Gospel of Mark Bible Part 9: Simon & Andrew's Home [Bible Study]
- Rev. Bruce A. Shields
- Mar 2
- 3 min read
Bible Study Title: Compassion, Prayer, and Purpose – Lessons from Jesus at Simon’s House
Scripture Focus: Mark 1:29-39
Opening Prayer
Ask God to give you a compassionate heart for those in need, a disciplined prayer life, and the determination to stay faithful to His calling.
Introduction
After teaching in the synagogue and casting out a demon, Jesus went to the home of Simon and Andrew. There, He performed a quiet but powerful healing, ministered to crowds of sick and oppressed people, and demonstrated His commitment to prayer and His mission. This passage shows us Jesus’ compassion, priorities, and example for ministry.
Bible Reading
Read Mark 1:29-39 and compare with Luke 4:38-44.
Section 1 – Jesus Heals Simon’s Mother-in-Law
Simon Peter was married, as seen in the mention of his mother-in-law.
She was sick with a fever, and the disciples immediately told Jesus about her.
Jesus took her by the hand, raised her up, and healed her.
Her response? She began to serve Him.
Lessons:
Healing should lead to service.
Those who are helped by Jesus are called to minister in gratitude.
True humility responds with action, not entitlement.
Discussion Questions:
Why is service a fitting response to God’s mercy?
Can you recall a time when God helped you and it led you to serve others?
Section 2 – Ministry to the Multitudes
At sundown, crowds came bringing the sick and demon-possessed.
Jesus healed many and cast out demons, but did not allow them to speak.
His compassion extended to all who came, but He kept control over the message and timing of His revelation.
Reflection: Ministry often demands energy and availability, but also wisdom in setting boundaries.
Discussion Questions:
What does Jesus’ approach teach us about balancing compassion with discernment?
How can we show Christ’s compassion to those in need around us?
Section 3 – Jesus’ Commitment to Prayer
Early in the morning, while still dark, Jesus went to a solitary place to pray.
He sought solitude to avoid distractions and commune with the Father.
Prayer was central to His ministry, not an afterthought.
Discussion Questions:
What can we learn from Jesus’ example about finding time and space for prayer?
What practical changes could you make to prioritize prayer in your life?
Section 4 – Staying True to His Mission
When the disciples found Him, they reported that “everyone is looking for You.”
Jesus refused to stay in one place just to satisfy the crowds—His purpose was to preach in other towns as well.
He continued traveling, teaching, and casting out demons across Galilee.
Reflection: Popularity must never replace purpose in ministry.
Discussion Questions:
How can we avoid being sidetracked from God’s calling by the expectations of others?
What is the “next town” God might be calling you to reach—whether a new group of people, ministry, or opportunity?
Memory Verse
Mark 1:35 – “And in the early morning, while it was still dark, Jesus rose up, went out of the house, and went away to a desolate place, and was praying there.”
Closing Challenge
Jesus showed compassion in healing, discipline in prayer, and determination in mission. As His disciples, we are called to care for others, seek God daily, and remain faithful to the purpose He has given us—especially in fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).
Comments