the gospel of john tool kit Part 2
the gospel of
john
tool kit Part 2
The Gospel of John is a literary masterpiece. It is simultaneously simple and complex, straightforward and mysterious, beautiful and haunting. In it we find some of the most memorable events in the life of Jesus as well as some of his most demanding words. Because there are no other biblical books like it, the gospel of John has drawn the attention of simple Christians, people variously opposed to the Bible, and the greatest Biblical scholars in world history since it was penned in the first century. There is simply no other book like it. In this preaching series, we will walk through the gospel at a pace that is intentionally balanced so as to allow a focus on individual words and sentences without losing sight of the larger themes and metanarrative, elements which this gospel is built upon. The following pages are part 2 of resources intended as a supplement to this preaching series. They can be used in a variety of ways, from deeper individual study or devotion, small group discussion, to family dinner-table discussion. Just like a chest of tools, pull out whatever part of this kit is useful for your specific need. You need not master all of its contents to put it to good use. Enjoy parts or the whole, just enjoy.
Tools in the Kit • Discussion Questions Part 2
Discussion Questions Part 2 Just how is one supposed to utilize these discussion questions? Because this section of the tool kit is probably the most important, this question is central. The answer: these discussion pages can be used in several ways. They can also be used in any combination. Use one or all of them. Following the above proposed preaching schedule we offer a separate page for each sermon passage. These questions allow for a diversity of applications and plenty of white space to write notes. Among other uses, each page is designed for at least three distinct applications: deeper individual or devotional study; small group discussion; family devotions and meal-time thought questions. NOTE WELL: Questions intended for family devotions or meal-times are underlined. Devotional Use – Individuals may want to use these pages in their own Bible study times during the week. In this case, all of the questions can be mined in turn, writing in the white space or on the back of the facing page. Small Group Use – Use of these discussion pages within a small group setting necessitates that you move quicker through the “Engage the Text” section to focus more on the application questions (at length). This approach will also allow for the useful devotional use above and keep the small group discussion moving to a good conclusion focused on life change. Since most small groups this Fall will not begin meeting until after Labor Day, our discussion pages includes a “Catch Up” page which will serve as the first for small groups after Labor Day. It will cover all of chapter one and will place these groups back in line with the weekly sermons. Family Use – The underlined questions are so highlighted because they serve as open-ended questions that would easily fit into a family meal time or devotional discussions. It may go like this: “Thinking about the sermon and study last Sunday at church, what do you think about…?” Challenge – These closing comments are intended as activities to focus on throughout the week. Ask about these activities next time you meet together. For sake of length and preparation time, we have decided to release these questions in several parts. Pay attention to the website for the next installment of questions to appear under the Tool Kit icon. We recommend that you print each section of the tool kit and mark it up with your own comments.
John 3:223:22-4:3 – John’s Testimony of Jesus Starter Questions How can you tell if something is “from God” or not? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text “Purification” is the same word used in the account of water into wine at the wedding (2:6). What was involved in the Jewish custom of purification? What is the problem John’s disciples have in 3:25-26? (Be sure to note 4:2) Why do you think this troubles them? John’s response in v. 27-36 makes several points about his comfort with this situation. Restate his points in your own words. According to John the Baptist, what unique qualities does Jesus possess that he and others do not? Restate v.31-33 in your own words. According to John’s words, what is involved in believing that God is true? Application Questions In what ways is God asking you to decrease and Jesus to increase? (3:30) What does it mean to “believe in the Son”? (3:36) How do we enjoy the “eternal life” we have received here and now? What motivation lies behind our tendency to celebrate certain teachers over and against others? Discuss how loyalties to teachers and/or theological systems may actually impede our relationship to Christ. Jesus clearly states He came down from heaven. How does this differentiate Christianity from other world religions and cults? How can we use this to speak with people who don’t believe in Christ? Challenge This week, consider three ways that you can increase Christ’s reputation. For example, start each day by asking God what he would want you to do today (i.e. serving someone else; sharing your personal testimony; praying for someone else; inviting someone to church, etc.)
John 4:44:4-42 – The meeting with a Samaritan woman Starter Questions Have you ever been a part of what you considered to be a “divine appointment”? Read through the text twice.
Engage the Text Check out a map (in the back of your Bible) and locate Galilee, Judea, Samaria and Sychar. Were there other routes to Galilee? Why do you think John noted that Jesus “had to go through Samaria” (see 4:34-38)? What do we learn about this woman? Contrast her with Nicodemus from the last chapter. What are the misunderstandings happening between Jesus and the woman in 4:10-15? Describe the progression of this conversation in your own words. Note the change in subject matter and the woman’s understanding of Jesus’ identity. Restate Jesus’ words in v. 21-24 in your own words. What is the main idea? What is significant about Jesus’ short statement in v. 26 (literally: “I am, the one speaking to you”)? What is interesting about the detail in v.28 compared with the comments in v.13-15? Restate Jesus’ comments in v. 32-38 in your own words. Application Question What “thirsts” do you see expressed by people today? How does our culture go about attempting to quench these “thirsts” (Jeremiah 2:13) Think about the progress of Jesus’ interactions with the woman. What lessons can we take away from Jesus’ example as to how we can share our faith? What can we learn about worship from this passage? What is important and what is not? How can we keep our eyes open to the harvest that is right around us? Challenge Continue to pray for three people who don’t yet know Christ. Pray for the right spirit and for courage. Then attempt to have a spiritual conversation with at least one of them in the coming week.
John 4:434:43-54 – The Healing of an Official’s Son Starter Questions Have you ever felt used? When and how? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text Why would a “prophet have no honor in his own country”? How far is Cana from Capernaum? (Consult the map in the back of your bible) What does v.45 & v.47 imply about Jesus’ popularity? What was this royal official seeking from Jesus? Is Jesus’ statement in v.48 a rebuke or a statement of fact? How does this relate to nature of belief and the goa goall of John’s gospel in using “signs” so that we might believe (John 20:30-31)? What is peculiar about the way Jesus heals this child? What do you think is the significance of this in light of Jesus’ negative comment in v. 48? If the official already “believed” lieved” Jesus in v.50, how can he and his household “believe” again in v.53? Application Questions Is it possible to be more in interested in what Jesus can give us than Jesus himself? Have you ever found yourself looking for just one more miracle? Why? Is Jesus a “first hope” in life’s troubles or a “last hope” hope”? What have you believed about Jesus and life that is otherwise “difficult” or even “irrational” to believe? If the official and his household believed, what does this imply about the bibli biblical cal “channels” of faith and belief (i.e. within the family in this case)? How are you cooperating with or impeding these channels? Challenge Reread John 1-4 this week. Review what you’ve learned and see what new things you notice as you read.
John 5:15:1-24 – Healing of a man on the Sabbath Starter Questions Have you ever been in an argument about Jesus? What were the circumstances? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text NOTE: There are several very early manuscripts of John’s gospel that do not contain v.3b-4, the section regarding the angel of the Lord stirring up the waters. They were probably added later to explain the tradition behind the “stirring” of the waters in v. 7 Yet again, what is peculiar about the way Jesus heals the sick man (consider v. 12-13)? What do Jesus’ words in v.14 imply about sin, sickness, and judgment (compare John 9:2-3)? What are the two charges that are brought against Jesus? See v. 9b and v. 16-18. Why is the Sabbath such a big deal? What is strikingly ironic about Jesus statement in v.17? What is the essence of the defense of Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath? Summarize Jesus’ description of His relationship to His Father in v. 19-24. Why is this such a scandal? NOTE: The cultural expectation at that time is that sons usually followed in their father’s vocational footsteps. Application Questions Like the Sabbath in this passage, how have you seen religious practices distorted into condemnation? What does this passage teach us about Jesus’ relationship to the Father? How is Jesus’ relationship to the Father both unique to himself and a pattern for all God’s children? (See Ephesians 5:1) What offends people today about the claims of Jesus? How does Jesus’ response instruct us in handling skeptics today? Challenge Commit John 5:24 to memory and meditation this week.
John 5:255:25-47 – Jesus calls witnesses on His behalf Starter Questions Have you ever served on jury duty or been in a courtroom trial? Briefly share. Read the passage through twice Engage the Text NOTE: This section CANNOT be separated from the previous passage beginning in 5:1. Even though we have separated them due to length, they must be understood together as a whole. What does “life” mean in the context of v. 25-29? What is the claim Jesus is making? In light of the clear gospel teaching about faith, belief and grace, how do you read v.28-29? Do these verses teach a salvation by works? (Remember, this cannot be separated from 5:21-24.) Circle the words “testimony,” “testify,” “true,” and “truth” in v.31-47. What is the Jewish background to v.31? (See Deuteronomy 19:15ff) Who are the four witnesses Jesus calls to support His claims about himself in v. 31-40? Do you find His case convincing; why or why not? How does Jesus turn the accusation of His opponents around and put the Jews on the spot in v. 41-46? How does Moses factor in? What does Jesus say is the reason for the Jews rejection of Him? Application Questions Similar to the witnesses in this passage, what would your testimony be in support of Christ? Why do you believe that Jesus is who He says He is (Savior, God, Creator, Redeemer, etc.)? Have you understood all of the Scriptures as pointing to Jesus? How can you begin to do this? How is it possible to love the religious life, but not have the love of God in you (v.42)? How can we avoid this error? Challenge Talk with a Christian friend this week about where your heart is concerning your “love” for God. Are you infatuated right now, distant, bored, excited, or passionately in love? Discuss creative ways to move forward in your intimacy and love.
John 6:16:1-35 – The multiplication of bread and waterwater-walk Starter Questions What is the best meal you’ve ever had? Why? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text What is the “test” that Jesus is giving the disciples (v. 6)? What are the people supposed to learn about themselves and Jesus? What do you imagine Andrew is thinking and feeling in v.9? How do you relate? Note the festival mentioned in v.3 and the reaction of the crowd in v. 14 (see Deut 18). What parallels are there between Jesus’ two miracles and the story of Moses and the Exodus? Why do you suppose Jesus fled the crowds’ desire to make Him king in v. 15? Why do you think John the evangelist places the water-walking miracle in between the miracle of the loaves and its explanation? Are they related? What is the major point of contrast in the question of v.28 and the answer given in v.29? Take a moment to read Psalm 78. The people quote verse 24 but misunderstand Moses as the subject. How does Jesus correct them? How do you personally respond to Jesus comparing himself to bread? What about the bread of Life? Application Questions Considering the ways Jesus is seen as greater than Moses in this passage, how can this idea encourage us in our relationship to God? How do we pass the “test” that Jesus gave his disciples: what does it take to rely on His provision every day? In what ways do we (or others) try to use Jesus to support our agendas?
Challenge Make a mental note this week on how often you find yourself deliberately relying on God’s provision. Think about Jesus’ image of himself as the bread of life, and share your reflections at your small group next week.
John 6:356:35-71 – Difficult teaching in Capernaum Starter Questions What is the most difficult of Jesus’ teachings for you? Why? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text NOTE: This passage CANNOT be properly understood apart from the previous passage beginning in 6:1. Even though we have divided them due to their length, they must be understood as a whole. What is the reason Jesus came down from heaven? Why did the Jewish leadership grumble about Jesus’ statement? Who else “grumbles” in the Old Testament? What is God’s role and what is our role in coming to believe in Jesus according to v. 35-40 (also v. 44)? What is the new twist that Jesus adds to the image of the bread of life in v.49-51? Imagine hearing v.53-58 for the first time. What is repulsive about Jesus’ statement? What does He mean? (Note the parallel statements v.54 to v. 40, 47, 56 and the setting of Passover) How does Jesus explain the crowd’s rejection of Him in v. 63? How do “many of his disciples” react to these statements? See also 6:66. Notice the specific language used to describe this retreat. How is this to be understood within the gospel’s focus on believing? To what greater event does Jesus refer in v.62? How do Peter and Judas’ responses represent the audience both then and today?
Application Questions Have you ever walked away from Jesus? What pulls you away or causes you to “grumble”? Abiding in Jesus is enjoying eternal life. What does it look like to abide in Christ day to day? How do we relate to and follow God when we are troubled (or offended) by His claims? In your opinion, how should the knowledge that God draws people to himself affect our approach to sharing our faith with others?
john
tool kit Part 2
The Gospel of John is a literary masterpiece. It is simultaneously simple and complex, straightforward and mysterious, beautiful and haunting. In it we find some of the most memorable events in the life of Jesus as well as some of his most demanding words. Because there are no other biblical books like it, the gospel of John has drawn the attention of simple Christians, people variously opposed to the Bible, and the greatest Biblical scholars in world history since it was penned in the first century. There is simply no other book like it. In this preaching series, we will walk through the gospel at a pace that is intentionally balanced so as to allow a focus on individual words and sentences without losing sight of the larger themes and metanarrative, elements which this gospel is built upon. The following pages are part 2 of resources intended as a supplement to this preaching series. They can be used in a variety of ways, from deeper individual study or devotion, small group discussion, to family dinner-table discussion. Just like a chest of tools, pull out whatever part of this kit is useful for your specific need. You need not master all of its contents to put it to good use. Enjoy parts or the whole, just enjoy.
Tools in the Kit • Discussion Questions Part 2
Discussion Questions Part 2 Just how is one supposed to utilize these discussion questions? Because this section of the tool kit is probably the most important, this question is central. The answer: these discussion pages can be used in several ways. They can also be used in any combination. Use one or all of them. Following the above proposed preaching schedule we offer a separate page for each sermon passage. These questions allow for a diversity of applications and plenty of white space to write notes. Among other uses, each page is designed for at least three distinct applications: deeper individual or devotional study; small group discussion; family devotions and meal-time thought questions. NOTE WELL: Questions intended for family devotions or meal-times are underlined. Devotional Use – Individuals may want to use these pages in their own Bible study times during the week. In this case, all of the questions can be mined in turn, writing in the white space or on the back of the facing page. Small Group Use – Use of these discussion pages within a small group setting necessitates that you move quicker through the “Engage the Text” section to focus more on the application questions (at length). This approach will also allow for the useful devotional use above and keep the small group discussion moving to a good conclusion focused on life change. Since most small groups this Fall will not begin meeting until after Labor Day, our discussion pages includes a “Catch Up” page which will serve as the first for small groups after Labor Day. It will cover all of chapter one and will place these groups back in line with the weekly sermons. Family Use – The underlined questions are so highlighted because they serve as open-ended questions that would easily fit into a family meal time or devotional discussions. It may go like this: “Thinking about the sermon and study last Sunday at church, what do you think about…?” Challenge – These closing comments are intended as activities to focus on throughout the week. Ask about these activities next time you meet together. For sake of length and preparation time, we have decided to release these questions in several parts. Pay attention to the website for the next installment of questions to appear under the Tool Kit icon. We recommend that you print each section of the tool kit and mark it up with your own comments.
John 3:223:22-4:3 – John’s Testimony of Jesus Starter Questions How can you tell if something is “from God” or not? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text “Purification” is the same word used in the account of water into wine at the wedding (2:6). What was involved in the Jewish custom of purification? What is the problem John’s disciples have in 3:25-26? (Be sure to note 4:2) Why do you think this troubles them? John’s response in v. 27-36 makes several points about his comfort with this situation. Restate his points in your own words. According to John the Baptist, what unique qualities does Jesus possess that he and others do not? Restate v.31-33 in your own words. According to John’s words, what is involved in believing that God is true? Application Questions In what ways is God asking you to decrease and Jesus to increase? (3:30) What does it mean to “believe in the Son”? (3:36) How do we enjoy the “eternal life” we have received here and now? What motivation lies behind our tendency to celebrate certain teachers over and against others? Discuss how loyalties to teachers and/or theological systems may actually impede our relationship to Christ. Jesus clearly states He came down from heaven. How does this differentiate Christianity from other world religions and cults? How can we use this to speak with people who don’t believe in Christ? Challenge This week, consider three ways that you can increase Christ’s reputation. For example, start each day by asking God what he would want you to do today (i.e. serving someone else; sharing your personal testimony; praying for someone else; inviting someone to church, etc.)
John 4:44:4-42 – The meeting with a Samaritan woman Starter Questions Have you ever been a part of what you considered to be a “divine appointment”? Read through the text twice.
Engage the Text Check out a map (in the back of your Bible) and locate Galilee, Judea, Samaria and Sychar. Were there other routes to Galilee? Why do you think John noted that Jesus “had to go through Samaria” (see 4:34-38)? What do we learn about this woman? Contrast her with Nicodemus from the last chapter. What are the misunderstandings happening between Jesus and the woman in 4:10-15? Describe the progression of this conversation in your own words. Note the change in subject matter and the woman’s understanding of Jesus’ identity. Restate Jesus’ words in v. 21-24 in your own words. What is the main idea? What is significant about Jesus’ short statement in v. 26 (literally: “I am, the one speaking to you”)? What is interesting about the detail in v.28 compared with the comments in v.13-15? Restate Jesus’ comments in v. 32-38 in your own words. Application Question What “thirsts” do you see expressed by people today? How does our culture go about attempting to quench these “thirsts” (Jeremiah 2:13) Think about the progress of Jesus’ interactions with the woman. What lessons can we take away from Jesus’ example as to how we can share our faith? What can we learn about worship from this passage? What is important and what is not? How can we keep our eyes open to the harvest that is right around us? Challenge Continue to pray for three people who don’t yet know Christ. Pray for the right spirit and for courage. Then attempt to have a spiritual conversation with at least one of them in the coming week.
John 4:434:43-54 – The Healing of an Official’s Son Starter Questions Have you ever felt used? When and how? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text Why would a “prophet have no honor in his own country”? How far is Cana from Capernaum? (Consult the map in the back of your bible) What does v.45 & v.47 imply about Jesus’ popularity? What was this royal official seeking from Jesus? Is Jesus’ statement in v.48 a rebuke or a statement of fact? How does this relate to nature of belief and the goa goall of John’s gospel in using “signs” so that we might believe (John 20:30-31)? What is peculiar about the way Jesus heals this child? What do you think is the significance of this in light of Jesus’ negative comment in v. 48? If the official already “believed” lieved” Jesus in v.50, how can he and his household “believe” again in v.53? Application Questions Is it possible to be more in interested in what Jesus can give us than Jesus himself? Have you ever found yourself looking for just one more miracle? Why? Is Jesus a “first hope” in life’s troubles or a “last hope” hope”? What have you believed about Jesus and life that is otherwise “difficult” or even “irrational” to believe? If the official and his household believed, what does this imply about the bibli biblical cal “channels” of faith and belief (i.e. within the family in this case)? How are you cooperating with or impeding these channels? Challenge Reread John 1-4 this week. Review what you’ve learned and see what new things you notice as you read.
John 5:15:1-24 – Healing of a man on the Sabbath Starter Questions Have you ever been in an argument about Jesus? What were the circumstances? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text NOTE: There are several very early manuscripts of John’s gospel that do not contain v.3b-4, the section regarding the angel of the Lord stirring up the waters. They were probably added later to explain the tradition behind the “stirring” of the waters in v. 7 Yet again, what is peculiar about the way Jesus heals the sick man (consider v. 12-13)? What do Jesus’ words in v.14 imply about sin, sickness, and judgment (compare John 9:2-3)? What are the two charges that are brought against Jesus? See v. 9b and v. 16-18. Why is the Sabbath such a big deal? What is strikingly ironic about Jesus statement in v.17? What is the essence of the defense of Jesus’ actions on the Sabbath? Summarize Jesus’ description of His relationship to His Father in v. 19-24. Why is this such a scandal? NOTE: The cultural expectation at that time is that sons usually followed in their father’s vocational footsteps. Application Questions Like the Sabbath in this passage, how have you seen religious practices distorted into condemnation? What does this passage teach us about Jesus’ relationship to the Father? How is Jesus’ relationship to the Father both unique to himself and a pattern for all God’s children? (See Ephesians 5:1) What offends people today about the claims of Jesus? How does Jesus’ response instruct us in handling skeptics today? Challenge Commit John 5:24 to memory and meditation this week.
John 5:255:25-47 – Jesus calls witnesses on His behalf Starter Questions Have you ever served on jury duty or been in a courtroom trial? Briefly share. Read the passage through twice Engage the Text NOTE: This section CANNOT be separated from the previous passage beginning in 5:1. Even though we have separated them due to length, they must be understood together as a whole. What does “life” mean in the context of v. 25-29? What is the claim Jesus is making? In light of the clear gospel teaching about faith, belief and grace, how do you read v.28-29? Do these verses teach a salvation by works? (Remember, this cannot be separated from 5:21-24.) Circle the words “testimony,” “testify,” “true,” and “truth” in v.31-47. What is the Jewish background to v.31? (See Deuteronomy 19:15ff) Who are the four witnesses Jesus calls to support His claims about himself in v. 31-40? Do you find His case convincing; why or why not? How does Jesus turn the accusation of His opponents around and put the Jews on the spot in v. 41-46? How does Moses factor in? What does Jesus say is the reason for the Jews rejection of Him? Application Questions Similar to the witnesses in this passage, what would your testimony be in support of Christ? Why do you believe that Jesus is who He says He is (Savior, God, Creator, Redeemer, etc.)? Have you understood all of the Scriptures as pointing to Jesus? How can you begin to do this? How is it possible to love the religious life, but not have the love of God in you (v.42)? How can we avoid this error? Challenge Talk with a Christian friend this week about where your heart is concerning your “love” for God. Are you infatuated right now, distant, bored, excited, or passionately in love? Discuss creative ways to move forward in your intimacy and love.
John 6:16:1-35 – The multiplication of bread and waterwater-walk Starter Questions What is the best meal you’ve ever had? Why? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text What is the “test” that Jesus is giving the disciples (v. 6)? What are the people supposed to learn about themselves and Jesus? What do you imagine Andrew is thinking and feeling in v.9? How do you relate? Note the festival mentioned in v.3 and the reaction of the crowd in v. 14 (see Deut 18). What parallels are there between Jesus’ two miracles and the story of Moses and the Exodus? Why do you suppose Jesus fled the crowds’ desire to make Him king in v. 15? Why do you think John the evangelist places the water-walking miracle in between the miracle of the loaves and its explanation? Are they related? What is the major point of contrast in the question of v.28 and the answer given in v.29? Take a moment to read Psalm 78. The people quote verse 24 but misunderstand Moses as the subject. How does Jesus correct them? How do you personally respond to Jesus comparing himself to bread? What about the bread of Life? Application Questions Considering the ways Jesus is seen as greater than Moses in this passage, how can this idea encourage us in our relationship to God? How do we pass the “test” that Jesus gave his disciples: what does it take to rely on His provision every day? In what ways do we (or others) try to use Jesus to support our agendas?
Challenge Make a mental note this week on how often you find yourself deliberately relying on God’s provision. Think about Jesus’ image of himself as the bread of life, and share your reflections at your small group next week.
John 6:356:35-71 – Difficult teaching in Capernaum Starter Questions What is the most difficult of Jesus’ teachings for you? Why? Read the passage through twice Engage the Text NOTE: This passage CANNOT be properly understood apart from the previous passage beginning in 6:1. Even though we have divided them due to their length, they must be understood as a whole. What is the reason Jesus came down from heaven? Why did the Jewish leadership grumble about Jesus’ statement? Who else “grumbles” in the Old Testament? What is God’s role and what is our role in coming to believe in Jesus according to v. 35-40 (also v. 44)? What is the new twist that Jesus adds to the image of the bread of life in v.49-51? Imagine hearing v.53-58 for the first time. What is repulsive about Jesus’ statement? What does He mean? (Note the parallel statements v.54 to v. 40, 47, 56 and the setting of Passover) How does Jesus explain the crowd’s rejection of Him in v. 63? How do “many of his disciples” react to these statements? See also 6:66. Notice the specific language used to describe this retreat. How is this to be understood within the gospel’s focus on believing? To what greater event does Jesus refer in v.62? How do Peter and Judas’ responses represent the audience both then and today?
Application Questions Have you ever walked away from Jesus? What pulls you away or causes you to “grumble”? Abiding in Jesus is enjoying eternal life. What does it look like to abide in Christ day to day? How do we relate to and follow God when we are troubled (or offended) by His claims? In your opinion, how should the knowledge that God draws people to himself affect our approach to sharing our faith with others?
