4 Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent.

5 He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. 6 Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus. Mark 3:4-6

Jesus made people think about the questions he asked. They knew the answer to this one but it would spoil their hatred to admit it. They couldn’t bring themselves to admit he was right and they were wrong.

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus asked questions:

Why do you call me good? Luke 18:19
Where are your accusers? John 8
What do you want me to do? Luke 18:35-41
Do you want to get well? John 5:6

Did He expect answers? Did He want them or did He just want them to think through the scenario and the implication of it?

Jesus could very well be asking us some of these questions too. As you read through the Book of Mark think about the questions He asks, not just in the context of what you’re reading but how it applies to you.

What would you answer if you were in the situation?
Would you remain silent as the religious leaders did?
Would you fall on your face knowing the answer would incriminate you if you told the truth.

All of these are possible outcomes.