Mark 1 Guided Notes
WORD BY WORD WITH DR. SHANE STANFORD
The Gospel of Mark – Chapter 1 Student Study Guide & Notes Sheet
Theme: The Beginning of the Good News
Key Verse:
"The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God." (Mark 1:1)
BIG IDEA
Mark introduces Jesus as the Son of God, the promised Messiah, and the Servant King who possesses authority over sin, Satan, sickness, and every area of life.
Main Question
Who is Jesus, and what does it mean to follow Him?
PART 1: PREPARING THE WAY
Mark 1:1–8
Key People
John Mark (Author)
John the Baptist
Jesus
Key Truth
Before Jesus began His public ministry, God prepared the hearts of the people through John the Baptist.
Notes
Reflection
What areas of my life need preparation for God's work?
PART 2: THE BAPTISM AND TEMPTATION OF JESUS
Mark 1:9–13
What Happened?
□ Jesus was baptized.
□ The Holy Spirit descended upon Him.
□ The Father declared His pleasure in the Son.
□ Jesus was led into the wilderness.
□ Jesus was tempted by Satan.
Key Truth
Spiritual affirmation is often followed by spiritual testing.
Notes
Reflection
How has God used difficult seasons to strengthen my faith?
PART 3: THE CALL OF THE FIRST DISCIPLES
Mark 1:14–20
Jesus' Invitation
"Follow Me."
What Did the Disciples Leave Behind?
Key Truth
Jesus does not call perfect people. He calls willing people.
Reflection
What may Jesus be asking me to surrender in order to follow Him more faithfully?
PART 4: JESUS REVEALS HIS AUTHORITY
Mark 1:21–45
Jesus Demonstrates Authority Over:
□ Teaching
□ Evil Spirits
□ Disease
□ Brokenness
Key Observation
Jesus amazed people not only by His power but also by His compassion.
Notes
THE LEPER'S STORY
Mark 1:40–45
What stands out to you about Jesus' interaction with the leper?
Key Truth
Jesus touches what others avoid.
Reflection
Where do I most need the healing touch of Christ today?
FIVE MAJOR THEMES OF MARK CHAPTER 1
1. Jesus Is the Son of God
What did you learn about Jesus?
2. Jesus Calls People to Follow Him
What does discipleship look like in your life?
3. Jesus Has Authority
Where do you need to trust His authority?
4. Jesus Shows Compassion
Who needs Christ's compassion through you this week?
5. Following Jesus Requires a Response
What is one step of obedience God is calling you to take?
PERSONAL APPLICATION
This Week I Will:
□ Read Mark Chapter 1 each day.
□ Memorize Mark 1:1.
□ Spend time in prayer daily.
□ Share one lesson from this chapter with another person.
□ Take one specific step of obedience.
My step of obedience is:
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, thank You for revealing Yourself through the Gospel of Mark. Help me to see You clearly, follow You faithfully, and share You boldly. Give me the courage to obey Your voice and trust Your authority in every area of my life. Amen.
WORD BY WORD MEMORY VERSE
"The beginning of the good news about Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God."
— Mark 1:1
Next Week
Mark Chapter 2
"When Grace Collides with Religion"
Read Mark 2 before our next session and write down three observations and one question
