Gospel of Mark Part 19: The Family of Jesus [Small Group Discussion]

Title: From Doubt to Devotion – The Family of Jesus

Scripture Focus: Mark 3:20–21 – “And He came into a house, and the crowd gathered again, so that they could not even eat a meal. And when His own kinsmen heard this, they went out to take custody of Him; for they were saying, ‘He has lost His senses.’”

OPENING QUESTION

Why do you think it was so hard for some of Jesus’ own family to believe in Him at first, even though they saw His life and works up close?

BACKGROUND

Jesus’ ministry in Galilee drew massive crowds—some committed followers, some curious onlookers, and some outright opponents. The demands on His time and energy became so intense that He and His disciples often could not even stop to eat. This level of attention also drew concern from His own family. While Mary had known from the beginning who Jesus was, His siblings did not initially believe Him and at one point thought He had lost His mind. Yet, after the resurrection, their doubt was replaced with faith, and several became leaders in the early church.

KEY POINTS

1. The Members of Jesus’ Family

• Parents:

  • Mary – Virtuous, faithful, present at key moments of Jesus’ life (Luke 1:26–38; John 19:25–27).

  • Joseph – Just and obedient, raised Jesus as his own (Matthew 1:18–25).

    
    

• Siblings:

  • Brothers – James, Joses, Simon, Judas (Matthew 13:55).

  • Sisters – At least two, names not given in Scripture (Mark 6:3).

    
    

2. The Misgivings of His Family

• Before the Resurrection:

  • Some thought He was out of His mind (Mark 3:21).

  • His brothers did not believe in Him (John 7:5).

    
    

• After the Resurrection:

  • Jesus appeared to James (1 Corinthians 15:7).

  • Brothers became disciples (Acts 1:14).

  • James became a pillar in the church and author of the Book of James.

  • Judas (Jude) wrote the Book of Jude.

    
    

3. The Transforming Power of the Resurrection

• Skepticism gave way to faith when confronted with the risen Christ.

• Even family members who once doubted became bold witnesses willing to suffer for the gospel.

  
  

  

  
  

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Why do you think it was difficult for Jesus’ siblings to accept Him as the Messiah before the resurrection?

2. How does the transformation of James and Jude encourage us when sharing our faith with skeptical family members?

3. Have you ever faced doubt about Jesus in your own life? What helped you overcome it?

4. What lessons can we learn from the persistence of Jesus’ ministry despite opposition—even from His own family?

5. How can we lovingly handle situations where our faith causes tension within our families?

   
   

APPLICATION

• Be Patient with the Skeptical: Even those closest to Jesus came to faith in time.

• Live Faith Consistently: Actions can speak powerfully to those who doubt.

• Keep the Resurrection Central: It was the turning point for His family and remains the foundation of our faith.

• Don’t Be Discouraged by Unbelief: Trust God’s timing in bringing people to Himself.

  
  

MEMORY VERSE

Acts 1:14 – “These all with one mind were continually devoting themselves to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers.”

PRAYER FOCUS

Pray for family members and loved ones who have not yet come to faith in Christ. Ask God for patience, wisdom, and opportunities to show the reality of Jesus through your words and actions.

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