Riches and the Kingdom

What must we give up in order to follow Jesus? Join us this Sunday at CrossWinds Church in Spencer as we consider the story of the Rich Young Ruler in Mark 10:17–31.

Sermon Discussion Questions

1. Read Mark 10:17–20. What stands out to you about this rich young ruler? Our sermon began with a “modernization” of this young man. How would you describe such a person in today’s society?
2. What is one highlight from the sermon and one question that you had after hearing the sermon?
3. Read Mark 10:19–20; Exodus 20:1–17. What commandments does Jesus cite here? What commandments does Jesus leave out? What is the significance of Jesus’s omission?
4. This passage speaks to our own temptations to earn our salvation through what we do. What are some of the temptations that you face in bringing a “résumé” to God?
5. Read Mark 10:21–22. Why does Jesus demand that this young man give up his wealth? Is this a command for every Christian? Why or why not?
6. This passage speaks to the idols that we worship in our lives. Our sermon mentioned four ways to identify idols in your life. What do these tests reveal in your own life?
1. Your time?
2. Your imagination?
3. Your money?
4. Your emotions?
7. Imagine that Jesus is talking to you in the same way that he talks to the rich young ruler in 21–22. What demand does he make of you if you would be his follower?
8. Read Mark 10:23–25. What hyperbolic image does Jesus use to describe the impossibility of the rich (or anyone) saving themselves? What would be a modern-day illustration of this point?
9. Read Mark 10:28–30. Have you given anything up to follow Jesus? In what ways has Jesus “repaid” you?
10. As we approach this week, what are some ways that you can address the human tendency toward works-righteousness in your own life?
11. As we approach this week, what are some steps that you can take to kill the idols of your heart?