Jesus' Life Crossroads: Rejection

Mark 6:1-6 | Jesus left that part of the country and returned with his disciples to Nazareth, his hometown. The next Sabbath he began teaching in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. They asked, “Where did he get all this wisdom and the power to perform such miracles?” Then they scoffed, “He’s just a carpenter, the son of Mary and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon. And his sisters live right here among us.” They were deeply offended and refused to believe in him.

Then Jesus told them, “A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his relatives and his own family.” And because of their unbelief, he couldn’t do any miracles among them except to place his hands on a few sick people and heal them. And he was amazed at their unbelief. Then Jesus went from village to village, teaching the people

• Because of His teaching and miracles, Jesus was rejected by the people in his hometown. How was this a crossroad for Jesus? What might He have been tempted to do for the acceptance of His friends and family?

• How can you relate to this crossroad? When are you tempted to change your behavior for the acceptance of people around you?

• How do you respond when people reject you or make fun of you because of your faith or who you are? How did Jesus respond? What can you learn from His example?