Day 13: Graceless Religion (Mark 7:1-23)

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Discussion Questions

(1) How does God’s grace through Christ grant us freedom from the tendencies of legalism?

(2) The Pharisees were notorious for bending the Law in oppressive ways, as seen with the handwashing ritual meant for priests (54). In what ways do we still oppress ourselves and others with antiquated rules and practices?

(3) Pastor Cook reveals that our depraved hearts, whether Pharisaical or licentious, are detrimental. How does discipleship aid in keeping us accountable to God and others with these tendencies?

(4) What is the condition of our heart? Is it soft, pliable, and sensitive?

(5) How can a sense of duty and obligation to our faith keep us from seeing Jesus?

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7 replies
  1. Beckham Eldridge
    Beckham Eldridge says:

    I find myself very Pharisaical when looking at lists of sins like found in 7:21-22. I deemphasize those that I lean toward and condemn those in which I do not struggle.

  2. Shirley
    Shirley says:

    I think I count Bible Studies with fellow believers as discipleship……..encouraging one another and hashing out questions with one another…….don’t know what I’d do without it, to be honest! Think of the many times in Bible He says, “so that they will know that I am God.” ( I think I counted 60x in Ezekiel!! ). He knew we would need reminded of different truths…..throughout the week……and we sharpen and hone each other toward love of Him and His ways!! The women I meet with are indispensable to me…….

    • Gabriel A Hinerman
      Gabriel A Hinerman says:

      Amen! I’ve noticed that emphasized through the Old Testament this past year, Shirley. That X might know that YHWH is God!

  3. Shirley
    Shirley says:

    Oh, the BURDEN Christ’s GRACE lifts from our shoulders!!! We obey and serve not out of duty but out of delight!! We realize what love He has shown us and WANT TO please Abba Father with our love and obedience and service…..

  4. Brandon Pisacrita
    Brandon Pisacrita says:

    I have experienced most of those in my heart listed in 7:21-22,and strive by Gods grace, for the fruits of the Spirit. Consistently giving evaluation to my heart, I embrace Christ to take my thoughts and make them captive to Him. I appreciate community of believers with whom I can be real — my heart is strengthened by the fellowship of Gods people. We need one another.

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