And they were seeking to arrest him but feared the people, for they perceived that he had told the parable against them. So they left him and went away. Mark 12:12

Question 2: POLITICAL—Should we pay taxes? (Mark 12:13–17)

Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?” March 12:14b

And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true and do not care about anyone’s opinion. For you are not swayed by appearances,[c] but truly teach the way of God. Mark 12:14a

But, knowing their hypocrisy . . . Mark 12:15a

What we learn about our human nature: We are, by nature, hypocrites who avoid God’s command.

Evangelistic Insight: When sharing the Gospel, don’t be distracted, but instead stay focused.

Question 3: THEOLOGICAL—If you had multiple spouses, who will be your spouse in the resurrection? (Mark 12:18–27)

“Is this not the reason you are wrong, because you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? Mark 10:24

What we learn about our human nature: We are cynics who disregard God’s power.

Evangelistic Insight: Don’t be ashamed, but be confident.

Question 4: GENUINE—Which commandment is the most important of all? (Mark 12:28–34)

And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” Mark 12:28

And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” Mark12:34a

What we learn about our human nature: We are strangers outside of God’s Kingdom.

Evangelistic Insight: As we share the Gospel, keep it clear.

Four Marks of Genuine Conversion

1. Mark of Genuine Christian Conversion: You end your rebellion against God.

2. Mark of Genuine Christian Conversion: Offer yourself to God unconditionally.

Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they marveled at him. Mark 12:17

3. Mark of Genuine Christian Conversion: Trust God’s sovereign power in all things.

4. Mark of Genuine Christian Conversion: Loving God and the people He has placed around you.

30 And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30-31

A. Love God

B. Love Your Neighbor