Your Personal Grow-Pray-Study (GPS) Guide

Start with Context:

Mark 12:28-37 takes place during the final week of Jesus’ life, shortly after His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The religious leaders—scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees— have been questioning Jesus, trying to trap Him in theological debates. A scribe, impressed by Jesus' wisdom, asks Him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” This question was commonly debated in Jewish circles since the Law contained 613 commandments. Jesus responds by quoting the Shema from Deuteronomy 6:4-5, emphasizing love for God with all one's heart, soul, mind, and strength, and then adds a second commandment from Leviticus 19:18: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” These two commandments summarize the whole Law, prioritizing love over legalism. After the icebreaker, read Mark 12:28–37 aloud.

Icebreaker: What is one way someone has shown love to you recently that made an impact?

In Jesus' day, they were considered authorities on religious matters and often served as teachers, lawyers, and advisers on legal and theological issues. They were trained scholars who specialized in copying, interpreting, and teaching the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament). What prompted this subject matter expert to ask Jesus which commandment was the greatest? Have you ever felt overwhelmed by rules or expectations (whether religious or otherwise)? How does Jesus' answer simplify the focus of our faith?

Jesus names loving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength as the most important commandment. What does it mean to love God with your “whole” self? What does that look like in everyday life—at work, at home, or with friends?

Why do you think Jesus pairs loving God with loving others? How are the two connected? Time to get vulnerable: where have you struggled to love others? How do you overcome that?

Close with prayer, asking God to empower all Christians to love Him fully and to love others in practical, meaningful ways.