The text for this lesson is Mark 5:21–24, 35–43
Key Point
- Just as Jesus raised a dead girl to life by Word and touch, so by His divine Word and touch through the Means of Grace—Word, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper—He overcomes death and raises us to life eternal.
- Law: Because of my sin, I fall short of the glory of God and deserve only death, the required price for sin.
- Gospel: Jesus, the God-man, is life. Victorious over sin, death, and the grave, He forgives my sins and gives me life eternal through His Word and Sacraments.
Discussion Points
- Has a child or young person close to you ever died or suffered a severe or chronic ailment? How did you feel to see this suffering in a young person? Is this more difficult than the death of a loved one who has lived to a good old age?
- What is Jairus’s title? What exactly does he do when he meets Jesus? What does this tell you about Jesus’ reputation and standing in the Jewish community at that time?
- What do the comments of those from Jairus’s house indicate? How does Jesus counter their misunderstanding?
- Why are the people “weeping and wailing loudly”? How does Jesus counter this commotion?
- Why does Jesus here send everyone outside and take only the mother, father, and His closest disciples with Him?
- What did Jesus “charge” them with and tell them to do after the girl arose?
- Without a doubt, it is difficult for us today to face the suffering or death of a child. Yet before He does anything, Jesus tells Jairus, “Do not fear, only believe.” What is your reaction to these words? Do they bring comfort or not?
