2. Mark 9:33-35 They came to Capernaum; and when He was in the house, He began to question them, “What were you discussing on the way?”

3. But they kept silent, for on the way they had discussed with one another which of them was the greatest.

4. Sitting down, He called the twelve and said to them, “If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all.”

5. A Familiar Scene Private time with the disciples
Focused teaching about the cross
Distraction of immaturity

6. Critical Problems An eye problem – I only see me
A mental problem – I only think about me
An attitude problem – I only care about me

7. There is no bigger hindrance to the work of the Gospel than the self-absorbed focus of those who are supposedly the agents of the Gospel.

8. Critical Issues The section begins with dispute
Dispute about greatness
Dispute over competition

9. The greatest “people” need in the church today is not more “upfront” people but more “what needs done” people That is, people who are more concerned with the cross than with their own prominence, position, or “calling”.

10. Critical Issues The emphasis – personal accountability
Accountability for others
Accountability for self

11. Critical Issues A focus on self can lead others away from Jesus
A focus on self can keep us from Jesus
Just think of Judas

12. Critical Issues The section ends with a call to peace
Fire – judgement
Salt – purifying
The work of the cross is a call to humility and peace

14. Don’t Miss the MARK Following Jesus carries great accountability
Following self carries great consequences
A purified life is a humble peace-bringing life