by P. David Baik
Mark Lesson 6 (2022)
“IT IS NOT THE HEALTHY WHO NEED A DOCTOR, BUT THE SICK”
Key Verse: 2:17
What feelings or attitudes do people have about the controversial folks in society?
Read verses 13-14. In what setting did the events of this story take place? (13) What was Levi’s status among his neighbors? (14) What did Jesus want when he spoke to Levi? (14) Why do you think Jesus chose to ask Levi to be one of his followers? Who would be the equivalent of a tax collector in our society?
What was Levi’s response to Jesus’ words? What did Levi stand to lose by leaving his work to follow Jesus? What do you think Jesus’ disciples thought when he went to Levi’s home?
Read verses 15-16. Why is it significant that Jesus went to Levi’s house for dinner? Who were the other dinner guests at Levi’s home when Jesus had dinner with him? (15) How did the Pharisees respond to Jesus’ actions? (16)
What was it about Jesus’ lifestyle and attitude that made the Pharisees so uncomfortable? How do churches tend to treat people like tax collectors, others with social stigma?
Read verse 17. What was Jesus’ response to the Pharisees? (17) How should we view ourselves if we decide to respond to Christ’s call? How should we treat the outcasts of our society?
When have you ever acted the same way the Pharisees did in this story? How can you follow Jesus’ example of associating with controversial people?