READING 24

  1. Read the headings in Mark 11:1-19.

  2. Find Jerusalem, Bethphage, and Bethany on the map of Palestine.  Find the Road to Bethany, Mount of Olives, and the Temple on the map of Jerusalem.

  3. Highlight verses 9, 10, and 17 of chapter 11.

  4. Read Mark 11:1-19.

  5. Consider the following questions.

By riding into Jerusalem in the fashion that he does, Jesus is making a bold statement which is not wasted on the people who respond appropriately.  Read Zechariah 9:9 and find out who exactly is said to ride into Jerusalem on a colt.

As Jesus rides into Jerusalem, is he making a political or a religious statement? When the crowds welcome Jesus, are they making political or religious claims?


How do you draw the line between political and religious actions? In the United States today, what do you think is the appropriate distinction between church and state? (E.g., what do you think of  the "Christian right," the actions of pro-life groups, etc.?)


What "sacred places" in your life need cleaning up? What would it take to make them "sacred" again?


Jesus appears to be angry and even somewhat violent in 11:15-17.  How do you know when it is appropriate for you to be angry and use force?