The Vineyard- March 25, 2012

The Vineyard

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

Mark 15:16-32

- The cross was meant to serve as a deterrent to prevent others from attempting similar things, like treason or rebellion, as those crucified.  How does the world seek to deter us from following Christ?  What crosses are we made to bear?

- Our word “excruciating” comes from the word for crucify.  What Jesus endured was so bad, that it literally describes the worst type of pain.  What does that tell you about God’s love for us in Christ?

- When you see the love of God demonstrated in Christ’s suffering, what is your response?  Do you live your life in a way that says “thank you” for all that God has done for you? 

Psalm 31

- Rock, fortress, crag, stronghold.  These are the words used at the beginning of the psalm to describe God’s protecting presence.  How do you imagine God protecting you?

- By the end of the psalm there is a shift, so that David begins speaking of God’s abundant goodness.  One way or the other, God ultimately turns things around for His children. 

- The end of the psalm turns David’s story into encouragement for the community.  How can we use stories of God’s faithfulness to us as individuals to build up our Christian family?