Gospel of Mark Bible Part 17: Three Responses to Jesus [Bible Study]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- May 3
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 9
Bible Study Title: Three Responses to Jesus – Which One Are You?
Scripture Focus: Mark 3:7-12
Opening Prayer
Ask the Lord to reveal your true heart condition toward Jesus and to help you move from curiosity or resistance to full commitment.
Introduction
During His ministry, Jesus encountered different types of people. Some followed Him wholeheartedly. Others were interested but uncommitted. Still others opposed Him outright. These three responses—seen in the disciples, the crowds, and the unclean spirits—still exist today.
Bible Reading
Read Mark 3:7-12, then cross-reference Matthew 12:15-21 and Luke 6:17-19.
Section 1 – The Committed
Represented by the disciples who left everything to follow Him (Mark 1:16-20; Mark 2:14).
They served willingly, preparing what was needed (Mark 3:9) and preaching when sent (Mark 3:13-14).
Today, the committed are those who:
Obey the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Serve the church with their gifts (1 Peter 4:10-11).
Grow in Christlike character (2 Peter 1:5-11).
Discussion Questions:
What does commitment to Jesus look like in your daily life?
What has it cost you personally to follow Him?
Section 2 – The Curious
Represented by the multitudes seeking healing or miracles (Mark 3:7-10).
Often motivated by personal benefit rather than true discipleship.
Examples in Scripture:
Simon the Sorcerer (Acts 8:9-24).
Demas, who loved the world (2 Timothy 4:10).
Those who followed after the feeding of the 5,000 but left when challenged (John 6:24-27, 60-66).
Today’s curious may attend church or events but never fully surrender to Christ.
Discussion Questions:
Why do you think some people stay in the “curious” stage for years?
What can help move someone from curiosity to commitment?
Section 3 – The Condemned
Represented by the unclean spirits (Mark 3:11-12).
They recognized Jesus’ identity but had no repentance (Matthew 8:29; Jude 1:6).
Today’s condemned:
Those who persist in willful sin (Hebrews 10:26-31).
Those who mock God’s ways (1 Peter 4:3-5).
Those who will ultimately bow before Christ unwillingly (Philippians 2:9-11).
Discussion Questions:
Why is knowing about Jesus not the same as knowing Him personally?
What does Hebrews 10:26-27 teach about the danger of willful sin?
Section 4 – Making the Choice
We all start as outsiders to Christ, but we must decide whether to remain curious, reject Him, or become fully committed.
The time for decision is now (2 Corinthians 6:1-2).
Salvation is a gift given through God’s mercy, not our works (Titus 3:4-7).
Reflection: Which group best describes you today—and what would it take to be in the committed group?
Memory Verse
Mark 3:10 – “…for He had healed many, with the result that all those who had afflictions pressed around Him in order to touch Him.”
Closing Challenge
Curiosity may lead you to explore Jesus, but only commitment will lead you to eternal life. This week, examine your heart. If you are in the “curious” category, ask God to move you toward full surrender. If you are committed, look for ways to help others make that same step.
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