

1. Begin by reading Mark 4:1-2. 2. Where is Christ when He begins teaching? Whom

does He teach? 3. According to verse 2, what does Christ use in His

teaching? 4. Look at the last phrase in verse 2. What is the

doctrine that Christ is teaching? 5. What is His doctrine? (Use the footnotes to

discover what is meant by Christ’s “doctrine.”) 6. Read 3 Nephi 11:31-41. 7. What is the historical context of this chapter?

(Look to the chapter headings for help.) 8. What is the doctrine of Christ? 9. What do you think that this doctrine has to do

with the Atonement? 10. Is the doctrine of Christ—having faith in Him,

repenting, and being baptized—even possible without the Atonement? How do you think that understanding the Atonement can help you to better understand the doctrine of Christ? Conversely, how can understanding the doctrine of Christ help you to better understand the Atonement?

11. How can understanding both the doctrine of Christ and its connection with the Atonement help give


you insight to the Savior’s teachings in the scriptures?

Parables If you are doing a comprehensive study of the parables,

then study these parables following the instructions given in the Appendix. The parables found in Mark 4 include:

• Parable of the sower—Mark 4:1-13 • Parable of a candle under a bushel—Mark 4:21-23 • Parable of a seed growing secretly—Mark 4:26-29 • Parable of mustard seed—Mark 4:30-32

For now, we will study the parable of a seed growing secretly together.


2. Begin by doing a side-by-side comparison. Figure out what each element of the parable represents. You may not be able to get all of these meanings at first, but just do your best. Most likely, if you’re having trouble with understanding these elements, their meaning will become evident as you study the parable.

3. According to verse 26, what is the kingdom of God in this parable?

4. What do you think that sleeping and then waking the next day could possibly signify?

5. What is the seed? 6. What is the seed sprouting forward? 7. What do you think the earth is? 8. What is the fruit that she brings forth? 9. What does the man do with the fruit that has been

brought forth? 10. What does the sickle, or his work, represent? 11. What does the harvest represent? 12. Let’s continue to gather more information about

this parable. What is the context in which this parable is being given?

13. What had Christ just taught about? 14. Are there other parables being taught? What are

they? Can you find a connection between this parable and the others?

15. Look at Mark 4:2. What is Christ trying to teach in each of these parables? Even if you can’t see the connection between Christ’s doctrine and this parable, keep in mind His doctrine and how He may be teaching it.

16. What does the man do? Does his casting of the seed on the ground seem intentional?


17. After casting the seed on the ground, what does the man do? What does he find the next day?

18. Why do you think that these seeds sprang up and grew? What was available to them in order to grow?

19. What does the earth do for herself? What do you think this means? Is everything growing on this earth something cultivated by man?

20. Even though this man didn’t grow the fruit intentionally, what does he do? Why does he harvest it?

21. We will now try to apply it on a few levels to see if this will help our understanding of the meaning of the parable. How might the man casting seed on the ground be applied to us? Think of your own life; are there times when you might be planting the “seeds” of the gospel unaware? How does this happen? How can you make sure that the seeds you “plant” are good when it comes to people’s feelings toward the gospel?

22. Another way to think of this is through missionary work. For example, my husband served a mission in Italy and didn’t baptize a single person. Do you think that his time was wasted? What do you think that missionaries—who didn’t get to reap fruit—may be doing instead?

23. Now, in regards to this parable and the fruit, perhaps we aren’t the person who has planted the seed, yet we find the fruit ready to harvest; what do you think we should do? How do we thrust in our sickles and reap the fruit?

24. Finally, how can we apply this parable to ourselves in the context of the seed? Remember, the seed is nourished by the earth. What do you think that the “earth” may symbolize when we think of this in our own lives? How do you think that your circumstances in life can help to nourish and strengthen your testimony to the point of bringing forth fruit? What can you do to be aware of the life you’re living—the blessings you’ve received, the trials you’ve experienced, the things you have learned—and then bear fruit?

25. If we bear fruit, even in difficult circumstances, what will happen to us?

26. As you study this parable, what kind of meaning can you make of it? Why do you think that Christ was teaching this parable to His disciples? How


does this parable help you to know more of Christ and His doctrine?

Compare and Contrast—Parable of the Sower and Lehi’s Dream In Mark 4, Jesus tells the parable of the sower. He also

tells the meaning of the parable. Though we can learn a lot about this parable from Mark 4 alone, cross-referencing it with a similar story can help us understand more of what we are to learn in this parable.


2. In your scripture journal, write the groups of people mentioned by Christ. There are four groups.

3. In your scriptures, mark the cross-reference by writing “1 Nephi 8—parable of the sower and Lehi’s dream”

4. Read 1 Nephi 8. As you read this chapter, think of the groups that Jesus mentioned. See if you can find them in Lehi’s dream. We will study this together.

Group One

1. Find the first group mentioned in Mark 4:4. What happened to these seeds?

2. What do we learn is the representation of these seeds in Mark 4:15?

3. Do these people ever seem to accept the gospel in any way?

4. Now read 1 Nephi 8:18, 31-35. What did this first group of people refuse to do?

5. Why do you think that they would not listen to the prophet?

6. Instead, what did this group seek? 7. What happened, ultimately, to these people? 8. How are these two groups alike?

Group Two

1. Find the second group mentioned in Mark 4:5-6. What happened to these seeds?

2. What do we learn is the meaning of this group of seeds? (See Mark 4:16-17.)

3. Now read 1 Nephi 8:21-23. What did this group of people begin to do?

4. After obtaining the path and heading toward the tree of life, what came upon this group of people?


5. When the mist of darkness arose, how did it affect the people who had commenced in the path?

6. Turn to 1 Nephi 12:17. What does this verse teach about the mists of darkness?

7. How can the mists of darkness be like the sun that scorched the tender plants that had fallen on stony ground?

8. How are the groups mentioned in Christ’s parable and Lehi’s dream alike?

Group Three

1. Find the third group mentioned in Mark 4:7. What happened to these seeds?

2. What do we learn is the meaning of this part of the parable? (See Mark 4:18-19)

3. Read 1 Nephi 8:24-28. What did this group of people do?

4. After partaking of the fruit of the tree, how did they feel?

5. Why were they ashamed? 6. After enduring such mockery, what did these

people do? Why do you think that they chose to leave the tree of life—which brought Lehi so much joy (see 1 Nephi 8:10-12)—and go to the great and spacious building?

7. How is the great and spacious building like the thorny plants and weeds mentioned in Mark?

8. What other similarities do you notice between the two accounts?

Group Four

1. Find the fourth group mentioned in Mark 4:8. What happened to these seeds?

2. What is the meaning of this group? (See Mark 4:20.)

3. Read 1 Nephi 8:30. What did this group of people do?

4. How was this group of people able to endure and then partake of the fruit? Did they get ashamed later?

5. How is this final group like the final group mentioned in Christ’s parable?

6. Overall, how do the parable of the sower and Lehi’s dream compare?

7. How does studying these stories together help you to better understand them?

Miracles


In Mark 4, one miracle is recorded: • Jesus calms the raging sea—Mark 4:35-41

If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then follow the directions listed in the Appendix.

Quest—Finding Meaning A little background: Before Joseph Smith and Sydney Rigdon

received the revelation concerning the three degrees of heaven, they had been working on translating the Bible—John 5:29. In Doctrine and Covenants 76:18, we see what their response to this scripture was: “Now this caused us to marvel, for it was given unto us of the Spirit.”

An interesting concept: the Spirit will prompt us to marvel.

I hope that you will take time to marvel at the scriptures,

and when you do chase that moment! The Spirit is trying to teach you something.

Since “marveling” may be a new idea to you, I will try to

guide you through a way to ponder something when you have no idea what direction it will take.

While reading through this chapter, I came across a part

that made me marvel. The scripture is found in Mark 4:38: “And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?”

The part I found especially interesting was the final question asked by the disciples, Master, carest thou not that we perish?

Just so you know, I’m not sure why I marvel at this. I

don’t know why it is sticking out to me, but I know it is. I also have an impression that there is something that the Spirit wants to teach me here, if I’m willing to do the work to learn. This process is not really concrete. I’m sharing my own experience with you, but there isn’t one set way to do it. You just have to listen to the Spirit—let it guide you. As you do, then you will learn what you need to know. For me, there is usually a pretty obvious epiphany that happens as I’m searching. That is when I know that I’ve found what I was looking for (without even knowing what to look for!)

I know that this sounds vague, but bear with me. I think

that it can help you as you study the scriptures, too. Let’s go on a quest!


1. Really think of the words that stick out. In this case: “Master, carest not thou that we perish?” Why do the disciples call Christ “Master”? What does this mean?

2. What are the circumstances around this question? Why are the disciples so upset?

3. What do you think that the answer is? Does Jesus Christ care if we perish?

4. Instinctively, when I answer question three, I say, “YES! Yes, Jesus Christ cares if we perish.”

5. What does this mean? How do I know that Jesus Christ cares if I perish? (This is more of a rhetorical question.)

6. In order to answer the questions about what it means and how I know that Jesus Christ cares, I think of a few things I know about Jesus—What about Christ’s life will show me that He cares if I perish?

7. Often when seeking understanding we learn as much from the considering the opposite concept. What is the opposite of “perish”?

8. Think some more of these concepts: perish=death; live=life.

9. Now, what does Christ have to do with each of these: death and life?

10. Personally, I feel like this is the direction I need to take. I know that Jesus Christ cares about me—that He doesn’t want me to perish. Now, I want to supplement some of these ideas with scriptures that will help me to really galvanize what I’m thinking.

11. Before you search the Topical Guide or Index, you may feel that the Spirit is calling other scriptures or conference talks to your remembrance. If this is the case, search the scriptures that you are being prompted to remember. There may or may not be a relationship that is obvious. It is tricky to do this, so just take your time and be patient. If you feel sure that the Spirit has prompted you to look up a scripture, then study and ponder until you can figure out what the connection is. For example, when I think of the phrase, “Master, carest not thou that we perish?”, two scriptures keep coming into my mind. We will study them to see if there is a connection or something to learn.

12. Read 2 Nephi 2:27. What are the options that we are free to choose? Who offers to us liberty and


life? Who offers captivity and death? According to what each offers, then what do you think that the Savior’s answer to the disciples question (“Master, carest thou not that we perish?”) would be?

13. Read 2 Nephi 26:24. What is the motive for everything that Christ does? Why do you think that understanding this motive will help us to know whether or not the Savior cares if we perish?

14. Now, you may not be thinking of any scriptures off-hand. This is okay. We have vast resources. Go to the Topical Guide to gather insights to what you are marvelling. Consider which subjects you may want to research and look them up. For this example, I’m going to look up Perish; Jesus Christ—Mission of; Life. As you scan through these, be open-minded and guided by the Spirit. If you feel drawn to a reference, check out what it says. See what the Spirit is trying to teach you. Don’t overwhelm yourself by looking up every single scripture reference. Of course, if you feel like you should, then do it. However, there really is no formula. You may look up a reference and not find any suitable scripture. Just scan through the references and if something sticks out to you, pursue it.

15. For this example, I’m drawn to several scriptures. We will look at them and see if there are connections. Read John 11:25-26. What does Jesus teach to Martha? How can this scripture help us to answer the question “Master, carest not thou that we perish?”

16. Read Genesis 2:7. What does this scripture teach us about the relationship between the Savior and our lives? When we know that Jesus truly is the Creator, do you think that He really cares if we live or perish? Why?

17. Read 3 Nephi 9:18. What does this scripture teach us about Christ? Why do you think that it is important for us to understand that Jesus is the life? What do you think that Jesus means when He tells us this again and again?

18. Read Moses 1:39. In this scripture, what do we learn is the Lord’s major objective? With this scripture in mind, how do you think the question, “Master, carest not thou that we perish?” would be answered? As you study these scriptures, what


is the feeling you get? What are you learning? Is the principle that you’re studying starting to form in your mind?

19. Read John 3:16. Why did Heavenly Father offer up His only Son?

20. As you consider all of the scriptures, what impression do you get?

21. How do you think that the Savior would answer the question that the disciples pose to Him, “Master, carest thou not that we perish?”

22. Now, when you are studying your own impression, take the time to ask, “Why did I feel impressed to study this?” For me, I think that it is important to know that of course the Savior cares! He cares more than we can understand. Everything He is, everything that He has done, is doing, and will do is for our lives. It is possible that He cares more about our lives than we do!

23. Think again about these disciples. Where were they? Why were they so worried? Are there times when you are on rocky waters and you pray, even beg, for the Lord to wake up and calm the raging sea? Do you ever wonder, “Master, carest not thou that I perish?” Do you think that the Lord cares about you?

24. How can this scripture chain help you to go forward with more confidence in the Lord, even when life’s difficult storms surround you?

At this point, you can finish, or you might be interested

in writing a scripture chain linking the scriptures that you discovered while studying this topic. I hope you will learn to marvel and let it set you on a quest!


Mark 5



Mark 5:1-20

1. When Jesus and the disciples get off the ship in the country of the Gadarenes, who do they see?

2. What is noteworthy about this man? 3. When he saw Jesus what did he do? Then what did

he say to Jesus? What do you think of these two contradicting things?

4. What does Christ do? 5. After Jesus casts the legion of evil spirits out

of the man, where does He send them? 6. What do the swine do? 7. How do the people respond to the miracle that

Christ has performed? 8. Why do you think that they are so shocked and

upset by this? Mark 5:21-43

1. When Christ arrived to the other side of the sea, who approached him?

2. What did Jairus ask of Christ? 3. As Jesus was walking towards Jairus’ house, what

happened? 4. Why did the woman touch His hem? Was she healed? 5. After healing the woman, what did the people in

town tell Christ? What was His response? 6. Why do you think that Christ said this? How does

fear interrupt our ability to believe? 7. Did Christ continue on to help Jairus’ daughter?

What did He finally do for her? 8. When you are going through challenges and you

think that all hope is lost, how can this story


of the healing of Jairus’ daughter help strengthen your belief rather than feel fearful?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In Mark 5, we read about a series of miracles performed by

Christ. Read through them with the lens of the Atonement. See how these miracles help you to better understand the work He will perform later. We will study one part of the chapter together.

1. Read Mark 5:22-24; 35-43. (Notice that while verses 25-34 do not deal with the healing of Jairus’ daughter directly, this miracle did occur while Christ was on His way to Jairus’s house.)

2. Who was Jairus? 3. When Jairus saw Jesus, what did he do? Why do you

think that he did this? What did Jairus understand about Jesus?

4. When Jairus asks Jesus to heal his daughter, what, specifically does he ask the Savior to do? What does this teach us about the way that the priesthood was administered anciently?

5. What does Jesus do? 6. While traveling to Jairus’ house, what happens? 7. Does Jesus’ exchange with the woman stop His

ability to bless Jairus’ daughter? In other words, did His healing of and speaking with the woman with the issue of blood inhibit his ability to heal Jairus’ daughter? Why or why not? What does this teach us about the power of the Atonement? Do you think that when Jesus blesses one it robs another of a blessing? How many blessings and miracles can the Savior work in our lives? How can understanding the infinite nature of the Atonement help us to know that Jesus has blessings to spare?

8. Before arriving to Jairus’ house, what did someone say about the ability to heal Jairus’ daughter?

9. What was Christ’s response to this assertion? 10. How do you think that this advice—be not afraid,

only believe—can be applied to our approach to the Atonement? Are there times when we undermine the power of Christ through fear rather than believing in the infinite, enabling power of the Atonement? How can we express faith rather than fear?


11. When they arrived to Jairus’ house, who did Jesus take with Him? Why do you think that He chose them to come in with Him? Think of these three in connection with the Atonement. What part did they play? (See Matthew 26:36-45.)

12. At Jairus’ house, what were the people doing? Why were they so upset?

13. What did Christ say the damsel was doing? Why would He say this? Do you think that they were mistaken about her being alive or dead?

14. Think about this situation in the context of the Atonement. When we remember that Christ can heal us of our sins and death, then how does Christ’s statement make more sense?

15. Notice how Christ heals the daughter. Who is with Him? Why do you think that Christ performed this miracle in such an intimate way? How do you think that this can also be applied to the Atonement? Is the Atonement only something that happened far away on a major (infinite and eternal) scale, meant to heal hundreds of people at a time? How can the Atonement heal us—even in the most private and intimate circumstances?

16. After the Lord commanded the damsel to arise, what did she do? Does she seem to be a willing participant in this miracle? How does this relate to the Atonement? Do you think that it will heal someone who is unwilling to be healed?

17. How does this example of the Savior healing Jairus’ daughter help to expand and intensify your understanding and testimony of the Atonement? What does it teach you about the Savior?

Miracles If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then

follow the directions listed in the Appendix. In Mark 5, the following miracles are included:

• Christ casts out a legion of devils—Mark 5:1-20 • A woman touches Christ’s hem and is healed—Mark

5:25-34 • Christ raises Jairus’ daughter from the dead—Mark

5:22-43 We will study one of these miracles together.


2. What is the basic miracle that occurs here? 3. Who requests the miracle to be performed?


4. Where did this man come from when he met Christ at the shore?

5. Where does it say that this man dwelt? Why do you think that he dwelt among the tombs? How do you think that this living condition might have affected his psyche and general mental state?

6. What else do we learn about this man? What do you think it means in Mark 5:4 where it says, “neither could any man tame him”?

7. What did this man do night and day? 8. As you think of this man and his sorry state, how

do you think he might have felt? Though we don’t know how he came to be in this state, we know that he was tormented. As far as Christ’s ability to heal, do you think that it matters whether this man was born with these emotional issues or if they were a consequence of sin? What truly matters when we desire the Lord to heal us?

9. What did the man do when he saw Jesus? 10. Was any visible request for a miracle made? 11. Does Jesus heal the man? How did he do it (see

verse 8)? 12. Notice that when Christ cast out the evil spirit,

it seemed to linger around. What did the evil spirit say to Jesus (in verse 7)? Why do you think that the evil spirit was afraid of Christ?

13. What did Christ then ask the evil spirit? How did the evil spirit respond?

14. Was this simply one evil spirit that had resided in the man?

15. What does the legion then ask Jesus to do? 16. When Jesus sends the legion of devils into the

swine, what do they do? Why do you think that they went and drowned themselves in the sea right away? What does this teach us about the state of the spirits that follow the devil?

17. When the people of the town see that Christ has healed the man, what do they think? Why do you think that they were so afraid of the Savior?

18. How about the man who had been with the devil, what did he think of his Savior? What did he ask the Savior to do?

19. Christ didn’t agree to have this man tarry with him. Instead, he gave the man special instructions. What were they? Why do you think that Jesus wanted this man to go to his friends and testify of the power of the Savior? One possibility: think about this guy—he was pretty


much mentally ill before he had been healed by Christ. What kinds of relationships do you think that he had before Christ healed him? Do you think that he may have hurt or offended people in the past? How might this man’s returning to his friends and testifying of Christ have brought additional healing to both him and those he may have hurt? What else do you think would have been beneficial about this man staying in his country testifying of Christ rather than traveling with Him?

Patterns—Teaching in the Moment Jesus Christ was the Master Teacher and His entire life is

a pattern of effective gospel teaching. For now, we will study one example of Christ’s teaching ability. This pattern isn’t a set of instructions that repeat themselves, but is more of a set of instructions that will produce a desired effect (like a pattern for a dress). Study the pattern in the scriptures and see how you can be a better teacher.

1. Read Mark 5:25-34. Ponder the associated Analysis and Application questions.

2. What does this woman already seem to understand about the power of the Savior?

3. When she touches the hem of Christ’s clothes, what happens to her?

4. Remember, they are in a throng of people, yet Christ is aware. What does He say?

5. Do the disciples understand what Christ means when He asks this question?

6. Yet, does Christ ignore what He had felt? What does He do?

7. What does the woman say to the Savior? 8. How does He respond to her admission? 9. Find the pattern for teaching here:

Jesus is aware

1. In verse 30, Christ is immediately aware that virtue had gone out of him. How do you think that this helps us to teach in the moment?

2. Recall the situation. How many people were around? Do you think that it would have been easy for Christ to be preoccupied? Yet, He was able to notice a slight touch of His hem. How do you think that this was so?

3. In our own lives, we might be thronged by a multitude of things. What are some of the things that may distract us? How then, can we learn to


be aware even when we have so many things going on around us?

4. How do you think that awareness is the first step in teaching while in the moment?

Jesus asks a question

1. Think for a second of the significance of this. Why do you think that Jesus wanted to know who had touched Him?

2. We already know enough about Jesus to know that He was omniscient. He could perceive the thoughts of the Pharisees; He knew that Judas would betray Him and Peter would deny Him. Is it possible that Jesus really had no idea of who had touched Him? Why do you think that He asked?

3. How does asking a question help to invite the “learner” into the learning situation? Since this isn’t a formal teaching moment, can we expect the student to be ready for a lesson? How does Christ’s question help to engage the woman?

Jesus comforts

1. Before Jesus teaches this woman, He comforts her. As Christ is trying to find out who has touched His hem, what does the woman do? What is her emotional state? Why do you think that she is frightened? How is her emotional state a lot like those whom we must teach (when we are teaching in an informal setting)? Why do you think it is important to consider her feelings at this moment?

2. What does this woman do? 3. When she admits to touching Christ’s hem, what is

he first word He utters to her? 4. How do you think that the simple word “daughter”

might affect this woman? How do you think that it might melt her heart and make her ready for the lesson He is about to teach? How do you think that injecting comfort and love will help you as you seek to teach your children or others?

Jesus teaches a pithy and appropriate lesson

1. Finally Jesus teaches this woman a short yet important lesson that she is not likely to forget.

2. After addressing the woman as “Daughter” what does Jesus then do? Do you think that she is ready to hear the message?


3. What does Jesus teach her? How do you think that His timing and following each step of this pattern made His short lesson especially effective?

4. As you look at this entire pattern, how much lecturing does Christ do? How do you think that this might relate to teaching others (especially in an informal setting)?

5. How do you think that lecturing less, and instead being aware, asking questions, comforting, then finally teaching can help you to become a more effective teacher?


Mark 6



Mark 6:1-6

1. As this chapter opens, where did Christ travel? 2. Did the people accept His teachings? Why/why not? 3. What did their lack of faith prohibit Christ from

doing? 4. Why do you think that faith is such an essential

ingredient in Christ’s work for us? Mark 6:7-29

1. What does Christ send the twelve apostles out to do?

2. What was the message that the apostles were to give to people?

3. Who caught wind of the works that they were performing?

4. Did Herod know who they were? Who did Herod confuse the twelve apostles with?

5. Why was Herod so afraid of John the Baptist? 6. What was the quarrel that John the Baptist had

with Herodias? 7. What did Herodias want to do to John? How did

she eventually accomplish this? Mark 6:30-44

1. When the apostles meet together with Christ, what do they then go to do?

2. Are they able to rest? Why not? 3. When the people began to gather to Christ, even

though He was going to rest, what did He do?


4. As the day went on, the disciples came to Christ to have Him send the people home. Did Christ send them home right away? What did He do for them?

5. How many people ended up being fed by Christ that evening?

6. What does this miracle teach you about Christ? Mark 6:45-56

1. After feeding the people, where did the apostles and Christ each go?

2. Why did Christ go to the mountain? 3. As the night went on, what did Christ notice

about the apostles on the sea? What did He go to do?

4. How did the apostles react to seeing a man walking on water?

5. After arriving at their destination, what happened?

6. Notice the contrast between Christ’s visit to His own country versus the visits He made at a “desert place” and in Gennesaret. What was He able to do for the people in these two latter places that He was not able to do in His own country? Why do you think that the people of His country had such a hard time recognizing Him as the Savior?

7. How can you be like the people who recognized the Savior?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ By this point in Mark’s account, Christ has been performing

miracles and gaining popularity with people in various parts of the land. Yet when the Savior goes back to His home country, they have a hard time accepting them. We will study this short block of verses with the Atonement in mind to see if we can learn more about Christ and His sacrifice.


2. Where is the Savior as this chapter opens? Who came with Him?

3. What day was it when Christ started teaching? Did the people in the synagogue accept what He taught? (You can find exactly what He taught to the people in Luke 4:18-19 or Isaiah 61:1-2.)

4. Why did the people reject Christ as the Messiah? 5. When Jesus was rejected what was His response?


6. Think of this in terms of the Atonement. Are there times when we downplay the divinity of Christ? Perhaps we may not underestimate Christ, but do we reject those who are called to serve us? How might this kind of criticism of local leaders lead to a diminished testimony in the Savior?

7. Was Christ able to heal many people while in His home country? Why do you think that lack of faith mitigates Christ’s power?

8. When you think of faith and Christ’s power to heal, how does that help you to understand the power of the Atonement? Will Christ’s Atonement heal us against our wills? Will Christ’s Atonement heal us when we don’t express faith?

9. How can you develop the faith that is required to let the Lord’s powerful Atonement to change your life?

Church Government—The Apostles In Mark 6, the Lord gives His apostles assignments. The

Lord had been training them and now expects them to help labor in the vineyard.

We will study the assignment Christ gives to the apostles along with a few cross-references to help us understand the purpose and role of the apostles in the church.

1. Read Mark 6:7. 2. When Christ sent them out in smaller groups, how

many people comprised each group? 3. Why do you think that He sent them out two by

two? As you consider this question, think about other instructions and examples given in the scriptures. Has the Lord established a pattern of witnesses? How many does He usually give?

4. Read 2 Corinthians 13:1. What does this scripture teach us about witnesses? Now, why do you think that the Lord sent the apostles out two by two?

5. What did the Lord give them the power to do? 6. Why do you think that He gave them the power to

do these things? Again, as you consider this question, you may not know the answer. In fact, I don’t know the answer. But don’t be afraid of a question that you can’t answer off the top of your head. Instead, search! We will be able to find something that helps us understand why the Lord gave them this power.

7. One scripture that I think of when considering this topic is found in Mormon 9:22-25. Read it.


According to this, what was the primary responsibility of the twelve apostles?

8. What are the signs that follow those that believe?

9. Though Christ is the source of power, can these miracles be performed only by Him?

10. Finally, as you consider why Christ would give this power, turn to Moses 1:39.

11. What is God’s work and glory? How does giving the apostles the power (and the charge) to heal help Christ to fulfill His work?

12. How do you think that He gave them this power? 13. Though we don’t learn in Mark how the Lord gave

the apostles this power, we can apply knowledge learned from elsewhere in the scriptures and current church practices.

14. Turn to the Topical Guide and search the entry for “Hands, Laying on of”. Before you even begin to look at specific references, notice that the laying on of hands has been practiced since ancient times. It is not a new tradition. Go through the references and when you find one that strikes you, read the scripture in context.

15. Personally, I like the scripture in Doctrine and Covenants 107:67. Read it. How are all ordinances and blessings administered in the Church? How do you suppose Jesus called, set apart, and gave His apostles their power?

16. Now that you have studied more about the apostles, how can you better sustain them in their work? How can you be the type of person who hears what they say, thereby enabling them to heal you in Christ’s name?


follow the directions listed in the Appendix. In Mark 6, the following miracles appear:

• Christ feeds 5,000—Mark 6:34-44 • Jesus walks on the water and calms the storm—Mark

6:46-52 Compare/Contrast—Herodias and the Mothers of the Stripling

Warriors In Mark, we get a startling example of a mother in

Herodias. We will compare her actions to those of the mothers of the stripling warriors.

1. Begin by reading about Herodias in Mark 6:16-29.


2. What kind of relationship did Herodias (who was married to Herod’s brother Phillip) have with Herod? Why did John the Baptist criticize this relationship?

3. How did Herodias feel about John the Baptist’s opinion? What did she want to do to him?

4. Why couldn’t Herodias kill him outright? 5. Herodias waited until a convenient time. What was

her opportunity? 6. What was Herod’s feeling about the dance

performed by the daughter of Herodias? 7. What did Herod offer to Herodias’ daughter? Did

Herodias’ daughter make an immediate request? What did she do?

8. Now, look at what Herodias does! When her daughter comes to her for advice, what does Herodias instruct her daughter to ask of Herod?

9. What message do you think this sends to Herodias’s daughter—about her role as a woman? about her sexuality? about following the prophet? about keeping the commandments?

10. What kind of mother is Herodias? 11. On the other hand, we can look at other examples

of motherhood. There are so many to choose from, but we’ll look at one example from the Book of Mormon.

12. Read Alma 56:47-48; 57:21. 13. Although we don’t read of the exact ways that

these mothers taught their sons, we see the overall effect of their influence. What was the testimony that the stripling warriors had? Who had taught them?

14. Why do you think that they “did not doubt their mothers knew it”? How do you suppose that their mothers acted to instill such confidence in their sons?

15. We learn that the stripling warriors obeyed and observed every word of command “with exactness.” What do you think this means?

16. Again, in Alma 57:21, to whom is the integrity of the stripling warriors attributed?

17. As you think of both examples, what strikes you as a major difference? Do you think that Herodias’ daughter learned anything about integrity from her mother? What had she learned?

18. How do you suppose that teaching the gratuitous use of sexuality, manipulation, and even murder may have played out in the life of Herodias’


daughter? Though we don’t know what happened to her after, what type of woman do you think that she was likely to become?

19. Compare/contrast Herodias’ example as a mother to the examples set by the mothers of the stripling warriors. What comes to mind when you think of each of them? Which example do you think is better for children (individually), and ultimately society? Why?

20. What is the impact of a mother? How do you think you can either be a better mother or support the mothers you know?


Mark 7



Mark 7:1-13

1. Who came to Jesus at the beginning of this chapter?

2. What did they observe? What was their reaction to some of the disciples eating bread with unwashed hands?

3. What was the tradition of the Jews, especially elders?

4. What did they ask Jesus? 5. What was His answer? 6. What did the Pharisees seem to value over the

law? 7. Though traditions in and of themselves are not

bad, how might our traditions get in the way of true worship?

8. Think about your traditions or habits. Can you think of any that may need to be discarded from your life?

Matthew 7:14-23

1. What did Christ say would actually defile a person? How is this so?

2. Notice the list of things that defile someone. Why do you think that this is so?

3. How do you think you can keep your inward vessel clean?

Matthew 7:24-30

1. When Christ went into Tyre and Sidon, where did He go? Why did He go into this house?

2. Who came to see Him?


3. What did she request of Him? 4. Did He give to her according to her request? Why?

Matthew 7:31-37

1. After leaving the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, who was brought to Christ?

2. What did Christ do for this man? 3. What instruction did Christ give after He healed

the deaf man? Why do you think that people had such a hard time keeping this charge?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ Mark 7 is a busy chapter for Jesus. He reproves the

Pharisees and teaches the disciples. He also travels many places. We will study a single verse today to see what it teaches us about Jesus Christ and the Atonement He performed.

1. Read Mark 7:24. Make sure to read the JST associated with this verse.

2. What had Jesus been doing throughout the prior 23 verses?

3. Where was the general area that Jesus had been teaching? (You will find this at the end of Mark 6. Just note the basic region, as we do not have a specific location given where Jesus teaches the Pharisees and disciples).

4. After leaving Galilee, where did Jesus go to teach?

5. Again, we don’t have the exact location, we just know that He was in the borders of Tyre and Sidon, not necessarily in the cities. Yet, if you notice these regions on a map, you will see that the entire region is mountainous. How do you suppose Jesus was feeling after so much work—spiritually from teaching the Pharisees, and physically from the journey to Tyre and Sidon?

6. When Jesus entered into a house, what was His desire? Why do you think that He would have wanted time alone?

7. How do you think that Jesus’ need for renewal—physical and spiritual—helps us to understand more of His nature? How does knowing the Jesus did get exhausted give you added understanding of and comfort from the Atonement?

8. Even though Jesus sought to be alone, was this desire granted to Him? Instead, what happened? Did He deny those who came to Him? Why?


9. How do you think it was possible for Christ’s compassion to outweigh His own desires?

10. How do you think that this compassion helped Him to perform the Atonement?

11. How does it make you feel to know that Christ is always there for you?


follow the directions listed in the Appendix. In Mark 7, the following miracles appear:

• Jesus heals the Greek (Canaanite) woman’s daughter—Mark 7:24-30

• Jesus heals a man who is deaf and dumb—Mark 7:31-37.

We will study one miracle together now. 1. Read Mark 7:31-37. Consider the corresponding

Analysis and Application questions. 1. After Jesus returned to Galilee, who was brought

to Him? 2. What was the condition of this person? What did

the people ask the Lord to do? Did they request Him to do something, specifically?

3. Why do you think that they asked Him to put His hand upon the deaf man?

4. What does Christ do? Look at the specific details.

5. Why do you think that Christ touched this man’s ears, spit, and then touched his tongue? Is there any explanation?

6. What else did the Savior say? 7. What happened to the man as soon as Jesus

commanded the man to “be opened”? 8. After the man was healed, what did the Savior

charge the multitude? Why do you think that He wanted them not to tell of this miracle?

9. What was the reaction of the multitude when Jesus performed this miracle? Why do you think that they were so astonished? What does this say about their faith and trust in Christ and His power.

10. How can you be more confident in God rather than “astonished” by His works?


Mark 8



Mark 8:1-9

1. At this point in Christ’s ministry, how could His following be described (in size)?

2. According to verse 2, why did Jesus have compassion on them?

3. What did Jesus do for the multitude? 4. Jesus cared not only about their spiritual health

but also their physical health. How does it make you feel to know this? How does Christ bless you both spiritually and temporally?

Mark 8:10-13

1. What did the Pharisees seek of Christ? 2. Why did the Pharisees want a sign? 3. How did Jesus feel about this request made of

Him? 4. Why do you think that He seemed frustrated with

the Pharisees? Mark 8:14-21

1. While on the boat, how much bread had the disciples brought?

2. Christ gives them a warning about the Pharisees. What does He say?

3. Do the disciples understand what the Savior means by this? What do they think?

4. When Jesus realized that the disciples misunderstood, what did He remind them about?

5. We saw that Christ had just fed the 4,000, yet the disciples seem to have forgotten Christ’s


power already. Why do you think that they had a hard time realizing the true power of Christ?

6. Does this happen in our own lives? Are there times when we receive mighty miracles from the Lord, yet a little time passes and we begin to doubt?

7. What do you think you can do to strengthen your faith and trust in the power of the Lord?

Mark 8:22-26

1. When Jesus came to Bethsaida, who was brought to Him?

2. What did the Lord do for Him? Mark 8:27-33

1. When Jesus gathered His disciples together, what did He ask them?

2. What did the people think of Christ? 3. Think about the significance of this—that they

thought that Jesus was John the Baptist, Elias, or some other prophet. What miracle had Christ performed earlier in the chapter? Additionally, in verse 1, what do we learn about the size of the multitude following Christ at this point in His ministry?

4. Even though so many people are following Christ here, do they seem to understand who He is? Why do you think that they misunderstood?

5. What did Jesus then ask the disciples? 6. How did Peter answer? 7. Afterwards, what prophecy did Christ give of

Himself? 8. How do you think that you would have felt in this

situation—with the other disciples—to hear that the Master will soon die?

Mark 8:34-38

1. What did Christ teach the people and disciples in verse 34?

2. What do you think that this means? 3. Why do you think that following Christ must

entail denying ourselves and taking up our crosses?

4. Why would anyone want to follow Christ? 5. Where are we following Christ to? 6. In verse 36, Christ asks a question. Although it

is given to His disciples rhetorically, answer it


now: “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul?”

7. How do you think that you can overcome the temptations and taunts of the world, and stand firm, unashamed, in your testimony of Christ?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In this chapter, we will study an exchange between Peter

and the Savior to see what it can teach us about the Atonement. 1. Read Mark 8:27-33. Consider the corresponding

Analysis and Application questions. 2. What did the Lord first ask the disciples? 3. Did the people understand who Jesus was? 4. What did the Lord then ask the disciples? 5. Who answers Jesus? What does Peter say? 6. Now, think about Peter’s answer. What does this

mean? 7. After this exchange, the Lord then teaches them

about some things which will be happening very soon. What does Jesus tell them?

8. Remember, we have already determined that the apostles believed that Jesus was the Messiah. Should this prophecy have been completely novel to them? Yet, after telling the apostles of His coming judgment, death, then resurrection, how does Peter respond?

9. Why do you think that Peter rebuked Christ? 10. What did Jesus do in response to Peter’s rebuke? 11. Why do you think that the Lord says, “Get thee

behind me, Satan”? Was Peter evil? Was Peter’s motive evil—did he want Christ to live?

12. What do you think that the Savior meant when He said, “for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.” How was protecting the Savior not of God? Why did the Lord rebuke Peter?

13. Think of this in terms of the Atonement. If Peter could have had his way—if Peter could have “protected” the Lord—what impact would it have on the Atonement?

14. Jesus knew of His coming trial in performing the Atonement. Even though Jesus was righteous and faithful, do you think that He may have had a little bit of anxiety over this coming event?

15. Recall Christ’s own description of the work of the Atonement by reading Doctrine and Covenants 19:18. Recall that when the Lord performed the


Atonement, He prayed that the cup might pass from Him. Do you think that beforehand, He might have had the idea it would be difficult—even though He didn’t realize to what extent?

16. If Christ did have a little bit of trepidation about His coming work with the Atonement, how might have Peter’s rebuke been a temptation?

17. Again, look at this scenario. One second Peter was testifying that Jesus was the Messiah—the one who would redeem Israel. The next, Peter was rebuking the Savior for doing the work that He was sent to do. Why do you think that Peter did this? How was Peter’s rebuke an underestimation of the power and importance of the work of the Atonement?

18. Are there times when we do this, when we go through trials and difficulties, and forget that this is the very refining process we might need in order to fulfill our missions? How can we learn from Christ’s example and keep our eyes on our goal—even if it means going through difficulties ahead?

19. What do Christ’s actions in this example teach us about Him? About the Atonement?

Miracles In Mark 8, we find 2 miracles:

• Christ feeds 4,000—Mark 8:1-13 • Christ heals the blind man—Mark 8:22-26

If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then follow the directions listed in the Appendix. We will study one of them now, together.

1. Read Mark 8:22-26. Consider the corresponding Analysis and Application questions.

2. What is the miracle that occurs here? 3. Who asked the Savior to perform this miracle? 4. Why do you think that they asked Christ to touch

the blind man? 5. What did Christ do? What is the significance of

His actions? Why do you think Christ spit on the man’s eyes? After spitting on the man’s eyes, what did the Savior do?

6. Was the man able to see right away? 7. Had something like this happened before? His

vision wasn’t instantly clear. Why do you think that this is?

8. What did Christ then do? 9. Was the man able to see after this?


10. What do you think made the difference? 11. Finally, what did Christ charge the man? Why do

you think that he tells the man to tell no one? 12. Consider this miracle in the context of the

chapter. Christ had a huge multitude following Him, listening to His teachings, and asking for miracles. The Pharisees came to the Lord—asking for a sign. This man was then brought to Christ by the people for the restoration of His sight. Then, the Lord asks the apostles, “Whom do men say that I am?” What is the apostles response to this question? What does this say about the huge multitude following Christ? For the most part, were they converted? Did they know that they followed the Messiah?

13. How is the apostles’ response appropriate to what has been happening in this chapter? How do you suppose this question fits in with this particular miracle—in regards to those who asked for the miracle and the man who received it?

14. Think again of the miracle: compared to other miracles, how is this one different right away? In other instances, what does Christ say to the person being healed about why they are able to be healed? We don’t learn anything about the faith of this man, but we see that He wasn’t healed right away. Do you think that this is because Jesus was unable to sufficiently heal the man the first time? What do you think might have caused this delay?

15. How do you think your faith or understanding of Christ might impede or enhance your ability to receive the blessings that might heal you?

Quest—Making Meaning of “Ashamed” At the end of this chapter, I’m having another “mind-

swirling” moment. A concept keeps sticking out to me, and it has me thinking, but I’m not completely sure what it has me thinking about. I haven’t yet made an obvious connection or meaning, but I know that something keeps sparking my interest. I know that the Spirit is prompting me to go on a quest! So, let’s go on it together.


2. In verses 37-38, I’m particularly struck by the idea of being ashamed of Christ. What do we learn about shame in these two verses?


3. Now, begin by deciding what being “ashamed” actually means. Define it using the dictionary.

4. According to the dictionary, I found the following definition: “embarrassed or humiliated to be associated with a person.” How would one be embarrassed or humiliated to be associated with Christ?

5. Additionally, another definition strikes me: “reluctant to do something through fear of embarrassment or humiliation.” This makes me think of shame in association to being righteous. Why might being righteous and doing our best cause us to be ashamed? Who is the author of this shame?

6. Go back to Mark 8:37-38. Notice the footnote for “ashamed” in verse 38.

7. Read the reference in 1 Nephi 8:24-28 to see what insight we can get from the footnote.

8. What is this scripture about? 9. What did this group of people successfully do? 10. Even though they had eaten the fruit, how did

they begin to feel? Why were they ashamed? 11. I still feel like there is more that I can learn

about shame. Though nothing specifically comes to mind, I know that I can keep searching the footnotes and scriptures to find other connections and ideas. Notice in 1 Nephi 8:25, the word “ashamed” has a footnote. Let’s study the footnotes to see what we can learn about this. Keep a bookmark in 1 Nephi 8 because we will be going back to it.

12. Read Romans 1:16. Here Paul bears his testimony. Why is he not ashamed of the gospel of Christ? What is it that people who are ashamed don’t understand?

13. Read 2 Timothy 1:8. What does Paul teach here? Instead of shame, what should we partake in? What do you think that being a partaker of the afflictions of the gospel means? How might some people be ashamed of this?

14. Read Alma 46:21. This scripture tells us what happened after the people heard the words of Captain Moroni. What covenant did they make? Notice the progression: 1) Transgress the commandments of God 2) be ashamed to take on the name of Christ. What do you think that breaking the commandments has to do with being ashamed of the Savior?


15. Read Mormon 8:38. In this chapter Moroni is speaking to us, in the latter days. What questions is he asking us? In what ways have people in the latter days polluted the church of God? In what ways are people in the latter days ashamed to take upon the name of Christ? In what ways do people think that the praise of the world is worth living in endless misery? Why do you think that Moroni asks us these questions? In what ways do sin and fear of the world relate to being ashamed of covenanting with Christ?

16. Return to 1 Nephi 8. Think of what you are learning about shame. How do you think that these people, who had partaken of the fruit of the tree of life, became ashamed?

17. Notice in verse 28, we see there are more scriptures in the footnote of the word “ashamed.” I think that it would be appropriate to study them, too, so I can learn more about this concept of being ashamed. (You will see that we are footnoted back to Mark 8:38. There is something we can learn here!)

18. Read Mark 4:17 (14-20). What is this scripture block teaching? What happens to this group of seeds? What does having a hard time with affliction have to do with being ashamed of Christ? Notice also verses 18 and 19. How might the cares of the world and riches deceive us into being ashamed of Christ? What ultimately happens to these seeds? Is this a good outcome for these seeds? How do you think that being ashamed of Christ will have a similar negative outcome?

19. Read Luke 8:13 (11-15). Again, we read of the parable of the sower. How does this parable help us to understand the negative effects of being ashamed of Christ?

20. Read John 12: 43 (42-43). How did many of the chief rulers feel about Christ? Why did they remain silent about their belief? How might our love of the opinions of others get in the way of loving God? Okay, so here I’m reminded of something. A lightbulb went off with the phrase “loving God.” What is the first commandment given? When we love God with all our might, mind, and strength, do we get worked up about what others say? Do we worry about the mockers in the great and spacious building? Do we let afflictions and cares of the world choke our


testimony? If we are ashamed of Christ, are we keeping this first and great commandment? Why is it important not to be ashamed of Christ?

21. Read Romans 3:3. This is an interesting question. What does Paul ask? What does this mean? What does it have to do with our shame? Think…just because we don’t believe in Christ, and we don’t love God with our might, mind, and strength, does this lack of faith mean that we are then unaccountable? If a person says that they don’t believe in red lights, can they then run red lights without consequence? What is the consequence of being ashamed of Christ?

22. Now that you have read through these scriptures, what are your thoughts about being ashamed of Christ? Why do you think that Christ teaches this concept at the end of this chapter? Think of the context of this chapter: we have learned that the Lord has a big following, but many people don’t seem to understand who He is. Who is Jesus? Although He is powerful and mighty to save, why are these so many people who are ashamed of Him? What are we required to sacrifice when we are not ashamed of Christ? What is the blessing of such sacrifice?

23. Ponder this series of concepts we’ve learned: being ashamed of Christ, enduring the difficulties of the world, enduring the mockery and temptation of the world, the succession of being ashamed of Christ when we sin, loving God, and accountability. What have you learned? What do you think is the significance of being ashamed of Christ? How can you overcome this very real temptation and stay loyal to Him?


Mark 9



Mark 9:1-10

1. Where did Jesus take Peter, James, and John? 2. When they went on the mount, what happened? 3. Jesus told them not to tell anyone about this

experience until “the Son of man were risen from the dead.” Did the apostles understand what this meant? Why do you think that they were confused?

Mark 9:11-13

1. What did the apostles ask Jesus? 2. What does Jesus teach them about Elias?

Mark 9:14-29

1. When Jesus came to the rest of His disciples, what did He find?

2. Why was the multitude gathered? 3. Were the disciples able to heal the man’s son?

What was wrong with the son? 4. What does Christ tell the man, in verse 23? Why

does the Savior say this? What do you think that He means by this?

5. How do you think that this information can help your life? Are there problems you are facing that can be solved by faith in the Lord and in His power? What do you think that you can do to strengthen your faith in Him?

6. Finally, what does Christ do for the boy? Mark 9:30-32


1. While traveling through Galilee, why did Christ tell the apostles that no man should know they were there?

2. Did the apostles understand Christ when He prophesied of His death and resurrection? Why do you think they didn’t understand this?

3. Imagine being a disciple of Christ at this time. Had anyone, prior to Christ, been able to overcome death? Why do you think that this would have been difficult for the apostles to understand?

4. Contemplate your own faith and testimony now. In what way can you improve your faith and understand what the Lord is trying to teach you?

Mark 9:33-37

1. On the way to Capernaum, the apostles were having a little bit of a dispute. What were they disputing?

2. Why do you think that they wondered who would be the greatest of them?

3. Does this, at times, seep into your outlook? Do you ever secretly compete with others—in your ward, in your family, etc?

4. What does Jesus teach the apostles about the greatest in Heaven? Why do you think that a child is greatest?

Mark 9:38-50

1. What did John see another doing? 2. Why did the apostles forbid this man from

healing? 3. Finally, Christ teaches the apostles the

consequence of offending a little one. What is it?

4. Why do you think that this is such a serious sin? 5. Jesus also teaches the apostles an object lesson

about cutting ourselves off from sin and offense. Why do you think that Jesus teaches this lesson with such a stark and even morbid example? Why do you think that cutting off this kind of sin or influence is so important?

6. This can be difficult in the world around us. We are surrounded by many influences, most of which are not good. Yet we need to be in the world and not of it. How might you cut the offense away, without hurting others? How do you think you can


keep this charge given by Christ without alienating others?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In Mark 9, after going to the Mount of Transfiguration, the

apostles ask Jesus about Elias. We will study this exchange, viewing it within the context of the Atonement to see if it can teach us more about the Savior and the Atonement He performed.


2. In verse 11, what do the disciples ask Christ? 3. Why do you think that they might be asking this

question? Notice what had just occurred in verses 1-10. Especially take note of Mark 9:4. Who appeared unto them? What does the footnote explain about Elias?

4. What did Jesus tell the apostles? 5. Remind yourself of the meaning of the title

“Elias.” Search the Bible Dictionary. If you have already studied Matthew, you might want to look in your notes from when you studied Matthew 11 and 17.

6. What was the role of Elias? 7. Now, think of this in terms of the Atonement. We

know, according to verse 4, that John the Baptist was considered Elias. How was John the Baptist Elias? What does John the Baptist’s role as Elias teach us about Jesus’ role and the Atonement?

8. The scribes knew that Elias would come to prepare the way for the Lord. Did they recognize that John the Baptist was Elias? How did their inability to recognize John the Baptist’s divine role make it harder for them to recognize Jesus’ divine role?

9. Why do you think that there would be an Elias preparing the way for the coming of the Lord? What does the fact that the Lord would send us Elias tell us about the Lord? About our relationship with Him? About the Atonement?

10. In verse 13, we learn that the scribes didn’t receive Elias (be sure to read the JST). How did the scribes refusal of Elias translate to a refusal of Christ and His Atonement?

11. How can you make sure to accept the words of the prophets—those who prepare the way of the Lord’s coming? How do you think that accepting the


prophets will help you to better accept and apply the Atonement in your life?

Miracles In Mark 9, we read of one miracle performed by the Savior:

• Christ heals the lunatic son—Mark 9:14-29 If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then

follow the directions listed in the Appendix. We will study this miracle together now.


2. What is the setting; who is there? 3. What did one of the people in the multitude ask

the Savior? 4. In what condition was the man’s son? 5. What did the Savior say to His disciples? Why did

He rebuke them? 6. When they brought the man’s son to the Savior,

what was he doing? 7. How long had the scribe’s son been in this kind

of condition? 8. Do you think that it would have been easy to heal

this person? How do you think that the disciples must have felt when the scribes brought this man’s son who was out of his mind and had been since childhood? How might have this contributed to the way that the disciples doubted their ability to heal?

9. As the man continues to describe some of his son’s tendencies, what does he ask the Savior to show and do?

10. What does Jesus say in response? 11. Why do you think that the faith of the man asking

for the blessing is needed in healing his son? 12. What does the father then say to the Lord? How do

you think that his humility helped him? 13. To gain a better understanding of this plea, read

Alma 32:27. Alma instructs us to exercise only a “particle of faith”. What does Alma teach is acceptable as far as faith goes?

14. Even though the father in Mark 9 has his doubts, does he express a desire to believe? Do you think that the Lord accepts this man’s faith, even though it is admittedly fraught with doubt? Why? How might the Lord bless you—even when you need help in your unbelief?

15. After the man made this humble plea, what did Jesus do?


16. How did Jesus heal this child? 17. When the evil spirit left, what happened to the

boy? 18. Was the child dead? What did Christ do? 19. Think of the imagery of this situation. How does

Jesus lift each of us up? 20. After healing the child, what did the disciples

ask Christ? Why were they not able to cast out the evil spirit?

21. Recall what Christ said to them in verse 19. What does faith have to do with prayer and fasting? How have prayer and fasting helped to strengthen your faith?

Theme—Faith When we look at Mark 9 closely, we can find a really

interesting lesson on faith. We find it in the example of the man whose son is afflicted with a devil, the disciples (and their inability to cast out the devil), and the man who cast out a devil in Christ’s name.

Father of the Lunatic Son 1. Begin by studying the miracle of Christ healing

the lunatic son. (See above.) Read through and answer the questions.

2. Notice the first example where we are taught about faith: the man whose son is afflicted with a devil—read Mark 9:22-24.

3. Why do you think that the Lord told the man that “all things are possible to him that believeth”? Do you think that the Lord perceived some doubt in the mind of the child’s father? How do you think that this doubt was inhibiting the Savior’s ability to heal his son?

4. Even though the man seemed to have some doubt, what, ultimately, did he desire? Why do you think that there are times when even a desire to have faith is enough? Do you think that faith is easy to come by?

5. What is the lesson that we learn about faith from the father of the lunatic son?

The Disciples

1. Before the Savior even starts to speak with the father of the lunatic, we find out that the disciples had already attempted to cast out the evil spirit. What does the Lord say to the unsuccessful disciples in verse 19?


2. Whose lack of faith made healing this child impossible?

3. Why do you think that it is important that those who desire to heal need to have faith?

4. According to verse 28, did the disciples realize why they weren’t able to heal the young man? What did Christ tell them that they needed to do in order to gain faith?

5. Why do you think that the Savior told the disciples that they needed to pray and fast, whereas the man who requested the blessing needed only to have a desire to believe? Why did the Lord help this man’s unbelief, and not the disciples?

6. Do you think that the disciples were faithless? Did they know that Christ would be able to heal the man? What, exactly, did they lack faith in?

7. Do you think that faith just comes to us all in one day? How does Christ’s advice help us to strengthen the faith that we already have?

8. Go to Matthew 17:20. This is Matthew’s account of the same situation. What does the Lord teach the disciples about faith in this scripture?

9. Does the Lord require us to have massive amounts of faith? Yet, is even such a “small” amount of faith—as small as a mustard seed—easy to come by? Why or why not?

10. Think of your faith. Is it what you would like it to be? Has lack of faith been an inhibitor in your life? What can you do to strengthen it?

One Who Cast Out Devils in the Name of Christ

1. Finally, in Mark 9:38-40, we read of the account of one who was able to cast out a devil in Christ’s name. How do the disciples react to this?

2. What do you think that casting out a devil in Christ’s name really means?

3. We know that the person who did this miracle wasn’t one of the twelve apostles, yet was he out of line? How did Jesus respond to the way that the disciples forbade this man?

4. Why do you think that this other person was able to cast out a devil, yet the disciples weren’t? Is priesthood or a calling the only requirement for doing the Lord’s work? What is essential in being able to have Christ’s power in our lives?


5. Read Moroni 9:24. What are the signs that follow those that believe in Christ?

6. Would the person who cast out the devil in Christ’s name have been able to do it if he lacked faith?

7. Finally, go to Doctrine and Covenants 46:8-30. Notice especially verse 11. What is one gift of the Spirit? How do you think that this spiritual gift may have applied to the man who cast out the devil?

8. The disciples don’t seem to have been as gifted spiritually in this way. Yet does this mean that they would never be able to perform such a miracle? We already know that Christ taught them they would be able to gain the faith and power to perform such a miracle through prayer and fasting. Read Doctrine and Covenants 46:28-30. What must we do in order to gain more spiritual gifts? How does this scripture relate to what Christ taught in verse 29?

What have the examples of the father of the lunatic, the

disciples, and the one who cast out a devil taught you about faith?


Mark 10



Mark 10:1-12

1. When Christ came into Judea, who came to Him to ask a question?

2. Why did the Pharisees ask Jesus about marriage? 3. What does Jesus teach them?

Mark 10:13-16

1. Who did the people in the multitude bring to the Savior?

2. What did the disciples do? 3. How did Jesus feel when the disciples rebuked the

people who brought their children to Him? 4. What did Jesus do to the children? 5. What do you think that Jesus meant in verse 15?

Why do you think that we need to be like little children in order to inherit the kingdom of God?

Mark 10:17-31

1. After blessing the children, a man runs up to Christ with a question. What does he ask the Savior?

2. What does the Savior tell this man in response? 3. Why do you think that the young man is sad when

he hears that he needs to give up everything and follow Him?

4. After the young man leaves, what does Jesus say to His disciples?

5. Why do you think that it is hard for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God?

6. Yet, is it impossible for a rich man to be saved? What does Jesus teach us in verse 27 about the


possibility for a rich man to be saved? (Remember to read the JST.)

Mark 10:32-34

1. What does Jesus prophesy to the disciples? 2. Why do you think that Jesus prophesied of His

coming judgment, death, and resurrection? Mark 10:35-45

1. What do James and John ask the Savior in verse 37?

2. What is the Savior’s response to this request? 3. How do the other apostles feel about this? What

does the Savior teach them about the kingdom of God?

Mark 10:46-52

1. On the way to Jericho, who do Jesus and the disciples run into?

2. What is Bartimaeus doing? 3. What does Bartimaeus ask the Lord? 4. What does Jesus do for him? 5. How does Bartimaeus respond to Christ’s healing? 6. Have you ever felt the power of the Lord in your

life—to “see” better? What can you do to “follow Christ”?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In Mark 10, we read about the experience between Christ and

the rich young ruler. After Jesus tells the young man to sell all he has and follow the Him, the young man “went away grieved: for he had great possessions.” After this young man leaves, the Lord teaches the apostles about entrance into the kingdom of God. We will read this exchange between Christ and His apostles and see if it can teach us more about the Atonement and the Savior.


2. What does Jesus say in verse 23? Why does He say this?

3. What was the reaction of the apostles? 4. Why do you think that they were astonished? 5. Often, what do people who have many riches put

their trust in? How does this interrupt their faith in Christ and God?

6. Why do you think that it is easy to trust in riches rather than in God?


7. What does Jesus compare a rich man entering the kingdom of God to? How is this a dramatic comparison?

8. How do the apostles respond to the comparison made by Jesus? What do they ask the Savior?

9. What does Jesus answer? 10. Why do you think that it is important for us to

remember that through Jesus all is possible? 11. Think of this entire exchange in terms of the

Atonement. What does money have to do with the Atonement?

12. To help us understand question 11, turn to Isaiah 55:1. What are we invited to do? What is the price of salvation?

13. Now, turn to 2 Nephi 9:25-31, 33. What does Jacob teach us about the monetary cost of the Atonement? Is it something that can be purchased? How, then, do we access the power of the Atonement in our lives?

14. Why do you think that the Atonement is offered to us without a monetary price? Is the Atonement offered to us for free? What did the Lord explain to the rich young ruler that he needed to do in order to receive salvation? (See Mark 10:21. Notice especially the last phrase.)

15. How do you think that you can take up the cross and follow Christ?

16. Read 3 Nephi 9:20-22. What does Jesus explain is required in order to be received by Christ and His Atonement? How does this relate to what Jesus is teaching in Mark 10?

17. The key to being able to sacrifice all we have for Christ is by trusting in Him. How do you think a lack of trusting in God inhibited the rich young ruler’s ability to follow Christ?

18. In Mark 10:27, what does Jesus teach about trusting in God? How do you think that trusting in Christ’s Atonement will empower us? How do you think that learning more about Christ, His life, and His Atonement will help to strengthen your faith and trust in Him?

19. Do you trust the Lord over your own possessions? What can you do to strengthen your trust in Him and allow the enabling power of the Atonement change your life?

Jesus Christ—Master Teacher


Jesus is the great Exemplar in many ways. He is especially helpful to us through His ability to teach. He is the master teacher. We are all teachers, too. We teach our children, friends, and people whom we are called to serve. Let’s study this example of Jesus to see how He taught us to teach.


2. What is happening in this scripture block? Is this a typical teaching situation?

3. Why do you think that the disciples were rebuking those who brought their children? How did Jesus feel about the disciples’ actions?

4. Why do you think that Jesus was displeased? Think about His entire ministry. Had He turned people away? Had He refused miracles of any kind?

5. Why did Christ heal people? What was the emotion that was often felt by Christ as He worked miracles in so many that were suffering?

6. When the disciples rebuked those who brought their children to the Savior, were they showing the same kind of charity and compassion that had motivated Christ so many times?

7. When Jesus is “displeased” in verse 14, what does He do? How might this differ from what you would do? When you are displeased, what is your tone of voice, what are your words, what are your actions?

8. Although Jesus was displeased, He didn’t openly rebuke the disciples. Instead, what did He do? Why do you think that the Savior took the time to teach this principle rather than scold the disciples?

9. Really imagine this setting. Imagine—Christ holding a child. (In verse 16, we see that He took them in His arms). Now, as He’s holding these sweet children, He takes the time to physically show the disciples who will enter into the kingdom of God. What does Christ teach? How do you think that this teaching—that in order to receive the kingdom of God we must be as children—was especially powerful as He sat there holding, and subsequently blessing, children?

10. Do you think that Jesus would have effectively taught this lesson if He had become more physically angry or annoyed? What are the techniques you notice the Lord employ in making this frustrating situation into a prime teaching moment?


11. How can you follow the example of the Savior and be open to teaching moments—even if you are feeling displeased or frustrated by those whom you aim to teach?

Cross-reference—Two Great Commandments In Mark 10, when we read of the experience between Christ

and the rich young ruler, we can use a cross-reference to help us get more understanding.


2. Summarize to yourself what is happening here. What does the rich young ruler want to know? What does the Lord tell him? How does the young man respond? What does the Lord teach His apostles?

3. How are the rich young ruler’s riches keeping Him back?

4. Now we will cross-reference this exchange with another scripture. In your margins, mark the cross-reference, “Matthew 22:36-40—Two Great Commandments”

5. Read Matthew 22:36-40. To understand the context of this scripture, read verses 34-35.

6. What does this lawyer ask the Lord? 7. What does Jesus answer? 8. In verse 40, Jesus states, “On these two

commandments hang all the law and prophets.” What do you think that He means by this?

9. Now, think back on the rich young ruler. Read through the commandments that He was keeping. How do they relate to the two commandments that Jesus mentions in Matthew 22?

10. Yet, the rich young ruler lacked “one thing.” What was it? How might it relate to the commandments mentioned by Jesus? Do you think that if the rich young ruler loved the Lord his God with all his heart, soul, and mind he would have been able to take up the cross and follow Jesus?

11. How do you think that our inability to love others or love God might get in the way of our spiritual progression—despite the many other commandments we keep and things we do?

12. What can you do to instill a deeper, purer love for God and for others?



• Christ heals the blind man, Bartimaeus—Mark 10:46-52

If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then follow the directions listed in the Appendix. For now, we will study this miracle together.


2. What is the setting of this miracle? 3. What is Bartimaeus doing before he hears that

Christ is coming? 4. What does he do when he hears that Jesus is on

the way? 5. Many people told Bartimaeus to keep quiet. Did

this stop him? Instead, what did Bartimaeus do? 6. What does he ask the Savior? 7. What does Jesus do? 8. Why do you think that it is noteworthy that Jesus

stood still? Keep in mind what He was doing. Where was He headed (check out the chapter heading for Chapter 11 to get a hint)? Was stopping and healing Bartimaeus a part of Jesus’ “game plan” for the day?

9. When Bartimaeus comes to Christ, what does the Savior ask him?

10. What does Bartimaeus want? 11. How does Jesus heal him? Why do you think that

Jesus mentioned Bartimaeus’ strong faith? How did Bartimaeus show his faith in this experience?

12. Recall how Bartimaeus called out to the Savior; and when he was met with a bit of resistance from the people in the crowd, did Bartimaeus back down? What can we learn from this example? How do you think that Bartimaeus’ faith gave him the courage and drive to be healed?

13. What can you do to ignore the hushes of the world and instead, persistently, yet humbly, implore the Savior for needed blessings?

14. Often, I feel kind of “bad” when I ask the Savior for needed blessings. I don’t want to be noisy or insistent, like Bartimaeus. Notice, though, what the Lord does for Bartimaeus? Do you think that Bartimaeus was being too pushy? Does it seem like Christ thought Bartimaeus was being pushy? Had Bartimaeus not been persistent, would he have been healed?

15. What can you do to be a stronger advocate for yourself, like Bartimaeus, when seeking blessings in your life?


Mark 11



Mark 11:1-11

1. Where are Christ and the disciples as Mark 11 opens?

2. What does the Savior ask two of His disciples to do?

3. After getting the colt, how is Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem described?

Mar 11:12-26

1. While going to Jerusalem from Bethany, how is Jesus feeling?

2. When He finds that the fig tree is barren, what does Christ do to it?

3. What did the Savior do when He got to the temple? Why did He do this? How do you think that the Savior would have us treat the temple?

4. When the scribes and chief priests heard about what Christ had done, how did they react? Why do you think that they were upset with Christ’s actions? How is this an ironic reaction? The chief priests and scribes were supposedly religious, righteous people. Why do you think didn’t they have more reverence for the temple?

5. The next morning, while coming back into Jerusalem, what does Peter notice about the fig tree?

6. What does Jesus teach Peter in response? 7. Why do you think that after three years of

following the Savior, the apostles were still shocked by these miracles performed by the Savior?


Mark 11:27-33

1. When Christ came into Jerusalem again, who met Him in the temple?

2. What did the scribes and chief priests ask him? 3. What do you think the answer to the chief

priest’s question is? 4. Why do you think the scribes and chief priests

wanted to trap the Savior? 5. How did Jesus answer them? 6. Why do you think that the scribes and priests

didn’t believe in John the Baptist? 7. How do you think that the scribes and chief

priests would have responded to Christ—His ministry, His authority—had they listened to John the Baptist? In other words, would the scribes and chief priests have rejected the Savior if they had believed John the Baptist’s words? Why or why not?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ Often, when we think of the Savior, we recall the way that

He loved and served others. Yet, He also cursed the fig tree and cleansed the temple. We will study these two events and see how they both relate to one another and the Atonement.


2. When the Lord was traveling to Jerusalem from Bethany, how was He feeling, physically? What was He hoping to find on the fig tree?

3. Did the fig tree have any fruit? What did Jesus say to it?

4. We will come back to the fig tree later. When Christ gets into Jerusalem, where does He go?

5. Notice, in verse 11, when Christ first arrived in Jerusalem the day before (after His triumphal entry), where did He go? What do you think that Christ might have noticed as He entered into the temple this evening? How might this trip to the temple affected the trip He took to the temple the next day?

6. When the Lord got to the temple, what did He do? Why did He do it?

7. What had the people done to the temple? Why do you think that this mattered so much to the Lord?

8. What is the purpose of the temple? Read the entries in the Bible Dictionary for “temple” and


“tabernacle” to get a better idea of the purpose of the temple both now and anciently.

9. What does the temple have to do with the Atonement of Jesus Christ? If those who were desecrating the temple understood more about the Atonement, how might they have treated it differently?

10. Think back on the fig tree. What good is a tree that should bear fruit but does not? What good is a tree that bears bad fruit? What good is a tree that bears good fruit, as it was designed to do?

11. What good is a temple that is unclean? What good is a temple where the people who supposedly worship there cannot recognize the Savior that they claim to worship?

12. How do you think that the cursing of the fig tree and the cleansing of the temple relate?

13. As I mentioned before, the cursing of the fig tree and the cleansing of the temple aren’t what we typically think of Christ. Yet He did it, and we know that everything Christ did was for our benefit. (See 2 Nephi 26:24.) What do you think the cursing of the fig tree and the cleansing of the temple teach us about the Atonement?

14. The next day, while traveling back into Jerusalem from Bethany, Jesus and the disciples pass the fig tree once again. What was now the condition of the fig tree?

15. What did Peter say when he saw it? 16. What did Jesus tell Peter? Why do you think that

Peter’s astonishment of the withered fig tree showed a lack of faith?

17. What does Jesus teach them about the power of faith and prayer? Do faith and prayer work just because we want them to? What do we need to do in order to receive what we desire?

18. Now, think of this in terms of the fig tree, the temple, and the Atonement. At first, when I read verses 25-26 and think of the fig tree and the temple, Christ doesn’t seem very forgiving. Don’t get hung up this idea. Instead, continue searching to see if there is meaning that can be found. In verses 22-24, we are told to have faith in God. Can this be done if we, like the fig tree, are unfruitful? Are we able to truly have faith and pray effectively if we are unclean, as the temple had been? Can the Atonement, no matter how much belief we have in its power, take effect


in our lives if we refuse to bring forth fruit meet for repentance, or have the Lord cleanse us? What do you think that forgiving others and having faith have to do with the enabling power of the Atonement?

19. What do these two events in Christ’s life teach you about the Atonement?


• The Cursing of the Fig Tree—Mark 11:12-14, 20-26 If you are doing a study project of all the miracles, then

follow the directions listed in the Appendix.


Mark 12



Mark 12:1-12

1. What parable does Jesus tell to the people here? 2. What did the Pharisees want to do when Jesus told

this parable? 3. Why didn’t they do it? 4. Why do you think that the Pharisees were so upset

with the Savior? Mark 12:13-17

1. In this section, what do the Pharisees seek to do to Christ?

2. How did they try to trick him? 3. What did they ask the Savior? 4. How did the Savior answer? 5. Were the Pharisees expecting this answer? 6. So often the Pharisees are astonished by Christ’s

knowledge and authority. Why do you think that this astonishment never resulted in a testimony of the Savior? What does the example of the Pharisees teach us about the need for faith in order to receive a testimony?

Mark 12:18-27

1. What did the Sadducees believe about the resurrection?

2. What did they ask Christ? 3. How does Christ respond? 4. Will ordinances such as marriage happen after the

resurrection?


5. What else does Jesus teach the Sadducees about the resurrection? Why do you think that it is important to know this?

6. What difference does it make in your life to know that Jesus was resurrected and that you will be, too?

Mark 12:28-34

1. After answering the Sadducees’ questions, who began to question Christ?

2. What did he ask? 3. What are the two great commandments that Jesus

tells? 4. Why do you think that these are the two great

commandments? How do you think that these two commandments are at the heart of everything else that we do?

Mark 12:35-44

1. In verse 35, we get the idea that the scribes believe that Christ is the son of David. Did they recognize Christ’s divinity?

2. Yet, Christ refers to Psalms 110:1—how David recognizes Jehovah’s divinity. Jesus then points out that David calls Christ Lord. What does this teach us about Christ’s divinity—especially in relation to David’s importance? Should the scribes honor David more than they honor Christ?

3. What warning did Jesus give the people concerning the scribes?

4. What did the scribes do? 5. Why do you think that Christ warned against this

kind of hypocrisy? 6. As Jesus was at the treasury, what did He witness

people do? 7. Who came to the treasury as Jesus watched? What

did she give? 8. What was the Savior’s comment regarding this

widow? 9. How did His comment go against conventional

wisdom? Why do you think that the Savior commended her offering?

10. How do you think that you can give as the widow did?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ


In Mark 12, the Lord spends a lot of time teaching the Pharisees, scribes, and others. At the end of the chapter, Jesus witnesses a widow giving her two mites. We will study her actions and Jesus’ reaction to see what this can teach us about the Atonement.


2. Where is Jesus? 3. What did those who had much give? 4. When the poor woman came in, what did she give? 5. In comparison to those who gave much, does this

poor widow’s sacrifice seem very impressive? Yet what does the Lord say about her offering?

6. What does Jesus teach about her offering compared to those who gave in abundance?

7. Now, think of this in regards to the Atonement. What kind of sacrifice was Christ’s atonement? (See Alma 34:9-10.)

8. Notice the last phrase in verse 44, “but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.” How does Christ do this with the Atonement, too?

9. How can understanding more about the “cost” of Christ’s Atonement help us to more freely sacrifice and give?

10. How do you think that your sacrifice will help you to better understand and appreciate the Atonement?

Parable In Mark 12, we find a parable:

• The parable of the husbandmen—Mark 12:1-12 If you are doing a study project of all the parables, then

follow the directions listed in the Appendix. Character Study: Scribes In Mark 12, the Lord has been teaching the Pharisees,

Sadducees, and scribes. They were not particularly receptive to His word, and weren’t really looking to be taught, but were hoping to trap Christ. Jesus then warns the disciples of the scribes. We will study what Christ teaches.

1. Read Mark 12:38-40. 2. Beforehand, in verses 35-40, what did the scribes

claim about the Messiah? Why should the scribes have understood more about the Messiah? What do you think kept the scribes, who had so much


religious knowledge, unable to recognize their Messiah?

3. In verse 38, notice the footnote for “scribes.” Why do you think there is a relationship between scribes and pride?

4. According to the Savior (in verse 38), what did the scribes love to do?

5. What do you think that Jesus could possibly mean by “long clothing”? We know that there is a relationship between scribes and pride (according to the footnotes). We also know that the Lord is telling the people to “beware” of the scribes. So, what kind of connotation does “long clothing” have?

6. Read Alma 4:6. How is the clothing described in this verse? What is the relationship between the clothing of these people and pride? How do you think that this might relate to the scribes?

7. Why do you think that “long clothing” is something that we should beware?

8. The Lord also teaches the people that the scribes “love salutations in the marketplaces.” What do you think that He means by this? For help, look up the footnote to “salutations.” (John 12:43).

9. What is the problem with loving these salutations—or loving the praise of men more than the praise of God?

10. Continue reading in verse 39. Where do the scribes like to be seated? What is the significance of a synagogue?

11. We see that the main motive behind this is the praise of men. Why would the scribes use their religious title or “importance” to be seen by men? If the scribes were looking for the praise of God, would they be overly concerned with the chief seats and upper rooms? Why is it especially problematic that scribes—supposedly spiritual men—are more concerned with the praise of men rather than God? Additionally, why is it especially bad that they are using their position in the church to seek the praise of men? Do they understand the gospel? How do you think that the Lord feels about such hypocrisy?

12. Why do you think that Jesus warns us of this tendency—to seek praise of man rather than God? How can worrying about the praise of men more than God become a problem in our lives? How do


you think that we can keep our priorities straight?

13. Finally, in verse 40, what does the Lord say that the scribes do? Yet, as men who were supposedly religious, what should their responsibility to the widows have been?

14. At the same time, they then give long prayers. What does the Lord say is the motivation for these prayers? Why do you think that this is so offensive to God?

15. What is the consequence for such hypocrisy? Why do you think that the scribes will receive “greater damnation”? (See Doctrine and Covenants 82:3). How do you think that you can avoid sinning against the greater light? What can you do to keep the Lord at the center of your motives, rather than looking for the praise of men?

16. Consider the scribes. What kind of men are they? What can you learn from them?


Mark 13



Mark 13:1-8

1. Before you begin reading, notice the JST for verse 1. You can read along and compare Mark 13 to the Joseph Smith Translation of Matthew 24 (found in the Pearl of Great Price: Joseph Smith—Matthew.

2. What did the apostles want to know? 3. What are some of the signs that the Savior tells

them will happen before He comes again? Mark 13:9-13

1. What will happen to the apostles as they testify of Christ to others?

2. To whom will the gospel go? 3. In general, how will the people of the world feel

about the apostles(see verse 13)? Why do you think that they will be hated for Christ’s sake?

4. What do you think about the message that the prophet and apostles give? What do you think you can do to support them in their difficult work?

Mark 13:14-23

1. What does Christ warn about the abomination of desolation?

2. What will the conditions be like for the people during this time?

3. Why do you think that the conditions are so bad? Recall what you read in verse 13. Why do you think that refusing to heed the warning voice of the prophets results in such difficulty?


4. Christ also warns about false Christs and false prophets. What will they do?

5. How do you think that we can keep from being seduced by false Christs and false prophets?

Mark 13:24-31

1. After the days of tribulation—where the people suffer—what other signs will be seen?

2. What parable does Christ tell to help the apostles understand the signs of the time when He will come again?

Mark 13:32-37

1. What day and hour will Christ come again? 2. If we don’t know the exact time when Christ will

come again, how will we know and prepare? 3. What can you do to prepare and be ready for the

second coming of Christ? 4. Obviously, when the apostles heard this prophecy,

they weren’t anywhere close to living during Christ’s second coming. Why do you think that Jesus taught them all of the signs of His coming? How do you think that the advice given in this chapter can be helpful to us, even if we don’t see Christ’s second coming to this earth during our lifetime?


The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ This entire chapter deals with the signs leading to the

second coming of Christ. We will read one section—where the Lord gives the apostles specific instructions. As we read, we will think of this in terms of Christ’s Atonement to see if we can learn more about the Savior, His sacrifice, and this charge to the apostles.


2. In verse 9, what will people do to the apostles? 3. Why will they be brought before rulers and kings? 4. For more insight, turn to Mosiah 17:7-8. This

scripture deals with Abinadi, the prophet who testified against King Noah and his people. According to verses 7-8, what is the crime that Abinadi committed? Was Abinadi condemned for Christ’s sake? How was Abinadi a testimony against King Noah and those who put him to death? How does this example help you to better


understand what Christ is explaining to the apostles in Mark 13:9?

5. Now, think in terms of the Atonement. Why do the prophets and apostles even testify of Christ? Why do you think that it is so difficult for people to accept the Atonement and role that Christ plays in our lives?

6. According to verse 10, where must the gospel go? Why do you think that it must be published among all nations?

7. Again, think in terms of the Atonement. What is the relationship between Christ’s Atonement and “the gospel”?

8. Why do you think that the message of the gospel—that Christ atoned for our sins—needs to go to all people?

9. Continue to read verses 11-13. Will people be very receptive to the message that the apostles have been committed to give? How will people feel about the apostles?

10. Why do you think that so many people reject the message of the Atonement?

11. When is Christ giving the apostles this message—before or after He actually performed the Atonement?

12. How do you think that Christ must have felt in the garden, while He was suffering, to know that He suffered sins for so many who would not even accept His sacrifice?

13. When the people hate the apostles for Christ’s sake, what are they also doing to Christ? How can we be supportive of the apostles and, therefore, of the Atonement that Christ performed for us?

14. Finally, what is the key to receiving salvation? 15. I feel like there’s a connection between enduring

to the end and the Atonement. Let’s see if we can learn something here. Look at the footnote in verse 13 for “endure.”

16. Read Matthew 10:22-33. Again, the apostles receive a similar warning—they would be hated of all men for Christ’s sake. What does Christ tell them to do as they preach the gospel?

17. Read verse 26 to find out why they should not be afraid of the people who persecute them. What does the Lord say?

18. Instead of fearing those who will kill the apostles—temporally—what does Christ tell them to fear? What is it that will kill our souls and


bodies? How can we be protected or healed from this kind of destruction? Notice the roles that the Atonement can play in our lives—it can both heal and protect us. How can the Atonement help us to endure to the end?

19. Read 3 Nephi 15:9. What does Christ teach about Himself?

20. What must we do to live? 21. How do you think that looking to Christ will help

us to endure? 22. Think about what you have been reading in Matthew

and in 3 Nephi—the warnings, the reminders of our worth. Think about the charge that we receive: to endure to the end. Is this some arbitrary challenge?

23. Read 1 Nephi 3:7. When the Lord gives us commandments, what else does He provide?

24. Now, turn back to Mark 13:13. How do you think the Lord’s Atonement helps the apostles complete the charge they were given: to testify of Christ and even endure hardships for His sake?

25. What have you learned about the relationship between the Atonement and receiving strength to endure to the end? How can you strengthen your faith in and understanding of the Atonement, and let the Lord empower your life as you withstand trials?

Cross-reference—Rejecting Prophets In Mark 13, we read of the charge that the apostles are

given to publish the gospel before rulers and kings. Yet, we also find that the apostles will be “hated of all men” for Christ’s sake. The people, for the most part, will reject the message of the prophets. This will have dire consequences. Study this portion of the chapter along with a cross-reference to see what happens when we fail to listen to the prophets.


2. What will conditions be like during the times described in these verses?

3. In the margins of your scriptures, write, “3 Nephi 9:1-12—consequences of rejecting the prophets”

4. Read 3 Nephi 9:1-12. As you read through these verses, notice the destruction that happens. What are various calamities that befell these people?


5. Now, read through these verses and find out why. What had the people done to the prophets and saints?

6. Why do you think that the people had rejected the prophets and saints? Even though disposing of the prophets and saints may have brought them a feeling of peace, were they protected when destruction came?

7. Why do you think that such dire consequences befall those who reject the prophets?

8. What can you do to strengthen your resolve to listen to and follow those who have been called of God?

Repetition In the scriptures, repetition is often used to illustrate

an important point. As you read through Mark 13, you will notice a phrase that is repeated over and over. Read through Mark 13 to see if you can find the phrase that is repeated throughout.

Take Heed 1. Read Mark 13:5. What does the Lord tell the

disciples to do? What is the benefit of “taking heed”? How do you think that heeding the words of the Lord will help keep us from being deceived?

2. After the Lord tells the apostles to “take heed,” what does He then tell them?

3. Read Mark 13:9. What does the Lord tell the disciples to do? After telling the disciples to take heed, what does the Lord warn is in store for the apostles? How do you think it would help them to know that even when they are doing what the Lord had commanded them, they would be faced with sore tribulation?

4. Read Mark 13:23. What does the Lord tell the apostles to do?

5. What is it that the apostles need to heed? What has the Lord taught them? How do you think that listening to the prophecies of Christ will help them to overcome the deception of false prophets, the difficulty of wars, the hardship of being hated by men, and the tribulation of the abomination of desolation?

6. What is the prophecy that the Lord gives to the apostles next?

7. Read Mark 13:33. What does the Lord tell the apostles to do? Why do you think that the Lord tells them to “take heed” in connection with watching and prayer? How can watching, praying,


and taking heed help us during the difficult times that will come before Christ’s return?

8. Why do you think that the Lord tells the apostles to “take heed” so many times in this chapter? Why is it so important to do? What can you do to take heed of the words of Christ?


Mark 14



Mark 14:1-9

1. When the chapter opens, what holiday is approaching?

2. What were the chief priests and scribes trying to do?

3. Christ is in Bethany at the time at the house of Simon the leper. What happens while He is there?

4. How did some feel about her act of service? Why do you think that they were so critical of her offering?

5. Does this happen in your life? How do you think that you can become more supportive of the service others offer rather than judge them based on what you think may be more important?

6. What does Jesus say in response to this criticism?

7. How does it make you feel to know that Jesus values the service we give Him?

Mark 14:10-11

1. What did Judas Iscariot go to do? Mark 14:12-21

1. It was time for the Passover, where did the Lord tell two of His disciples to go so they could find a place to eat the Passover dinner?

2. What did Jesus say that one of the apostles would do?

3. What does Jesus say about the fate of the person who betrays Him? Why do you think that it is so horrible?


Mark 14:22-25

1. As they ate, what did Christ do? 2. Make sure to look at the JST for this section.

What do the bread and wine represent? Mark 14:26-42

1. After singing a hymn and going to the Mount of Olives, what did the Lord tell the apostles?

2. What did Peter think about the prospect of his denial of Christ?

3. As they entered the Garden of Gethsemane, how were the disciples feeling? Why do you think that they were beginning to doubt if Christ truly was the Messiah?

4. As Christ began to suffer, what did He do? What do you think that Christ’s prayer, while suffering the Atonement, can teach us about the power of a simple prayer?

5. What did Christ pray for? Even though He prayed that the cup would be passed from Him, what did He ultimately pray to do? How do you think that this relates in our lives? Is it okay to pray for what we want? Even when we express our desires, what must we always be willing to do?

6. After suffering for a time, Christ goes back to Peter, James, and John. What are they doing? How do you think Christ feels to find them asleep?

7. Again, Christ went away and said the same words. Recall those words (in verse 36). Do you think that suffering in Gethsemane was easy for Christ to do?

8. Again, Jesus returns to Peter, James, and John. What were they doing?

9. What did Christ do a third time? When He returned to Peter, James, and John what were they doing?

10. Why do you think that this detail is important—why do you think that we need to know that Peter, James, and John were sleeping?

11. Finally, Jesus motions for them to go. What does He tell them is about to happen? Does Christ perform the Atonement obliviously?

Mark 14:43-45

1. While Christ said those words, who came to Him? 2. What was the token that Judas used to betray

Christ?


Mark 14:46-52 1. As the people begin to take Christ, what did one

of His disciples do? 2. What did Jesus ask those who were apprehending

Him? 3. Why do you think that they finally took Him now—

in the darkness of the garden of Gethsemane—rather than at the temple or some other time when the Pharisees and priests saw Jesus (publicly)?

Mark 14:53-65

1. In verse 53, where did they take Jesus? 2. What did the chief priests seek? (See verse 54.) 3. At first, were they successful in being able to

find a reason to have Him put to death? 4. What does Jesus say about the false accusations

made against Him? 5. Finally, they start to question him. What do the

priests ask Christ? 6. Think about their question. What would you say

the answer is—if Christ was to answer honestly? 7. What does Jesus answer them? 8. How do the chief priests and Pharisees react to

Christ testimony? 9. Is Christ’s testimony blasphemy? Worthy of death? 10. Why do you think that the chief priests and

Pharisees were unable to accept the testimony of the Savior?

11. What did the chief priests and Pharisees then begin to do to Christ?

Mark 14:66-72

1. Where is Peter as Christ is being judged? 2. Now, as Peter warmed his hands by the fire, what

did a woman say to him? 3. What was Peter’s reaction to her declaration? 4. Another time, a maid recognized Peter. What did

she say? 5. What did Peter do? 6. Then, Peter hears the cock crow a second time,

and what does he remember? How does he feel when he recognizes that he has denied Christ? Why do you think that he wept bitterly?

7. Even though this experience was difficult for Peter, how do you think his denial of the Savior, and subsequent repentance, affected His faith and testimony and later devotion to the Lord?


Enrich Your Learning The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In Mark 14, we read where Christ actually begins to perform

the Atonement—in the garden of Gethsemane. You can learn so much from this entire chapter, but for now, we’ll just study one portion.

1. Read Mark 14:22-25. Study the corresponding Analysis and Application questions. Be sure to also read the JST portion for this scripture. Most of the following questions will correspond with the JST.

2. As they ate the Passover meal, what did Jesus do? 3. Why did He give them the bread? 4. Go to John 6:30-35. 5. In this passage of scripture, what do the Jews

ask of Jesus? What had their fathers eaten in the desert?

6. How does Jesus reply to this example given by the Jews?

7. What will Heavenly Father give us? 8. When the Jews ask for this bread, what does Jesus

say? How is Christ the bread of life? 9. Continue on to John 6:48-51. What happened to

those who ate manna in the wilderness? What will happen if we partake of the bread of life offered by Christ?

10. What is the bread of life that Christ gives? 11. How does this explanation in John help us to

better understand the last supper and Christ’s institution of the sacrament?

12. Now, think in terms of the Atonement—how is Christ the bread of life? How did He give His body? Why is this important?

13. After giving the disciples the bread, what does Jesus do?

14. What did the cup represent? 15. Think in terms of the Atonement—what is the

significance of the blood that Christ shed for us? How does it help us? Why do you think that it behooves us to remember it?

16. Would there have been any kind of significance to the last supper without Christ’s Atonement?

17. We still observe this ordinance today—every Sunday, we participate in the sacrament, which is in commemoration of the Last Supper. How can increased understanding and knowledge of the Atonement help you to better renew your covenants with God and always remember Him?


Making Meaning—Judas and Peter Judas and Peter are an obvious comparison/contrast, as they

both forsook Christ. Yet, they are also quite different. It would be helpful to study these two examples so we can understand the difference between what Judas did and what Peter did.

1. Read Mark 14:10-11. 2. What was the role of Judas Iscariot? What did

this mean—to be one of the twelve apostles? 3. Read the Bible Dictionary entry for “apostle.”

What is the responsibility of those with the calling of an apostle?

4. If Judas had the calling of an apostle—to be a special witness of Christ—then what did He know?

5. Back in Mark 14:10, where did Judas go? Why did he go to the chief priests?

6. How did the chief priests react to Judas’ coming to them? What did they promise to do for Judas?

7. Read the last sentence of verse 11. What is the verb used in this sentence? What does “sought” imply?

8. Was Judas’ betrayal passive? Was it made in the moment? What do these two verses teach us about Judas’ betrayal of Christ?

Now, let’s read more about Peter’s denial of Christ.

1. Read Mark 14:27-31. What does Jesus foretell here?

2. Why do you think that this prophecy was given concerning Christ—especially of His Atonement—that He would be forsaken by all?

3. What does Peter insist that he will do? Why do you think that he is above this prophecy?

4. What does Jesus then tell Peter? 5. Read Mark 14:66-72. 6. Imagine Peter’s situation right now. He just saw

the Savior be betrayed and apprehended in the Garden of Gethsemane and knew that His death was the most likely outcome. How do you think that Peter might have been feeling?

1. Recall, also, the experiences we’ve seen between Peter, the other disciples, and the Savior. Did they seem to fully grasp that Christ needed to die and then be resurrected? Did they seem to understand that Christ was aware of this and allowed it?


2. Do you think that, in some ways, Peter’s testimony of the Messiah may have been tested at this point? What other fears do you think that Peter may have had?

3. As Peter warms his hands by the fire, what happens?

4. What does Peter say in reaction to this accusation?

5. Do you think that he said this because he wanted to betray the Savior? Was he looking for an opportunity to deny Christ?

6. Another maid sees Peter; what does she say? They press Peter, and how does he respond?

7. Was Peter telling the truth? 8. Finally, what did Peter hear? What did he

remember as soon as he heard the cock crow? 9. What did Peter do? Notice the description of

Peter’s weeping given in Matthew 26:75. Why do you think that Peter wept bitterly?

10. Although Peter committed a sin—in denying the Lord, in lying—how do you think that his sin and subsequent repentance became a blessing to him? How do you think that this may have added to his testimony and ability as a future prophet? Do we ever see Peter waver again?

Now, let’s take a second to look at the two experiences

together. 1. How are both Peter’s and Judas’ experiences

alike? What did they both do? 2. Yet, how are they different? 3. What were their motives? 4. Often, we think of Peter denying Christ and Judas

betraying Christ. What is the difference between denial and betrayal?

5. How do you think that you can learn from both Judas and Peter?


Mark 15



Mark 15:1-14

1. In the morning, Jesus was delivered to Pilate. What did Pilate ask Him?

2. In general, how did Jesus respond to the accusations made against Him?

3. Traditionally, at the feast, Pilate would release one prisoner. Whom did the Jews choose to release?

4. Why do you think they were so motivated to have Jesus crucified?

Mark 15:15-38

1. What did Pilate choose to do? Why? 2. What happened to Jesus? 3. As Jesus was on the cross, what did the people

say and do to him? 4. If Jesus had “saved himself” from the cross, what

would have happened to all of mankind? 5. When you consider the entire work that Christ

performed—the Atonement, suffering on the cross, and the resurrection—how did He “save himself” from the cross?

6. What does Jesus utter while on the cross? (See verse 34.)

7. Finally, what happens? Mark 15:39-41

1. What did the centurion say when Christ gave up the ghost? Why do you think that he said this?

2. Who else were there to witness the passing of the Savior? What does this teach us about the ability


of women to have a personal relationship with the Savior?

Mark 15:42-47

1. After Christ died, who requested the body of the Lord?

2. What was done with Christ’s body?

Enrich Your Learning The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ Like Mark 14, this entire chapter is directly related to

the Atonement. You can study the entire chapter, but for now, we’ll study one part. This exercise will be a little different than those in past chapters.

1. Read Mark 14:27. What does Jesus foretell about His disciples?

2. Read Mark 14:10, 50. What happened in these two verses? Though Jesus’ disciples had forsaken Him was He completely alone? Whose companionship had striven with Him as He was judged, scourged, and mocked?

3. Read Mark 15:33-34. As the ninth hour approached, what did the Savior cry out? Who had now forsaken Him? How did Christ feel about being left alone?

4. To gain more insight on this experience, read the talk None Were with Him, by Jeffrey R. Holland. You can find this talk in the May 2009 issue of the Liahona or Ensign.

5. As you read the talk, notice the ways that Jesus was alone. Though He started the Holy Week with the triumphal entry, surrounded by a throng of supporters, by the time of His Atonement and crucifixion, not as many people were with Him as friends.

6. Read the following paragraph carefully: “With all the conviction of my soul I testify that He did please His Father perfectly and that a perfect Father did not forsake His Son in that hour. Indeed, it is my personal belief that in all of Christ’s mortal ministry the Father may never have been closer to His Son than in these agonizing final moments of suffering. Nevertheless, that the supreme sacrifice of His Son might be as complete as it was voluntary and solitary, the Father briefly withdrew from Jesus the comfort of His Spirit, the support of His personal presence. It was required, indeed it was central to the significance of the Atonement,


that this perfect Son who had never spoken ill nor done wrong nor touched an unclean thing had to know how the rest of humankind—us, all of us—would feel when we did commit such sins. For His Atonement to be infinite and eternal, He had to feel what it was like to die not only physically but spiritually, to sense what it was like to have the divine Spirit withdraw, leaving one feeling totally, abjectly, hopelessly alone.” (Jeffrey R. Holland, None Were With Him.)

7. Why did Heavenly Father forsake Jesus Christ? Although it was a difficult experience for the Savior, how was His utter loneliness an imperative part of completing the Atonement?

8. How does it make you feel to know that He understands? That truly, Christ “walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone,” and, as Elder Holland taught, “we do not have to do so”?

9. How do you think that knowing that Christ suffered in agony in Gethsemane, then on the cross as His Father’s Spirit withdrew from Him, helps you when you are going through times of loneliness and trial?

Cross-reference—Fulfillment of Prophecy Throughout the ages, the prophets have foretold of Christ—

His birth, His life, and His mission. We will study one prophecy of Christ and how it was fulfilled, especially as related in Mark 15.

Read Isaiah 53:1-3

1. This entire chapter, as we learn from the chapter heading, is a prophecy of the Messiah. What do we learn about Christ in verse two?

2. As you think of Christ’s life, how is this prophecy true? Where was Christ born? Was He obviously magnificent to the world?

3. While we don’t have many details of the Savior’s youth and adolescence, does it seem that he stood out in any way? Was He known as the Messiah?

4. Go to Mark 6:3. What did people from the place that Jesus was raised think of Him?

5. How do you think that this fulfills Isaiah’s prophecy in 53:2?

6. Finally, go to Mark 14:44-45. Why do you think that the chief priests had created this “sign” that would help Judas to signal? Was the Savior noteworthy in any physical way? Was He obviously


the Messiah? Again, think of Isaiah’s prophecy, “he hath no form or comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him.” Why do you think that this is a part of Christ’s life? Why didn’t Christ come to the Earth in an obvious, ostentatious manner?

7. You have been studying enough about Christ’s life at this point. Based on what you have learned, how is Isaiah’s prophecy—that Christ would be acquainted with grief and not esteemed—true?

8. While Christ was not respected by many of the people in Jerusalem at the time, this prophecy came true—even with His disciples. Read Mark 14:10-11. Which, of Christ’s disciples betrayed Him?

9. Read Mark 14:32-42. Which disciples are mentioned here? What happens in this scripture block? How do you think that Christ felt by the lack of support from even His closest friends? This was not an intentional infringement, like Judas’, but how does it still fulfill the prophecy given in Isaiah 53:3?

10. Read Mark 14:66-72. Finally, how does this block of scriptures fulfill Isaiah’s prophecy?

11. Why do you think that, as part of Christ’s mission, He would be acquainted with grief and not respected by His people?

Isaiah 53:4-9

1. How was the prophecy given in verses 4-5 fulfilled? Find corresponding scriptures in Mark 14 and 15 to see moments where the prophecy given in Isaiah was fulfilled.

2. In verse 6, what prophecy is given? 3. Read Mark 14:27. Even though Jesus quotes a

scripture in Zachariah, how is this also a fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy?

4. With Isaiah 53:7 in mind, read Mark 15:1-5. Did Jesus defend himself, or try to escape crucifixion before Pilate? Was He afraid? How did He fulfill the prophecy given in Isaiah?

5. As you read through these verses in Mark 15, why do you think that Jesus acted this way at His judgment? Why didn’t He fight them? Why didn’t He show the people that He is the very Son of God?

6. Why do you think that it was important for Christ to go before them like a lamb to the slaughter—without opening His mouth?


7. Finally, what happened to the Savior? Read both Isaiah 53:8 and Mark 15:37.

8. In Isaiah 53:9, what do we learn about Christ death and burial?

9. Read Mark 15:43-46. Where was Christ buried? How was this a fulfillment of the prophecy given in Isaiah?

Isaiah 53:10-12

1. Here we learn more of the reason why Heavenly Father would have His Only Begotten Son suffer and die as He did. Though there is no direct prophecy given in verses 10-11, we can compare these verses with another event at the death of Christ.

2. Read Mark 14:35-36. What does Jesus pray to Heavenly Father?

3. What is taking place as He utters this humble prayer?

4. Why do you think that Jesus wanted the cup to pass from Him?

5. Yet, what did Heavenly Father do? How does Isaiah 53:10-11 help us understand why Heavenly Father allowed Jesus to suffer?

6. Read Mark 15:34. What does Jesus cry out in this verse? What happened?

7. How does this compare to what we have learned in Isaiah 53:10-11?

8. Do you think that Heavenly Father was happy to forsake Him? Yet Heavenly Father was “pleased;” why do you think that this was so?

9. Finally, in Isaiah 53:12, we learn another prophecy about the conditions of Christ’s death. Read Mark 15:27-28 to see how this prophecy was fulfilled.

10. As you have studied this prophecy in Isaiah—and its fulfillment—how has Christ’s birth, life, and death been illuminated? Why do you think that there are so many prophecies of the details of Christ’s life?

11. How has studying both the events of Christ’s life and the prophecies given—hundreds of years before it would happen—helped you to understand more of the Savior’s love, power, mercy, and mission?


Mark 16



Mark 16:1-8

1. As Mark 16 opens, who are the people mentioned? 2. Where were they going? 3. Why were they going to the sepulchre to see

Jesus? 4. What time of day had they gone to the sepulchre? 5. When they got to the sepulchre, what did they

find? 6. How do you think that they must have felt, to

find it empty? Mark 16:9-11

1. To whom did Jesus first appear, personally? 2. Did the others believe that Christ had appeared

to Mary? Mark 16:12-20

1. After appearing to Mary, who else did Christ come to?

2. When did the disciples finally believe that Christ had risen?

3. What did the Lord charge the disciples to do after He appeared to Him?

4. Finally, what happened to Jesus?

Enrich Your Learning The Atonement and Your Personal Relationship with Christ In this final chapter of Mark, we will take time to study

one of the last experiences that Christ had with the apostles before ascending into Heaven. Study it to see what it can teach us about the Atonement.


1. Read Mark 16:14. 2. When Christ appeared to the apostles, what did He

say to them? 3. Why did He upbraid them? 4. How had they been unbelieving and hard-hearted? 5. Why do you think that the Savior felt that they

should have been more receptive to the message of Mary Magdalene and the others who witnessed of Christ?

6. How could they have known Christ had risen based on only the testimony of Mary and others? Is this truly unbelieving on the part of the apostles? How would they know it was true and not merely some rumor?

7. What do you think that faith—being believing and soft-hearted—has to do with accepting the testimony of Christ: that He is risen, that He atoned for our sins?

8. Many of us, in the latter days, do not have the opportunity to see the Lord, to feel the nail prints in His hands or the wounds in His side, yet so many have testimonies of Christ. What can you do to cultivate the faith required to gain such a testimony without visual evidence?

Think about what you have learned about the Atonement up to

this point. Now that the picture is complete, what has especially impressed you? How can the Atonement truly be a blessing to your life? What have you learned about the power and scope of the Atonement? Before you go on to Luke, take this time to write your testimony of the Atonement in your scripture journal.

Character Study—Mary Magdalene Study more about Mary Magdalene to see what we can learn

about her and about her qualities that we can emulate. 1. Read the following scriptures: Mark 15:39-41, 47;

16:1-11. 2. What has just happened in Mark 15:39? 3. Who was there, watching from afar when Christ

died? 4. Later on, in Mark 15:47, what does Mary Magdalene

behold? Why do you think that she was curious to know where Christ’s body had been laid?

5. At the opening of Mark 16, who is Mary Magdalene with? What are they preparing to do?


6. When do they leave to go to the sepulchre? Why do you think that they leave so early? What does this tell us about Mary Magdalene?

7. When they arrived at the tomb, what did they see? What had happened to the stone that covered the entrance to the tomb? Who else was at the tomb?

8. What did the angels say to Mary and the others? 9. Think of the reasons why it is noteworthy that

these angels appeared to Mary and the other women. What does this teach us about the ability to receive personal revelation and heavenly visitations? Are such revelations only available to men?

10. In verse 9, who do we learn appears to Mary Magdalene?

11. What else do we learn about Mary from this verse? 12. Why is this noteworthy? What does this teach us

about Mary, about her sincerity and love for the Savior? Why do you think that the Lord had helped Mary overcome the difficulties that she had faced? Do you think that the Lord held a grudge because of her prior difficulties?

13. Why do you think that Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene before He appeared and revealed Himself to anyone else?

14. What do Mary’s life and her relationship with the Savior teach us about Jesus?

15. How do you think that we can be like Mary and turn to Christ in such a genuine way?

List—Signs of Those who Believe At the end of Mark 16, we read a list of the signs that

follow them that believe. Mark the list in your scriptures and study them for greater insight.

1. Read Mark 16:17-18. As you read these scriptures, note the list of things that follow those who believe in Christ.

2. In my name shall they cast out devils—what do you think that this means? Notice, in Doctrine and Covenants 124:98 this sign is something that follows those that believe even in these latter days. It is not some antiquated idea. How do you think that Christ’s power can cast out devils? Why do you think that this is only a sign that can follow those that believe in Him? How do you think that this blessing can (or maybe it already has) bless your life?


3. Speak with new tongues—what do you think that speaking with new tongues means? Traditionally, we think of the gift of tongues as meaning speaking new languages, which is truly a spiritual gift. However, according to 2 Nephi 31:13 what other tongue will we be able to speak with when we believe in Christ? How do you think that this can be a blessing in your life? How do you think that belief in Christ makes this possible?

4. Take up serpents—What do you think that this means? How can it apply to your life now?

5. If they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them—what do you think that this means? Do you think that this means we will never have to experience any kind of pain or threat in life? How does the Lord offer us divine protection?

6. They shall lay hands on the sick, and shall recover—What do you think that this means? Have you been able to experience the gift of healing in your life? Read Doctrine and Covenants 46:19-20. What do we learn about the spiritual gift of healing? Why do you think that faith is required both to heal and to be healed? How does the gift of healing help us to understand what Christ offers to each of us through His Atonement?


Appendix

Miracles Study Instructions In the New Testament, Christ spends His life performing

many miracles. To enrich your understanding of them, you may want to study them in-depth and keep track of what you’re studying as a special project.

Begin by finding a notebook specifically for studying the

miracles of Christ or create a computer file where you can track the miracles. You could even use post-it note to flag the miracles that you find in the New Testament.

Study these miracles. Consider tracking the following

information so that later you can compare the miracles to one another, hopefully gleaning some knowledge as you study Christ’s process. As you study the miracle, go through it in painstaking detail. Ask yourself questions. Think of times when you are reminded of other stories. If you have any ideas or thoughts, chase them!

• Where in the scriptures is the miracle found? • What is the miracle performed? • Who requests the miracle of Christ? • What are any details of this request? • How does Christ respond to the request? • What are the details in Christ’s Healing—how does

He do it? • What are any other special directions or details

of this healing? • Does this or any of the details in the miracle

remind you of another experience in the scriptures? If so, find the other scripture, and also study it carefully.

• What is it that you think the Lord wants you to learn from this miracle?

• Record any other notes and/or observations.


After you study each miracle on its own, compare the miracles. Compare like miracles; compare different miracles. Notice the similarities; notice the differences. Ask yourself why they may differ. Notice how the accounts of the same miracle have different details. How do these different accounts help you to better understand the miracle as a whole? Take time to really analyze these miracles.

As you study, don’t forget to see how the information you

learn can be applied into your life. Most likely, while you are analyzing the scriptures, the Spirit will help you to see how they apply to your life.

Parables Study Instructions

In the New Testament, Christ often teaches by telling parables. A parable is a concrete story that teaches an abstract concept. In Matthew 13, the Savior explains why He teaches in parables. To enrich your understanding of the parables that Christ taught, you may want to study them in-depth. Keep track of what you’re studying as a special scripture study project.

Begin by finding a notebook specifically designated for

studying the parables taught by Christ or open a computer file where you can track the parables. You could even use post-it notes to flag the parables that you find in the New Testament.

Study the parables one at a time. Consider tracking the

following information so that later you can compare the miracles to one another, hopefully gleaning some knowledge as you study Christ’s teachings. As you study the parable, go through it in painstaking detail. Ask yourself questions. Think of times when you are reminded of other ideas in the scriptures. If you have any prompts, then chase them!

⁃ Find the meanings of the objects in the parables.

A parable is a “side by side” comparison, so we can find that the items in a parable all have a corollary. Figure out what they are and record them. By doing this, you’re essentially asking yourself about the “what?” of the parable.

⁃ When was the parable given? ⁃ What is the context of the parable? ⁃ To whom was Jesus telling the parable? ⁃ Did the Lord give more than one parable at a

time? What other parables were given at the same time? (Keep in mind that there may be connections between a series of parables especially if they are given during the same discourse.)


⁃ Once you feel comfortable with the facts of the parable, you will be able to start analyzing it. Why did Jesus give us this teaching?

⁃ What do you think that Christ wanted His audience (including us) to understand?

⁃ Why do you think that the Savior chose to make the comparisons He did?

⁃ If Jesus gave a series of parables together, how do the similarities connect them and how do differences give the subject more depth?

⁃ Throughout this process, you may also consider “What does this mean for me?”

⁃ What does the Spirit want you to know as you study?

⁃ Does the principle taught help you directly in your life?

⁃ How do you think that understanding the principles behind the parables might help you to be a better disciple of Christ?

After you gather this information, take some time to

compare the parables one to another. You will also find that some parables are repeated in the

gospels. If they are, make sure that you delineate between each gospel account. Look for any similarities and differences between each account of the same parable. What is the extra insight gained from each version of the parable?

Finally, look for repeated themes, patterns, concepts, and

connections between parables. As you study the parables, you will begin to feel promptings from the Spirit on what you should focus on and learn. Be receptive to the questions you have. Don’t be afraid to wonder. Take your time. This could be a really fun project.

One final note, don’t forget to see how the information you

learn can be applied to your life. While you are analyzing the scriptures, the Spirit will help you to see how they apply to your life.

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New Testament Study Companion: Mark

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