Study Guide for Seriously:

“Sell Everything”

January 25, 2009

Open Up

Share with your group an example of having so much stuff that it slowed you down. For example, have you ever over-packed for a trip or gone somewhere with a young child who insisted on bringing all their favorite toys?

Dig In

(1) Read Mark 10:17-22. How does Jesus’ reply in verse 18 redirect the man from traditional thinking about who or what is “good?” What kind of people does modern society consider “good”? What can we learn from the dialogue between Jesus and the man in verses 19-21 regarding the difference between following commandments and following Jesus? Is Jesus adding “sell everything” to the list of commandments in verse 19 or is he trying to lead the man to face a life change choice?

(2) Read Mark 10:23-34. Describe the disciples’ reaction to Jesus teaching. How similar do you think the reactions of today’s churchgoers or non-churchgoers is to the reaction of the disciples? Discuss what Jesus says his followers will receive now and in the future. Have you experienced receiving “a hundred times as much” in your Christian journey? BACKGROUND: There is no evidence of a Jerusalem city gate called “The Needle’s Eye” that was difficult but not impossible for a camel to enter. The disciples reaction to Jesus’ statement is, “Seriously!? What you’re saying is impossible!!!” OPTIONAL: This story is also found in Matthew 19:16-30 and Luke 18:18-30. After reading the parallel passages, check for details found in only one or two of the accounts. Do the details change the common themes found in all three stories?

(3) Read Mark 2:13-17. How was Jesus’ challenge to Levi similar to Jesus’ challenge to the wealthy man in Mark 10? Looking back on your Christian journey, when has your loyalty to Jesus been more like Levi’s, and when has it been more like the man in Mark 10?

Work On

(1) If you know someone who left behind significant possessions or career advancements or recreational opportunities to follow Jesus, share that person’s story with your group.

(2) Tell your group about something important you left behind to follow Jesus. Has it been worth it?

Lift Up

To guide your prayer thoughts towards thanking God for the never-ending blessings in the life to come, read Revelation 21:10-12 and 21-23. Ask the Spirit for wisdom and willpower to leave behind “things” and follow Jesus.

Another Step

Read Mark 1:14-20. Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John are other examples of Jesus followers who leave their old ways and possessions behind. Based on other verses such as Mark 1:29-30, we know the disciples had families for whom they were responsible (wives, parents). Discuss the challenges of balancing financial responsibility with whole-hearted submission to Jesus.