A Tragic Ending

When it comes to good works, this guy had everything going for him. And he fully expected to get Jesus’ stamp of approval.

But this passage shows us that with God, it’s never just about our good works. He wants our heart.

And what was true for the rich young ruler then is true for us today. Our God has a standard, and He’ll never lower it. It’s up to us to decide… do we come to Him on His terms, or do we walk away like the man in Mark 10, headed toward “A Tragic Ending”?

Key Scripture

Mark 10:17–22

Discussion Questions

Don’t be afraid to add to this list, skip questions that don’t work for your group, or branch off with additional questions as discussion unfolds. Conversation is key! This is the time to work through the application of scripture and have group members figure things out together.

1. Read this week’s key scripture passage, Mark 10:17–22. Before you were a Christian, was there something that you thought was a requirement for your salvation (good works, baptism, believing in God without understanding who Jesus was, etc.)?
2. For the rich young ruler, his possessions held him back from turning from the world to following Jesus. Jesus knew that this was most precious to this man. In Mark 10:21, Jesus explained to the man that he was spiritually dead, that he had another God. Is Christ undisputed Lord of your life, with no rival? Are you willing to hand that over to the Lord today? Read Mark 8:36–37 and discuss.
3. What is most precious to you? What if what is most precious to you is a good thing, such as family? How do we reconcile this in putting Jesus above all—say the word all 😉—else?
4. Read 1 John 3:6; 9. If the rich young ruler would have sold everything, would that decision have saved him from his sins or just been evidence of the faith that he had? Please explain.
5. What title did the rich young ruler use to address Jesus? How does that help us understand what the man believed about Jesus and more importantly what he didn’t believe about Jesus?
6. Pastor Harrell said that Jesus lowers the standard for no one. He didn’t do it for this young man, and he won’t do it for you. What does that mean and why would Jesus do this?
7. Was there anything that spoke to you during this week’s message or through your quiet times this week? If so, please share with the group.

Accountability

• Where are you reading in the Bible this week and what is God revealing to you?
• Discuss any struggles you may be going through with your group.
• How can you be praying for your group this week? How can they be praying for you?

Questions about following Jesus?

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