John

Session 1: Word Made Flesh—Jesus Before Time — John 1:1–18

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus is the eternal Word—divine, life-giving, full of grace and truth.
Purpose: To grasp the mystery of Jesus' divine nature and His incarnation as the foundation of our faith.

What to Look For

Watch for the bold claim that Jesus existed before creation began. Notice how John shows us that Jesus brings both life and light to a dark world. Pay attention to the amazing truth that God became human while staying fully God.

Personal Reflection Questions

If you had to explain to a child why Jesus is called "the Word," what everyday example would you use?

When you think about Jesus choosing to leave heaven's glory to become human, what emotions does that stir in you?

Scripture — John 1:1–18 (NLT)

Overview

John opens his Gospel like a thunderclap. In our world of constant communication through texts, emails, and social media, we understand the power of words. But John tells us Jesus IS the Word—not just speaking God's message, but being God's complete message to us. In our culture that often sees Jesus as just a good teacher or moral example, John declares something far more stunning. This passage reminds us that the baby in Bethlehem was actually the eternal God stepping into our world. That changes everything about how we understand Christmas, salvation, and our relationship with God.

This May Surprise You

Many people think John 1:1 is talking about Jesus being created first, before everything else. But the Greek word John uses for "was" (en) means continuous existence—Jesus always was, with no beginning. When John writes "the Word was God," he uses a special grammar that shows Jesus has the full nature of God while being distinct from the Father. It's like saying Jesus is completely divine, not partly divine or almost divine. This wasn't a new idea John made up—it reflects what Jesus himself claimed throughout his ministry.

Seeds for Thought

The Word existed before creation (v. 1-2)
Comment: Jesus didn't become God when he was born in Bethlehem. He has always been God, active in creation and throughout history.

Everything was made through Him (v. 3)
Comment: The hands that were nailed to the cross are the same hands that shaped the mountains and painted the sunset. Jesus is both our Creator and our Savior.

In Him was life and light (v. 4-5)
Comment: Jesus doesn't just give life—He is life itself. The darkness of sin, death, and despair cannot overcome the light He brings.

He came to His own people (v. 11)
Comment: This is heartbreaking. The Jewish people, who had the scriptures and promises, largely rejected their own Messiah when He came.

He gives the right to become God's children (v. 12-13)
Comment: Our relationship with God isn't based on our family background, good works, or church attendance. It's a gift received through faith in Jesus.

The Word became flesh (v. 14)
Comment: This is the mystery of Christmas—God became fully human without stopping being fully God. Jesus experienced everything we do, yet without sin.

Full of grace and truth (v. 14, 17)
Comment: Jesus perfectly balances grace (unmerited favor) and truth (reality about our condition). He doesn't compromise truth for grace or grace for truth.

Take-Home Thought

Sometimes we get so familiar with the Christmas story that we miss how shocking it really is. The God who spoke the universe into existence chose to enter our world as a helpless baby. He who needs nothing became dependent on human parents. He who owns everything was born in a stable. This wasn't God pretending to be human or a human becoming God—it was the unprecedented miracle of God becoming truly human while remaining truly God.

This truth anchors our faith. When life feels uncertain or we question whether God really understands our struggles, we remember that Jesus experienced hunger, tiredness, rejection, and grief. When we wonder if we're truly forgiven, we remember that the eternal Word himself paid the price for our sins. When we doubt God's love, we look at the cross where the Creator died for His creation. The Word made flesh is both the foundation of our faith and the source of our hope.

Quotes

John Chrysostom (349-407 AD): "The Word of God became what we are in order that we might become what He is. He took our nature that He might give us His nature."

Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892): "The incarnation is a vast mystery, but it is the key which unlocks all other mysteries. God in human flesh explains how heaven can touch earth and how earth can reach heaven."

Biblical Connections

Genesis 1:1 - "In the beginning God created" echoes in John's "In the beginning was the Word"

Genesis 1:3 - "Let there be light" connects to Jesus being the "true light" (John 1:9)

Exodus 33:20 - "No one can see God and live" contrasts with John 1:18 where Jesus makes the Father known

Isaiah 9:6 - "Mighty God" and "Everlasting Father" prophecy fulfilled in the incarnation

Philippians 2:6-8 - Paul's description of Jesus emptying himself parallels John's account

Colossians 1:15-17 - Jesus as Creator echoes John 1:3

Hebrews 1:1-3 - Jesus as God's final word to humanity

1 John 1:1-3 - John's later writing about the Word of life they touched and heard

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I read that Jesus is the eternal Word who became flesh, I'm reminded that God didn't stay distant from my problems. He entered into my world completely. This means when I pray, I'm not talking to someone who can't understand what it's like to be human. Jesus knows what it feels like to be tired, disappointed, and even betrayed by friends. Because He is both fully God and fully human, I can trust that He has both the power to help me and the heart to understand me. The Word made flesh assures me that God's love isn't theoretical—it's personal and real.

Culture Connection

Every day we hear messages on TV, radio, and online. Ads tell us what to buy and news tells us how to feel. John reminds us that before any of those messages, Jesus was the true Word. His words bring light into our lives when the world feels dark. Letting Jesus’ voice guide us helps us sort through the noise of culture today.

Changed Life

Knowing Jesus is the Word made flesh can change how we live. For example, instead of joining in gossip or negative talk, we can choose words that bring hope and kindness. When loneliness or fear creeps in, we remember that Jesus brings light into our hearts. That truth might lead you to call a friend, visit a neighbor, or pray with someone who needs encouragement. His grace and truth shape our choices every day.

Session 2: Come and See—The Invitation to Follow — John 1:19–51

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus calls His first disciples with a personal, transformational invitation.
Purpose: To reflect on how Jesus still invites us to follow Him and discover our true identity.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus responds to people who are genuinely seeking Him with the simple invitation "Come and see." Watch how each person Jesus encounters receives a new understanding of who they are. Pay attention to how Jesus sees potential in ordinary people that they don't even see in themselves.

Personal Reflection Questions

If someone asked you "What are you looking for?" like Jesus asked His first disciples, how would you honestly answer today?

Think of a time when someone saw potential in you that you couldn't see in yourself—how did that change you?

Scripture — John 1:19–51 (NLT)

Overview

In our age of online profiles and carefully crafted images, we're used to people presenting themselves in the best possible light. But Jesus does something different in this passage—He invites people to discover who they really are, not who they're pretending to be. John the Baptist points away from himself toward Jesus. The first disciples drop everything to follow someone they barely know. Nathanael starts skeptical and ends up declaring Jesus the Son of God. This isn't about networking or making a good first impression. It's about authentic transformation that happens when we encounter Jesus personally. In a world full of influencers and followers, Jesus still extends the most important invitation of all: "Come and see."

This May Surprise You

When Jesus tells Nathanael "I saw you under the fig tree," this wasn't just showing off supernatural knowledge. In Jewish culture, sitting under a fig tree often meant studying Scripture or praying in private. Fig trees provided natural shelter for quiet reflection. Jesus was essentially saying, "I saw you in your most honest, private moment with God." This wasn't about location—it was about Jesus knowing Nathanael's heart. When we think nobody sees our private struggles with faith or our quiet moments seeking God, Jesus sees and cares about those intimate times.

Seeds for Thought

John points others to Jesus (v. 19-28)
Comment: True spiritual leadership means pointing people to Jesus, not to ourselves. John could have built his own following, but he chose to decrease so Jesus could increase.

"Behold, the Lamb of God" (v. 29, 36)
Comment: This title connected Jesus to the Passover lamb and the sacrificial system. John's disciples understood this meant Jesus would die for sin.

"What are you looking for?" (v. 38)
Comment: Jesus' first recorded words in John's Gospel are a question. He wants us to examine our motives and desires before we follow Him.

"Come and see" (v. 39)
Comment: Jesus doesn't argue people into faith. He invites them to experience Him personally. Faith grows through relationship, not just information.

"We have found the Messiah" (v. 41)
Comment: Andrew's first instinct after meeting Jesus was to tell his brother Peter. Good news is meant to be shared, starting with those closest to us.

Jesus renames Simon as Peter (v. 42)
Comment: Jesus saw the rock-solid leader Peter would become, not just the impulsive fisherman he was. God sees our potential, not just our present.

"Can anything good come from Nazareth?" (v. 46)
Comment: Nathanael's prejudice almost kept him from meeting Jesus. Our preconceived ideas about God or church can blind us to what He's doing.

"You will see greater things" (v. 50)
Comment: Jesus promises that our experience with Him will deepen over time. The best is yet to come for those who follow Him.

Take-Home Thought

The beautiful thing about Jesus' call to "Come and see" is that it's not demanding or pushy. He doesn't force anyone to follow Him or believe in Him. Instead, He offers an invitation to discover something wonderful. This is how faith often works in real life—not through dramatic conversion experiences for everyone, but through gradual discovery of who Jesus really is.

Notice that each person in this passage had a different journey to Jesus. John the Baptist had been preparing for this moment his whole life. Andrew and his friend were seeking something deeper. Peter came because his brother was excited about someone he'd met. Nathanael was skeptical and needed convincing. Yet Jesus met each one exactly where they were. He still does that today. Whether we've been in church for decades or are just beginning to wonder about God, Jesus extends the same invitation: "Come and see." He promises that those who seek Him with honest hearts will find Him, and they'll discover not just who He is, but who they're meant to be.

Quotes

D.L. Moody (1837-1899): "The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation. When we come and see Jesus in His Word, we cannot remain the same."

A.W. Tozer (1897-1963): "Jesus calls us not to do something for Him, but to be something with Him. The invitation to 'come and see' is an invitation to shared life, not just shared service."

Biblical Connections

Isaiah 55:1 - "Come, all you who are thirsty" echoes Jesus' invitation to come

1 Samuel 3:10 - "Speak, for your servant is listening" parallels the disciples' response

Matthew 16:17-18 - Jesus' renaming of Peter connects to this first meeting

Genesis 28:12 - Jacob's ladder vision that Jesus references in verse 51

Psalm 139:1-4 - God's intimate knowledge connects to Jesus knowing Nathanael

Jeremiah 1:5 - "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you" echoes Jesus seeing Nathanael

Matthew 4:19 - "Follow me" appears throughout the Gospels

Luke 19:5 - Jesus inviting himself to Zacchaeus' house shows the same personal approach

Revelation 3:20 - Jesus standing at the door and knocking reflects His gentle invitation

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I feel like God doesn't really know me or care about my personal struggles, I remember how Jesus saw Nathanael under the fig tree. Jesus notices my private moments with God too—my quiet prayers, my honest doubts, my sincere seeking. When I wonder if I have anything valuable to offer God, I think about how Jesus saw Peter's potential when Peter was just an impulsive fisherman. God sees who I'm becoming, not just who I am today. When I'm hesitant about getting more involved in following Jesus, I remember His gentle invitation: "Come and see." I don't have to have it all figured out first. I just need to take the next step and discover more of who He is.

Culture Connection

In our world today, invitations pop up everywhere—events, online groups, community gatherings. Yet many of these invitations focus on what we can gain or how we can look better on social media. Jesus’ simple call, “Come and see,” cuts through all that. It invites us into a personal relationship, not a self-promotion campaign. When we hear His voice above the buzz, we remember that following Him reshapes our purpose and gives us a true sense of belonging.

Changed Life

When we accept Jesus’ invitation, our priorities shift. Instead of chasing comfort or approval, we start looking for ways to serve others. For example, a retired teacher might spend time mentoring a young student, seeing that act as following Jesus rather than just filling free hours. Or someone lonely might join a church small group, discovering friendship and a new sense of identity as a child of God. That simple “come and see” becomes the start of real, lasting change in how we think and act.

Session 3: Water to Wine, Heart to Faith—Jesus’ Miracles Begin — John 2

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus performs His first sign, revealing divine power and deeper purpose.
Purpose: To see how Jesus transforms ordinary moments into revelations of His glory.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus cares about ordinary social situations, not just religious ceremonies. Watch how Mary shows complete confidence in Jesus even before His public ministry begins. Pay attention to how Jesus uses everyday items like water jars to reveal His extraordinary power.

Personal Reflection Questions

When have you experienced Jesus turning an embarrassing or difficult situation into something unexpectedly good?

If you had been a guest at this wedding and tasted the water-turned-wine, what would have gone through your mind about this carpenter from Nazareth?

Scripture — John 2 (NLT)

Overview

We live in a culture obsessed with grand gestures and viral moments. Social media has made us think that important things only happen on big stages with lots of fanfare. But Jesus begins His public ministry at a small-town wedding reception when they ran out of wine. No cameras, no crowd of thousands, just friends and family celebrating. This tells us something profound about how God works—He often reveals His glory in the middle of ordinary life, not just in religious settings. Whether it's a wedding celebration or cleaning out the temple, Jesus shows us that every aspect of life matters to Him. He transforms both our joy and our frustration.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus said "My hour has not yet come," He wasn't being disrespectful to His mother. In Jewish culture, "my hour" referred to a person's destined time of greatest significance. Jesus was indicating that His ultimate mission—the cross and resurrection—hadn't arrived yet. But Mary's request showed she already understood something special about her son. Her response to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you," reveals perfect faith. She didn't know what Jesus would do, but she trusted Him completely. This becomes a model for how we should approach Jesus—with complete trust even when we don't understand His methods.

Seeds for Thought

Jesus cares about celebration (v. 1-2)
Comment: The fact that Jesus attended a wedding party shows He values human joy and community. Our Savior isn't opposed to legitimate fun and celebration.

Mary brings the problem to Jesus (v. 3-5)
Comment: When we face embarrassing or difficult situations, our first response should be to bring them to Jesus. Mary shows us how to pray with confidence and leave the results to Him.

Jesus uses what's available (v. 6-7)
Comment: The stone jars were ordinary items used for ceremonial washing. Jesus often works through common things we already have rather than providing something entirely new.

The servants obeyed completely (v. 7-8)
Comment: Faith often requires doing something that seems strange or pointless. The servants filled jars with water and served it to the master of ceremonies without questioning.

Jesus saved the best for last (v. 10)
Comment: The wine Jesus made was better than what they'd served earlier. God's provision often exceeds our expectations and comes at just the right time.

This revealed His glory (v. 11)
Comment: John calls this a "sign" rather than just a miracle. It pointed beyond itself to reveal who Jesus really is—the Creator who can transform matter itself.

Jesus cleanses the temple (v. 13-17)
Comment: Jesus shows righteous anger at the corruption of worship. He cares deeply about authentic relationship with God, not religious show or profit.

"Destroy this temple" (v. 19-22)
Comment: Jesus was speaking about His own body and resurrection, but the disciples didn't understand until after He rose from the dead. Sometimes God's words only make sense looking backward.

Take-Home Thought

These two events in John 2 show us the full range of Jesus' ministry. At the wedding, He brings joy and celebration. In the temple, He brings correction and cleansing. Both are acts of love. Sometimes Jesus enhances our joy, and sometimes He disrupts our comfort zone. Both are necessary for spiritual growth.

The water-to-wine miracle teaches us that Jesus can transform the ordinary stuff of our lives into something beautiful and meaningful. Those stone water jars represent our everyday routines, relationships, and responsibilities. When we invite Jesus into these common areas, He can turn them into something that reveals His glory. The temple cleansing reminds us that Jesus also cares about the integrity of our worship and the authenticity of our faith. He won't ignore areas where we've let religious activity replace genuine relationship with God. Whether He's transforming our water into wine or overturning our tables, Jesus is always working to reveal more of His glory and draw us into deeper faith.

Quotes

Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD): "He who made wine from water in the marriage feast, does He not day by day the same thing in the vines? What the servants put in the waterpots as water, the guests drew out as wine. So what the clouds pour down as rain, the vines give back as wine."

Matthew Henry (1662-1714): "Christ's first miracle was to supply wine for a wedding feast. This teaches us that religion is not the enemy of innocent joy and social pleasure, but rather sanctifies and ennobles them."

Biblical Connections

Ecclesiastes 3:1 - "A time for every purpose" connects to Jesus saying His hour had not come

1 Kings 17:14-16 - God's miraculous provision echoes in the wine miracle

Psalm 69:9 - "Zeal for your house consumes me" quoted when Jesus cleanses the temple

Malachi 3:1-2 - The Lord suddenly coming to His temple fulfilled in Jesus' action

Isaiah 25:6 - The feast with "well-aged wine" points to messianic celebration

Exodus 30:17-21 - The bronze basin for washing connects to the stone water jars

Nehemiah 13:4-9 - Cleansing the temple from corruption parallels Jesus' actions

Hosea 2:19-20 - God as bridegroom connects to Jesus at the wedding

Revelation 19:7-9 - The wedding supper of the Lamb as ultimate celebration

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I feel like my problems are too small or ordinary for God to care about, I remember that Jesus cared enough about a wedding reception to perform His first miracle there. No situation in my life is too mundane for His attention. When I'm facing something embarrassing or difficult, I can follow Mary's example and bring it to Jesus, then trust Him to handle it in His way and timing. When I wonder if God can really change my circumstances, I remember that the same power that turned water into wine can transform any situation in my life. And when I need correction or cleansing in my spiritual life, I can trust that Jesus' discipline comes from love, not anger. He wants to reveal His glory in every area of my life.

Culture Connection

In our daily lives, we often see things that look plain or ordinary—like a simple glass of water, an old house, or a quiet afternoon. John 2 shows Jesus taking plain water and turning it into the best wine. This reminds us that God can bring beauty and surprise into the simplest moments. When today’s world tells us to chase big events or grand plans, this story invites us to look for God’s transforming touch in everyday life.

Changed Life

When we believe Jesus can turn water into wine, it changes how we face our own “empty jars.” Instead of worrying about what we lack—energy, companionship, purpose—we can trust Him to fill us with joy and meaning. For example, a retired couple might feel their talents have run dry, yet they discover new passion by volunteering at a local shelter. Their act of service becomes a celebration, because they lean on Jesus to supply more than they could on their own.

Session 4: Born Again—Nicodemus and New Life — John 3:1–21

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus teaches about spiritual rebirth and God's love through His conversation with Nicodemus.
Purpose: To explore what it means to be born again and live in the light of God's love.

What to Look For

Notice how a religious expert comes to Jesus with honest questions about spiritual life. Watch how Jesus uses simple word pictures like wind and birth to explain deep spiritual truths. Pay attention to how God's love, not His anger, motivates His plan of salvation.

Personal Reflection Questions

If you had to explain being "born again" to someone using an example from everyday life, what would you say?

Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, perhaps to avoid being seen—when have you been hesitant to ask honest questions about faith because of what others might think?

Scripture — John 3:1–21 (NLT)

Overview

In our world of self-improvement and life hacks, we're constantly told we can fix ourselves if we just try harder. Get more education, develop better habits, think more positively. But Jesus tells Nicodemus, a man who had achieved religious success, that what he really needs can't be earned or learned—it has to be given by God. The idea of being "born again" isn't about turning over a new leaf or making better choices. It's about receiving a completely new kind of life that only God can give. In a culture that celebrates self-made people, Jesus teaches that the most important thing about us—our relationship with God—is something we can't make happen ourselves. This passage contains the most famous verse in the Bible, reminding us that God's love, not our performance, is what changes everything.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus said "You must be born again," Nicodemus wasn't being dense when he asked about entering his mother's womb again. The Greek word "anothen" that Jesus used can mean both "again" and "from above." Jesus was actually making a word play—we need to be born again, and that birth comes from above, from God. Nicodemus caught the "again" part but missed the "from above" part. This wasn't about trying harder at religion, but about receiving something entirely new from heaven. Also, when Jesus mentions being "lifted up" like the bronze snake in the wilderness, He's predicting His crucifixion. The same word "lifted up" appears throughout John's Gospel referring to Jesus being lifted up on the cross.

Seeds for Thought

Nicodemus comes at night (v. 1-2)
Comment: Sometimes our most important spiritual conversations happen away from crowds and religious settings. God meets us in our private seeking moments.

"Born again" or "born from above" (v. 3-4)
Comment: Spiritual life isn't about improving our old nature but receiving an entirely new nature from God. It's not reformation but transformation.

Born of water and Spirit (v. 5-6)
Comment: Physical birth gets us into this world, but spiritual birth gets us into God's kingdom. Both are necessary, but they're completely different processes.

The wind blows where it wishes (v. 7-8)
Comment: We can see the effects of wind without controlling it. The Spirit of God works in ways we can recognize but can't manipulate or manufacture.

"How can these things be?" (v. 9-10)
Comment: Even religious experts can be confused about spiritual birth. Head knowledge about God isn't the same as heart experience with God.

God so loved the world (v. 16)
Comment: God's motivation for sending Jesus was love, not anger. The cross shows us the depth of God's love, not His desire to punish us.

Not condemned but saved (v. 17)
Comment: Jesus didn't come to make bad people good, but to make dead people alive. His mission is rescue, not judgment.

Light and darkness (v. 19-21)
Comment: People avoid Jesus not because they can't understand Him, but because His light exposes what they want to keep hidden.

Take-Home Thought

The conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus reveals something beautiful about how God works in our lives. Nicodemus was a successful religious leader who had everything figured out, yet he knew something was missing. He came to Jesus at night, probably embarrassed that someone of his status needed help with spiritual matters. But Jesus didn't shame him for his questions—He patiently explained the mystery of spiritual birth.

Being born again isn't about having a dramatic experience or being able to pinpoint an exact moment when everything changed. It's about recognizing that we need life that only God can give, and accepting His gift of new birth through Jesus. Some people, like Nicodemus, come to this realization gradually through honest seeking and questioning. Others experience it more suddenly. But however it happens, the result is the same—we receive God's own life within us, and we begin to see His kingdom in ways we never could before. The wind of the Spirit blows where He chooses, and we get to experience the freedom and freshness that comes with being truly alive in God.

Quotes

John Wesley (1703-1791): "If you have not chosen the kingdom of God first, it will in the end make no difference what you have chosen instead. That is why the words of Jesus are so searching: 'You must be born again.'"

Charles H. Spurgeon (1834-1892): "A man may be very religious, and yet not be born again. Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a ruler of the Jews, a teacher in Israel, and yet he needed to be born again. No amount of religiousness can substitute for the new birth."

Biblical Connections

Ezekiel 36:26 - God's promise of a new heart connects to being born again

Numbers 21:4-9 - The bronze serpent that Jesus references as a picture of His crucifixion

Psalm 51:10 - David's prayer for a clean heart echoes the need for new birth

2 Corinthians 5:17 - Paul's teaching about being a new creation parallels new birth

Titus 3:5 - The "washing of regeneration" connects to being born of water and Spirit

1 Peter 1:23 - Being born again through God's living word

Romans 5:8 - God's love demonstrated while we were sinners echoes John 3:16

Ephesians 2:4-5 - Being made alive when we were dead parallels new birth

1 John 4:9 - God's love shown through sending His Son

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I wonder if God really loves me personally, I remember that John 3:16 says "God so loved the world"—and that includes me. His love isn't based on my performance but on His character. When I feel like I need to clean up my life before I can approach God, I remember that being born again isn't about becoming good enough for God—it's about receiving His life as a gift. When I'm confused about spiritual things or feel like I should understand more than I do, I remember that even Nicodemus, a religious teacher, had to ask honest questions. God doesn't expect me to have it all figured out. He invites me to come with my questions and receive His gift of new life. The Spirit works like the wind—I may not understand how, but I can experience the reality of God's presence and power in my life.

Culture Connection

Today we live in a world that judges success by what we own or how we look on social media. Nicodemus came to Jesus at night because he was afraid of what others would think. Jesus tells him we must be born again, not by our own effort, but by the Spirit of God. In today’s culture, this means our true worth comes from God’s love, not from likes, titles, or bank accounts.

Changed Life

Being born again changes how we see ourselves and others. Instead of chasing approval, we rest in God’s love and share it freely. For example, someone who once felt lonely or unworthy can now volunteer at church with new confidence. They speak words of hope instead of self-doubt, and they treat everyone they meet as a child of God. Their life reflects the light of new birth every day.

Session 5: Living Water—Breaking Barriers at the Well — John 4

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus offers eternal life and true worship to a Samaritan woman.
Purpose: To embrace Jesus' offer of living water and break down barriers in our own lives.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus breaks social rules by talking to someone others avoided. Watch how He turns a simple request for water into a conversation about eternal life. Pay attention to how Jesus treats this outcast woman with dignity and respect when others would have ignored her.

Personal Reflection Questions

What "wells" do you keep going back to that never really satisfy your deepest thirst?

If Jesus showed up at your favorite coffee shop and started a conversation with you, what do you think He might gently point out about your life?

Scripture — John 4 (NLT)

Overview

In our world of social media and carefully curated images, we're more connected than ever but often feel more isolated. We have hundreds of online friends but struggle to find authentic relationships. People build walls around themselves based on race, politics, economics, or past mistakes. But in John 4, Jesus demolishes every barrier that usually keeps people apart. He talks to a woman when men didn't speak to women in public. He engages a Samaritan when Jews avoided Samaritans. He shows grace to someone with a questionable past when religious people would have condemned her. This passage shows us that Jesus offers living water—satisfaction for our deepest needs—to anyone, regardless of their background or baggage. In a divided world, this conversation at a well shows us what real inclusion looks like.

This May Surprise You

When the woman said she had no husband, Jesus wasn't trying to embarrass her by mentioning her five previous husbands and current live-in boyfriend. In that culture, women were completely dependent on men for survival. Her multiple marriages probably weren't about promiscuity but about being passed from one man to another—possibly as a widow or because she couldn't have children. She came to the well alone at noon, the hottest part of the day, because the other women came in the cooler morning hours and likely shunned her. Jesus wasn't condemning her moral failures; He was acknowledging her pain and isolation. His gentleness with her shows He understood her desperate search for security and acceptance.

Seeds for Thought

Jesus had to go through Samaria (v. 4)
Comment: Jews normally took the longer route to avoid Samaria. Jesus chose the direct path because He had a divine appointment with someone who needed Him.

Jesus asks for a drink (v. 7-9)
Comment: By asking for her help, Jesus gave this woman dignity. He didn't approach her as someone who needed fixing, but as someone who could serve Him.

Living water (v. 10-14)
Comment: Jesus offers satisfaction that lasts forever, unlike the temporary relief we get from earthly things. This water becomes a spring inside us.

"Go get your husband" (v. 16-18)
Comment: Jesus gently brought up her deepest pain not to shame her, but to show He knew her completely and still offered her living water.

Worship in spirit and truth (v. 20-24)
Comment: True worship isn't about location or religious ritual, but about our heart's sincere response to who God really is.

"I am he" (v. 25-26)
Comment: Jesus reveals His identity as Messiah to this unlikely person before He tells many others. God chooses unexpected people to carry His message.

The disciples were amazed (v. 27)
Comment: Even Jesus' followers struggled with His barrier-breaking approach. Sometimes religious people are the most surprised by grace.

She left her water jar (v. 28-30)
Comment: When we encounter Jesus, our old priorities and needs become secondary. She forgot why she came because she found something better.

The harvest is ready (v. 35-38)
Comment: While the disciples saw only problems with Samaritans, Jesus saw people ready to receive good news. Hearts are often more prepared than we think.

Take-Home Thought

The woman at the well represents all of us in different ways. She was thirsty—not just for water, but for acceptance, security, and meaning. She had tried to find satisfaction in relationships, but each one left her emptier than before. She was isolated from her community because of her past and her choices. She was spiritually confused, knowing enough about God to have questions but not enough to have peace.

Jesus met her exactly where she was. He didn't lecture her about her lifestyle or demand that she clean up her act first. Instead, He offered her something she didn't even know existed—living water that would satisfy her deepest longings permanently. When she tasted that grace, everything changed. She ran back to the very people who had rejected her and told them about the man who knew everything about her and loved her anyway.

This is the gospel in action. Jesus breaks down the barriers we build and the walls others build around us. He offers living water to anyone willing to receive it. That water doesn't just quench our thirst—it becomes a spring inside us that overflows to others. When we truly experience Jesus' acceptance and grace, we can't help but share it, even with people who might have rejected us before.

Quotes

John Calvin (1509-1564): "Christ does not wait for us to come to Him with perfect faith, but meets us with grace even in our confusion and questions. The woman at the well shows us that Jesus pursues those whom religion has cast aside."

Elisabeth Elliot (1926-2015): "The deepest thirst of the human heart is not for things or achievements or even relationships, but for the living God Himself. Until that thirst is quenched, all other water leaves us wanting."

Biblical Connections

Isaiah 55:1 - "Come, all you who are thirsty" echoes Jesus' offer of living water

Jeremiah 2:13 - God as the fountain of living waters contrasted with broken cisterns

Ezekiel 36:25-26 - God's promise to sprinkle clean water connects to spiritual cleansing

Psalm 42:1-2 - The deer panting for water parallels our soul's thirst for God

Isaiah 12:3 - Drawing water from wells of salvation fulfilled in Jesus' offer

Revelation 21:6 - Jesus as the Alpha and Omega offering water freely

Matthew 28:19 - The Great Commission connects to the Samaritans believing

Acts 8:4-25 - Philip's later ministry to Samaritans builds on this foundation

Galatians 3:28 - No barriers in Christ echoes Jesus' treatment of this woman

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I feel like my past mistakes disqualify me from God's love, I remember how Jesus treated this woman with such gentleness despite knowing her whole story. When I'm tempted to think that certain people are beyond God's reach, I remember how Jesus chose a Samaritan woman with a complicated past to be one of His first evangelists. When I find myself going back to the same old things hoping they'll finally satisfy me, I remember Jesus' offer of living water—satisfaction that lasts forever and bubbles up from within. When I feel isolated or rejected by others, I remember that Jesus goes out of His way to meet me at my point of need, just like He went through Samaria to meet this woman. His living water is available to anyone willing to receive it, including me.

Culture Connection

Today we live in a world full of barriers. We build walls based on race, age, politics, or where people come from. At Jacob’s well, Jesus spoke to a Samaritan woman, even though Jews and Samaritans did not mix. He offered her living water—eternal life—and treated her with respect. This story reminds us that Jesus breaks down walls. His gift of living water shows us how to reach out, even to those we once avoided or judged.

Changed Life

When we accept Jesus’ living water, it reshapes our hearts toward others. For example, instead of sticking to our own age group, a retiree might invite a younger neighbor over for coffee and share life stories. Or someone in our church could welcome a newcomer from another country without waiting for an invitation. As we drink deeply of Jesus’ love, we become bridges in our community. Our actions reflect the living water we’ve received, bringing life and hope to everyone we meet.

Session 6: Healing and Honor—Jesus Confronts Tradition — John 5

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus heals on the Sabbath, revealing His authority and compassion.
Purpose: To examine how Jesus challenges empty traditions and calls us to deeper faith.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus intentionally heals on the Sabbath day when He could have waited until the next day. Watch how religious leaders care more about rule-keeping than about human suffering. Pay attention to how Jesus claims to have the same authority as His Father, which either makes Him equal with God or a dangerous deceiver.

Personal Reflection Questions

What "religious rules" have you seen people follow that seemed to miss the heart of what God really wants?

If you had been disabled for 38 years and someone offered to heal you, what would be your honest first reaction?

Scripture — John 5 (NLT)

Overview

In our rule-obsessed culture, we understand the tension in John 5. We have employee handbooks, homeowners association guidelines, and social media community standards. Rules help organize society, but sometimes they become more important than the people they're supposed to help. The religious leaders in Jesus' day had turned God's gift of Sabbath rest into a burden of complicated regulations. When Jesus healed a man who had been disabled for nearly four decades, they were more upset about the timing than grateful for the miracle. This passage shows us the difference between empty religious tradition and authentic relationship with God. Jesus reveals that real honor comes from God, not from human approval, and that God's work of healing and restoration never takes a day off.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus asked the disabled man "Do you want to get well?" it wasn't a cruel question. After 38 years of disability, this man's entire identity and survival strategy was built around being sick. He received charity, had a place to stay by the healing pools, and people had certain expectations of him. Getting well would mean completely changing his life—finding work, taking responsibility, and losing the sympathy he was used to. Jesus was asking if he was ready for that kind of transformation. Sometimes we get so comfortable with our problems that we're afraid to let God heal us because healing would require us to live differently. The man's response shows he was focused on his obstacles rather than God's possibilities.

Seeds for Thought

38 years of waiting (v. 5)
Comment: Some problems persist for decades, but they're never beyond God's ability to heal. Time doesn't diminish God's power or concern for our struggles.

"Do you want to get well?" (v. 6)
Comment: Jesus asks what seems obvious because sometimes we become so used to our limitations that we're afraid of the changes healing would bring.

"Pick up your mat and walk" (v. 8-9)
Comment: Jesus gave the man both healing and responsibility. God's miracles often require us to act on what He's done, not just receive passively.

Healed on the Sabbath (v. 9-10)
Comment: Jesus deliberately chose to heal on the Sabbath to show that God's mercy doesn't follow human schedules. Love always trumps legalism.

"My Father is working" (v. 17)
Comment: God's work of sustaining creation and showing mercy never stops, even on the Sabbath. Jesus claims the same authority to work.

Equal with God (v. 18)
Comment: The religious leaders correctly understood that Jesus was claiming deity. This wasn't about being a good teacher—it was about being God in human flesh.

Honoring the Son (v. 23)
Comment: Jesus deserves the same honor we give to God the Father because He is equally divine. This isn't about religious respect but divine worship.

From death to life (v. 24)
Comment: Spiritual resurrection happens now for those who believe, not just in the future. We can experience God's life today.

Seeking honor from each other (v. 44)
Comment: The desire for human approval often prevents us from receiving God's approval. We can't serve both audiences successfully.

Take-Home Thought

The tragedy of John 5 isn't just that religious leaders missed the miracle—it's that they were more committed to their system than to the God their system was supposed to honor. They had turned the Sabbath, which was meant to be a gift of rest and restoration, into a burden of restrictions. When God Himself showed up and demonstrated perfect Sabbath behavior by bringing healing and wholeness, they rejected it because it didn't fit their rules.

This challenges us to examine our own relationship with religious tradition. Are we following God's heart or just religious habits? Do we care more about appearing spiritual or actually being transformed? Jesus shows us that God's priority is always mercy over ritual, relationship over regulation, and transformation over tradition. The man who was healed had to make a choice—keep carrying the mat that symbolized his old disabled life, or follow Jesus into a completely new way of living.

The same choice faces us today. We can stay comfortable with our limitations and familiar problems, or we can respond to Jesus' call to pick up our mats and walk into the new life He offers. Real faith isn't about following rules perfectly; it's about trusting Jesus enough to act on His words, even when it challenges everything we've gotten used to.

Quotes

Martin Luther (1483-1546): "The Sabbath was made for man to be a blessing, not a burden. When religious rules become more important than human need, we have missed the heart of God entirely."

Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906-1945): "Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance. But costly grace confronts us with the call of Jesus to follow Him, which may mean leaving behind the very things that have defined us."

Biblical Connections

Exodus 20:8-11 - The original Sabbath command that Jesus reinterprets through mercy

Isaiah 58:6-7 - True fasting and Sabbath keeping involves helping the oppressed

Hosea 6:6 - "I desire mercy, not sacrifice" echoes in Jesus' Sabbath healing

Mark 2:27 - "The Sabbath was made for man" parallels Jesus' teaching here

Ezekiel 36:26 - God giving a new heart connects to spiritual resurrection

Romans 6:4 - Walking in newness of life parallels the healed man walking

Ephesians 2:5 - Being made alive when dead echoes John 5:24

Philippians 2:6-11 - Jesus' equality with God developed more fully by Paul

1 John 5:11-12 - Having the Son means having life connects to Jesus' claims

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I've been struggling with the same problem for years and wonder if God still cares, I remember the man who waited 38 years by the pool. God's timing isn't my timing, but His power isn't limited by how long I've been waiting. When I'm more concerned about what other people think of my faith than what God thinks, I remember Jesus' warning about seeking honor from each other instead of from God. When I catch myself following religious rules while missing opportunities to show love and mercy, I remember that God's work of healing and restoration never takes a day off. When I'm afraid that following Jesus more closely might require big changes in my life, I remember that He asks "Do you want to get well?" because He knows healing always involves transformation. His call to pick up my mat and walk is an invitation to leave behind what's held me back and step into the new life He offers.

Culture Connection

Our world often values rules over people. We see signs that say “No loitering,” “No exceptions,” or “Follow the process.” In John 5, Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath, showing that mercy matters more than empty tradition. Today, this reminds us to ask why we follow certain rules. Are we protecting people or just checking boxes? Jesus calls us to put compassion first, even when it means bending our own expectations.

Changed Life

When we grasp that mercy beats rules, our actions change. For example, someone who always sat quietly in church might notice a lonely visitor and invite them home for lunch—despite it not fitting their usual routine. Or a church leader might skip a formal meeting to pray with a hurting family. By choosing people over protocol, we follow Jesus’ example and honor His heart of compassion.

Session 7: Bread of Life—Feeding Faith, Not Just Hunger — John 6

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus feeds the multitudes and declares Himself the Bread of Life.

Purpose: To learn to trust Jesus not just for provision, but for eternal sustenance.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus tests His disciples by asking how they'll feed the crowd when He already knows what He'll do. Watch how the crowd's enthusiasm changes when Jesus talks about spiritual bread instead of physical bread. Pay attention to how Jesus uses everyday hunger to teach about our deeper spiritual need.

Personal Reflection Questions

1. When has God provided for you in a way that seemed impossible at the time, and how did that change your trust in Him?

2. If you're honest, what draws you to Jesus more—what He can do for you or who He is?

Scripture — John 6 (NLT)

Overview

We live in an instant gratification culture where we expect everything to be fast, convenient, and available on demand. Food delivery apps bring meals to our door in minutes. We get frustrated when our internet connection is slow or our phone battery dies. But in John 6, Jesus challenges our consumer mentality about faith. The crowd was thrilled when He multiplied bread and fish to feed their physical hunger. But when He talked about being the Bread of Life who satisfies spiritual hunger, many walked away. They wanted a miracle worker who would solve their practical problems, not a Savior who would transform their hearts. This passage forces us to examine our own motives. Do we follow Jesus for what He can give us, or because we recognize who He truly is? Real faith means trusting Jesus not just for temporary provision, but for eternal life.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus told the crowd "Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you have no life in you," He wasn't being deliberately confusing or speaking about communion. He was using vivid imagery that His Jewish audience would understand. In their culture, to "eat someone's flesh" meant to completely identify with them, and to "drink their blood" meant to share their very life. Jesus was saying that eternal life comes only through complete union with Him—not just believing facts about Him, but allowing His life to become our life. The crowd found this "hard saying" not because they didn't understand it, but because they understood it perfectly. Jesus was claiming that salvation comes only through Him, and many people couldn't accept that exclusive claim.

Seeds for Thought

Testing the disciples (v. 5-6)

Comment: Jesus often allows us to face impossible situations so we'll learn to depend on His resources rather than our own limited abilities.

A boy's lunch becomes a feast (v. 9-13)

Comment: God can take our small offerings and multiply them beyond our imagination. What seems insignificant to us can become significant in God's hands.

They wanted to make Him king (v. 15)

Comment: The crowd wanted to use Jesus for their political and economic agenda. Sometimes our prayers focus more on getting God to bless our plans than on joining His purposes.

Walking on water (v. 16-21)

Comment: Jesus comes to us in our storms, often in ways we don't expect. His presence transforms our impossible situations.

"You seek me because you ate the loaves" (v. 26)

Comment: Jesus challenges our motives for following Him. Are we seeking Him for what He gives us or for who He is?

"I am the bread of life" (v. 35)

Comment: This is the first of Jesus' great "I am" statements in John. He claims to be the essential nourishment our souls need to live.

"Whoever comes to me shall not hunger" (v. 35)

Comment: Jesus promises permanent satisfaction for our deepest longings, not just temporary relief from our problems.

"This is a hard saying" (v. 60)

Comment: Following Jesus involves difficult truths that challenge our independence and self-sufficiency. Not everyone is willing to accept them.

Many disciples turned away (v. 66)

Comment: Real discipleship costs something. When following Jesus requires more than we're willing to give, some people walk away.

Take-Home Thought

John 6 shows us the difference between consumers and disciples. The crowd that followed Jesus after the feeding miracle were consumers—they wanted the benefits without the commitment. When Jesus explained that real life comes through complete dependence on Him, many decided the cost was too high. They wanted a king who would solve their political problems and a provider who would meet their physical needs, but they didn't want a Lord who would transform their hearts.

Peter's response reveals the heart of true discipleship: "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life." Peter didn't claim to understand everything Jesus said, but he recognized that Jesus alone had what his soul truly needed. This is the choice we all face. We can approach Jesus as consumers, hoping He'll improve our circumstances and make our lives more comfortable. Or we can come as disciples, recognizing that He alone is the Bread of Life our souls desperately need.

The miracle of the loaves and fishes shows us that Jesus cares about our physical needs and can provide for them in amazing ways. But the greater miracle is that He offers Himself as our spiritual sustenance. Unlike physical bread that only satisfies temporarily, Jesus as the Bread of Life satisfies our deepest hunger permanently. The question isn't whether we'll be fed—it's what kind of food we'll choose and whether we'll trust Jesus to be everything our souls need.

Quotes

Augustine of Hippo (354-430 AD): "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you. No earthly bread, no matter how abundant, can satisfy the hunger that only Christ can fill."

J.I. Packer (1926-2020): "The feeding of the five thousand was a sign pointing beyond itself to Jesus as the Bread of Life. Miracles that only meet physical needs may actually distract us from our greater spiritual need."

Biblical Connections

- Exodus 16:4-15 - The manna in the wilderness parallels Jesus as bread from heaven

- Deuteronomy 8:3 - "Man does not live by bread alone" connects to spiritual nourishment

- Psalm 78:24-25 - God giving "bread of heaven" fulfilled in Jesus

- Isaiah 55:2 - "Why spend money on what is not bread?" echoes seeking true satisfaction

- Matthew 4:4 - Jesus' temptation response about living by God's word

- 1 Corinthians 10:3-4 - Spiritual food and drink in the wilderness

- Luke 24:35 - Jesus known in the breaking of bread connects to communion

- Revelation 2:17 - The hidden manna promised to overcomers

- John 15:5 - "Apart from me you can do nothing" parallels dependence on Jesus

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I'm facing a situation that seems impossible and my resources feel inadequate, I remember how Jesus fed 5,000 people with a boy's small lunch. God can multiply whatever I offer Him, no matter how insignificant it seems. When I catch myself following Jesus mainly for what He can do for me rather than for who He is, I remember Peter's words: "To whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life." When I'm spiritually hungry and nothing else seems to satisfy, I remember that Jesus is the Bread of Life who can fill the deepest longings of my heart. When life feels stormy and uncertain, I remember that Jesus comes to me on the water, often in ways I don't expect. His presence with me matters more than my circumstances around me. I can trust Him not just for temporary provision, but for the eternal sustenance my soul needs.

Culture Connection

Today we’re surrounded by endless choices of food, entertainment, and information. We snack on social media posts, binge on TV shows, and scroll news feeds looking for something satisfying. John 6 reminds us that Jesus doesn’t just fill our stomachs—He meets the deepest hunger of our hearts. When our culture tells us to look outside ourselves for quick fixes, this story invites us to turn to the Bread of Life, who alone gives lasting strength and purpose.

Changed Life

Recognizing Jesus as our true Bread changes how we spend our days. Instead of starting mornings with the newspaper or a screen, we might open our Bible and pray for guidance. A retired grandparent could begin each day thanking Jesus for His provision, then share that hope by leading a family devotion over breakfast. When our soul is fed first, we find patience with aches and pains, kindness toward neighbors, and a fresh trust that He’ll supply exactly what we need.

Session 8: Light in the Darkness—Who Is Jesus? — John 7–8

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus reveals Himself as the Light of the World amid growing opposition.

Purpose: To confront our own doubts and divisions with the truth of who Jesus is.

What to Look For

Notice how people are divided about Jesus—some believe, others reject, and many are confused. Watch how Jesus claims divine authority while facing increasing hostility from religious leaders. Pay attention to how Jesus offers grace to the guilty while exposing the pride of the self-righteous.

Personal Reflection Questions

1. When you hear conflicting opinions about Jesus today, what helps you stay grounded in who you believe He really is?

2. If you had been in the crowd watching Jesus write in the dirt while the woman caught in adultery stood there, what do you think would have gone through your mind?

Scripture — John 7–8 (NLT)

Overview

We live in a polarized world where every topic becomes a debate and every public figure has passionate supporters and fierce critics. Social media amplifies divisions, and people seem unable to have civil conversations about controversial subjects. In John 7-8, we see this same dynamic around Jesus. The crowds are split—some think He's the Messiah, others believe He's deceived. Religious leaders plot against Him while ordinary people are drawn to His teaching. Even His own family struggles with doubt. But in the midst of all this controversy and confusion, Jesus makes His most profound claims about His identity. He declares Himself the Light of the World, the source of living water, and the great "I AM." These chapters show us that Jesus has always been a polarizing figure, not because He's unclear about who He is, but because His claims demand a response that changes everything.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus wrote on the ground while the religious leaders accused the woman caught in adultery, the text doesn't tell us what He wrote. But the Greek word used suggests He was writing down their sins or the names of their secret partners in adultery. In that culture, adultery required two people, but they only brought the woman—where was the man? Jesus may have been exposing their hypocrisy by writing down what they wanted to keep hidden. When they saw their own guilt written in the dust, they left one by one, starting with the older ones who had more to hide. This wasn't just about showing mercy to the woman; it was about revealing that her accusers were just as guilty as she was.

Seeds for Thought

Even His family didn't believe (John 7:5)

Comment: Sometimes the people closest to us struggle most with our faith journey. Jesus understands what it's like when family members don't understand our relationship with God.

The crowds were divided (John 7:12, 43)

Comment: Jesus has always been controversial. Following Him means accepting that not everyone will understand or approve of our faith.

"Never has anyone spoken like this man" (John 7:46)

Comment: Even those sent to arrest Jesus were stopped by His words. Truth has power to penetrate hearts even when minds resist.

"Rivers of living water" (John 7:38)

Comment: The Spirit flowing from believers creates spiritual refreshment for others. Our faith should be a source of life for those around us.

"Let him who is without sin cast the first stone" (John 8:7)

Comment: Jesus doesn't minimize sin, but He exposes our tendency to judge others more harshly than we judge ourselves.

"Neither do I condemn you" (John 8:11)

Comment: Jesus offers forgiveness to those who admit their guilt, but He also calls them to leave their sin behind. Grace and transformation go together.

"I am the light of the world" (John 8:12)

Comment: In a world full of moral confusion and spiritual darkness, Jesus claims to be the source of truth and guidance we need.

"Before Abraham was, I am" (John 8:58)

Comment: Jesus uses the same phrase God used to identify Himself to Moses. This is either the greatest truth or the greatest blasphemy ever spoken.

They picked up stones to throw at Him (John 8:59)

Comment: The religious leaders understood exactly what Jesus claimed—to be equal with God. Their violent reaction shows they knew He wasn't just claiming to be a good teacher.

Take-Home Thought

These two chapters reveal the heart of human response to Jesus. When confronted with His claims, people can't remain neutral. The woman caught in adultery found forgiveness and a new start. The religious leaders found their hypocrisy exposed and their authority challenged. The crowds found themselves forced to decide whether this carpenter from Nazareth could really be the Son of God.

What makes these chapters so powerful is how they show Jesus operating with both perfect justice and perfect mercy. He doesn't excuse sin, but He doesn't condemn sinners either. Instead, He offers light to those walking in darkness and hope to those trapped in guilt and shame. The religious leaders who thought they had spiritual light were actually in darkness, while the woman everyone condemned found herself in the light of God's forgiveness.

This is the choice we all face when we encounter Jesus. We can approach Him like the woman—acknowledging our need and receiving His grace. Or we can respond like the religious leaders—protecting our reputation and rejecting His authority. But we can't ignore Him or treat His claims as merely interesting religious philosophy. When Jesus says "I am the Light of the World," He's not offering one opinion among many. He's claiming to be the source of truth itself. That claim either illuminates our path forward or threatens everything we thought we knew about life and God.

Quotes

C.S. Lewis (1898-1963): "A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice."

Martyn Lloyd-Jones (1899-1981): "The light of Christ not only shows us the truth about God, it also shows us the truth about ourselves. That's why some people love the light while others prefer to stay in darkness."

Biblical Connections

- Exodus 3:14 - God's "I AM" name that Jesus claims for Himself

- Isaiah 9:2 - The people walking in darkness seeing a great light

- Psalm 27:1 - "The Lord is my light and my salvation"

- Malachi 4:2 - The Sun of Righteousness rising with healing

- Genesis 22:17-18 - God's promise to Abraham about his descendants

- Leviticus 20:10 - The law requiring death for adultery that the woman faced

- Deuteronomy 17:7 - The witnesses throwing the first stones in executions

- Isaiah 55:11 - God's word not returning empty, like the living water

- 1 John 1:5-7 - God is light and walking in the light

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When I'm facing criticism or misunderstanding because of my faith, I remember that even Jesus' own family didn't believe in Him at first. Opposition doesn't mean I'm on the wrong path. When I feel guilty about past mistakes and wonder if God can really forgive me, I remember how Jesus treated the woman caught in adultery—with grace instead of condemnation, but also with a call to live differently. When I'm confused by conflicting voices about what's true in this world, I remember Jesus' claim to be the Light of the World. His truth doesn't change based on popular opinion or cultural trends. When I feel like my faith isn't making much difference in the world around me, I remember Jesus' promise about rivers of living water flowing from believers. God can use my life to refresh others, even when I don't see it happening. I can trust that Jesus really is who He claims to be, regardless of how others respond to Him.

Culture Connection

In today’s world we face many kinds of darkness—bitterness in our politics, fear in our neighborhoods, and hurt in broken relationships. Social media can feel like a shadow, where loud voices drown out kindness and truth. John 7–8 shows Jesus stepping into that darkness and calling Himself the Light of the World. His words cut through confusion and challenge us to look to Him for guidance, hope, and unity.

Changed Life

When we accept Jesus as our light, it changes how we live and speak. Instead of joining in gossip or harsh judgments, we pause and ask, “What would the Light say?” For example, a senior who once felt discouraged by family arguments might choose to send a calming note or offer to pray together. By reflecting Jesus’ light in small actions—an encouraging phone call, a gentle word, a forgiving heart—we help others see His truth and love in our own lives.

Session 9: The Good Shepherd—Known, Loved, Led — John 9–10

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus heals a blind man and declares Himself the Good Shepherd.
Purpose: To find comfort and courage in hearing Jesus' voice and following His lead.

What to Look For

Watch for how Jesus shows His care through both healing and teaching. Notice how the religious leaders respond when they can't control or understand what Jesus does. Pay attention to the words Jesus uses to describe His relationship with His people.

Personal Reflection Questions

Think about a time when someone really listened to you and understood what you needed. How did that make you feel about that person?

If you could ask Jesus one question about following Him through a difficult time in your life, what would it be?

Scripture — John 9–10 (NLT)

Overview

In these chapters, Jesus does something wonderful and says something even more wonderful. He heals a man born blind, which creates quite a stir among the religious folks. Then He tells everyone exactly who He is using a picture they all understand - a shepherd caring for his sheep. In our world today, we don't see many shepherds, but we understand what it means to have someone who truly cares for us, protects us, and knows what we need. Jesus is saying that's exactly the kind of relationship He wants with each of us.

This May Surprise You

The religious leaders kicked the healed man out of the synagogue, which meant cutting him off from his community and religious life. This seems harsh, but it shows us something important. Sometimes when God works in our lives in unexpected ways, the people we think should celebrate with us don't understand. The man who was healed had to choose between fitting in with the religious crowd or standing with Jesus. He chose Jesus, and that's when he really began to see clearly - not just with his eyes, but with his heart.

Seeds for Thought

The man was born blind for God's glory (John 9:3) Comment: This doesn't mean God caused his blindness, but that God could use even this difficult situation to show His power and love.

"I am the gate" (John 10:9) Comment: Jesus is our way into a safe relationship with God. He's both the entrance and the protection.

"The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" (John 10:11) Comment: Unlike hired workers who run when trouble comes, Jesus stays with us no matter what the cost to Himself.

"My sheep listen to my voice" (John 10:27) Comment: This isn't about hearing an audible voice, but about recognizing His guidance through His Word, prayer, and the peace He gives us.

"No one can snatch them out of my Father's hand" (John 10:29) Comment: Our security doesn't depend on how tightly we hold on to God, but on how firmly He holds on to us.

Take-Home Thought

The beautiful truth in these chapters is that Jesus sees us, knows us, and cares for us in ways that go far beyond what we can imagine. Just as He opened the blind man's eyes, He opens our hearts to understand His love. The shepherd image Jesus uses isn't just poetic language - it's a promise. In Bible times, shepherds lived with their flocks, knew each sheep by name, and would risk their lives to protect them. That's exactly how Jesus relates to us.

When we feel lost, confused, or forgotten, we can remember that our Good Shepherd is always watching over us. He doesn't just point the way - He walks with us. He doesn't just tell us what to do - He provides what we need along the journey. And when we mess up or wander off, He comes looking for us. This gives us courage to face whatever comes our way, knowing we're never truly alone.

Quotes

Charles Spurgeon: "The sheep know their shepherd's voice because they spend time with him. The more we read God's Word and pray, the easier it becomes to recognize His leading in our daily lives."

John Chrysostom: "Christ did not say, 'I am the door of the sheep,' to show His lowliness, but to show His care. For the door receives both the shepherd and the sheep, and protects them from wolves."

Biblical Connections

Psalm 23 - "The Lord is my shepherd" connects directly to Jesus calling Himself the Good Shepherd

Isaiah 40:11 - "He tends his flock like a shepherd" prophetically describes what Jesus would do

Ezekiel 34:11-16 - God promises to be the shepherd His people need, fulfilled in Jesus

1 Peter 2:25 - "You were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the Shepherd"

Hebrews 13:20 - Jesus is called "that great Shepherd of the sheep"

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When life feels uncertain or we're facing changes we didn't choose, we can trust that our Good Shepherd sees the whole picture. He knows what we need before we ask, and He's already making a way through whatever we're facing. We don't have to figure everything out on our own or worry about whether we're strong enough for what's ahead. Our job is simply to listen for His voice and follow His lead, one step at a time. Just as He didn't abandon the blind man when others rejected him, He won't abandon us when we feel alone or misunderstood.

Culture Connection

Our world often tells us to prove our worth by what we own or what we can do. We see ads and messages praising the strong, the popular, and the famous. Yet in John 9–10, Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd who knows each of us by name and cares for every need. In a culture that can make us feel invisible—especially as we grow older—this reminds us that Jesus still speaks, leads, and protects His sheep today.

Changed Life

When we accept Jesus as our Good Shepherd, our fears and doubts start to fade. Instead of worrying about tomorrow or feeling forgotten, we learn to listen for His voice and follow where He leads. For example, someone who feels alone might pray for His guidance and then reach out to a neighbor, trusting Jesus to guide that conversation. Or a person worn out by busyness could decide to rest, knowing the Shepherd watches over them. Hearing His voice shapes our choices and fills our days with peace and purpose.

Session 10: The Resurrection and the Life—Hope Beyond the Grave — John 11

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus raises Lazarus and declares His power over death.
Purpose: To anchor our hope in Jesus' victory over death and His promise of eternal life.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus responds to grief and loss with both deep emotion and divine power. Watch for the different ways people react to Jesus during this crisis. Pay attention to what Jesus says about Himself and what that means for our own future.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you've faced the loss of someone close to you, what brought you the most comfort during that difficult time?

If you could sit down with Martha or Mary right after Lazarus came back to life, what would you want to ask them about their experience?

Scripture — John 11 (NLT)

Overview

This chapter shows us Jesus at His most human and most divine all at the same time. When His dear friend Lazarus dies, Jesus weeps right along with Mary and Martha. But then He does something no one else has ever done - He calls a dead man back to life with just His voice. For those of us who have buried loved ones or are facing our own mortality, this story isn't just about what happened long ago. It's about what Jesus promises for all of us who trust in Him. Death may look like the end of the story, but Jesus proves it's really just turning the page.

This May Surprise You

Jesus waited two extra days before going to help Lazarus, even though He loved this family dearly. This wasn't because He didn't care or was too busy. Jesus knew that God's plan was bigger than just healing a sick man. Sometimes when we pray for help and it seems like God is taking too long to answer, He may be preparing to do something even greater than what we originally asked for. Martha wanted her brother healed, but Jesus gave her something better - proof that He has power over death itself.

Seeds for Thought

"This sickness will not end in death" (John 11:4) Comment: Jesus sees beyond the temporary to the eternal. What looks like an ending to us is often just a new beginning in God's plan.

"I am the resurrection and the life" (John 11:25) Comment: Jesus isn't just someone who can raise the dead - He is life itself. Our hope isn't in a miracle, but in a Person.

"Jesus wept" (John 11:35) Comment: The shortest verse in the Bible shows us the biggest truth about God's heart. He enters into our pain and grief.

"Didn't I tell you that you would see God's glory if you believe?" (John 11:40) Comment: Faith isn't about understanding everything, but about trusting God even when we can't see how things will work out.

"Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43) Comment: Jesus spoke to a dead man and expected him to respond. His word has power over everything, even death.

Take-Home Thought

The miracle of Lazarus isn't just an amazing story from the past - it's a preview of what Jesus promises for every believer. When we stand beside the graves of those we love, or when we think about our own final days, we can remember that Jesus has already proven death doesn't get the last word. He does.

This doesn't take away the pain of losing people we care about. Jesus wept at Lazarus's tomb even though He knew what He was about to do. Our grief is real and it matters to God. But our grief doesn't have to include despair, because we know this life isn't all there is. The same voice that called Lazarus out of his tomb will one day call all of us who belong to Him into eternal life. Until then, we can face each day knowing that our future is secure in the hands of the One who conquered death.

Quotes

Billy Graham: "The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the hope of the world. Because He lives, we shall live also. Death is not a period, but merely a comma in the story of life."

John Stott: "We must allow the word of God to confront us, to disturb our security, to undermine our complacency and to overthrow our patterns of thought and behavior."

Biblical Connections

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 - "The Lord himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout" echoes Jesus calling Lazarus from the tomb

1 Corinthians 15:54-55 - "Death is swallowed up in victory" connects to Jesus' triumph over death

Revelation 21:4 - "There will be no more death" points to the final fulfillment of what began with Lazarus

Romans 6:23 - "The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life" explains why Jesus' power over death matters

Daniel 12:2 - The Old Testament promise of resurrection that Jesus fulfills

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we lose someone we love or face our own health struggles, we can trust that God understands our pain and hasn't abandoned us. Jesus didn't just observe grief from a distance - He felt it deeply. But He also showed us that death is not stronger than His love for us. We don't have to be afraid of what comes next, because we belong to the One who holds the keys to life and death. Whether God chooses to heal us in this life or take us home to be with Him, we can face the future with confidence knowing that His plan for us is good and His promises are true.

Culture Connection

Our culture often fears death and avoids talking about it. We focus on living longer, fighting aging, and making the most of every moment. In John 11, Jesus calls himself “the resurrection and the life” and brings Lazarus back from the tomb. This reminds us that real hope comes not from science or medicine alone, but from Christ’s power over death. When movies or news leave us feeling empty, Jesus offers a promise that death is not the final word.

Changed Life

Believing Jesus has victory over death shapes how we live today. Instead of hiding from grief or pretending loss doesn’t matter, we can face sorrow with hope. For example, a senior who worries about leaving family behind might choose to record favorite Bible verses or stories of faith, trusting those words will live on. Or someone caring for a sick friend can speak of Jesus’ promise of eternal life, bringing comfort instead of silence. Living in the light of resurrection gives us courage to love and serve, no matter what tomorrow holds.

Session 11: Love Poured Out—Jesus Washes Feet and Hearts — John 12–13

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus shows humble love and prepares His disciples for His departure.
Purpose: To follow Jesus' example of servanthood and love in everyday relationships.

What to Look For

Watch for the contrast between Mary's beautiful act of worship and Judas's harsh criticism. Notice how Jesus responds when people praise Him versus when they challenge Him. Pay attention to the disciples' confusion when Jesus starts washing their feet.

Personal Reflection Questions

Think of someone who has served you in a way that really touched your heart. What made that act of service so meaningful to you?

When you've tried to help someone but they resisted or didn't understand, how did you handle that situation?

Scripture — John 12–13 (NLT)

Overview

These chapters show us love in action through two very different scenes. First, Mary pours expensive perfume on Jesus' feet as an act of pure worship, despite criticism from others. Then Jesus takes a towel and basin and washes His disciples' dirty feet, doing the job of the lowest servant in the house. Both acts seem wasteful or inappropriate to the people watching, but they perfectly show what love looks like when it's not worried about what others think. In our world today, genuine acts of humble service and generous love still seem unusual, but they're exactly what Jesus calls us to do.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus began washing the disciples' feet, Peter tried to stop Him. This wasn't just because Peter felt embarrassed - in that culture, washing feet was the most menial job, usually done by the youngest servant or even a slave. Peter couldn't understand why his Teacher and Lord would do something so beneath His position. But Jesus was showing them that in God's kingdom, greatness is measured by how willing we are to serve others, not by how many people serve us. The person who leads best is the one who serves most.

Seeds for Thought

Mary "poured the perfume on Jesus' feet" (John 12:3) Comment: True worship doesn't count the cost. Mary gave her best because she understood who Jesus was and what He meant to her.

"You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me" (John 12:8) Comment: Jesus wasn't dismissing care for the poor, but pointing out that this was a unique moment that called for extravagant love.

"Unless I wash you, you have no part with me" (John 13:8) Comment: Jesus wasn't just talking about clean feet. He was teaching about our need to let Him cleanse our hearts and lives.

"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet" (John 13:14) Comment: Jesus didn't just teach about serving - He showed them exactly what it looks like in action.

"A new command I give you: Love one another" (John 13:34) Comment: This wasn't new because love was a new idea, but because Jesus was showing them a deeper kind of love than they'd ever seen before.

Take-Home Thought

The beautiful thing about these chapters is that they show us two sides of love - the worship that gives its best to Jesus, and the service that gives its best to others. Mary's expensive perfume and Jesus' humble towel both teach us the same lesson: real love doesn't hold back or worry about looking foolish.

As we get older, we might think our days of serving others are behind us. But these passages remind us that the most powerful acts of love often happen in quiet, simple ways. A phone call to someone who's lonely, a meal for someone who's struggling, a listening ear for someone who's hurting - these are today's versions of washing feet. When we serve others in Jesus' name, we're not just being nice people. We're showing the world what God's love looks like with hands and feet attached.

Quotes

Mother Teresa: "We can do no great things, only small things with great love. It is not how much we do, but how much love we put into the doing that matters."

Dietrich Bonhoeffer: "We must be ready to allow ourselves to be interrupted by God. It is a strange fact that Christians and even ministers frequently consider their work so important and urgent that they will allow nothing to disturb them."

Biblical Connections

Philippians 2:5-7 - Jesus "made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant" connects to His foot washing

Mark 10:43-44 - "Whoever wants to be first must be slave of all" echoes the lesson Jesus taught through His actions

1 Peter 5:5 - "Clothe yourselves with humility" reflects the towel Jesus wrapped around His waist

Romans 12:10 - "Honor one another above yourselves" captures the spirit of Jesus' new commandment

Galatians 5:13 - "Serve one another humbly in love" shows how early Christians lived out this teaching

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we wonder if our small acts of kindness really matter, we can remember that Jesus chose to spend His last evening with His disciples washing their feet. If the Son of God found time to do something so simple and humble, then our quiet acts of service matter more than we know. We don't have to do great things to please God - we just have to do ordinary things with great love. When we feel too old, too tired, or too unimportant to make a difference, we can trust that God sees every loving gesture and uses it in ways we may never know about.

Culture Connection

Our culture often celebrates leaders who stand above the crowd—think keynote speakers on stage or CEOs in corner offices. Yet in John 13, Jesus pulls off His outer robe, kneels before His friends, and washes their dirty feet. He shows that real leadership is humble service. In a world where status symbols and titles grab the headlines, this scene reminds us that true influence flows from loving acts done in the shadows.

Changed Life

When we embrace Jesus’ example of foot washing, our own actions shift. Instead of looking for praise when we help, we learn to serve quietly and joyfully. For example, rather than waiting for someone else to tidy the church kitchen, a retiree might wash dishes after a meal and bless others without a word. Or in a family disagreement, one person might offer a sincere apology first, choosing humility over pride. These small, humble steps reshape our hearts and show Jesus’ love in every relationship.

Session 12: Peace and the Spirit—Jesus’ Comforting Words — John 14–15

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus promises the Holy Spirit and teaches about abiding in Him.
Purpose: To find peace and purpose through the Spirit and a life rooted in Christ.

What to Look For

Notice how Jesus speaks to His disciples' fears about His leaving them. Watch for the promises Jesus makes about what will happen after He's gone. Pay attention to the word pictures Jesus uses to help them understand their relationship with Him.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you've had to say goodbye to someone important in your life, what helped you feel connected to them even when they weren't around?

Think about a plant or garden you've tended. What did you learn about growth and patience from that experience?

Scripture — John 14–15 (NLT)

Overview

Jesus knew His disciples were worried about what would happen when He left them. So He gave them some of the most comforting words in all of Scripture. He promised they wouldn't be left alone like orphans, but would have the Holy Spirit as their constant companion. He also used the picture of a vine and branches to show them how they could stay connected to Him even when they couldn't see Him. For us today, these same promises mean we're never really on our own. The same Spirit who guided the first disciples is with us, helping us understand God's Word, giving us peace in troubled times, and producing spiritual fruit in our lives.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus said "I am the way and the truth and the life," Thomas had just asked how they could know the way to where Jesus was going. Thomas wasn't being difficult - he was genuinely confused about what Jesus meant. Jesus' answer shows us that Christianity isn't about following a set of directions or rules to get to heaven. It's about following a Person. We don't find our way to God by being good enough or knowing enough. We find our way to God through Jesus, who is Himself the way we need to go.

Seeds for Thought

"Don't let your hearts be troubled" (John 14:1) Comment: Jesus doesn't promise trouble-free lives, but He does promise we don't have to let trouble rule our hearts when we trust in Him.

"I am going there to prepare a place for you" (John 14:2) Comment: Heaven isn't just some distant, vague hope. Jesus is actively preparing our eternal home right now.

"I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6) Comment: Jesus doesn't just show us the way to God - He is the way. He doesn't just teach truth - He is truth itself.

"I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate" (John 14:16) Comment: The Holy Spirit isn't a substitute teacher filling in while Jesus is away. He's our permanent helper and guide.

"Remain in me, as I also remain in you" (John 15:4) Comment: This isn't about trying harder to be spiritual. It's about staying connected to Jesus like a branch stays connected to the vine.

Take-Home Thought

These chapters remind us that even when life feels uncertain or we can't see what's ahead, we're not walking through it alone. The Holy Spirit isn't just with us during church services or when we're reading our Bibles. He's our constant companion, helping us make sense of difficult situations, giving us words when we don't know what to say, and bringing God's peace to our worried hearts.

The vine and branches picture is especially meaningful as we get older. We might not be able to do all the things we used to do, but we can still bear fruit by staying connected to Jesus. Sometimes that fruit looks like wisdom we share with younger people, prayers we offer for others, or simply the peace and joy that others see in us during hard times. A branch doesn't have to work hard to produce fruit - it just has to stay connected to the vine. When we stay close to Jesus through prayer, Bible reading, and trusting Him with our daily concerns, He produces fruit through us in ways we might not even notice.

Quotes

A.W. Tozer: "The Holy Spirit is not a luxury meant to make us feel good. He is an absolute necessity. Without Him we can do nothing; with Him we can do all things."

Andrew Murray: "The branch of the vine does nothing but receive from the vine. It is not the branch that bears the fruit, but the vine through the branch. The secret of spiritual fruitfulness is absolute dependence on the Lord Jesus."

Biblical Connections

Romans 8:26 - The Spirit helps us in our weakness and intercedes for us, fulfilling Jesus' promise of help

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 - God comforts us so we can comfort others, showing the fruit that comes from abiding

Galatians 5:22-23 - The fruit of the Spirit matches what Jesus promises will grow in connected branches

Psalm 23:4 - "I will fear no evil, for you are with me" echoes Jesus' promise not to leave us as orphans

Isaiah 26:3 - Perfect peace for those whose minds are stayed on God connects to Jesus' gift of peace

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we feel overwhelmed by world events, health concerns, or family worries, we can remember that we have the same Holy Spirit living in us that raised Jesus from the dead. We don't have to figure everything out or fix every problem. Our job is simply to stay connected to Jesus through prayer and trust, and let Him work through us. When we feel useless or wonder if our lives still have purpose, we can trust that as long as we're abiding in Him, He's producing fruit through us that will last for eternity - even if we can't always see it happening.

Culture Connection

Today many of us feel busy, stressed, or even a bit lost. We read self-help books, listen to podcasts, or scroll social media searching for peace. In John 14–15, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as our Helper and Friend who lives within us. This Spirit brings calm in the chaos and shows us how to stay rooted in what truly matters.

Changed Life

When we rely on the Holy Spirit, our daily choices begin to reflect God’s love and peace. For example, a retiree feeling restless might pause each morning to ask the Spirit for guidance, then spend time writing notes of encouragement to friends. Instead of snapping in a tense moment, we can pause, pray, and respond with kindness. By abiding in Christ like branches on a vine, the Spirit helps us grow patience, joy, and a deeper sense of purpose every day.

Session 13: Unity and Glory—Jesus’ Final Prayer — John 16–17

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus prays for His disciples and future believers, revealing His heart.
Purpose: To seek unity, joy, and intimacy with God through Jesus' prayer.

What to Look For

Listen to the way Jesus talks to His Father about His disciples and about you. Notice what Jesus asks for most earnestly in His prayer. Pay attention to how Jesus describes His relationship with the Father and how He wants us to share in that same closeness.

Personal Reflection Questions

If you knew you only had a few hours left with your family, what would be the most important things you'd want to say to them?

When you pray for people you care about, what do you find yourself asking God for most often?

Scripture — John 16–17 (NLT)

Overview

These chapters give us something incredibly precious - we get to listen in on Jesus' most intimate conversation with His Father. Just hours before His crucifixion, Jesus isn't worrying about Himself. Instead, He's praying for His disciples and for all of us who would believe in Him later. It's like overhearing a parent's bedtime prayers for their children, full of love, concern, and hope for the future. Jesus prays for our protection, our unity, and our joy. He even prays that we would experience the same kind of close relationship with God that He has always enjoyed. This prayer shows us what's really on Jesus' heart when He thinks about us.

This May Surprise You

Jesus prayed that believers would be "one" just as He and the Father are one, but He didn't pray that we would all be exactly alike or agree on every detail. The unity Jesus prayed for is much deeper than having the same opinions or worship styles. It's about sharing the same heart toward God and the same love for one another. When churches argue and split over secondary issues, they're missing what Jesus really wanted - believers who love each other despite their differences and show the world what God's family looks like when it's working right.

Seeds for Thought

"In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world" (John 16:33) Comment: Jesus doesn't promise to take us out of trouble, but to give us peace in the middle of it because He's already won the victory.

"Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son" (John 17:1) Comment: Jesus wasn't asking for earthly fame or recognition. He was preparing to show God's glory through His sacrificial death.

"I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me" (John 17:9) Comment: Jesus has a special, focused love for those who belong to Him. We are specifically on His heart and in His prayers.

"My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one" (John 17:15) Comment: God's plan isn't to remove us from life's challenges but to keep us safe spiritually while we're in them.

"I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message" (John 17:20) Comment: Jesus was praying for you and me in this prayer, showing that we've been on His heart from the beginning.

Take-Home Thought

What strikes me most about this prayer is how personal it is. Jesus talks to His Father about us the way a loving parent talks about their children - with deep affection, genuine concern, and great hope for our future. He doesn't see us as a crowd or a project. He sees us as individuals He loves and wants to protect and bless.

The unity Jesus prayed for isn't something we have to manufacture or force. It's something that happens naturally when we all stay close to Him. Just like spokes on a wheel get closer to each other as they get closer to the center, believers grow closer to each other as we each grow closer to Jesus. This gives us hope when we see division and conflict among Christians today. Jesus knew this would be a challenge, so He prayed specifically about it. And when Jesus prays for something, we can trust that God is working to bring it about, even when we can't see it happening yet.

Quotes

John Calvin: "This prayer is rightly called the Lord's Prayer, not only because it proceeded from Him as author, but because it contains the rule of all our prayers."

Charles Spurgeon: "See how Jesus can find time to pray even when the cross is in sight. No earthly trouble should ever hinder us from prayer; rather should it drive us to more earnest pleading with God."

Biblical Connections

Romans 8:34 - "Christ Jesus is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us" shows that Jesus continues this prayer ministry

Hebrews 7:25 - Jesus "always lives to intercede" for those who come to God through Him

1 John 5:14-15 - Our confidence in prayer comes from knowing Jesus prays according to God's will

Ephesians 4:3-6 - Paul's call for unity echoes what Jesus prayed for in John 17

Psalm 133:1 - "How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity" reflects Jesus' heart

Biblical Connections

Genesis 1:26 - "Let us make mankind in our image" shows the unity within the Trinity that Jesus wants us to share

Acts 2:46-47 - The early church's unity and joy reflects the answer to Jesus' prayer

1 Corinthians 12:12-13 - "We were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body" explains how the unity Jesus prayed for works

Philippians 2:1-2 - Paul's appeal for unity uses language that echoes Jesus' prayer

Revelation 7:9-10 - The vision of all nations worshiping together shows the ultimate answer to Jesus' prayer for unity

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we feel forgotten or wonder if God really cares about our daily struggles, we can remember that Jesus specifically prayed for us by name before He even went to the cross. We're not afterthoughts in God's plan - we're the reason Jesus was willing to suffer and die. When we see conflict in our churches or feel discouraged by division among believers, we can trust that Jesus is still working to answer His own prayer for unity. And when we face troubles that seem too big for us to handle, we can take comfort in knowing that the One who overcame the world is praying for our protection and peace.

Culture Connection

Our world is full of divisions—lines drawn by politics, age, race, or even church traditions. We see it online every day: people arguing in comment sections, family members posting strong opinions, neighbors staying on their own. In John 17, Jesus prays that all His followers would be one, just as He is one with the Father. That prayer reminds us that unity isn’t optional. It’s part of God’s plan for His people to show the world a better story of love, peace, and shared hope.

Changed Life

When we take Jesus’ prayer seriously, we start looking for ways to build bridges instead of walls. For example, a church member who notices tension between long-time attendees and newer families might organize a simple potluck lunch. They could sit with someone they don’t know well, ask about their life, and pray together before the meal. That small act of reaching out reflects Jesus’ heart for unity, turning a divided room into a place of friendship and shared faith.

Session 14: Cross and Crown—The Passion and Resurrection — John 18–21

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: Jesus suffers, dies, and rises again—bringing ultimate hope.
Purpose: To celebrate the victory of Christ and live in the power of His resurrection.

What to Look For

Watch for how Jesus remains in control even when it looks like everything is falling apart. Notice the different ways people respond to Jesus during His darkest and brightest hours. Pay attention to how the resurrection changes everything for the disciples.

Personal Reflection Questions

Think of a time when something that seemed like a disaster turned out to bring unexpected good into your life. How did that change your perspective?

If you had been one of the disciples on Easter morning, what do you think would have been the hardest thing for you to believe about the resurrection?

Scripture — John 18–21 (NLT)

Overview

These final chapters take us through the darkest night and brightest morning in human history. We watch Jesus willingly go to the cross, not as a victim but as a victor carrying out God's plan to rescue the world. Then we see the incredible joy and confusion when the disciples discover that death couldn't hold Him. The empty tomb changes everything - not just for the first disciples, but for all of us who follow Jesus today. What looked like the end of hope became the beginning of eternal hope. The cross that seemed like defeat was actually God's greatest victory.

This May Surprise You

When Jesus appeared to His disciples after the resurrection, He still had the scars from His crucifixion. He could have come back with a perfect, unmarked body, but He chose to keep the wounds that proved His love for us. This tells us something beautiful about how God sees our own scars and struggles. He doesn't erase them or pretend they never happened. Instead, He transforms them into proof of His grace and reminders of His faithfulness. Our difficult experiences don't disappear when we follow Jesus, but they become part of the story of how He worked in our lives.

Seeds for Thought

"You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth" (John 18:37) Comment: Jesus' kingdom isn't built on political power but on truth and love. His crown comes through service, not conquest.

"It is finished" (John 19:30) Comment: This wasn't a cry of defeat but a shout of victory. Jesus had completed everything necessary for our salvation.

"Why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?" (John 20:15) Comment: Sometimes we're so focused on our grief that we don't recognize the good thing God is doing right in front of us.

"My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28) Comment: Thomas's declaration shows that seeing the risen Jesus changes everything about how we understand who He really is.

"Feed my sheep" (John 21:17) Comment: Jesus restored Peter not just with forgiveness but with purpose, giving him meaningful work to do for the kingdom.

Take-Home Thought

The resurrection isn't just something that happened to Jesus long ago - it's the foundation of everything we hope for today. Because Jesus rose from the dead, we know that death isn't the end of our story either. Because He conquered sin, we know our mistakes don't define us forever. Because He appeared to His frightened, confused disciples and gave them new purpose, we know He can do the same for us no matter how old we are or how many times we've failed.

The beautiful thing about these final chapters is how they show us that God can bring good out of the worst situations. The cross looked like the ultimate tragedy, but it became the source of our salvation. Peter's denial seemed like the end of his usefulness, but Jesus restored him and made him a leader in the early church. When we face our own dark nights - whether they're health scares, family problems, or just the ordinary struggles of getting older - we can remember that our God specializes in resurrection. He's the expert at bringing new life out of what looks dead and hope out of what seems hopeless.

Quotes

D.L. Moody: "The resurrection of Christ is one of the best attested facts in history. There were so many witnesses to behold Him after He arose that if we should reject their testimony we should reject all the evidence of history."

John Chrysostom: "Let no one fear death, for the Death of our Savior has set us free. He has destroyed death by enduring it. He destroyed Hell when He descended into it."

Biblical Connections

Isaiah 53:5 - "By his wounds we are healed" is fulfilled at the cross

Psalm 22:1 - "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" echoes Jesus' cry from the cross

1 Corinthians 15:20 - "Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep"

Romans 6:4 - "We were buried with him through baptism into death in order that we too may live a new life"

Revelation 1:18 - "I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever!"

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When life feels overwhelming or we wonder if God really understands what we're going through, we can look at the cross and know that He does. Jesus didn't just observe our pain from heaven - He experienced it Himself. And when we're afraid of what the future holds or worry about our own mortality, we can look at the empty tomb and remember that our future is secure in the hands of the One who conquered death. Whatever we're facing today, we can trust that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is working in our lives, bringing hope out of despair and new life out of old struggles.

Culture Connection

Today we try hard to avoid pain and hide from hard truths. We look for quick fixes to our problems—new pills, new hobbies, or social media distractions. But John 18–21 shows us that real hope comes through the cross and the empty tomb. Jesus faced suffering and death head-on, then rose again in victory. In a culture that often denies pain or ignores loss, this story reminds us that God meets us in our darkest moments and brings new life from defeat.

Changed Life

Believing in Jesus’ death and resurrection changes how we face our own struggles. Instead of shrinking back from hard days, we can lean into God’s strength. For example, a senior dealing with chronic illness might share their story of hope with others in the waiting room, pointing them to Jesus rather than just talking about pain. Or someone who lost a spouse could choose to pray and trust in the promise of eternal life, finding peace instead of despair. Our words and actions begin to reflect the victory we have in Christ every day.

Session 15: That You May Believe—John’s Final Word — John 20:30–31

Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Focus: John declares his purpose: that we may believe and have life in Jesus.
Purpose: To reflect on our personal response to Jesus and renew our commitment to faith.

What to Look For

Notice how John steps back from telling stories to explain why he wrote them. Pay attention to what John says about believing and what that believing produces. Watch for how these two simple verses tie together everything we've studied in John's Gospel.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you think back over your years of faith, what has convinced you most that Jesus really is who He claimed to be?

If someone asked you what difference believing in Jesus has made in your life, what would be the first thing that comes to mind?

Scripture — John 20:30–31 (NLT)

Overview

After telling us about Jesus' miracles, teachings, death, and resurrection, John stops to tell us why he wrote it all down. He wasn't just recording history or telling interesting stories. He had a specific goal in mind - that people would believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and through that believing would find real life. These two verses are like John's mission statement for his entire Gospel. Everything he included was chosen to help us see who Jesus really is and to trust Him completely. For those of us who have been believers for many years, these verses remind us that faith isn't just something we decided once long ago - it's something we live out every day.

This May Surprise You

John says he wrote so that we "may believe," but the word he uses can mean either "begin to believe" or "continue believing." John wasn't just writing for people who had never heard of Jesus. He was also writing for people like us - believers who need to be reminded of what we believe and why it matters. Even after decades of following Jesus, we still need to hear these stories again. Our faith doesn't grow stale because we've heard about Jesus too many times. It grows stronger as we see new depths in familiar truths and remember why we trusted Him in the first place.

Seeds for Thought

"Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples" (John 20:30) Comment: John only shared a small portion of what Jesus did. There's always more to discover about who Jesus is and how He works.

"These are written that you may believe" (John 20:31) Comment: Every story John included was carefully chosen to build our faith and help us trust Jesus more completely.

"That Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God" (John 20:31) Comment: John wants us to understand both Jesus' role as the promised Savior and His identity as God's Son.

"That by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31) Comment: Faith isn't just about agreeing with facts about Jesus. It's about receiving the new kind of life that only He can give.

"In his name" (John 20:31) Comment: This life comes not through our own efforts or goodness, but through the power and authority of Jesus alone.

Take-Home Thought

As we finish our journey through John's Gospel, it's worth asking ourselves John's key question: do we really believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God? Not just in our heads, but in the way we live our daily lives. After all these years of church attendance and Bible study, has our believing grown deeper or has it become more of a habit?

The beautiful promise in these verses is that believing in Jesus gives us life - not just eternal life in heaven someday, but abundant life right now. This doesn't mean life without problems or struggles. It means life with purpose, hope, and the deep peace that comes from knowing we belong to God. At any age and in any circumstance, this life is available to us through faith in Jesus. Whether we're just beginning to follow Him or have been walking with Him for decades, there's always more life to be discovered, more grace to experience, and more reasons to trust Him completely.

Quotes

Augustine: "You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you. This is the life that John promises to all who believe."

J.I. Packer: "The Gospel of John was written to help us not merely to believe certain things about Jesus, but to believe into Jesus - to commit ourselves to Him as the way, the truth, and the life."

Biblical Connections

John 3:16 - "That whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" echoes the promise of life through faith

1 John 5:13 - "I write these things to you who believe so that you may know that you have eternal life" shows John's continued purpose

Romans 10:9 - "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart" connects to believing Jesus is the Son of God

John 1:12 - "To all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God"

Acts 4:12 - "Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven" emphasizes life in Jesus' name

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we wonder if our faith still matters after all these years, or if God is still working in our lives now that we're older, we can remember that John wrote his Gospel for believers like us who need to keep believing. Our faith journey doesn't end when we first trust Jesus - it continues to grow and deepen as long as we live. Every day gives us new opportunities to experience the life that Jesus promises to all who believe in Him. Whether we're facing health challenges, family concerns, or just the ordinary struggles of daily life, we can trust that the same Jesus who performed miracles for His first disciples is still working in our lives today, giving us the abundant life that only comes through faith in His name.

Culture Connection

We live in a world full of news updates, social media feeds, and to-do lists that keep us busy. Many of us chase facts, numbers, and quick fixes for our problems. John ends his Gospel by saying his purpose is that we may believe and have life in Jesus. This reminds us that faith isn’t just a set of rules or ideas. It’s a gift we receive that changes everything about how we live and see the world.

Changed Life

When we choose to believe in Jesus, our days begin to look different. Instead of rushing from one activity to the next, we pause to pray or read God’s Word. A retiree might start each morning by thanking Jesus for new life and end each evening by sharing a short verse with a friend. As our faith grows, we speak words of hope, serve others with joy, and face challenges knowing that Jesus offers us true and lasting life.

Session 1: Word Made Flesh—Jesus Before Time — John 1:1–18

Session 2: Come and See—The Invitation to Follow — John 1:19–51

Session 3: Water to Wine, Heart to Faith—Jesus’ Miracles Begin — John 2

Session 4: Born Again—Nicodemus and New Life — John 3:1–21

Session 5: Living Water—Breaking Barriers at the Well — John 4

Session 6: Healing and Honor—Jesus Confronts Tradition — John 5

Session 7: Bread of Life—Feeding Faith, Not Just Hunger — John 6

Session 8: Light in the Darkness—Who Is Jesus? — John 7–8

Session 9: The Good Shepherd—Known, Loved, Led — John 9–10

Session 10: The Resurrection and the Life—Hope Beyond the Grave — John 11

Session 11: Love Poured Out—Jesus Washes Feet and Hearts — John 12–13

Session 12: Peace and the Spirit—Jesus’ Comforting Words — John 14–15

Session 13: Unity and Glory—Jesus’ Final Prayer — John 16–17

Session 14: Cross and Crown—The Passion and Resurrection — John 18–21

Session 15: That You May Believe—John’s Final Word — John 20:30–31

Gospel of John

"learning to praising God with our firm conviction in His resurrection power"

Book Overview

The Gospel of John stands out as a deeply spiritual account of Jesus Christ's life, teachings, and purpose. Unlike the other Gospels, John focuses on the divinity of Jesus, presenting Him as the eternal Word—“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). Its purpose is clear: “But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31). John invites every reader—both new and lifelong believers—to a fresh vision of faith, hope, and eternal life.

Five Subjects of Interest

In John’s Gospel, we encounter some of the most profound themes in all scripture:

The deity of Jesus Christ—John boldly claims Jesus shares in God’s very nature.

Eternal life—John explores what it means to receive new, abundant, and everlasting life here and now through faith in Christ.

Love and relationships—The call to “love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12) forms the heartbeat of genuine Christian living.

The Holy Spirit—John details Jesus' promise of the Comforter, guiding believers into truth and empowering daily walk.

Personal encounters—Stories like Nicodemus, the Samaritan woman, and the raising of Lazarus illustrate life-changing meetings with Jesus.

Timeless Wisdom for Today

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16) remains one of the best-loved verses in all Scripture—offering assurance, purpose, and a foundation for hope. The Gospel of John is filled with promises that speak directly to our fears, doubts, and deepest questions. As R.C. Sproul noted, “We are secure, not because we hold tightly to Jesus, but because He holds tightly to us”. Reading John reminds us of the love that upholds us and the truth that brings light in life's darkest seasons.

Practical Applications in Christian Living

John encourages believers not just to know about Christ, but to live in his presence and model his love. Through John’s record of Jesus’ gentle compassion, courageous truth, and self-giving service, we find patterns for daily life—caring for others, seeking God’s guidance, and bravely sharing our faith. John’s Gospel reminds us that true Christian living flows out of relationship: “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

Why This Book Matters

Every generation returns to John for renewal, guidance, and comfort. Church historian Irenaeus observed, “This Gospel is full of all confidence, for such is His person”. As we study, John will stretch our understanding, deepen our experience, and call us to trust in the Savior more fully. Whether you are seeking assurance, inspiration, or wisdom for today’s challenges, the Gospel of John promises a fresh experience of “real life in his name”.

Let us approach this extraordinary book expecting not just to learn, but to encounter Christ anew—and to discover why John's Gospel has inspired hearts and transformed lives for nearly two thousand years.

(another approach to John)

The Gospel of John presents Jesus as the divine Son of God, emphasizing His identity through miraculous signs and profound teachings. Unlike the Synoptic Gospels, John focuses on Jesus' relationship with the Father and the promise of eternal life for those who believe. As Jesus declares, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6).

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Session 1: "In the Beginning—Jesus, the Word of God"- John 1:1–18

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Focus- John introduces Jesus as the eternal Word—divine, life-giving, and full of grace and truth.

READ: John 1:1–18 (Prologue: Jesus as the Word, Light, and Life)

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OVERVIEW:

John 1:1-18 is a profound introduction to the Gospel of John that presents Jesus as the eternal Word of God who existed from the very beginning. These verses highlight the divinity of Jesus, His role in creation, and His incarnation as the light and life of humanity. John emphasizes the transforming power of Jesus, who brings grace and truth, and reveals God to the world. This passage sets the stage for understanding Jesus' identity and mission throughout the rest of the Gospel.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 1:1-3 – The Word in the Beginning: John opens his Gospel with the powerful declaration that "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). This statement affirms the eternal existence and divinity of Jesus, who is referred to as the Word (Greek: "Logos"). John emphasizes that Jesus was with God from the very beginning and that all things were made through Him. This establishes Jesus' central role in creation and His divine nature. As theologian N.T. Wright explains, "The Word shares in the life and purposes of the one true God."

John 1:4-5 – The Light of Humanity: John continues by describing Jesus as the source of life and light for all humanity. "In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it" (John 1:4-5). This imagery of light and darkness highlights the transforming power of Jesus, who brings life and hope to a world overshadowed by sin and darkness. The light of Jesus is invincible, overcoming all forms of darkness.

John 1:6-8 – The Witness of John the Baptist: John introduces John the Baptist as a witness to the light, sent by God to testify about Jesus so that all might believe through him. John clarifies that John the Baptist was not the light but came to bear witness to the light. "There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe" (John 1:6-7). This underscores the importance of testimony in leading others to faith in Jesus.

John 1:9-13 – The True Light and Belief: John describes Jesus as the true light that gives light to everyone, coming into the world. Despite being the Creator, Jesus was not recognized or received by His own people. However, to those who did receive Him and believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God. "Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12). This emphasizes the gift of new life and identity that comes through faith in Jesus.

John 1:14 – The Word Became Flesh: John makes the profound statement that "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth" (John 1:14). This verse highlights the incarnation of Jesus, who took on human form and lived among us, revealing the glory of God. Pastor Timothy Keller notes, "The Word became flesh; God became vulnerable. He took on the weaknesses and limitations of a human body out of love for us."

John 1:15-18 – Grace and Truth through Jesus: John the Baptist testifies to the greatness of Jesus, proclaiming that He is greater because He existed before him. John explains that from the fullness of Jesus, we have all received grace upon grace. The law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. "For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ" (John 1:17). John concludes by stating that no one has ever seen God, but Jesus, the one and only Son, has made Him known. This emphasizes the unique role of Jesus in revealing God's character and bringing grace and truth to humanity.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever tried to explain something really important to someone, but struggled to find the right words? Think about when you first held your grandchild or saw a beautiful sunset - how did you put those feelings into words?"

+ Consider this quote from a grandmother: "When I first held my grandson, I kept saying 'He's perfect, he's just perfect!' But those simple words couldn't capture the overwhelming love and joy I felt. Sometimes the deepest truths need more than just words to be understood."

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THINK ABOUT THIS: The Power of the Word

Have you ever sat in the quiet of the morning, just before the sun rises, and felt the stillness of a new day? In that quiet moment, before the world wakes up, there is a sense of expectation—something is about to begin.

John 1:1 tells us, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God." Just as creation had a beginning, so our faith begins with Jesus, the Word of God. This passage reminds us that Jesus was not an afterthought or a last-minute plan. He was there from the very start, bringing light, life, and hope into the world.

Think back to a time when a kind word changed your day. Maybe someone encouraged you when you felt down. Maybe a Bible verse spoke to your heart just when you needed it. Words have power! They can build up or tear down, give hope or cause harm. If our simple human words can have such an impact, imagine how powerful the Word of God is!

Jesus, as the Word, speaks life into our weary souls. When we feel lost, He guides us. When we feel broken, He heals us. When we feel alone, He reminds us that He is always with us.

Quotes to Reflect On:

— “The Bible is not the Word of God because it speaks about Jesus, but because it speaks Jesus himself.” — Dietrich Bonhoeffer

— “God never gives someone a gift they are not capable of receiving. If He gives us the gift of Christmas, it is because we all have the ability to understand and receive it.” — Pope Francis

— “The Christian life is not about finding our own way, but about following the One who has always been the Way.” — Unknown

A Question to Ponder:

Can you remember a time when God's Word brought you comfort or clarity? How does knowing that Jesus has been with us since the very beginning encourage your faith today?

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 1:1-18 by recognizing and embracing the profound identity of Jesus as the eternal Word of God. Understanding that Jesus is not only the Creator but also the source of life and light can inspire us to deepen our relationship with Him through prayer, worship, and studying His Word. By acknowledging Jesus' divinity and His role in creation, we can better appreciate His love and sacrifice for us, leading us to live lives that reflect His grace and truth.

One practical way to APPLY THIS CONTENT: is by actively seeking to be a light in the world, as Jesus is the light that shines in the darkness. This involves demonstrating love, kindness, and compassion in our interactions with others, and being a positive influence in our communities. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." By living out the light of Christ, we can point others to Him and bring glory to God.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "In the Beginning—Jesus, the Word of God"- John 1:1–18

Recognition of Jesus as Divine→Understanding Jesus as the eternal Word who was with God and is God, acknowledging His divinity.→John 1:1

Appreciation of Jesus’ Role in Creation→Realizing Jesus’ active involvement in creation and sustaining all things through Him.→John 1:3

Acceptance of Jesus as Light→Embracing Jesus as the true Light that shines in the darkness, providing spiritual illumination.→John 1:4–5

Receiving and Believing in Jesus→Responding to Jesus by receiving Him personally and believing in His name for salvation and identity.→John 1:12

Becoming Children of God→Experiencing spiritual rebirth and adoption as children of God through faith in Jesus Christ.→John 1:12–13

Witnessing to the Truth→Living as a witness to Jesus Christ, testifying to His glory and grace as the only begotten Son.→John 1:14, 17

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 1:1-18 reveals His desire for humanity to know and experience His love through Jesus, the Word made flesh. These verses highlight the significance of Jesus' incarnation, His role in creation, and His mission to bring light and life to a dark and broken world. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on the identity of Jesus as the eternal Word of God, we are reminded of the transforming power of His presence in our lives. The incarnation of Jesus demonstrates God's willingness to enter into our humanity, to walk with us, and to bring us into a relationship with Him. This intimate connection with the Creator encourages us to live with a sense of purpose and intentionality, knowing that our lives are part of God's greater plan.

By applying these truths in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the identity of Jesus as the Word of God not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to be His light in the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

"In John 1:1, why do you think John chose to begin his gospel with 'In the beginning was the Word' instead of starting with Jesus's birth like other gospels?"

– This helps participants connect Genesis 1:1 with John 1:1, showing Jesus's eternal nature and His role in creation. It emphasizes that Jesus wasn't just born in Bethlehem - He has always existed.

"What does it mean to you that Jesus is called 'the Word' of God? How does this help us understand who He is?"

– This encourages reflection on how Jesus perfectly expresses who God is - just as our words express our thoughts, Jesus "expresses" the Father to us. He makes the invisible God visible.

"Look at verses 4-5: 'In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.' What everyday examples of light overcoming darkness can we think of that help us understand this truth?"

– This question brings abstract concepts down to practical understanding. Participants might mention how even a small flashlight cuts through complete darkness, or how a single candle can light a room.

"In verse 14, John says 'The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.' Why do you think God chose to communicate with us by becoming human instead of just speaking from heaven?"

– This helps seniors reflect on the intimacy and humility of the incarnation - God didn't just send a message, He sent Himself in person to live among us.

"Looking at verses 16-17, what's the difference between the law given through Moses and the grace and truth that came through Jesus Christ?"

– This question helps explore the progression of God's revelation, from the written law to the living Word, and how Jesus fulfills rather than abolishes the law.

What to Look For

Pay attention to the repeated themes of “light” and “life.” What do they reveal about Jesus’ mission and nature?

Notice the contrast between those who received Jesus and those who did not. What does John say about the right to become children of God?

Observe how John describes Jesus' glory. What do we learn about grace and truth through Him?

Personal Reflection Questions

When you think of beginnings—whether of your life, your faith, or a new chapter—how do you see God’s hand at work?

If someone asked you, “Who is Jesus to you?”—how would your answer compare with the majestic description in these verses?

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Session 2: "Come and See—Jesus Calls Disciples"- John 1:19–51

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Focus- Jesus begins gathering followers—not with force, but with invitation. His call is personal, transformational, and still echoes today: “Come and see.”

READ: John 1:19–51 (John the Baptist’s testimony, first disciples follow Jesus)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 1:19-51, the Apostle John records the beginnings of Jesus' public ministry by highlighting the testimony of John the Baptist and the calling of Jesus' first disciples. John the Baptist identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God, and several individuals begin to follow Jesus based on his testimony. Through personal encounters and invitations, Jesus calls His first disciples, including Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael. These verses emphasize the transforming power of recognizing and following Jesus, and the importance of personal testimony in leading others to Christ.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 1:19-28 – John the Baptist's Testimony: The Jewish leaders send priests and Levites to ask John the Baptist who he is. John clearly states that he is not the Messiah, Elijah, or the Prophet. Instead, he identifies himself as "the voice of one calling in the wilderness, 'Make straight the way for the Lord'" (John 1:23), quoting Isaiah 40:3. John explains that he baptizes with water, but among them stands one they do not know, who is greater than him and whose sandal he is not worthy to untie. This introduces Jesus as someone far greater than John, who prepares the way for the Messiah.

John 1:29-34 – Behold, the Lamb of God: The next day, John the Baptist sees Jesus coming toward him and declares, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" (John 1:29). He testifies that Jesus is the one he spoke about, and that he saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on Him. John affirms that he did not know Jesus was the Messiah until this revelation. "I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One" (John 1:34). This moment underscores the divine revelation of Jesus' identity and mission as the sacrificial Lamb who takes away sin.

John 1:35-42 – The First Disciples: The following day, John the Baptist is with two of his disciples when he sees Jesus passing by and again exclaims, "Look, the Lamb of God!" (John 1:36). The two disciples, Andrew and another, follow Jesus. Jesus asks them what they want, and they address Him as Rabbi (Teacher). Jesus invites them to come and see where He is staying, and they spend the day with Him. Andrew then finds his brother Simon and tells him, "We have found the Messiah" (John 1:41). He brings Simon to Jesus, who names him Cephas (Peter). This encounter highlights the power of personal testimony and invitation in leading others to Jesus.

John 1:43-51 – Philip and Nathanael: The next day, Jesus decides to leave for Galilee and finds Philip, saying, "Follow me" (John 1:43). Philip, like Andrew and Peter, is from the town of Bethsaida. Philip finds Nathanael and tells him they have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, Jesus of Nazareth. Nathanael is initially skeptical, saying, "Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Philip responds, "Come and see" (John 1:46). When Jesus sees Nathanael, He describes him as an Israelite without deceit. Nathanael is amazed that Jesus saw him under the fig tree before Philip called him and declares, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel" (John 1:49). Jesus tells Nathanael that he will see greater things, including heaven open and angels ascending and descending on the Son of Man. This encounter illustrates the transforming power of Jesus' knowledge and presence, leading to a declaration of faith.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever received an invitation that changed your life?"

+ "Think about Martha down the hall who received an invitation to volunteer at the community center after her husband passed away. That simple 'come and see' invitation led her to find new purpose and friendships. Sometimes, one invitation can open the door to something life-changing – just like when Jesus invited his first disciples to 'come and see.'"

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THINK ABOUT THIS: "Come and See—Jesus Calls Disciples" (John 1:19–51)

Imagine a time when you were invited to something that changed your life—a church service, a family gathering, or a conversation that helped you see things differently. Maybe it was a moment when you realized you were loved, welcomed, or called to something greater.

In John 1:19–51, Jesus extends a simple but powerful invitation: "Come and see." He doesn’t force, argue, or pressure—He invites. Andrew, Simon Peter, Philip, and Nathanael all come to know Jesus because someone introduced them, and Jesus met them where they were.

Think about your own journey of faith. Who first invited you to "come and see" Jesus? Maybe it was a parent, a friend, or a Sunday school teacher. Just like the first disciples, we are invited to experience Jesus personally and then share Him with others.

Quotes to Reflect On

"Evangelism is just one beggar telling another beggar where to find bread." —D.T. Niles

"Jesus doesn’t call the qualified; He qualifies the called." —Unknown

"You can’t lead someone where you haven’t been. Follow Jesus, then invite others to do the same."

A Closing Thought

Jesus’ invitation still stands today. No matter where you are in life, He calls you to come, see, and follow. And just like the first disciples, you don’t have to have it all figured out—you just have to say yes.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 1:19-51 by recognizing the importance of personal testimony and invitation in leading others to Christ. Just as John the Baptist and the early disciples shared their experiences and invited others to "come and see," we too can share our faith with those around us. This can be done through simple acts of kindness, sharing our personal stories of how Jesus has impacted our lives, and inviting friends and family to church or Bible study. As Jesus said in John 1:39, "Come, and you will see." This highlights the power of personal invitation in introducing others to the life-transforming love of Jesus.

Embracing the call to follow Jesus and recognizing Him as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This involves surrendering our lives to Him, seeking to live in obedience to His teachings, and allowing His light to shine through us. As theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, "When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die." This means that following Jesus may require us to make sacrifices, but it also brings the promise of abundant life and eternal hope.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Come and See—Jesus Calls Disciples"- John 1:19–51

Seeking Truth with Openness→Demonstrating a willingness to inquire and discern the identity of Jesus with an open heart.→John 1:19–23

Recognizing Jesus as the Messiah→Identifying Jesus as the promised Christ and believing in His divine mission.→John 1:29, 41

Responding to Jesus’ Call→Willingly following Jesus when He calls, leaving behind old ways and priorities.→John 1:43–44

Inviting Others to Encounter Jesus→Sharing the discovery of Jesus with others, encouraging them to “come and see.”→John 1:45–46

Growing in Personal Relationship with Jesus→Deepening intimacy with Jesus through personal encounters and conversations.→John 1:47–48

Confessing Jesus as the Son of God→Boldly acknowledging Jesus’ identity as the Son of God, indicating growing faith.→John 1:49

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 1:19-51 reveals His desire for humanity to know and follow Jesus, the Lamb of God. These verses emphasize the significance of personal testimony and invitation, as well as the transforming power of recognizing and following Jesus. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find purpose and direction in our relationship with Christ.

As we reflect on the calling of the first disciples, we are reminded that Jesus continues to invite each of us to follow Him. This invitation is not just a one-time decision but a daily commitment to walk in His ways and to grow in our relationship with Him. The encounters described in this passage highlight the power of personal testimony and the impact that one person's faith can have on others. By sharing our faith and inviting others to experience Jesus, we participate in God's redemptive work and help spread the light of Christ in a dark world.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the invitation to follow Jesus and sharing that invitation with others not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to be His light in the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. "In verses 35-39, why do you think Jesus responded to the disciples' question with 'Come and see' instead of just telling them where he was staying?"

– This response from Jesus shows He wasn't just interested in giving information – He wanted to offer an experience, a relationship. It's similar to how we might invite someone to dinner rather than just telling them about the meal. Jesus was inviting them into His life, not just His location.

2. "Andrew immediately went to find his brother Simon Peter (verses 40-42). Why do you think sharing good news with family is often our first instinct?"

– This highlights the natural desire to share life-changing discoveries with those closest to us. Andrew's actions demonstrate how genuine encounters with Jesus create an immediate desire to share with others.

3. "Look at verse 46, when Nathanael asks, 'Can anything good come from Nazareth?' How does Philip's response of 'Come and see' mirror Jesus's earlier invitation?"

– Philip uses the same approach Jesus did – not arguing or defending, but simply inviting Nathanael to experience for himself. This shows how the disciples were already learning from Jesus's method of evangelism.

4. "Throughout this passage, we see a chain reaction of people bringing others to Jesus. How might this pattern apply to our own lives today?"

– This question helps seniors reflect on their own role in sharing faith with others, emphasizing that evangelism often happens through simple invitations and personal relationships rather than complex arguments.

5. Would you like me to provide more questions or modify any of these to better suit your group's needs?

What to Look For

Watch how John the Baptist points others to Jesus. How does his role prepare hearts for the Messiah?

Notice the different ways people respond when they first meet Jesus. What questions do they ask? What do they call Him?

Look for the ripple effect of personal testimony. Who brings whom to Jesus—and what does that tell us about sharing faith?

Personal Reflection Questions

Who first invited you to “come and see” Jesus? What impact did that have on your life?

If Jesus looked at you today and said, “Follow me,” how would that invitation challenge or encourage you right now?

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Session 3: "Signs and Wonders—The First Miracles of Jesus"- John 2–3

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Focus- Jesus’ first signs reveal His divine authority and deeper purpose. His miracles point beyond the moment—to transformation, new life, and belief.

READ: John 2–3 (Water to wine, temple cleansing, Nicodemus & being born again)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 2-3, the Apostle John recounts the beginning of Jesus' public ministry and the first signs and miracles He performed. Chapter 2 describes the miracle at the wedding in Cana, where Jesus turns water into wine, revealing His divine power. This chapter also includes the cleansing of the temple, where Jesus drives out the merchants and money changers, emphasizing the sanctity of God's house. In Chapter 3, we see the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus, a Pharisee who seeks to understand Jesus' teachings. Here, Jesus explains the necessity of being born again and God's profound love for the world, culminating in the well-known verse, John 3:16.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 2:1-11 – The Wedding at Cana: The first miracle Jesus performs is at a wedding in Cana of Galilee. When the wine runs out, Jesus' mother informs Him, and He responds, "My hour has not yet come" (John 2:4). Nevertheless, Jesus instructs the servants to fill six stone water jars with water, which He then turns into wine. This miracle reveals Jesus' divine authority and compassion, providing abundantly for the wedding guests. The miraculous wine, described as being of superior quality, symbolizes the new and abundant life Jesus offers. As theologian N.T. Wright comments, "In the transformation of water into wine, Jesus shows that He is doing something radically new, bringing in the new creation that God had always intended."

John 2:12-25 – Cleansing the Temple: After the miracle at Cana, Jesus travels to Jerusalem for the Passover. He finds people selling animals and exchanging money in the temple courts, turning it into a marketplace. Jesus makes a whip out of cords and drives out the merchants and money changers, saying, "Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!" (John 2:16). This act demonstrates Jesus' zeal for the purity and sanctity of worship. It also foreshadows His ultimate sacrifice, as He refers to His body as the temple that will be destroyed and raised in three days. This shows Jesus' authority over the temple and His role in bringing true worship. Pastor John Piper notes, "Jesus' action in the temple reveals His passion for reverent worship and His authority to purify God's house."

John 3:1-15 – Jesus and Nicodemus: Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, visits Jesus at night to learn more about His teachings. Jesus tells Nicodemus that no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. Nicodemus is confused, asking how someone can be born when they are old. Jesus explains that being born again means being born of water and the Spirit. He emphasizes the need for spiritual rebirth and the mysterious work of the Holy Spirit. "Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit" (John 3:5). This conversation highlights the transforming power of spiritual rebirth and the necessity of faith in Jesus.

John 3:16-21 – God's Love for the World: In this passage, Jesus explains the profound love of God for humanity, culminating in the famous verse, John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Jesus emphasizes that He came into the world not to condemn it but to save it. He calls people to believe in Him, stating that those who believe will have eternal life, while those who reject Him stand condemned. This passage underscores the central message of the gospel—the offer of salvation through faith in Jesus and the demonstration of God's immense love for humanity.

John 3:22-36 – John the Baptist's Testimony About Jesus: After the encounter with Nicodemus, John describes how Jesus and His disciples spend time baptizing people in the Judean countryside. During this time, John the Baptist continues his ministry of baptizing and testifying about Jesus. When John's disciples express concern about Jesus gaining more followers, John responds with humility, acknowledging that his role is to prepare the way for Jesus. "He must become greater; I must become less" (John 3:30). John the Baptist testifies that Jesus is from above and speaks the words of God, emphasizing the importance of believing in Him for eternal life. This passage highlights the selfless dedication of John the Baptist and the supremacy of Jesus.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever been to a celebration that didn't go as planned? What happened, and how was the situation saved?"

+ "Picture this: At a 50th wedding anniversary celebration, the caterer's van broke down with all the food inside. Just when everyone started to worry, the neighbors from three houses down showed up with trays of homemade dishes they'd prepared for their own family reunion. What seemed like a disaster turned into an even more memorable celebration of community and God's provision."

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THINK ABOUT THIS

Have you ever witnessed something so amazing that it left you in awe? Maybe it was a beautiful sunset that painted the sky with colors beyond imagination, or perhaps it was the birth of a child—so small, yet so full of life. These moments remind us that there are things beyond our understanding, things that point to a greater power at work.

In John 2, Jesus performs His first miracle at a wedding in Cana, turning water into wine. This wasn’t just about saving the wedding feast—it was a sign. It revealed His power and pointed to something greater: that He is the Son of God. Later, in John 3, Jesus speaks to Nicodemus about another miracle—the miracle of being “born again.” Just as He transformed water into wine, He transforms hearts and lives through faith in Him.

Think about this: Have you ever experienced a time when God did something unexpected in your life? Maybe He provided for you when you didn’t know how things would work out. Maybe He gave you peace in a difficult moment. These are signs of His love and presence in our lives.

A Quote to Reflect On:

"Miracles are not contrary to nature, but only contrary to what we know about nature." — Saint Augustine

Jesus’ miracles weren’t just for the people who saw them in person. They remind us today that God is still at work, changing hearts, renewing lives, and giving us hope. Where do you see signs of His power in your own life?

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 2-3 by recognizing the significance of Jesus' miracles and teachings in their lives. The miracle at the wedding in Cana demonstrates Jesus' compassion and His ability to provide abundantly in times of need. This encourages us to trust in His provision and to bring our concerns to Him in prayer. As Philippians 4:19 states, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." By relying on Jesus' provision, we can experience His abundant grace in our daily lives.

Additionally, the cleansing of the temple highlights the importance of reverence and purity in our worship. We are reminded to examine our own lives and ensure that we are honoring God with our actions and attitudes. Jesus' encounter with Nicodemus emphasizes the necessity of being born again through the Holy Spirit, encouraging us to seek a deeper spiritual rebirth and renewal. As Pastor Charles Spurgeon once said, "The new birth is the work of the Holy Spirit, and it is a great mystery; but it is a glorious reality." By seeking the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, we can grow in our faith and relationship with God.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Signs and Wonders—The First Miracles of Jesus"- John 2–3

Faith in Jesus’ Power→Trusting in Jesus’ divine authority demonstrated through miracles, such as turning water into wine.→John 2:1–11

Belief in Jesus as the Son of God→Accepting Jesus’ identity and mission, as affirmed by His miraculous signs and teachings.→John 2:18–22

Seeking Spiritual Rebirth→Embracing the need for being “born again” to enter the kingdom of God, as taught by Jesus.→John 3:3

Openness to Jesus’ Teaching→Listening to and pondering Jesus’ words about eternal life and God’s love.→John 3:16–21

Growing Understanding of God’s Love→Realizing the depth of God’s love in sending His Son for salvation and judgment.→John 3:16–17

Responding to Jesus with Faith→Choosing to believe in Jesus and His message, leading to spiritual transformation.→John 3:36

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 2-3 reveals His desire for humanity to experience His transforming power and abundant grace through Jesus Christ. These chapters highlight the significance of Jesus' miracles, teachings, and encounters with individuals, demonstrating His authority and compassion. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on the first miracles of Jesus, we are reminded of His divine authority and His deep concern for our needs. The miracle at Cana encourages us to trust in Jesus' provision and to bring our concerns to Him in prayer. The cleansing of the temple challenges us to maintain the purity and reverence of our worship, ensuring that our actions and attitudes honor God. Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus underscores the importance of spiritual rebirth and renewal, inviting us to seek a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the signs and wonders of Jesus' ministry not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His love and grace with the world.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. "In the wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11), why do you think Jesus chose this particular moment and setting for His first miracle?"

– This miracle reveals Jesus' compassion for ordinary human concerns. He didn't choose a grand public spectacle but rather helped a family avoid embarrassment at their celebration. It also shows how Jesus sanctifies our everyday joys and demonstrates His power over creation itself.

2. "Notice how Mary responds when the wine runs out. What does her interaction with Jesus and the servants tell us about her faith?"

– Mary's simple statement "They have no wine" shows her confidence in Jesus' ability to help. Her instruction to the servants - "Do whatever He tells you" - demonstrates complete trust in His wisdom, even when His initial response seemed reluctant.

3. “In John 2:13-22, Jesus cleanses the temple. How does this action differ from the wedding miracle, and what does it tell us about different aspects of Jesus' ministry?"

– While the wedding miracle was quiet and personal, the temple cleansing was public and confrontational. Together, they show Jesus as both compassionate friend and righteous judge, caring about both our celebrations and our worship.

4. "Looking at Nicodemus's nighttime visit (John 3:1-21), what similarities do you see between his spiritual journey and your own?"

– Like many of us, Nicodemus came with questions and uncertainty. Jesus met him where he was but challenged him to think beyond his current understanding. The conversation shows how Jesus can take our intellectual questions and turn them into opportunities for spiritual transformation.

What to Look For

Notice the significance of Jesus’ first miracle at the wedding. Why water into wine? What does it show about His character and mission?

Watch how people respond to Jesus’ signs, including Nicodemus. What does belief look like in these early encounters?

Pay attention to the conversation about being “born again.” What does Jesus teach about spiritual rebirth and the work of the Spirit?

Personal Reflection Questions

When have you seen God work in ways that surprised or stretched your understanding of Him?

What part of your life might Jesus want to change “water into wine”—to transform the ordinary into something sacred and new?

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Session 4: "Living Water and True Worship"- John 4

Printable Download

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Focus- Jesus meets a Samaritan woman at a well and offers her living water—an invitation to eternal life and authentic worship that crosses every barrier.

READ: John 4 (Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, healing the official’s son)

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OVERVIEW:

John 4 presents the story of Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well, highlighting His offer of "living water" and the transforming power of true worship. Jesus intentionally travels through Samaria and engages in a profound conversation with the woman, breaking cultural and social barriers. Through this dialogue, Jesus reveals His identity as the Messiah and teaches about the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth. The chapter concludes with the healing of an official's son, demonstrating Jesus' power and compassion.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 4:1-6 – Jesus Travels to Samaria: Jesus learns that the Pharisees have heard about His growing ministry, and He decides to leave Judea and travel back to Galilee. On His way, He passes through Samaria and stops at Jacob's well in the town of Sychar. Tired from His journey, Jesus sits by the well, setting the stage for His encounter with the Samaritan woman. This journey highlights Jesus' intention to reach out to all people, regardless of social or ethnic boundaries.

John 4:7-14 – The Offer of Living Water: A Samaritan woman comes to draw water, and Jesus asks her for a drink. Surprised by His request, she points out the cultural barriers between Jews and Samaritans. Jesus responds by offering her "living water," which would quench her thirst forever. He explains, "Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life" (John 4:14). This symbolizes the spiritual satisfaction and eternal life that Jesus offers.

John 4:15-26 – The Revelation of True Worship: The woman expresses her desire for this living water, and Jesus asks her to call her husband. When she admits she has no husband, Jesus reveals His knowledge of her past, demonstrating His prophetic insight. The woman perceives Jesus as a prophet and raises the topic of worship, noting the differences between Jewish and Samaritan worship practices. Jesus responds by teaching that true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, saying, "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth" (John 4:24). This emphasizes the importance of genuine, heartfelt worship beyond physical locations and rituals.

John 4:27-42 – The Samaritan Woman's Testimony: The disciples return and are surprised to find Jesus speaking with the woman. She leaves her water jar and goes back to the town, telling the people to come and see a man who told her everything she ever did. Many Samaritans believe in Jesus because of her testimony, and they come to see Him for themselves. Jesus stays with them for two days, and many more believe because of His words. They declare, "We know that this man really is the Savior of the world" (John 4:42). This story highlights the impact of personal testimony and the inclusive nature of Jesus' mission.

John 4:43-54 – The Healing of the Official's Son: After leaving Samaria, Jesus returns to Galilee, where He is welcomed by the people. An official from Capernaum approaches Jesus, begging Him to heal his dying son. Jesus challenges the people's reliance on signs and wonders, but the official persists in his plea. Jesus tells him, "Go, your son will live" (John 4:50). The official believes Jesus' words and finds his son healed upon his return home. This miracle underscores the power of faith and Jesus' authority to heal.

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THINK ABOUT THIS:

Have you ever been really thirsty? Maybe you were working outside on a hot day, and all you could think about was getting a cold glass of water. Nothing else would satisfy that thirst—only water could truly refresh you.

In John 4, Jesus meets a woman at a well. She came to get water, but Jesus offered her something much greater—living water. He wasn’t talking about the kind of water we drink; He was talking about Himself. Only Jesus can satisfy the thirst in our hearts—the deep need we all have for love, purpose, and forgiveness.

Think about this: Are there things in life that you look to for satisfaction—things that don’t really last? Jesus invites us to come to Him, to worship in spirit and truth, and to find true fulfillment in a relationship with Him.

A Quote to Reflect On:

"You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You." — Saint Augustine

Just like the woman at the well, we all have a choice. Will we keep searching for meaning in things that don’t last, or will we accept the living water that Jesus offers? He is always ready to refresh our hearts and fill us with His love.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When was a time you were really thirsty - not just for a drink, but desperately thirsty? How did getting water finally feel?"

+ "A hiker named Sarah got lost in the Arizona desert for two days in the summer heat. When rescue workers found her, she said the first sip of water felt like 'pure life flowing into her body.' Her physical thirst helps us understand what spiritual thirst feels like."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 4 by recognizing the significance of Jesus' offer of "living water" and the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth. The story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman teaches us that Jesus offers a life-giving relationship that satisfies our deepest spiritual needs. As believers, we are called to seek this living water by developing a personal relationship with Jesus through prayer, studying the Bible, and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. Jesus said, "Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst" (John 4:14). This encourages us to rely on Jesus for spiritual fulfillment and to share this gift with others.

Additionally, the conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman highlights the importance of true worship. Jesus emphasizes that true worship is not confined to specific locations or rituals but is a matter of the heart, characterized by worshiping in spirit and truth. This challenges us to examine our own worship practices and to ensure that our worship is genuine and heartfelt. As theologian A.W. Tozer once said, "Worship is no longer worship when it reflects the culture around us more than the Christ within us." By prioritizing authentic worship, we can experience a deeper connection with God and grow in our faith.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Living Water and True Worship"- John 4

Seeking Spiritual Fulfillment→Recognizing the deeper thirst for eternal satisfaction beyond physical needs, symbolized by living water.→John 4:7–14

Breaking Social Barriers→Willingness to engage across cultural and social divides, as Jesus did with the Samaritan woman.→John 4:9, 27

Honest Self-Reflection→Confessing personal shortcomings and openness to transformation through encounter with Jesus.→John 4:16–18

Understanding True Worship→Learning that true worship is not about location but about worshiping God in spirit and truth.→John 4:23–24

Spiritual Awakening→Experiencing new insight and faith, leading to a personal testimony and evangelism.→John 4:28–30, 39–42

Recognizing Jesus as Messiah→Acknowledging Jesus as the promised Savior based on personal revelation and experience.→John 4:26

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 4 reveals His desire for humanity to experience the transforming power of Jesus' living water and to engage in true worship. These verses emphasize the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry, breaking down cultural and social barriers to offer eternal life to all who believe. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman, we are reminded of the boundless grace and love that Jesus extends to everyone, regardless of their background or past. This encounter encourages us to reach out to others with the same grace and to share the life-giving message of Jesus. The concept of living water challenges us to seek spiritual nourishment from Jesus and to rely on Him for our deepest needs. In turn, we are called to be conduits of this living water, sharing the hope and love of Christ with those around us.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to authentic worship and sharing the living water of Jesus not only strengthens our relationship with God but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the living water and true worship that Jesus offers not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to be His light in the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. "In verses 7-9, why do you think Jesus broke three cultural rules by talking to this woman? (She was a Samaritan, a woman, and had a questionable reputation)"

– Jesus shows us that God's love crosses all human barriers. He deliberately went through Samaria when most Jews would go around it. This teaches us that no one is beyond God's reach, and we shouldn't let social barriers stop us from sharing God's love.

2. "Jesus offers 'living water' (verses 13-14). What's the difference between the water in the well and the 'living water' Jesus offers?"

– The well water meets a temporary physical need - you'll get thirsty again. But Jesus offers something that satisfies our deepest spiritual needs forever. This living water represents eternal life and a relationship with God.

3. "Look at verses 20-24. The woman brings up worship locations - the mountain versus Jerusalem. How does Jesus change the conversation from 'where' to 'how' we should worship?"

– Jesus shifts the focus from physical places to spiritual truth. True worship isn't about a building or location - it's about worshiping "in spirit and truth." This means sincere worship from our hearts that's based on God's truth.

4. "In verses 28-30, what does the woman do after meeting Jesus? What can we learn from her example?"

– She leaves her water jar (her original purpose) and becomes one of the first evangelists in the Bible. She simply tells others what Jesus did for her. This shows that anyone can share their faith by telling their story of meeting Jesus.

What to Look For

Notice the cultural and social barriers Jesus breaks. Why is this conversation so unexpected?

Watch how the woman’s understanding of Jesus deepens. How does her perception change through the dialogue?

Pay attention to what Jesus teaches about worship. What does it mean to worship “in spirit and in truth”?

Personal Reflection Questions

What “wells” have you drawn from in life that never truly satisfied?

What would it look like for you to worship God with both heart and honesty this week?

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Session 5: "Healing on the Sabbath—Jesus Challenges Traditions"- John 5

Printable Download

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Focus- Jesus heals a man on the Sabbath, revealing both His compassion and His authority—sparking conflict with religious leaders over tradition and identity.

READ: John 5 (Healing at the pool, Jesus claims equality with God)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 5, the Apostle John recounts the story of Jesus healing a man at the Pool of Bethesda on the Sabbath, which leads to conflict with the Jewish religious leaders. This chapter highlights Jesus' authority over traditional laws and His divine mission. Through this healing miracle and subsequent discourse, Jesus reveals His identity as the Son of God, who has the power to give life and execute judgment. The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus and challenges rigid interpretations of religious traditions.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 5:1-9 – Healing at the Pool of Bethesda: Jesus visits Jerusalem for a Jewish festival and encounters a man who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years, lying by the Pool of Bethesda. The man hopes to be healed by entering the pool when the water is stirred, but he has no one to help him. Jesus sees the man's condition and asks, "Do you want to get well?" The man explains his predicament, and Jesus responds with a command, "Get up! Pick up your mat and walk" (John 5:8). Immediately, the man is healed, takes up his mat, and walks. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' compassion and His authority to heal, even in seemingly hopeless situations. As Pastor Charles Spurgeon once remarked, "There is no case too desperate for the power of Jesus."

John 5:10-18 – Conflict with Religious Leaders: The healing occurs on the Sabbath, and the Jewish leaders confront the man for carrying his mat, which they consider a violation of Sabbath law. When the man explains that Jesus healed him and instructed him to carry his mat, the leaders become more upset. They challenge Jesus, and He responds by stating, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working" (John 5:17). This claim of divine authority enrages the leaders further, as Jesus not only breaks the Sabbath but also calls God His Father, making Himself equal with God. This passage highlights the tension between Jesus and the religious leaders, emphasizing His divine identity and mission.

John 5:19-30 – Jesus Explains His Authority: In response to the leaders' accusations, Jesus explains His relationship with the Father and His divine authority. He states that He can do nothing by Himself but only what He sees the Father doing. Jesus emphasizes that just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son gives life to whom He is pleased to give it. He also explains that the Father has entrusted all judgment to the Son, so that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. "For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it" (John 5:21). This discourse reveals Jesus' unique relationship with the Father and His authority to give life and execute judgment.

John 5:31-47 – Testimonies About Jesus: Jesus presents multiple testimonies to validate His claims, including the witness of John the Baptist, His own works, the Father's testimony, and the Scriptures. He points out that the Jewish leaders have studied the Scriptures diligently, believing that in them they have eternal life, yet they refuse to come to Him for life. Jesus rebukes them for seeking glory from one another rather than from God and for failing to believe in the one whom Moses wrote about. "These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life" (John 5:39-40). This section underscores the importance of recognizing and accepting the testimonies about Jesus and believing in Him for eternal life.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: Breaking Barriers to Show Love

Imagine you are walking into a church service on a Sunday morning. Everyone is dressed in their best clothes, greeting one another, and preparing to worship. But just outside the door, there is a man sitting in a wheelchair. He is struggling to open the door, but no one stops to help because they are in a hurry to get inside.

Would you stop to help him, even if it meant being late for the service?

In John 5, Jesus saw a man who had been sick for 38 years. He was lying by the Pool of Bethesda, hoping for healing. Jesus could have waited until the next day to heal him, but instead, He healed him on the Sabbath, a day when Jewish leaders said no one should work—including healing. Jesus was showing that compassion is more important than tradition.

Sometimes, we get so caught up in doing things the “right” way that we forget to show love and kindness to people who need it most. Are there traditions in your life that might be keeping you from helping others?

Jesus calls us to love first—even when it challenges the way we’ve always done things.

Quotes to Consider:

- "The Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath." — Jesus (Mark 2:27)

- "The love of Christ knows no boundaries—it reaches beyond traditions and expectations to meet people where they are." — Unknown

- "Compassion will never be inconvenient for those who truly follow Jesus." — Charles Spurgeon

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever felt frustrated when rules seemed to get in the way of helping someone? For example, imagine a school having a strict 'no phone' policy, but a student needs to call their grandmother who fell and needs help. Sometimes rules that are meant to protect us can create difficult situations when we need to show compassion."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 5 by recognizing the importance of compassion and mercy over rigid adherence to tradition. Jesus' healing of the man at the Pool of Bethesda demonstrates His willingness to prioritize human need over legalistic interpretations of the Sabbath. This challenges us to consider how we can show compassion and kindness in our own lives, even when it means stepping outside of conventional norms. As Jesus said in Matthew 12:7, "If you had known what these words mean, 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice,' you would not have condemned the innocent."

Moreover, Jesus' declaration of His divine authority invites us to trust in His power and to seek His will in all aspects of our lives. This means acknowledging Jesus as the source of life and allowing Him to guide our decisions and actions. We can cultivate a deeper relationship with Jesus through prayer, study of the Scriptures, and obedience to His teachings. As theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, "Being a Christian is less about cautiously avoiding sin than about courageously and actively doing God’s will."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Healing on the Sabbath—Jesus Challenges Traditions"- John 5

Compassion for the Needy→Showing mercy and concern by healing those in need, regardless of societal rules.→John 5:1–9

Courage to Challenge Tradition→Willingness to confront and question established religious norms that hinder doing good.→John 5:10–18

Confidence in Jesus’ Authority→Trusting in Jesus’ divine authority to heal and teach, even when it brings opposition.→John 5:19–23

Understanding God’s Work→Recognizing that Jesus’ work aligns with God’s ongoing work and purpose.→John 5:17, 36

Faith in Jesus as Judge and Life-Giver→Belief in Jesus’ role as the one who gives life and will judge humanity.→John 5:24–30

Desire to Honor the Father→Living in a way that glorifies God through obedience to Jesus’ teachings.→John 5:41–47

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 5 reveals His desire for humanity to experience healing, mercy, and transformation through Jesus Christ. These verses emphasize the authority of Jesus as the Son of God, who has the power to give life and to judge. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on Jesus' healing on the Sabbath, we are reminded of His compassion and willingness to challenge traditions that hinder genuine worship and human flourishing. This encourages us to examine our own lives and to prioritize showing love and mercy to others. Jesus' discourse with the religious leaders highlights the importance of recognizing His divine authority and trusting in His power to bring about transformation in our lives.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the authority and compassion of Jesus not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to be His hands and feet in the world, demonstrating His love and grace to those in need.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

"Why do you think the Jewish leaders were more concerned about the man carrying his mat on the Sabbath than celebrating his healing? What does this tell us about how traditions can sometimes blind us to God's work?" – This question helps explore how religious customs, while important, can sometimes cause us to miss God's bigger purpose. The leaders focused on the rule-breaking rather than the miracle of healing, much like we sometimes get caught up in "how things should be done" rather than seeing God's mercy at work.

"Jesus chose to heal this man who had been sick for 38 years specifically on the Sabbath. What message was He trying to send about God's love versus religious rules?" – This helps the group understand that Jesus wasn't being disrespectful of the Sabbath, but rather showing its true purpose - to honor God and show love to others. The healing demonstrates that doing good and showing mercy is always appropriate.

"The healed man didn't know who Jesus was at first (verse 13), but Jesus found him later in the temple. What does this tell us about Jesus's personal care for individuals?" – This question highlights how Jesus doesn't just heal and leave - He follows up, showing personal interest in those He helps. It emphasizes the relational aspect of faith.

"After being healed, Jesus tells the man to 'stop sinning or something worse may happen to you' (verse 14). How do you understand the connection between physical healing and spiritual wellness?" – This prompts discussion about the deeper purpose of Jesus's healings - not just to fix physical problems, but to lead people to spiritual transformation.

What to Look For

Notice the man’s condition and Jesus’ question: “Do you want to get well?” What might this reveal about healing and faith?

Watch the response of the religious leaders. Why does Jesus’ act cause such controversy?

Pay attention to how Jesus speaks about His relationship with the Father. What bold claims does He make?

Personal Reflection Questions

Is there an area in your life where Jesus is asking, “Do you want to get well?”—physically, emotionally, or spiritually?

Have your expectations of religion or tradition ever gotten in the way of truly experiencing God’s work?

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Session 6: "Bread of Life—Trusting in Jesus Alone"- John 6

Printable Download

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Focus- Jesus feeds the multitudes, walks on water, and declares Himself the Bread of Life—calling people to trust not in miracles, but in Him alone for eternal life.

READ: John 6 (Feeding the 5,000, Jesus walks on water, teaching about spiritual food)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 6, the Apostle John describes several key events and teachings of Jesus that reveal His identity as the Bread of Life and emphasize the importance of trusting in Him alone. The chapter begins with the miraculous feeding of the five thousand, demonstrating Jesus' ability to provide abundantly for physical needs. Following this miracle, Jesus walks on water, showcasing His power over nature. The chapter then focuses on Jesus' discourse about being the Bread of Life, where He teaches about the necessity of believing in Him for eternal life. This chapter highlights Jesus' divine authority, His provision for both physical and spiritual needs, and the call to trust in Him completely.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 6:1-15 – Feeding the Five Thousand: Jesus crosses to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee, followed by a large crowd because they saw the signs He performed by healing the sick. When Jesus sees the crowd, He asks Philip where they can buy bread to feed them, testing Philip's faith. Andrew finds a boy with five barley loaves and two fish, but questions how this small amount can feed so many. Jesus gives thanks and distributes the food, miraculously providing enough to feed about five thousand men, with twelve baskets of leftovers. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' ability to provide abundantly and His compassion for the people's needs. Pastor Max Lucado highlights this event, saying, "When the disciples came up short, Christ came through with abundance."

John 6:16-21 – Jesus Walks on Water: That evening, the disciples set off across the lake to Capernaum without Jesus. As they row, a strong wind stirs up the waters, and they see Jesus walking on the water, approaching the boat. Initially frightened, they are reassured when Jesus says, "It is I; don’t be afraid" (John 6:20). Jesus gets into the boat, and immediately they reach the shore. This miraculous act reveals Jesus' mastery over nature and His presence in times of fear and uncertainty. It encourages believers to trust in Jesus even in challenging situations.

John 6:22-35 – Jesus, the Bread of Life: The next day, the crowd seeks Jesus, who tells them that they are looking for Him because they ate the loaves and were filled. He encourages them to seek the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give. When they ask how to do God's work, Jesus responds, "The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent" (John 6:29). He then declares, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty" (John 6:35). This discourse emphasizes the importance of faith in Jesus for spiritual sustenance and eternal life.

John 6:36-51 – The Promise of Eternal Life: Jesus explains that He has come down from heaven to do the will of the Father, which is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life. He assures the crowd that He will never drive away those who come to Him. The Jews grumble about Jesus' claim to have come down from heaven, questioning His identity. Jesus reaffirms, "I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever" (John 6:51). This section underscores the promise of eternal life through faith in Jesus and the necessity of accepting Him as the Bread of Life.

John 6:52-71 – The Reaction to Jesus’ Teaching: Jesus' teaching about eating His flesh and drinking His blood causes confusion and offense among the Jews and some disciples. He explains that His flesh and blood symbolize the sacrifice He will make for the salvation of the world, emphasizing the importance of spiritual nourishment through Him. Many disciples find this teaching difficult and abandon Him. Jesus asks the Twelve if they also want to leave, and Peter responds, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life" (John 6:68). This passage highlights the challenge of accepting Jesus' teachings and the necessity of faith and commitment to follow Him.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: The Daily Bread of Trust

Have you ever had a time when you didn’t know how you would make it through? Maybe it was a financial struggle, a health crisis, or even a time of loneliness. In John 6, Jesus tells us, "I am the Bread of Life. Whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." (John 6:35, ESV)

Think back to the Israelites in the wilderness. God provided manna, bread from heaven, every single day (Exodus 16). They couldn’t store it up for the future—they had to trust that God would send it again tomorrow. In the same way, Jesus invites us to trust in Him every day, not just for physical needs, but for spiritual life.

Maybe you remember freshly baked bread from your childhood. The smell filling the kitchen, the warmth, the way it satisfied hunger. Jesus is like that—always fresh, always enough, always satisfying. He isn’t just a one-time meal; He is our daily bread. When we trust Him, He fills the hunger in our hearts.

Reflect:

What are some ways Jesus has provided for you in the past?

How does trusting in Him each day bring peace instead of worry?

Are there areas in your life where you’re relying on yourself instead of trusting in Jesus alone?

Encouraging Quotes:

— “He Himself is the food that satisfies our soul’s hunger.” — Charles Spurgeon
— “To trust God in the light is nothing, but trust Him in the dark—that is faith.” — C.H. Spurgeon
— “Faith is the gaze of a soul upon a saving God.” — A.W. Tozer

Let’s remember: Just like bread nourishes the body, Jesus alone nourishes the soul. Trust Him today, and you will never go hungry.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When you're really hungry, what's your go-to comfort food and why?"

+ "Sarah, an 82-year-old grandmother, always keeps homemade bread in her freezer. 'During the Great Depression,' she says, 'fresh bread meant everything to us. Even today, the smell of baking bread reminds me of how God provides for our needs, both physical and spiritual.'"

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 6 by trusting in Jesus to provide for their physical and spiritual needs. The miracle of feeding the five thousand reminds us that Jesus is capable of meeting our needs in abundance, even when resources seem scarce. This encourages us to bring our concerns to Him in prayer and trust in His provision. As Philippians 4:19 states, "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." By relying on Jesus for our daily needs, we can experience His grace and generosity.

Additionally, Jesus' declaration of being the Bread of Life emphasizes the importance of seeking spiritual nourishment through a relationship with Him. Just as physical bread sustains our bodies, Jesus sustains our souls. We can prioritize our spiritual growth by spending time in prayer, studying the Bible, and participating in fellowship with other believers. As theologian C.S. Lewis once said, "God designed the human machine to run on Himself. He Himself is the fuel our spirits were designed to burn, or the food our spirits were designed to feed on. There is no other." By seeking Jesus as our spiritual sustenance, we can grow in our faith and find true fulfillment.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Bread of Life—Trusting in Jesus Alone"- John 6

Dependence on Jesus for Spiritual Life→Recognizing Jesus as the essential “bread of life” who sustains spiritual existence.→John 6:35

Faith in Jesus’ Words→Believing and trusting Jesus’ teaching, even when difficult to understand or accept.→John 6:60–69

Desire for Eternal Life→Seeking the life that only Jesus can give, beyond physical sustenance.→John 6:27

Commitment to Follow Jesus→Choosing to remain a disciple despite challenges and opposition.→John 6:66–69

Spiritual Nourishment through Jesus→Valuing Jesus’ teaching as the true spiritual food that satisfies the soul.→John 6:51

Acknowledging Jesus as the Holy One of God→Confessing Jesus’ divine identity as the source of life and salvation.→John 6:69

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 6 reveals His desire for humanity to trust in Jesus alone for both physical and spiritual sustenance. These verses highlight the significance of Jesus' miracles and teachings, demonstrating His divine authority and compassion. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on the feeding of the five thousand, we are reminded of Jesus' ability to provide abundantly for our needs and His deep compassion for those who are struggling. This encourages us to trust in His provision and to extend His love and care to others. Jesus' teaching about being the Bread of Life challenges us to seek spiritual nourishment through a personal relationship with Him, recognizing that true fulfillment comes from knowing and following Him.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing Jesus as the Bread of Life not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His love and grace with the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

"In verses 1-15, Jesus feeds 5,000 people with just five loaves and two fish. Why do you think the crowd followed Jesus the next day?" – This helps participants recognize the difference between following Jesus for physical benefits versus spiritual reasons. The crowd was more interested in free food than in Jesus himself.

"In verse 35, Jesus says 'I am the bread of life.' What do you think He meant by comparing Himself to bread?" – This helps seniors connect the necessity of daily bread for physical life to their need for Jesus for spiritual life. It's particularly meaningful for those who remember times when bread was a crucial daily staple.

"Look at verses 60-66. Why did many disciples find Jesus' teaching 'hard' and leave Him? What made Peter and others stay?" – This question addresses the challenge of faith when teachings are difficult to understand or accept. It relates to modern-day challenges seniors might face in their own faith journey.

"In verses 28-29, the people ask what they must do to perform God's works. How does Jesus' answer challenge our thinking about 'earning' God's favor?" – This helps address the common misconception about works-based salvation, especially relevant for those who might have grown up with different religious teachings.

What to Look For

Notice the crowd’s reaction to the feeding miracle. What were they really seeking from Jesus?

Pay attention to Jesus’ bold claim: “I am the Bread of Life.” What does this mean spiritually?

Watch how the crowd and even disciples respond. What makes this teaching hard to accept?

Personal Reflection Questions

Are you ever tempted to seek God for what He can do, rather than for who He is?

What does “daily bread” from Jesus look like in your life today?

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Session 7: "Light of the World—Who is Jesus?"- John 7–8

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Focus- Jesus reveals Himself as the Light of the World, confronting darkness and division. His identity becomes the central question—one that demands a personal response.

READ: John 7–8 (Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles, the woman caught in adultery)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 7-8, the Apostle John presents a series of events and teachings that highlight Jesus' identity as the Light of the World and explore the varied responses to His ministry. Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles and teaches openly, causing division among the people and the religious leaders. He reveals profound truths about His divine origin and mission, offering the promise of living water and declaring Himself as the Light of the World. These chapters emphasize the importance of recognizing and accepting Jesus' identity and teachings, and they challenge readers to consider their own response to Him.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 7:1-13 – Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles: Jesus travels to Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles, despite the danger posed by those seeking to kill Him. His brothers urge Him to show Himself publicly, but Jesus chooses to go in secret. During the feast, there is much debate among the people about Jesus, with some calling Him a good man and others accusing Him of leading people astray. This passage highlights the growing tension and division regarding Jesus' identity and mission.

John 7:14-24 – Jesus Teaches at the Feast: In the middle of the feast, Jesus begins to teach openly in the temple courts. The people are amazed at His knowledge, given that He has not been formally trained. Jesus explains that His teaching comes from God and urges them to judge rightly, not by mere appearances. He challenges them to recognize the divine authority behind His words. "Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly" (John 7:24). This emphasizes the need for discernment and openness to the truth.

John 7:25-36 – Division Over Who Jesus Is: The crowd is divided over Jesus' identity, with some believing He is the Messiah and others questioning how the Messiah could come from Galilee. The religious leaders try to arrest Him but fail because His time has not yet come. This passage illustrates the confusion and conflict among the people and the leaders regarding Jesus' true nature.

John 7:37-39 – The Promise of Living Water: On the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stands and proclaims, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them" (John 7:37-38). This promise of living water symbolizes the Holy Spirit, who would be given to believers after Jesus' glorification. This profound declaration offers hope and spiritual renewal to all who believe in Jesus.

John 8:1-11 – The Woman Caught in Adultery: Jesus returns to the temple courts, where the Pharisees bring a woman caught in adultery, hoping to trap Him. They ask if she should be stoned according to the Law of Moses. Jesus responds by saying, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her" (John 8:7). One by one, the accusers leave, and Jesus tells the woman that He does not condemn her and instructs her to leave her life of sin. This encounter demonstrates Jesus' mercy and the call to repentance.

John 8:12-30 – Jesus, the Light of the World: Jesus declares, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life" (John 8:12). He speaks of His divine origin and mission, emphasizing that He does nothing on His own but speaks what the Father has taught Him. Despite opposition, many believe in Him. This section underscores Jesus' role as the source of spiritual illumination and guidance.

John 8:31-47 – The Truth Will Set You Free: Jesus addresses the Jews who have believed in Him, telling them that if they hold to His teaching, they are truly His disciples and will know the truth, which will set them free. He explains that everyone who sins is a slave to sin, but the Son can set them free. This passage highlights the liberating power of Jesus' truth and the importance of remaining in His word.

John 8:48-59 – Jesus' Claim to Divinity: The conflict intensifies as the Jews accuse Jesus of being demon-possessed. Jesus responds by asserting His honor and obedience to the Father. He declares, "Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am!" (John 8:58), using the divine name "I AM" to reveal His pre-existence and divinity. The Jews attempt to stone Him, but He slips away. This powerful statement affirms Jesus' identity as God and challenges the listeners to acknowledge His divine nature.

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THINK ABOUT THIS

Imagine you are walking down a dark path at night with no flashlight. You can barely see where to step, and each shadow seems full of danger. Now, think about how different it feels when someone turns on a bright light. Suddenly, you can see the way forward. The obstacles that once seemed scary are now clear. You feel safer, more confident, and at peace.

In John 8:12, Jesus says,

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”

Just like a flashlight on a dark path, Jesus shines His light into our lives, showing us truth, guiding our steps, and giving us hope. His light drives away fear and confusion. Think about a time when you were struggling, feeling lost, or unsure about something. Maybe it was a time of sickness, worry, or a big decision. How did God’s light—through His Word, prayer, or other believers—help guide you?

Quote to Reflect On:

"There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it." — Edith Wharton

As followers of Jesus, we not only receive His light, but we also reflect His love and truth to others. How can you be a light in someone’s life this week?

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever tried to find your way around in complete darkness? What changed when you finally found a light source?"

+ "During the major power outage of 2003 that affected the northeastern United States, millions of people suddenly found themselves in darkness. One resident shared: 'I never realized how much we depend on light until it was gone. Even simple tasks like finding my keys or reading became impossible. When I finally found my flashlight, it changed everything – not just for me, but for my neighbors too. That one light made all the difference.'"

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 7-8 by recognizing Jesus as the Light of the World and living in a way that reflects His light. This involves seeking a personal relationship with Jesus, allowing His teachings to guide our daily decisions, and sharing His love and truth with others. As Jesus said in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." By following Jesus, we can navigate the challenges of life with hope and purpose, and illuminate the path for those around us.

Additionally, the encounter with the woman caught in adultery teaches us the importance of showing mercy and forgiveness, rather than judgment. We are reminded that everyone has sinned and fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). By extending grace to others, we reflect the character of Jesus and help create a community of compassion and support. As Pastor Timothy Keller once said, "The gospel is this: We are more sinful and flawed in ourselves than we ever dared believe, yet at the very same time, we are more loved and accepted in Jesus Christ than we ever dared hope."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Light of the World—Who is Jesus?"- John 7–8

Recognizing Jesus as the Light→Understanding Jesus as the spiritual light that exposes truth and overcomes darkness.→John 8:12

Seeking Truth Courageously→Pursuing Jesus’ teachings despite opposition and controversy, showing boldness in faith.→John 7:14–18

Confession of Jesus’ Identity→Openly acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah and Son of God despite societal pressures.→John 8:24, 28

Desire for Freedom from Sin→Yearning for liberation from sin’s bondage through Jesus’ truth and grace.→John 8:31–36

Living by Jesus’ Word→Committing to abide in Jesus’ teachings as the path to true freedom and life.→John 8:31

Rejecting Spiritual Blindness→Choosing to see spiritually and reject ignorance or deception, following Jesus’ light instead.→John 7:40–44; 8:43–47

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 7-8 reveals His desire for humanity to recognize and accept Jesus as the Light of the World. These chapters highlight Jesus' divine identity and mission, emphasizing the importance of believing in Him for spiritual illumination and eternal life. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, guidance, and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on Jesus' declarations and miracles, we are reminded of the transforming power of His presence in our lives. Jesus' teaching about being the Light of the World challenges us to live in a way that reflects His light, bringing hope and clarity to a world often shrouded in darkness. The encounter with the woman caught in adultery underscores the importance of mercy and forgiveness, encouraging us to extend the same grace to others that we have received from Jesus.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing Jesus as the Light of the World not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His love and grace with the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

"In John 8:12, Jesus says 'I am the light of the world.' What do you think He meant by calling Himself 'light'?" – This helps people connect the physical properties of light (guides, reveals, warms, helps growth) to Jesus's role in our lives. It builds on their earlier experience with the lead-in question.

"The religious leaders questioned Jesus's authority (John 8:13). Why do you think they had trouble accepting His claims?" – This question helps explore the human tendency to doubt and resist change, even when truth is right in front of us. It can lead to discussion about our own moments of doubt.

"Jesus tells the people that the truth will set them free (John 8:32). What kind of freedom do you think He was talking about?" – This opens up discussion about different types of freedom - physical vs. spiritual freedom, freedom from sin, freedom from fear. It connects to seniors' life experiences with various forms of bondage and liberation.

"How does Jesus being the 'light of the world' make a difference in your daily life?" – This brings the lesson home to practical application, helping participants connect ancient truth to modern living. It encourages sharing of personal experiences.

What to Look For

Notice the growing division over Jesus’ identity. How do different groups react to His words and actions?

Pay attention to the imagery of light and darkness. What does Jesus mean when He says, “I am the light of the world”?

Watch how Jesus deals with sin and truth—especially in the story of the woman caught in adultery. What do we learn about grace and judgment?

Personal Reflection Questions

When have you experienced God’s light breaking through your own darkness?

What does it mean to walk in the light of Christ in today’s world?

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Session 8: "The Good Shepherd—Hearing Jesus' Voice"- John 9–10

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Focus- Jesus reveals Himself as the Good Shepherd—one who knows His sheep, calls them by name, and lays down His life for them. His voice brings both comfort and controversy.

READ: John 9–10 (Healing the blind man, Jesus as the Good Shepherd)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 9-10, the Apostle John presents two significant events and teachings of Jesus that reveal His identity as the Good Shepherd and emphasize the importance of hearing and following His voice. Chapter 9 describes the miraculous healing of a man born blind, which leads to a confrontation with the Pharisees and a deeper revelation of Jesus' divine mission. In Chapter 10, Jesus uses the metaphor of the Good Shepherd to explain His relationship with His followers, highlighting His care, protection, and the necessity of recognizing His voice. These chapters underscore the themes of spiritual sight, guidance, and the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 9:1-12 – Healing of the Man Born Blind: As Jesus and His disciples encounter a man born blind, the disciples ask whether his blindness is due to his own sin or his parents' sin. Jesus replies that neither is the case, but rather, the man's blindness is an opportunity for God's works to be displayed in him. Jesus then heals the man by making mud with His saliva, placing it on the man's eyes, and instructing him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. The man obeys and returns with his sight restored. This miracle demonstrates Jesus' power to heal and His compassion for those in need. As Pastor John Piper explains, "God's sovereignty and glory are most magnified in His mercy."

John 9:13-34 – Investigation by the Pharisees: The Pharisees question the healed man and his parents, trying to discredit the miracle because it occurred on the Sabbath. The man boldly testifies that Jesus healed him, insisting, "One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!" (John 9:25). Despite the Pharisees' skepticism and hostility, the man maintains his testimony and is ultimately excommunicated from the synagogue. This section highlights the tension between Jesus' works and the religious leaders' rigid interpretations of the law.

John 9:35-41 – Spiritual Blindness: Jesus seeks out the healed man and reveals Himself as the Son of Man. The man believes and worships Jesus. Jesus then addresses the Pharisees, stating that their refusal to acknowledge Him results in spiritual blindness. "For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind" (John 9:39). This passage underscores the theme of spiritual sight and the importance of recognizing Jesus as the light of the world.

John 10:1-6 – The Good Shepherd and His Sheep: Jesus begins teaching about the Good Shepherd, using the analogy of a shepherd and his sheep. He explains that the shepherd enters through the gate, and the sheep recognize his voice and follow him, but they will not follow a stranger. "When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice" (John 10:4). This metaphor emphasizes the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers, who recognize and respond to His voice.

John 10:7-18 – Jesus, the Good Shepherd: Jesus declares, "I am the gate for the sheep" (John 10:7) and "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" (John 10:11). He contrasts Himself with hired hands who abandon the sheep at the first sign of danger. Jesus explains that He knows His sheep and His sheep know Him, just as He knows the Father and the Father knows Him. He also speaks of other sheep that are not of this sheep pen, indicating the inclusion of Gentiles. This passage highlights Jesus' sacrificial love, care, and the unity of His followers.

John 10:19-30 – Division and Belief: Jesus' teachings create division among the Jews, with some accusing Him of being demon-possessed while others recognize His miraculous works. During the Feast of Dedication, Jesus reaffirms His identity, stating, "My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish" (John 10:27-28). This section emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus and the assurance of eternal life for His followers.

John 10:31-42 – Jesus and the Father are One: The Jews attempt to stone Jesus for blasphemy, accusing Him of claiming to be God. Jesus responds by referencing Scripture and explaining that His works testify to His divine identity. He declares, "The Father is in me, and I in the Father" (John 10:38). Despite the hostility, many people come to believe in Jesus. This passage reinforces the unity between Jesus and the Father and the importance of faith in Him.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: Hearing the Shepherd’s Voice

Have you ever been in a crowded place and suddenly heard a familiar voice call your name? Maybe it was a grandchild, a friend, or someone you hadn’t seen in years. No matter how many voices were around, you recognized that one voice. Why? Because you knew the person who called you.

Jesus tells us in John 10:27,
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”

A shepherd’s sheep know his voice. They don’t follow just anyone—they follow the one who cares for them, feeds them, and protects them. Jesus says that He is our Good Shepherd, and He wants us to listen for His voice.

But how do we hear Jesus’ voice today? We hear Him when we read the Bible, when the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts, and when godly people give us wisdom. The more time we spend with Jesus—praying, reading His Word, and following Him—the easier it is to hear His voice above the noise of the world.

Think about a time when you clearly knew God was guiding you. Maybe He gave you peace in a hard moment or wisdom for an important decision. How did you recognize His voice?

Jesus is always speaking. The question is—are we listening?

Quotes to Reflect On:

“God speaks in the silence of the heart. Listening is the beginning of prayer.” – Mother Teresa

“Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One who is leading.” – Oswald Chambers

“The closer you are to the Shepherd, the safer you are from the wolves.” – Unknown

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When you hear someone's voice on the phone without seeing their caller ID, how do you know who it is? What makes their voice distinctive to you?"

+ "My granddaughter called me last week, and before she even said 'Hi Grandma,' I knew it was her from her cheerful tone and the way she says certain words. Over the years, I've learned to recognize not just her voice, but also when something's bothering her just by how she speaks."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 9-10 by recognizing Jesus as the Good Shepherd and striving to hear and follow His voice. Jesus' healing of the man born blind reminds us of His power to bring physical and spiritual restoration. We can apply this by seeking Jesus in times of need, trusting in His ability to heal and guide us through life's challenges. As David wrote in Psalm 23:1, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." This verse encourages us to rely on Jesus for provision and guidance.

Additionally, Jesus' teachings about the Good Shepherd highlight the importance of discerning His voice amidst the many influences in our lives. We can practice this by regularly reading the Bible, spending time in prayer, and being part of a faith community where we can grow and support one another. As Pastor Charles Stanley said, "Listening to God requires a deliberate choice to shut out the chaos around us and focus on His voice." By making a conscious effort to listen to Jesus, we can follow His guidance and experience the abundant life He promises.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "Light of the World—Who is Jesus?"- John 7–8

Spiritual Insight and Healing→Receiving spiritual and physical healing through faith in Jesus, the Light of the world.→John 9:1–7, 35–38

Recognizing Jesus as the Shepherd→Understanding Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd who cares deeply for His sheep.→John 10:11–14

Hearing and Following Jesus’ Voice→Developing sensitivity to Jesus’ guidance and following Him faithfully.→John 10:27

Confidence in Jesus’ Protection→Trusting in Jesus’ power to protect His followers from spiritual harm and danger.→John 10:28–29

Rejecting False Leaders→Learning to discern and reject those who mislead or harm the flock.→John 10:1–5, 12–13

Abiding in Relationship with Jesus→Maintaining a close, personal relationship with Jesus as the source of life and security.→John 10:27–30

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 9-10 reveals His desire for humanity to experience the guidance, protection, and abundant life offered by Jesus, the Good Shepherd. These chapters emphasize Jesus' divine identity, His compassionate care for His followers, and the importance of recognizing and responding to His voice. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on Jesus' healing of the man born blind, we are reminded of His power to bring both physical and spiritual healing. This encourages us to seek Jesus in our own times of need and to trust in His ability to restore and guide us. Jesus' metaphor of the Good Shepherd challenges us to prioritize hearing His voice and following His lead in our daily lives. This requires a commitment to spiritual practices that help us discern His guidance and a willingness to follow where He leads.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing Jesus as the Good Shepherd not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His love and grace with the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. "In John 10:3-4, Jesus says the sheep know the shepherd's voice. What are some ways we can learn to recognize Jesus' voice in our daily lives?"

– This helps participants reflect on practical ways they experience God's guidance through Scripture, prayer, wise counsel, and the Holy Spirit's prompting. It connects the biblical metaphor to their personal walk with Christ.

2. "Jesus contrasts the good shepherd with thieves and hired hands (John 10:11-13). What's the difference between how they treat the sheep?"

– This question highlights Jesus' sacrificial love versus worldly influences that might lead us astray. It helps seniors identify false teachings while emphasizing Christ's protective care.

3. "Looking at John 9:35-38, how did the healed blind man come to recognize Jesus as the Son of Man? What can this teach us about spiritual sight?"

– This connects the healing story with spiritual understanding, showing how personal encounters with Jesus lead to deeper faith. It encourages discussion about their own journey of discovering who Jesus is.

4. "When Jesus says 'I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen' (John 10:16), what do you think He means? How does this shape our view of God's family?"

– This promotes discussion about God's inclusive love and the universal nature of Christ's sacrifice, while encouraging seniors to think about their role in welcoming others into God's family.

5. "What comfort do you find in Jesus' promise that no one can snatch us from His hand (John 10:28-29)?"

– This question addresses common concerns about salvation and security, particularly meaningful for seniors who may be reflecting on their faith journey and eternal life.

What to Look For

Notice the healing of the blind man and its aftermath. How does physical healing lead to spiritual insight—and conflict?

Pay attention to Jesus’ description of Himself as the Shepherd. What does it mean to enter through Him as the “gate”?

Watch for contrasts between the Good Shepherd and false leaders. What defines true spiritual leadership?

Personal Reflection Questions

Whose voice do you listen to most—especially in times of uncertainty or fear?

How do you recognize the voice of Jesus in your daily life?

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Session 9: "The Resurrection and the Life—Victory Over Death"- John 11

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Focus- In raising Lazarus, Jesus reveals His power over death and declares, “I am the resurrection and the life.” This miracle points to the hope found only in Him.

READ: John 11 (Raising Lazarus, Jesus' power over death)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 11, the Apostle John recounts the powerful story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead, which serves as a profound demonstration of His authority over life and death. This chapter highlights the themes of faith, the power of Jesus' word, and the promise of resurrection for believers. Jesus declares Himself to be the resurrection and the life, providing hope and assurance of eternal life for all who believe in Him. This miracle not only strengthens the faith of Jesus' followers but also intensifies the opposition from the religious leaders, ultimately setting the stage for His own death and resurrection.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 11:1-16 – The Death of Lazarus: The chapter begins with the news that Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, is seriously ill. The sisters send word to Jesus, hoping He will come and heal Lazarus. Surprisingly, Jesus delays His journey, stating, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God’s glory so that God’s Son may be glorified through it" (John 11:4). After two days, Jesus tells His disciples that Lazarus has fallen asleep, meaning he has died, and that He is going to awaken him. This delay highlights Jesus’ divine purpose and the importance of God's timing.

John 11:17-27 – Jesus Comforts Martha: When Jesus arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has been in the tomb for four days. Martha goes out to meet Jesus and expresses her disappointment, saying, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died." Jesus reassures her by stating, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?" (John 11:25-26). Martha affirms her faith in Jesus as the Messiah. This exchange highlights the promise of resurrection and eternal life through faith in Jesus.

John 11:28-37 – Jesus Weeps: Martha informs Mary that Jesus has arrived, and Mary goes to meet Him, accompanied by mourners. When Mary sees Jesus, she falls at His feet and echoes Martha’s words. Jesus is deeply moved by their grief and the sorrow of the mourners. He weeps with them, showing His compassion and empathy. This moment underscores Jesus' humanity and His deep love for those who are suffering. Pastor Max Lucado writes, "Jesus weeps not because he is helpless but because he is moved by our pain."

John 11:38-44 – Jesus Raises Lazarus: Jesus approaches the tomb and instructs the people to remove the stone. Despite Martha’s concern about the odor, Jesus reminds her to have faith. After thanking God, Jesus calls out in a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" (John 11:43). Lazarus emerges from the tomb, still wrapped in burial clothes, and Jesus commands the people to unbind him. This miraculous event demonstrates Jesus' authority over death and serves as a powerful sign of His divine power.

John 11:45-57 – The Plot to Kill Jesus: The miracle of raising Lazarus leads many to believe in Jesus, but it also prompts the religious leaders to take action against Him. They convene a council and decide that Jesus must be stopped to prevent further disruption. Caiaphas, the high priest, unknowingly prophesies that Jesus would die for the nation and to gather God’s scattered children. This section reveals the growing opposition to Jesus and sets the stage for the events leading to His crucifixion. Theologian N.T. Wright notes, "The resurrection of Lazarus is the turning point that brings the final crisis into view."

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THINK ABOUT THIS: Victory Over Death

Have you ever been to a funeral where people were sad, but also full of hope? Maybe they shared stories of their loved one, smiling through tears. For a Christian, death is not the end—it is a doorway to something greater.

In John 11, Jesus stood at the tomb of His dear friend Lazarus. The people around Him were grieving, and even Jesus Himself wept. But then, something amazing happened—Jesus called Lazarus back to life! This was a powerful reminder that Jesus has authority over death. He told Martha, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die" (John 11:25, NIV).

Think about a time when you were afraid—maybe of losing someone, of growing older, or of death itself. Jesus' words remind us that we don’t have to live in fear. He has power over death, and because of Him, we can have eternal life. That changes everything!

Reflection:

How does knowing Jesus has power over death give you peace?

How can we live differently today knowing that eternal life is promised?

Quotes to Consider:

“He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.” — 1 John 5:12

"Death may be the King of terrors, but Jesus is the King of kings!" — D.L. Moody

"For the Christian, death is not the end of the road, but a bend in the road." — Billy Graham

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever waited for God to answer a prayer, and it seemed like He was taking too long? When Mary and Martha sent word to Jesus about Lazarus being sick, Jesus waited two more days before going to them."

+ "Think about a time when you were expecting an important phone call from a doctor about test results, or waiting to hear if a loved one made it safely to their destination. Those minutes and hours of waiting can feel endless. Now imagine Martha and Mary's wait - knowing their brother was dying, having sent word to Jesus, and watching day after day with no sign of His arrival."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 11 by embracing the hope and assurance of resurrection and eternal life through faith in Jesus. The story of Lazarus reminds us that Jesus has power over life and death and that He offers us new life, both now and in the future. We can live with confidence and peace, knowing that death is not the end but a gateway to eternal life with Christ. As Jesus said in John 11:25-26, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die." This promise encourages us to trust in Jesus and find comfort in His words.

Additionally, the compassionate response of Jesus to the grief of Mary and Martha reminds us to show empathy and support to those who are hurting. We can follow Jesus' example by offering our presence, comfort, and prayers to those who are experiencing loss or difficult times. As Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "The deepest level of worship is praising God in spite of pain, thanking God during trials, trusting Him when tempted, surrendering while suffering, and loving Him when He seems distant."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "The Resurrection and the Life—Victory Over Death"- John 11

Faith in Jesus’ Power over Death→Trusting Jesus as the one who has authority to give life and conquer death.→John 11:25–26

Hope in Eternal Life→Holding confident hope in the promise of resurrection and life beyond physical death.→John 11:25

Compassion and Empathy→Reflecting Jesus’ compassion, mourning with those who mourn.→John 11:33–36

Confidence in Jesus’ Timing→Trusting in Jesus’ perfect timing even when answers seem delayed.→John 11:6

Boldness in Witnessing→Proclaiming Jesus as the resurrection and the life, even in the face of opposition.→John 11:45–46

Strengthened Faith through Miracles→Allowing Jesus’ miraculous works to deepen faith and inspire trust.→John 11:38–44

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT;

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 11 reveals His desire for humanity to experience victory over death through Jesus Christ. This chapter highlights Jesus' identity as the resurrection and the life, emphasizing the power of His word and the promise of eternal life for those who believe in Him. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope and assurance in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on the resurrection of Lazarus, we are reminded of the transforming power of Jesus' presence in our lives. His ability to bring life out of death assures us that no situation is beyond His reach and that He can bring healing and restoration to our brokenness. This encourages us to approach life with faith and hope, trusting in Jesus' power to work in and through us.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing Jesus as the resurrection and the life not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His message of hope and victory with the world.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. "When Jesus finally arrived, Martha said 'Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died' (John 11:21). What emotions do you hear in Martha's words?"

– Martha's statement reveals both faith and frustration. She believed in Jesus's power to heal, yet struggled with His timing. This mirrors our own complex relationship with God during difficult times - we trust Him, yet sometimes question His methods or timing.

2. "Jesus told Martha 'I am the resurrection and the life' (John 11:25). What does this mean for us today, especially as we face our own mortality?"

– This declaration goes beyond just physical death. Jesus is asserting His power over both physical and spiritual death, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him. This brings particular comfort to seniors who may be contemplating end-of-life matters.

3. "In verse 35, we read the shortest verse in the Bible: 'Jesus wept.' Why do you think Jesus cried when He knew He was about to raise Lazarus?"

– This shows Jesus's deep compassion and humanity. Even knowing the miracle He was about to perform, He was moved by the grief of those He loved. This reminds us that God isn't distant from our sorrows - He enters into them with us.

4. "Notice that before raising Lazarus, Jesus prayed publicly, saying it was 'for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe' (John 11:42). What can we learn about faith from this?"

– Miracles aren't just about the immediate outcome - they're about building faith in witnesses and future believers. This story has continued to build faith for 2,000 years.

What to Look For

Watch the emotional responses of Mary, Martha, and Jesus. What do these moments reveal about faith, grief, and love?

Pay attention to Jesus’ declaration to Martha. What does it mean to live even though we die?

Notice the reactions after the miracle. How do belief and opposition grow in response to Jesus’ power?

Personal Reflection Questions

How does knowing Jesus as “the resurrection and the life” affect how you view death—or life right now?

What area of your life feels hopeless or “dead”? How might Jesus bring new life there?

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Session 10: "The Final Week—Jesus' Love and Servanthood"- John 12–13

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Focus- As Jesus enters His final week, He shows His love through humble servanthood, preparing His disciples for what lies ahead.

READ: John 12–13 (Triumphal Entry, Jesus washes disciples’ feet, new commandment)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 12-13, the Apostle John provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the final week of Jesus' life, emphasizing His love and servanthood. Chapter 12 describes Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, His prediction of His death, and His teaching about the cost of discipleship. In Chapter 13, John recounts the intimate moment of Jesus washing His disciples' feet and His command to love one another as He has loved them. These chapters highlight Jesus' selfless love, humility, and the example He sets for His followers.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 12:12-19 – The Triumphal Entry: Jesus enters Jerusalem riding on a donkey, fulfilling the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. The crowd greets Him with palm branches, shouting, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" (John 12:13). This event signifies Jesus' acknowledgment as the Messiah by the people, though they have different expectations of what that means. The scene highlights the contrast between the crowd’s joyful reception and the somber path Jesus knows He must take.

John 12:20-26 – Jesus Predicts His Death: Some Greeks seek to meet Jesus, prompting Him to speak about His impending death. He uses the metaphor of a grain of wheat falling to the ground and dying to produce many seeds, illustrating the necessity of His sacrifice. "Unless a grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" (John 12:24). Jesus calls His followers to serve and follow Him, even to the point of losing their lives for His sake. This passage emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the fruitful outcome of Jesus' sacrificial death.

John 13:1-17 – Jesus Washes His Disciples' Feet: During the Last Supper, Jesus takes on the role of a servant by washing His disciples' feet, an act of humility and love. Peter initially resists, but Jesus explains the significance of the act, stating, "Unless I wash you, you have no part with me" (John 13:8). After washing their feet, Jesus instructs them to follow His example of servanthood. "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet" (John 13:14). This moment underscores the importance of humility and service in the life of a believer.

John 13:21-30 – Jesus Predicts His Betrayal: During the meal, Jesus becomes troubled and reveals that one of His disciples will betray Him. The disciples are shocked and begin to question who it might be. Jesus indicates that it is Judas Iscariot by giving him a piece of bread. After receiving the bread, Judas leaves to carry out his betrayal. This passage highlights the sorrow and betrayal Jesus faces, even among His closest followers.

John 13:31-35 – A New Command: After Judas leaves, Jesus speaks to His remaining disciples about His glorification and the new commandment He gives them: "A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (John 13:34-35). This command emphasizes the central role of love in the Christian community and the importance of reflecting Jesus' love in their relationships with others.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: A Servant’s Heart

Have you ever had someone do something kind for you that you didn’t expect? Maybe a friend brought you a meal when you were sick, a neighbor helped with a difficult chore, or a loved one simply took the time to listen when you needed encouragement. Small acts of love can leave a big impact.

On the night before He was crucified, Jesus did something unexpected. He got up from the table, wrapped a towel around His waist, and washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:4-5). This was a job usually done by the lowest servant in a household, yet Jesus—the Son of God—humbled Himself to serve.

Through this act, Jesus was teaching an important lesson: Real love is not just words; it’s action. He told His disciples, “I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done for you” (John 13:15). He wasn’t just talking about washing feet—He was showing them a way of life.

Think about a time when you had the chance to serve someone else. Maybe you cared for a grandchild, helped a friend in need, or encouraged someone with a kind word. Serving others is one of the greatest ways we can show Christ’s love.

Today, let’s ask ourselves: How can I follow Jesus’ example? Who can I serve with love and humility?

Quotes to Reflect On

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45

"You can always give without loving, but you can never love without giving." — Amy Carmichael

"The measure of a man is not how many servants he has, but how many people he serves." — D.L. Moody

"We are never more like Jesus than when we are serving others." — Unknown

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THINK ABOUT THIS:

As we reflect on Jesus' final week and His example of love and servanthood, let's consider this powerful thought:"To be great in God's kingdom, we must become servants to all."This idea comes directly from Jesus' teachings and actions during His last days on earth. In John 12, we see Jesus entering Jerusalem humbly on a donkey, while people shout "Hosanna!" which means "Save us!"

 This shows us that true greatness comes from humility and a willingness to serve others.Here's a quote that captures this idea beautifully:"Whoever desires to be great among you must be your servant, and whoever wishes to be most important and first in rank among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to have service rendered to Him, but to serve."8Think about a time when someone unexpectedly served you. How did it make you feel? Now, consider how you can show that same love and servanthood to others in your daily life. Remember, Jesus washed His disciples' feet as an example of how we should treat one another with humility and love.As we age, we might feel like we have less to offer, but our ability to serve others never diminishes. Even a kind word or a simple prayer can be a powerful act of service. Let's challenge ourselves to find new ways to serve those around us, just as Jesus did in His final week.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Can you think of a time when someone showed you unexpected kindness or served you in a way that touched your heart?"+ "Imagine you're struggling with heavy grocery bags, and a stranger stops to help you carry them to your car. How would that make you feel?"

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 12-13 by embracing Jesus' example of love and servanthood. The story of Jesus washing His disciples' feet teaches us the importance of humility and service to others, regardless of our position or status. We can practice this by looking for opportunities to serve those around us, whether through acts of kindness, volunteering, or simply being present for someone in need. As Jesus said in John 13:14-15, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." This call to serve encourages us to follow Jesus' example in our daily lives.

Moreover, Jesus' command to love one another as He has loved us emphasizes the centrality of love in the Christian faith. We can apply this by cultivating a heart of compassion, forgiveness, and unconditional love towards others. As theologian and author Henri Nouwen wrote, "Community is where humility and glory touch." By loving and serving others selflessly, we reflect the character of Jesus and create a community that embodies His teachings.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "The Farewell Discourse—Preparing for the Spirit" - John 14–17

Humility in Service→Following Jesus’ example of serving others selflessly, as He washed His disciples’ feet.→John 13:3–17

Sacrificial Love→Embracing Jesus’ love demonstrated through His willingness to lay down His life for others.→John 12:23–26; 13:1

Obedience to God’s Will→Committing to doing God’s purpose even when it involves suffering or sacrifice.→John 12:27–28; 13:31–32

Faith in Jesus’ Mission→Trusting Jesus’ plan for salvation despite uncertainty and hardship.→John 12:37–41; 13:18–30

Following Jesus’ Commandments→Obeying Jesus’ new command to love one another as He has loved us.→John 13:34–35

Preparation for Witnessing→Being equipped and encouraged to bear witness to Jesus in the world after His departure.→John 13:36–38

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 12-13 reveals His desire for humanity to understand and emulate Jesus' love and servanthood. These chapters highlight the sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission and the example He sets for His followers. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find purpose and direction in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on Jesus' actions during the final week of His life, we are reminded of the depth of His love and His willingness to serve others, even in the face of suffering and betrayal. This challenges us to examine our own lives and to prioritize love and service in our interactions with others. Jesus' example of washing His disciples' feet and His command to love one another underscore the importance of humility and selflessness in the Christian faith.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing Jesus' love and servanthood not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His love and grace with the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. What does Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on a donkey tell us about His character?

– Jesus chose a humble donkey instead of a grand horse, showing His humility and fulfilling prophecy. This act reveals Jesus as a servant-king who came to save, not to be served.

2. How did the crowd react to Jesus' arrival in Jerusalem? Why do you think they responded this way?

– The crowd welcomed Jesus with palm branches and shouts of "Hosanna," which means "Save now". They saw Jesus as their long-awaited king, but many misunderstood His true mission.

3. In John 13, Jesus washes His disciples' feet. Why was this act so significant?

– Foot-washing was usually done by the lowest servant. By doing this, Jesus showed the depth of His love and set an example of humble service for His followers.

4. How can we apply Jesus' example of servanthood in our daily lives?

– We can look for ways to serve others, even in tasks that seem beneath us. This might include helping a neighbor with chores or volunteering at a local charity.

5. What does Jesus mean when He says, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet" (John 13:14)?

– Jesus isn't just talking about literal foot-washing. He's calling us to serve each other humbly, putting others' needs before our own

What to Look For

Notice Jesus’ act of washing the disciples’ feet. What does this reveal about His leadership and love?

Pay attention to the growing tension as Jesus predicts His death. How do the disciples respond?

Watch for themes of love and sacrifice. How does Jesus model the way His followers should live?

Personal Reflection Questions

When have you experienced or witnessed love expressed through humble service?

What’s one way you can follow Jesus’ example of servanthood in your daily life?

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Session 11: "The Farewell Discourse—Preparing for the Spirit" - John 14–17

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Focus- Before His crucifixion, Jesus comforts His disciples with promises of the Holy Spirit and teaches about abiding in Him through love and faith.

READ: John 14–17 (Jesus' teaching on the Holy Spirit, the vine, His prayer for believers)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 14-17, the Apostle John records Jesus' farewell discourse to His disciples, offering them comfort, guidance, and promises as He prepares them for His departure and the coming of the Holy Spirit. These chapters include some of Jesus' most profound teachings about His relationship with the Father, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the importance of love and unity among His followers. Jesus assures His disciples of His continued presence through the Spirit and prays for their protection, unity, and sanctification.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 14:1-14 – Jesus Comforts His Disciples: Jesus begins by comforting His disciples, encouraging them to trust in Him and promising that He is going to prepare a place for them in His Father's house. He declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6). This statement emphasizes Jesus' unique role as the mediator between God and humanity. He also assures them that they will do even greater works than He has done because He is going to the Father.

John 14:15-31 – The Promise of the Holy Spirit: Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit, whom He calls the Advocate or Helper, to be with His disciples forever. "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you" (John 14:26). The Holy Spirit will guide, teach, and empower the disciples, ensuring that they are not left alone. Jesus also emphasizes the importance of loving Him and keeping His commandments.

John 15:1-17 – The Vine and the Branches: Using the metaphor of the vine and the branches, Jesus teaches about the importance of remaining in Him to bear fruit. "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5). He encourages His disciples to remain in His love and to love one another as He has loved them. This passage underscores the necessity of a close, abiding relationship with Jesus for spiritual growth and effectiveness.

John 15:18-16:4 – The World's Hatred: Jesus warns His disciples that they will face opposition and persecution from the world because of their association with Him. "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first" (John 15:18). He explains that the world’s hatred is a result of its rejection of Him and His teachings. This section prepares the disciples for the challenges they will face and reassures them that they are not alone in their struggles.

John 16:5-15 – The Work of the Holy Spirit: Jesus elaborates on the role of the Holy Spirit, explaining that it is for their benefit that He is going away. The Holy Spirit will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth" (John 16:13). This passage emphasizes the Spirit's role in guiding the disciples into truth, revealing the things of Christ, and glorifying Him.

John 16:16-33 – Jesus' Departure and Return: Jesus speaks about His impending departure and eventual return, using the metaphor of a woman giving birth to describe the disciples' sorrow turning into joy. He reassures them that their grief will be temporary and that they will see Him again. "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy" (John 16:22). This promise of future joy offers hope and encouragement.

John 17 – Jesus' High Priestly Prayer: In this chapter, Jesus prays for Himself, His disciples, and all future believers. He prays for their protection, sanctification, and unity. "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you" (John 17:20-21). This prayer reveals Jesus' deep love and concern for His followers and His desire for their unity and faithfulness.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: A Promise of Peace and Presence

Have you ever had to say goodbye to someone you loved? Maybe a close friend moved away, a family member passed on, or life just took you in different directions. Goodbyes can be hard because they leave us feeling alone.

Jesus' disciples felt the same way the night before His crucifixion. In John 14–17, Jesus told them He was leaving—but He also gave them a beautiful promise: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18). He was sending the Holy Spirit, who would be with them forever.

We may not see Jesus with our eyes, but we are never alone. The Holy Spirit lives within us, guiding, comforting, and reminding us of God’s truth. No matter what we face, Jesus has promised, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you” (John 14:27).

Think about a time when you felt God's peace in a difficult situation. Maybe it was during an illness, a loss, or a time of uncertainty. That peace is not just a feeling—it is the presence of the Holy Spirit, reminding us that Jesus is always near.

When life gets hard, we can hold onto Jesus' promise: We are never alone. His Spirit is with us, bringing peace, strength, and comfort.

Quotes to Reflect On

“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, to be with you forever.” — John 14:16

“The Holy Spirit is not a power to be harnessed, but a Person to be followed.” — A.W. Tozer

“The Spirit of God first imparts love; He next inspires hope, and then He gives liberty; and this is about the last thing we have in many of our churches.” — D.L. Moody

"We may be unfaithful, but God is always faithful. His Spirit never leaves His own." — Charles Spurgeon

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LEAD-IN QUESTION:
Have you ever had to say goodbye to someone you love? How did you feel, and what did you do to comfort them?

+Imagine a grandmother saying goodbye to her grandchildren after a long visit. She might give them a special keepsake to remember her by, or promise to call them every week. This is similar to how Jesus prepared His disciples for His departure.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 14-17 by embracing the guidance and comfort of the Holy Spirit in their daily lives. Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit as our Helper and Advocate reassures us that we are never alone. We can invite the Holy Spirit to lead us, teach us, and remind us of Jesus' teachings. As Jesus said in John 14:26, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you." By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can grow in wisdom, understanding, and strength.

Additionally, Jesus' command to love one another as He has loved us emphasizes the importance of cultivating a community of love and unity. We can practice this by showing kindness, forgiveness, and support to those around us. As theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote, "The church is the church only when it exists for others." By living out Jesus' commandment of love, we reflect His character and create a welcoming and nurturing environment for all.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "The Farewell Discourse—Preparing for the Spirit" - John 14–17

Trust in Jesus’ Promise→Believing Jesus’ assurance to prepare a place and send the Holy Spirit as a Helper and Guide.→John 14:1–3, 16–17

Intimate Relationship with Jesus→Abiding in Jesus’ love and keeping His commandments as a mark of true discipleship.→John 14:15, 21

Receiving the Holy Spirit→Being open to the Spirit’s presence, guidance, and empowerment in daily life.→John 14:26; 16:7–13

Peace Amidst Trials→Experiencing Jesus’ peace that overcomes fear and anxiety, especially during hardship.→John 14:27

Unity Among Believers→Praying and striving for unity as Jesus and the Father are one, reflecting divine fellowship.→John 17:20–23

Witnessing with Boldness→Empowered by the Spirit, boldly proclaiming Jesus’ truth to the world.→John 15:26–27; 16:8

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT:

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 14-17 reveals His desire for humanity to experience the presence and work of the Holy Spirit, and to live in unity and love. These chapters highlight the significance of Jesus' teachings and prayers, emphasizing the importance of His followers continuing His mission through the power of the Holy Spirit. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on Jesus' farewell discourse, we are reminded of the depth of His love for us and His commitment to ensuring that we are equipped for the challenges ahead. Jesus' promise of the Holy Spirit provides us with the assurance that we have a constant companion and guide. This encourages us to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in all aspects of our lives, allowing us to grow in faith and to be effective witnesses of Jesus' love and truth.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the Holy Spirit's presence and Jesus' command to love one another not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His love and grace with the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. What does Jesus promise to send His disciples after He leaves?
– Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit, whom He calls the Comforter or Helper. This Spirit will guide, teach, and remind the disciples of Jesus' words.

2. How does Jesus describe Himself in John 14:6?
– Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life". This is one of the seven "I am" statements in John's Gospel, showing Jesus' divine nature.

3. What does Jesus mean when He says He is the "true vine" in John 15:1?
– This is the last of Jesus' "I am" statements in John. It illustrates how believers need to stay connected to Jesus to bear spiritual fruit, just as branches need to stay connected to a vine to produce grapes.

4. How does Jesus say we can show our love for Him?
– Jesus tells His disciples that if they love Him, they will keep His commandments. This shows that true love for Jesus is demonstrated through obedience.

5. What does Jesus pray for His disciples in John 17?
– Jesus prays for the disciples' protection, unity, and sanctification. He also prays for future believers, showing His care for all who will follow Him.

What to Look For

Notice Jesus’ promise of the Advocate (Holy Spirit). How does He describe the Spirit’s role?

Pay attention to Jesus’ command to “abide” in Him. What does this mean for daily living?

Watch Jesus’ prayer for unity and protection. What does this reveal about His heart for His followers?

Personal Reflection Questions

How have you experienced the Holy Spirit’s guidance or presence in your life?

What does “abiding in Jesus” look like for you during challenging times?

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Session 12: "The Passion and Resurrection—Hope in Christ"- John 18–21

Printable Download

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Focus- Jesus’ suffering, death, and resurrection bring the ultimate hope—victory over sin and death, and the promise of new life.

READ: John 18–21 (Jesus' arrest, crucifixion, resurrection, restoring Peter)

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OVERVIEW:

In John 18-21, the Apostle John presents the climactic events of Jesus' passion and resurrection, highlighting the depth of His love and the hope His resurrection brings. These chapters detail Jesus' arrest, trial, crucifixion, burial, and resurrection, emphasizing His sacrificial death for humanity's sins and His triumph over death. Through these events, Jesus fulfills His mission as the Savior and provides the foundation for the Christian faith, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT:

John 18:1-11 – Jesus' Arrest: After sharing the Last Supper with His disciples, Jesus goes to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. Judas leads a group of soldiers and officials to arrest Jesus. When they arrive, Jesus steps forward and identifies Himself, demonstrating His willingness to fulfill God's plan. He tells Peter to put away his sword, saying, "Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?" (John 18:11). This moment reveals Jesus' obedience and submission to God's will, even in the face of suffering.

John 18:12-27 – Jesus' Trials: Jesus is taken to the high priest, where He faces questioning and false accusations. Peter follows at a distance and denies knowing Jesus three times, fulfilling Jesus' prediction. Despite the injustice and betrayal, Jesus remains composed and resolute. This passage highlights the human failings of fear and denial, contrasted with Jesus' steadfastness.

John 18:28-40 – Jesus Before Pilate: Jesus is brought before Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. Pilate questions Jesus about His kingship, and Jesus explains that His kingdom is not of this world. Pilate finds no basis for a charge against Jesus but offers to release Him as part of a Passover tradition. The crowd, influenced by the religious leaders, demands the release of Barabbas instead. This section underscores the tension between earthly authority and Jesus' spiritual kingdom.

John 19:1-16 – The Sentencing: Pilate has Jesus flogged and mocked by soldiers who place a crown of thorns on His head. Despite finding no guilt in Jesus, Pilate succumbs to the pressure of the crowd and religious leaders, ultimately sentencing Jesus to be crucified. This passage illustrates the brutality and injustice Jesus endures.

John 19:17-30 – The Crucifixion: Jesus carries His cross to Golgotha, where He is crucified between two criminals. He speaks words of forgiveness and care, even from the cross. As Jesus nears death, He declares, "It is finished" (John 19:30), signifying the completion of His redemptive work. This moment encapsulates the sacrificial nature of Jesus' mission and His victory over sin.

John 19:31-42 – Jesus' Burial: After Jesus' death, His body is taken down and placed in a tomb by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. They wrap His body in linen and spices according to Jewish burial customs. This act of care and respect honors Jesus even in death.

John 20:1-18 – The Resurrection: On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene discovers the empty tomb and runs to tell the disciples. Peter and John also find the tomb empty. Jesus appears to Mary, calling her by name, and she recognizes Him. Jesus instructs her to tell the disciples of His resurrection. This event marks the triumph of life over death and provides the foundation for Christian hope.

John 20:19-31 – Jesus Appears to His Disciples: Jesus appears to His disciples, offering peace and showing them His wounds. He commissions them to continue His work and empowers them with the Holy Spirit. Thomas, who was not present, later sees Jesus and believes, declaring, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). This passage emphasizes the importance of faith and the personal encounter with the risen Christ.

John 21 – Jesus Restores Peter: Jesus appears to His disciples by the Sea of Galilee, where He performs another miracle of a large catch of fish. He restores Peter by asking him three times if he loves Him, corresponding to Peter's three denials. Jesus commissions Peter to "feed my sheep" (John 21:17), reaffirming his role as a leader among the disciples. This chapter highlights forgiveness, restoration, and the ongoing mission of Jesus' followers.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: Hope Beyond the Darkness

Imagine a time in your life when everything seemed to fall apart. Maybe you lost someone you loved, faced a serious illness, or felt abandoned by friends. In those moments, it’s easy to wonder, Where is God?

The disciples must have felt the same way as they watched Jesus arrested, beaten, and nailed to a cross. They had followed Him for years, believing He was the promised Messiah. But now, He was dead. All their hopes seemed buried in that tomb.

But Sunday morning changed everything! The empty tomb proved that Jesus was not defeated. Death did not win. Hope was alive! When Jesus rose, He showed us that even in our darkest moments, God is still at work. His love is stronger than our fears, and His power is greater than any sorrow.

Think about a time when you saw God bring hope out of something difficult. Maybe He answered a prayer in an unexpected way, provided for you when you didn’t know what to do, or gave you peace when you needed it most.

Just as Jesus told Mary Magdalene at the tomb, “Do not be afraid” (John 20:17), He speaks those words to us today. No matter what you are facing, the resurrection reminds us: There is always hope in Christ.

Quotes to Reflect On

“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said.” — Matthew 28:6

"Our old history ends with the cross; our new history begins with the resurrection." — Watchman Nee

“The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over no matter what my circumstances.” — Robert Flatt

“We live and die; Christ died and lived!” — John Stott

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LEAD-IN QUESTION:

"Have you ever felt like all hope was lost, only to later see how God was working things out for good?"

Quote:
"God often uses our deepest pain as the launching pad for our greatest calling." – Rick Warren

Application:
Just as we sometimes face moments of despair, the disciples thought all hope was lost when Jesus was arrested and crucified. But God was writing a greater story—the story of the Resurrection! Today, we'll explore how Christ’s passion and resurrection bring us lasting hope.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT:

Christians today can apply the truths found in John 18-21 by embracing the hope and assurance provided by Jesus' passion and resurrection. The sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus on the cross reminds us of the depth of God's love for us and the lengths He went to redeem us. This understanding encourages us to live lives of gratitude and service, seeking to share that love with others. As Romans 5:8 states, "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." By reflecting on Jesus' sacrifice, we can find the motivation to love and serve others selflessly.

Additionally, the resurrection of Jesus provides a powerful reminder of the victory over sin and death that believers have through faith in Him. This hope enables us to face life's challenges with confidence, knowing that we have eternal life through Jesus. As Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the single most important event in history, and it has profound implications for our lives every day." By holding onto the hope of the resurrection, we can live with a sense of purpose and assurance, regardless of our circumstances.

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Takes Seriously "The Passion and Resurrection—Hope in Christ"- John 18–21

Faithfulness in Suffering→Remaining loyal to Jesus through trials, betrayal, and suffering, trusting God’s plan.→John 18:15–18, 25–27

Courage to Confess Christ→Boldly acknowledging Jesus before others despite fear or danger.→John 18:25–27; 21:15–17

Hope in the Resurrection→Holding firm to the hope and reality of Jesus’ resurrection as victory over death.→John 20:1–29

Experiencing Jesus’ Peace→Receiving the risen Christ’s peace and reassurance after His resurrection.→John 20:19–21

Commissioned to Witness→Accepting the call to share the Good News and continue Jesus’ mission in the world.→John 20:21–23

Restoration and Forgiveness→Experiencing Jesus’ forgiveness and restoration, especially in the reconciliation with Peter.→John 21:15–19

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with John 18-21 reveals His desire for humanity to experience the transforming power of Jesus' passion and resurrection. These chapters emphasize the fulfillment of Jesus' mission as the Savior, highlighting His sacrificial love, His victory over death, and the hope of eternal life for all who believe in Him. By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with Jesus.

As we reflect on the events of Jesus' passion and resurrection, we are reminded of the incredible lengths to which God went to secure our redemption. Jesus willingly endured suffering and death on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins, demonstrating the depth of His love for us. This challenges us to respond with lives of gratitude, service, and love, seeking to honor Him in all that we do. The resurrection of Jesus also assures us of His victory over sin and death, providing us with a firm foundation of hope and the promise of eternal life.

By applying these principles in our daily lives, we can experience the fullness of life that God intends for us and be a source of encouragement and inspiration to others. Our commitment to growing in our knowledge and relationship with Jesus not only strengthens our faith but also enables us to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us, reflecting the transforming power of the gospel in all that we do. Embracing the passion and resurrection of Jesus not only deepens our relationship with Him but also empowers us to share His message of hope and victory with the world, shining brightly for His glory.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. How do you think the disciples felt as they watched Jesus being arrested and crucified?

+The disciples had given up everything to follow Jesus. They believed He was the Messiah who would bring God's kingdom. But in John 18–19, when He was arrested, beaten, and crucified, their hopes were shattered. Sometimes, we also face seasons when God’s plan seems unclear. Yet, just as Jesus’ death wasn’t the end of the story, our trials don’t mean God has abandoned us.

2. Why is the Resurrection so important to our faith? (John 20:1–10)

+The Resurrection is the foundation of Christianity. If Christ had not risen, our faith would be in vain (1 Corinthians 15:17). When Mary Magdalene and the disciples found the empty tomb, they didn’t fully understand what had happened—but soon they would realize that Jesus had conquered death. His victory assures us that we, too, have victory over sin and eternal life in Him.

3. How does Jesus' conversation with Thomas (John 20:24–29) help us when we struggle with doubt?

+Thomas wanted proof before believing that Jesus had risen. Instead of rebuking him, Jesus met him in his doubt and provided what he needed. Many of us have moments when we struggle with faith. Jesus’ words, "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed," remind us that faith is about trusting God's promises, even when we don’t have all the answers.

4. In John 21, Jesus restores Peter after his denial. What does this teach us about God’s grace?

+Peter had denied Jesus three times, yet Jesus lovingly restored him by asking three times, "Do you love me?" This shows that failure doesn’t disqualify us from God’s plan. No matter how we’ve fallen, God’s grace is always greater. He is in the business of restoration!

5. How does the Resurrection give us hope in our daily lives?

+Because Jesus lives, we have hope beyond this life. We can face trials, sickness, and even death with confidence, knowing that just as Jesus rose, we, too, will have eternal life with Him. Our faith is not just about this world—it’s about a living hope that will never fade (1 Peter 1:3-4).

What to Look For

Notice Jesus’ calm and purposeful attitude during His trial and crucifixion. What does this say about His mission?

Pay attention to the resurrection appearances. How do they transform His disciples and confirm His victory?

Watch for themes of forgiveness, restoration, and commissioning. How does Jesus prepare His followers for the future?

Personal Reflection Questions

How does the resurrection shape your understanding of hope and new beginnings?

In what ways has Jesus restored or renewed your life?

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Overview of the Gospel of John

The Gospel of John is a powerful and deeply spiritual account of Jesus' life, ministry, and divine nature. Unlike the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke), which focus on Jesus' teachings and parables, John presents a more intimate picture of Christ as the eternal Word of God (John 1:1), emphasizing His divinity and mission to bring salvation to the world. Through vivid stories such as Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus (John 3), the healing of the blind man (John 9), and the raising of Lazarus (John 11), John highlights the importance of faith, grace, and the transformative power of Christ. The apostle’s purpose is clearly stated in John 20:31: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”

John’s message remains profoundly relevant in today’s world, offering both hope and guidance in uncertain times. In a culture filled with doubt and spiritual confusion, John’s emphasis on Jesus as “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6) provides a firm foundation for those seeking purpose and meaning. Charles Spurgeon once wrote, "The Gospel of John is the gospel of simplicity, but it is the gospel of sublimity, too. It is so simple that a child may understand it, and yet it is so sublime that the most profound theologian may find it beyond his grasp." This dual nature makes John a timeless source of encouragement for believers of all ages, including those in their later years, who have spent a lifetime walking with Christ and can reflect on His faithfulness.

Furthermore, John’s focus on love—especially Jesus’ new commandment to “love one another” (John 13:34)—is a message the world desperately needs. Amid division and strife, the Gospel calls us to live out our faith by showing Christ’s love in our daily interactions. Theologian N.T. Wright once observed, "When you read John’s Gospel, you are invited not just to learn about Jesus, but to come to know him personally, as you would a close friend." This personal relationship with Christ is as vital today as it was for the early church. For senior believers, John’s words offer reassurance that their faith journey is not just about knowledge but about deepening their relationship with the Savior who promises eternal life.

In studying John’s Gospel, we are reminded that Jesus is still the light in the darkness (John 1:5), offering hope, renewal, and peace in every season of life. Whether facing joys or challenges, we can trust in the One who said, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die” (John 11:25). This promise, rooted in John’s Gospel, continues to sustain and uplift believers, reminding us that our hope in Christ is secure both now and forever.