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How to use it: After watching/listening to this week’s message, from April 2, 2023, use the questions to go deeper into the message, with your group…or on your own. The questions will introduce you to the topic, reflect content from the sermon, go ‘Beyond the Message’, & get you thinking about practical applications for your life.

1. The fig tree in Mark 11:12-14 appeared to promise nourishment, but was barren. Share a time when “appearances did not live up to the experience” in your life.

2. As Jesus clears the Temple court, he teaches the people by quoting the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah (Mark 11:15-18). Read Isa 56:6-8 and Jer 7:8-11 and discern what caused Jesus’ righteous anger. 

3. In Hebrews 10:11-18 we read about the limitations of the Old Covenant (Temple sacrificial system), and the perfection of the New Covenant (Jesus’ sacrifice).

   a. What does v.11 declare to be the problem with the Old Covenant?

   b. The “priest” of v.12-14 is Jesus. What was superior about this New Covenant?

4. Reflecting upon passages from question #3 and Mark 11:20-21, what does the fig tree that was “not in season” (v.13) represent? How does Mark 15:37-39 further signify this “change of season?”

5. Jesus’ perfect sacrifice and resurrection brought a “change in season” for how all people can now worship and relate all people. Read Mark 11:22-25 and reflect upon the following ways Christians can now do this.

   a. In your own words, what does it mean to have “a faith that can move mountains?” (v.22-23) Is there a situation in your life where greater faith is required?

   b. How often do you pray? Do you pray with confidence, expecting God to answer (v.24)? Is there a situation in your life where bolder prayer is required?

   c. In the Lord’s Prayer (Matt 6:12, 14-15) Jesus connects our forgiveness of others to God’s forgiveness of us. If God’s forgiveness of us (atonement, that “puts away” our sin) is unconditional, what is the significance of our forgiving others?