Holy Monday: Jesus Examines Our Worship

Today's Devotional was written and recorded by Pastor John Oliver.

Read Mark 11:12-25

REFLECT TOGETHER
FOR ADULTS
1. What stands out to you most about the connection between the fig tree and
the temple? Why do you think Jesus paired these two actions together?
2. How can activity (serving, attending, giving) become a substitute for genuine
devotion?
3. When you examine your own life, where do you see evidence of real spiritual
fruit? Where might there only be appearance?
4. What would it look like for you this week to move from “appearance” to
“fruitfulness” in a tangible way?

FOR STUDENTS
1. What’s the difference between looking like a Christian and actually living like
one?
2. Where do you feel pressure to “look the part” spiritually (church, social media,
friends)?
3. If Jesus walked into your daily life, your school, your phone, your habits, what
would He see?
4. What is one step you can take this week to grow real fruit in your life (not just
appearances)?

FOR CHILDREN
1. What does it mean for something to look good on the outside but not be
good on the inside? Can you think of an example?
2. What does it mean to truly love God, not just say we do?
3. What are some “good fruits” we can show in our lives (kindness, obedience,
helping others)?
4. Can you ask God to help you grow good fruit in your life? What would you ask
Him for?