Lesson 11-Taken and Tried

 Read for This Week’s Study

Mark 14:1-72; John 12:4-6; Romans 8:28; Exodus 24:8; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Zechariah 13:7.

Memory Text:

 

“And He said, ‘Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Take this cup from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will’ ” (Mark 14:36).

 

Sabbath Afternoon:

Key Points with Bible Verses:

 

1. Jesus' Prayer in Gethsemane (Mark 14:36)
   Jesus surrenders His will to God, saying, "Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will."
2. God's Plan and Human Actions (Romans 8:28)
   God works all things for good, even through the challenging events like Jesus' betrayal and suffering.
3. The Betrayal and the Anointing (Mark 14:1-9)
   The woman’s anointing of Jesus with perfume is contrasted with Judas’ betrayal, showing love vs. greed.
4. Jesus as the Lamb (Exodus 24:8, Mark 14:24)
   Jesus is the Lamb of God, and His blood seals the new covenant, just as the blood sealed the covenant with Israel.
5. Peter’s Denial (Mark 14:66-72)
   Despite Peter’s strong declaration of loyalty, he denies Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus' prediction.

 

Discussion Questions and Answers:

 

1. How does Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane inspire us to surrender our will to God in difficult times?
   Jesus’ prayer shows that even when faced with immense suffering, we can trust God’s will. He acknowledges His desire to avoid suffering but ultimately submits to God’s plan, showing that faith means trusting God even when it’s hard.
2. In what ways does the story of the anointing woman challenge us to express our love and devotion to Jesus?
   The woman gave a costly gift, without concern for others’ judgment. It challenges us to offer our best to Jesus, both in resources and actions, and to not be discouraged by the opinions of others when we demonstrate our devotion.
3. How can we reconcile God's will with human free will, as seen in Judas' betrayal and God's plan?
   Judas had the free will to choose his actions, yet God, in His wisdom, used even this betrayal to fulfill His salvation plan. This shows that while humans make choices, God can bring good out of even the worst decisions, without forcing anyone's hand.

 

Sunday: Unforgettable

 

Key Points with Bible Verses:

 

1. The Plot Against Jesus (Mark 14:1-2)
   Religious leaders plot to kill Jesus, showing the contrast between human plans and God's plan.
2. The Anointing of Jesus (Mark 14:3-9)
   The woman anoints Jesus’ head with perfume, an act of love and worship, symbolizing preparation for His burial.
3. Judas' Betrayal (Mark 14:10-11, John 12:4-6)
   Judas, motivated by greed, betrays Jesus for money, showing the opposite of the woman’s act of love.
4. God's Plan Through Evil Actions (Romans 8:28)
   Even in betrayal, God’s greater plan of salvation unfolds, showing how God brings good from evil.
5. A Memorial of Love (Mark 14:9)
   Jesus promises that the woman’s act of love will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached.

 

Discussion Questions and Answers:

 

1. What does the anointing story teach us about giving our best to Jesus, even when others don’t understand?
   The woman’s gift was criticized as wasteful, but Jesus praised it. It teaches us that acts of love for Christ may not always be understood by others, but what matters is Jesus' approval. We should give sacrificially, knowing that Jesus values our devotion.
2. How does Judas' betrayal reflect the danger of letting greed control our decisions?
   Judas’ decision to betray Jesus for money shows how greed can cloud judgment and lead to devastating consequences. It warns us to guard our hearts against the love of money, as it can corrupt even our relationship with God.
3. How can Romans 8:28 encourage us when faced with betrayal or hardship?
   Romans 8:28 reminds us that God can work good out of any situation, including betrayal or suffering. Though we may not understand why things happen, we can trust that God is always working for our ultimate good and His purpose.

Monday: The Last Supper

 

Key Points with Bible Verses:

 

1.     Jesus Institutes the Lord's Supper (Mark 14:22-24)
Jesus gives new meaning to the bread and wine, representing His body and blood given for humanity.

 

2.     The New Covenant (Exodus 24:8, Mark 14:24)
Jesus’ blood seals the new covenant, fulfilling the prophecy of a renewed relationship between God and His people.

 

3.     The Passover Lamb (John 1:29)
Jesus is the Lamb of God, replacing the Passover lamb as the ultimate sacrifice for sin.

 

4.     The Prediction of Abandonment (Mark 14:27)
Jesus foretells that all His disciples will abandon Him, fulfilling Zechariah’s prophecy about the Shepherd and the sheep.

 

5.     Peter’s Bold Promise (Mark 14:29-31)
Despite Peter’s claim of loyalty, Jesus predicts his denial, showing the weakness of human resolve.

 

Discussion Questions and Answers:

 

1.     How does Jesus' institution of the Lord’s Supper deepen your understanding of His sacrifice for you?
The bread and wine symbolize Jesus’ body and blood, reminding us of the depth of His sacrifice for our salvation. The Lord’s Supper is a constant reminder of Jesus' love, and the covenant He made with humanity through His death on the cross.

 

2.     What can we learn from Peter’s overconfidence and eventual denial of Jesus?
Peter’s overconfidence shows the danger of relying on our strength rather than trusting in God. His denial demonstrates human weakness, but it also highlights the importance of repentance and the grace that Jesus extends to us when we fail.

 

3.     How does the new covenant in Christ give us hope and assurance in our relationship with God?
The new covenant, sealed by Jesus’ blood, guarantees that our sins are forgiven and that we have a restored relationship with God. This gives us hope and assurance that through Christ, we are His people, and nothing can separate us from His love.

 

Tuesday: Gethsemane

 

Key Points:

 

1.     Jesus' Struggle in Gethsemane (Mark 14:36): Jesus prayed for the "cup" of suffering to pass but ultimately submitted to God's will.
“Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will.”

 

2.     The Disciples’ Failure to Stay Awake (Mark 14:37-38): Jesus found His disciples sleeping during His time of need, showing their weakness in staying spiritually vigilant.
“Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

 

3.     Jesus' Submission to God’s Will (Luke 22:42-43): Despite His anguish, Jesus accepted the path of suffering, demonstrating obedience to God.
“Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

 

4.     Angel Sent to Strengthen Jesus (Luke 22:43): In response to Jesus’ prayer, an angel came to strengthen Him, showing God’s provision even in hardship.
“An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him.”

 

5.     Jesus' Preparation for the Cross (Mark 14:41-42): Jesus, after praying, was ready to face His betrayers, showing His resolve to complete His mission.
“The hour has come. Look, the Son of Man is delivered into the hands of sinners.”

 

 

Discussion Questions and Answers:

 

1.     Why did Jesus pray for the cup to be taken away if He knew it was God’s will for Him to suffer?
Jesus prayed this way because of His human nature, revealing His deep emotional struggle. However, His willingness to submit to God's will showed His perfect obedience and trust in God’s plan (Mark 14:36).

 

2.     How does Jesus' struggle in Gethsemane help us understand how to pray in difficult times?
Jesus teaches us to be honest about our struggles but ultimately to trust and submit to God’s will, knowing that He knows what’s best for us, even in suffering (Luke 22:42).

 

3.     What lessons can we learn from the disciples' failure to stay awake and pray?
The disciples’ failure reminds us of our human weakness and the need to stay spiritually vigilant through prayer, especially during times of temptation (Mark 14:38).

 

Wednesday: Leaving All to Flee From Jesus

 

Key Points:

 

1.     Judas' Betrayal (Mark 14:43-45): Judas betrayed Jesus with a kiss, showing how greed and deception can lead to the ultimate betrayal.
“The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.”

 

2.     The Arrest of Jesus (Mark 14:46-47): Despite His innocence, Jesus was arrested, and violence ensued when Peter cut off a servant's ear, which Jesus immediately healed.
“Then one of those standing near drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his ear.”

 

3.     Fulfillment of Scripture (Mark 14:48-49): Jesus reminded His captors that His arrest was fulfilling prophecy, revealing that this moment was part of God’s larger plan.
“But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.”

 

4.     The Disciples’ Flight (Mark 14:50): In fear, all of Jesus’ disciples abandoned Him, illustrating their weakness in the face of danger.
“Then everyone deserted him and fled.”

 

5.     The Young Man Fleeing Naked (Mark 14:51-52): A young man followed Jesus but fled in fear, symbolizing how followers may falter when faced with real sacrifice.
“He fled naked, leaving his garment behind.”

 

Discussion Questions and Answers:

 

1.     Why did the disciples flee when Jesus was arrested?
Fear and confusion overtook them, showing their lack of spiritual readiness. Though they had been with Jesus, they were still vulnerable in moments of crisis (Mark 14:50).

 

2.     What does Judas' betrayal teach us about the danger of letting sin, even one vice, control our hearts?
Judas’ love for money overpowered his loyalty to Jesus. It warns us that even one unchecked sin can lead us away from God and toward spiritual destruction (Mark 14:43-45).

 

3.     How does Jesus’ calm response to His arrest teach us about facing trials with faith?
Jesus remained composed because He trusted God’s plan and knew the Scriptures were being fulfilled. His faith in God’s sovereignty gave Him peace in the face of suffering (Mark 14:48-49).

 

Thursday: Who Are You?

 

Key Points:

 

1.     Jesus Before the Sanhedrin (Mark 14:60-61): Jesus remained silent before false accusations, showing His restraint and fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy.
“But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.”

 

2.     Jesus’ Declaration of His Divinity (Mark 14:62): When asked directly, Jesus affirmed that He is the Messiah, referencing His return in glory.
“I am, and you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One.”

 

3.     The High Priest’s Reaction (Mark 14:63-64): The high priest condemned Jesus for blasphemy, misunderstanding His true identity as the Son of God.
“The high priest tore his clothes. ‘Why do we need any more witnesses?’”

 

4.     Peter’s Denial (Mark 14:66-72): Peter denied Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus’ prophecy and showing his fear and failure under pressure.
“Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.”

 

5.     Peter’s Remorse (Mark 14:72): Peter wept after realizing his denial, reflecting true repentance and sorrow for his failure.
“He broke down and wept.”

 

Discussion Questions and Answers:

 

1.     Why did Peter deny Jesus after promising to be loyal to Him?
Peter’s fear and confusion in the face of danger led him to deny Jesus. His actions show how even the strongest believers can falter when faced with trials (Mark 14:66-72).

 

2.     What does Jesus' response to the high priest teach us about standing firm in our faith?
Jesus’ firm declaration of His identity, even in the face of death, shows the importance of boldly proclaiming our faith, trusting in God’s plan no matter the cost (Mark 14:62).

 

3.     What hope can we find in Peter’s story after his denial?
Despite his failure, Peter’s story reminds us that repentance brings forgiveness. God’s grace offers restoration even when we fall (Mark 14:72).

 

Friday: Further Thought

 

Read Ellen G. White, “Before Annas and the Court of Caiaphas,” pp. 698–715; “Judas,” pp. 716–722, in The Desire of Ages.

 

“While the degrading oaths were fresh upon Peter’s lips, and the shrill crowing of the cock was still ringing in his ears, the Saviour turned from the frowning judges, and looked full upon His poor disciple. At the same time Peter’s eyes were drawn to his Master. In that gentle countenance he read deep pity and sorrow, but there was no anger there.

 

“The sight of that pale, suffering face, those quivering lips, that look of compassion and forgiveness, pierced his heart like an arrow. Conscience was aroused. Memory was active. Peter called to mind his promise of a few short hours before that he would go with his Lord to prison and to death. He remembered his grief when the Saviour told him in the upper chamber that he would deny his Lord thrice that same night. Peter had just declared that he knew not Jesus, but he now realized with bitter grief how well his Lord knew him, and how accurately He had read his heart, the falseness of which was unknown even to himself.”—Ellen G. White, The Desire of Ages, pp. 712, 713.

 

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

 

1. How, by merely reading what Jesus predicted in Mark 14:9, are we seeing another of Jesus’ predictions—a highly unlikely prediction given the circumstances in which it has been uttered—actually being fulfilled?

 

Answer: In Mark 14:9, Jesus predicted that wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, the story of the woman who anointed Him would be told in memory of her. This prophecy has indeed been fulfilled, as her act of devotion has been recorded in the Bible and has been read and preached about for centuries around the world. Given that Jesus made this prediction at a time when He was about to face crucifixion, it would have seemed highly unlikely, but it emphasizes the far-reaching impact of His words. It shows that Jesus knew His death would lead to the spreading of the gospel worldwide.

 

• Supporting Text: "Truly, I tell you, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her" (Mark 14:9).

 

2. Compare and contrast Judas and Peter. How were they alike and how different in the way they acted in the Passion Narrative?

 

Answer: Judas and Peter both failed Jesus, but in very different ways and with contrasting outcomes:

 

• Alike: Both were chosen disciples of Jesus, and both played critical roles during the Passion. They both faced moments of weakness—Judas by betraying Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (Mark 14:10-11), and Peter by denying Jesus three times out of fear (Mark 14:66-72).
• Different: The key difference lies in their responses afterward. Judas, overcome with guilt, ended his life in despair (Matthew 27:3-5), showing a lack of repentance. Peter, on the other hand, wept bitterly when he realized his denial and was later restored by Jesus (John 21:15-17). This shows that repentance, rather than guilt, leads to restoration.
• Read: "Then Judas, His betrayer, seeing that He had been condemned, was remorseful... Then he went and hanged himself" (Matthew 27:3-5); *"Then Peter remembered the word Jesus had spoken to him: 'Before the rooster crows twice you will disown me three times.' And he broke down and wept" (Mark 14:72).

 

3. Discuss the meaning of the Lord’s Supper. How can we make this more meaningful in our church and involve more members in its celebration?

 

Answer: The Lord's Supper, or Communion, symbolizes Jesus’ body broken and His blood shed for humanity's salvation (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). It is a call to remember His sacrifice, and it fosters unity among believers. To make this more meaningful, churches can emphasize the spiritual preparation before Communion, offer teaching about its significance, and make it an inclusive event by encouraging participation from all members, regardless of background or status. Sharing testimonies or stories of how Christ's sacrifice has impacted individual lives can also make the experience more personal and profound.

 

• Read: "For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26).

 

4. Discuss the fact that God said no to Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane. What does it mean when God says no to us?

 

Answer: In Gethsemane, Jesus prayed for the "cup" (His impending suffering) to be removed, but only if it was God’s will (Mark 14:36). God’s answer was no because Jesus’ sacrifice was essential for humanity’s salvation. This teaches us that when God says no to our prayers, it may be because He has a greater plan in mind that we may not yet understand. Like Jesus, we are called to trust in God’s will, even if it means facing hardships. God's no can be a pathway to spiritual growth or a higher purpose that brings glory to Him.

 

• Read: "Father, if You are willing, remove this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done" (Luke 22:42).

 

5. Though Peter greatly failed Jesus with his denials, Jesus did not cast him off. What hope can you take for yourself from this fact?

 

Answer: Peter's denial of Jesus was a serious failure, yet Jesus did not abandon him. Instead, after His resurrection, Jesus restored Peter and reaffirmed his calling (John 21:15-17). This shows that failure, while painful, does not disqualify us from God's love or His plans for our lives. Jesus’ grace and mercy offer us hope, even when we fall short. If we genuinely repent, God can restore us and continue to use us for His purposes. Peter’s story reminds us that God’s love and forgiveness are greater than our failures.

 

• Read: "The Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord... and he went out and wept bitterly" (Luke 22:61-62); "Feed My sheep" (John 21:17).