Prepared by William Earnhardt for Sabbath School Class, August 10, 2024.

Main Theme: In Jesus’ teachings He put the Scriptures above man made traditions.

Read in Class: Mark 7:1-23. Discuss the main idea of this passage.

Study: What relevant truths are presented here? What did Jesus say causes contamination of a person?

Apply: Might we have some “traditions” that perhaps conflict with the principles of God’s law? If so, what might they be?

Share: Your friend says that according to this story we have just read, that it is okay to eat pork? What do you tell you your friend? How might Matthew 15:20 help clarify things for your friend? See also, Does Mark 7 Tell us it is Okay to eat Pork?

Read in Class: Mark 7:24-30. Discuss the main idea of this passage.

Study: What important lessons are found in this story?

Apply: Why is prejudice against other races and nationalities contrary to the teaching of Jesus? How can we seek to be purged of this evil?

Share: Your friend says that Jesus appears to be a little prejudice Himself in this story? Your friend asks why He was acting the way He was. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Mark 7:31-37. Discuss the main idea of this passage.

Study: Who was brought to Jesus, and what did Jesus do for him?

Apply: What do you do with the gifts you have been given regarding hearing and speaking (for they are gifts)? How are you using them?

Share: Your friend asks why Jesus told people not to tell about the wonderful things he did for them. What do you tell your friend?

Read in Class: Mark 8:11-21. Define the main idea of this passage.

Study:  What approach by the Pharisees deeply disappointed Jesus? What had the disciples forgotten, and what point did Jesus make from this?

Apply: How can we learn to keep our hearts and minds open to the reality of God and to His love? Dwell on all the evidence that we have been given for God and for His love. At times, though, why does it seem so easy to doubt?

Share: What portion of this week’s Bible study do you think may be important to share with someone this week? How might you share this teaching with someone this week?