MESSAGE NOTES AND INDIVIDUAL/GROUP REFLECTION QUESTIONS, 11/24/24
So, what do you believe about Jesus? We all believe something about Him. A.W. Tozer, a famous American pastor in the mid-1900s declared, “What comes into our minds when we think about Jesus is the most important thing about us.”
In the final week of our series, we focus on John 18-21 and the journey of six people who wrestled with believing and following Jesus. Our hope is you will find yourself in their stories, be inspired, and grow in faith.
CONNECT
Who are the 3-5 people in your life that have inspired your faith the most?
REFLECT
Caiaphas: Proximity Without Belief – Read John 18:11-14 / John 11:49-52
Caiaphas was so close to the truth yet missed it. How do you feel about his actions? Why do you think this is common for people? Are there areas in your life where you are “present” but not truly believing or following Jesus? What holds you back?
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus: Sacrificing for Faith – Read John 19:38-42
These men sacrificed their religious status and personal security to honor Jesus. What is inspiring to you about these men? What would it look like for you to release your own reputation or resources more in obedience to Jesus?
Mary Magdalene: Experiencing Healing – Read John 20:18/ Luke 8:2-3
Mary encountered deep healing and became the first witness of the resurrection. How have you experienced either of these? Do you feel you need healing in your life, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual? How might Jesus meet that need?
Thomas: Moving Beyond Doubt – Read John 20:27-29
Thomas doubted until he encountered Jesus directly. How do you reconcile believing and following Jesus, but also having doubts? What doubts are you wrestling with in your faith journey? How can you invite Jesus into those uncertainties?
Peter: Shame Exchanged for Grace – Read John 18:17 / John 21:17
Peter moved from denying Jesus to being restored by His grace. What are the factors that made this possible? Are there areas of regret or shame in your life that Jesus is calling you to release and replace with His forgiveness and purpose?
FINAL THOUGHT: What is your primary takeaway from The Gospel of John?
PRAYER: Lord Jesus – Help me to believe that you are the Son of God and follow your Spirit, by your grace and for your glory.
RESOURCES
Gospel of John Simple Journal/Reading Plan (in lobby)
Gospel of John Overview Video [https://shorturl.at/hVyfX]