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This article is from Issue 70 of "On The Move," a publication of new learning possibilities for churches, at one time published by The Joint Board of Christian Education of Australia and New Zealand.

Although some ideas and liturgies may appear somewhat "dated" in style, concept, imagery or language, they may nevertheless offer a spring-board for new ideas among people who find themselves leading worship, perhaps in a new context, and with some trepidation.

Reproduced by permission of Uniting Education, PO Box 1245, Collingwood 3066, Australia. May be printed for use in local congregations only.


KINGDOM LIFE IN MARK
Two Bible Studies by Geoff Waugh


PALM SUNDAY AND THE CRUCIFIXION
Mark 11:1 -11; 15:1 -39
Other readings:
Isaiah 50:4-9a
Psalm 118:19-29; 31:9-16
Philippians 2:5-11
Holy Week! No other week in all history can touch it. Jerusalem saw the cosmic drama of the universe enacted then. Yet no one there but Jesus knew what really happened. From hosannas to ‘crucify him’; from the disciples highest hopes to their deepest despair; from triumph to tragedy. The end? No. The beginning.

Relate
One approximate scenario for that week could be:
Day 1 — triumph; entry into Jerusalem (11:1-11).
Day 2— authority; temple cleansed (11:12-19).
Day 3 — conflict; clash with leaders (11:20-13:37)
Day 4 — preparation; anointing (14:1-10)
Day 5— farewell; passover begins (14:12-31)
Day 6— passion; Gethsemane, trials and crucifixion (14:32 — 15:47)
Day 7— silence; sabbath till sundown (16:1).
Day 8— conquest — resurrection (16:2-20).
What dramatic day intrigues you most from that week?

Respond
1. Read Mark 11:1-11 and 15:21-39 and comment on its impact on you.
2. Comment on Psalm 31:9-16 and 118:19-29.
3. Comment on Isaiah 5O:4-9a.
4. Comment on Philippians 2:5-11.

Reflect
Jesus Christ is Lord (Philippians 2:11):
Comment on what this means for you and respond in prayer.

THE EMPTY TOMB
Mark 16:1 -18 and John 20:1 -18
Other readings:
Isaiah 25:6-9
Psalm 118:14-24
1 Corinthians 15:1 -11
(Acts 10:34-43)

Resurrection! Hope. Doubt. Reports. Rumours. Confusion. Glimpses. Angels? Miracles? Stone rolled away? The tomb empty? A spirit? A real body? Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!

Relate
1. What is your favourite Easter hymn or song?
2. What do you like about Easter?

Respond
1. Read John 20:1-18 and Mark 16:1-18.
2. How does the resurrection declare God’s ultimate victory? Note Isaiah 25:6-9.
3. How were the witnesses’ lives changed? See Acts 10:34-43 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-11.
4. What does the resurrection confirm about God? Consider Psalm 118:14-24.

Reflect
1. What does the resurrection mean for you?
2. How can the resurrection affect your daily life?
3. Celebrate in prayer and worship.


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