Mark 4: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Mark 4 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Jesus teaches the multitude by the seaside, entering a boat to speak to them (vv. 1-2). He shares the parable of the sower, explaining how different soils affect seed growth (vv.

Key verse

“He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? How is it that you have no faith?”
Mark 4:40 (WEB)

Outline

Mark 4:1–9 Teaching by the seaside
Mark 4:10–20 Understanding the parables
Mark 4:21–34 Further parables about the Kingdom
Mark 4:35–41 Calming the storm

Discussion questions

In v1, where does Jesus begin to teach the multitude?
What does Jesus say about the seed that fell into 'good ground' in v20?
In vv. 11-12, why does Jesus speak in parables to those 'outside'?
In v39, what does Jesus mean when he says, 'Peace! Be still!'?
When have you struggled to have faith like the disciples in v40?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Mark 4: Matthew 13, Luke 8, Mark 8.

Before next time: read Mark 5.