Passage

Mark 12:1-12

Sermon Summary

The parable of the tenants works on at least two levels: First, it signals God's commitment to judge and replace unfaithful religious leaders, comforting those who have been harmed by them. Second, it invites us to experience the Gospel in a fresh and personal way. The vineyard owner sets us up for fruitfulness and keeps patiently pursuing us, wooing us with words. Yet we, like the tenants, want to be independent owners, not dependent tenants—and we're willing to crucify the Beloved Son to get it. In God's wisdom, this very act of rebellion becomes his work of reversal, making the Stone we rejected the cornerstone of his new vineyard.

Discussion Questions

1. What stood out or stuck with you from the sermon?
2. Read Isaiah 5:1-7. What does it suggest about God's heart toward his people?
3. Who are some of the "prophets" God has sent into your life?  Have you been tempted to reject them?
4. Do you identify with the tenants' desire to be independent owners, not dependent tenants? Why or why not?
5. What does look like for you to embrace dependence on God? How does that play out in your work, your relationships, and your dreams for the future?

Resources Consulted:

• Africa Bible Commentary, ed. Tokunboh Adeyemo
• True to Our Native Land, ed. Bryan K. Blount
• The New Testament in Color, ed. Esau McCauley
• ECNT Commentary on Mark, Robert Stein
• NICNT Commentary on Mark, William Lane
• The Victory According to Mark, Mark Horne
• The Bible and the Future, Anthony Hoekema

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