The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on April 14, “Render to God the Things of God” (Mark 12:13–17). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection.

Main Point: Render to God the things of God.

Outline

1. The Trap (Mark 12:13–14)
2. Jesus’ Response (Mark 12:15–17b)
3. Their Response (Mark 12:17c)

General Questions

1. What were your initial responses to the sermon? What was the Holy Spirit doing in your heart during or after the sermon? Was there a new insight gained? Any questions prompted? What did you find convicting, helpful, eye-opening, or troubling? Explain.
2. What point from the sermon landed on you with the most weight of joy or conviction? What things did you see and savor that you feel you need to share with others?

Discussion Questions

1. Who were the Pharisees and the Herodians? How did they try to trap Jesus?
2. How did Jesus respond? Why was his response so perfectly fitting and effective?
3. What does it mean that the Pharisees and Herodians “marveled”? What is the difference between saving faith and marveling?

Application Questions

1. How do we sometimes engage God in a battle of wits?
2. If we are to render to God what belongs to him, how have you been falling short in that regard? What things do we need to repent of today? How can we consecrate ourselves again to the ambition to love him with all of our heart and soul and mind and strength?
3. Why do we have confidence that God can change us? Do you really believe that God can work in our lives and make us more like Christ? What is one practical thing that you can do to pursue greater Christlikeness this week with your eyes, ears, mind, mouth, hands, and feet?

Prayer Focus

Pray for a grace to live a life that gives to God what belongs to him … everything!