March 2024 Discussion Questions
-
Week 9: John 18:15–27
- As a biography of Jesus, all four gospels record a similar scene of Peter denying Jesus three times. What stands out in each account? (Read Matthew 26:69–75, Mark 14:66–72 & Luke 22:54–62)
- When questioned by the high priest, Jesus responded that He taught openly and consistently. He denied the accusation of plotting a conspiracy in private with His disciples. What do the religious leaders have against Jesus? What are they most concerned about?
- What are some ways you have seen Peter embody immense faith and courage in following Jesus? Why do you think Peter turns so quickly on Jesus and denies knowing Him?
- As we anticipate Easter, who has the Lord brought into your life that needs the hope of Jesus? Spend time praying for boldness and ask God to give you an opportunity to encourage this person in their journey of faith.
-
Week 10: John 18:28–40
- All four gospels provide a unique perspective into the life of Jesus. What stands out as Jesus appears before Pilate in each gospel? (Read Matthew 27:11–14, Mark 15:1–5 & Luke 23:1–17)
- What stands out in each gospel as the crowds shout for the release of Barabbas? How is Barabbas described in each gospel? (Read Matthew 27:15–23, Mark 15:6–15 & Luke 23:18–25)
- From the beginning, Jesus knew what kind of death He would die (18:32). How would knowing your death, both how you will die and when you will die, change the way you live?
- Like Pilate, who is someone in your life that is questioning or searching for truth (18:38)? What is one truth from the gospel of John that you want to pray over this person?
-
Week 11: John 19:1–16
- According to the Old Testament, the crime of blasphemy would result in death by stoning. In the first century, the Jewish leaders didn’t have the authority to impose the death penalty. How do the religious leaders manipulate Pilate to crucify Jesus by the title King of the Jews?
- Why is it shocking when the chief priests claim to have “no king but Caesar” (19:15)?
- Not only did Jesus come to the earth as the conquering King, but also He chose to be the crucified King. Take a few minutes to sit in this moment and reflect on Jesus preparing for the cross.
- As you anticipate Easter, pray that God will prepare people to hear the gospel and receive it.
-
Week 12: John 19:17–42
- Familiarity can often breed complacency. As you reflect on the crucifixion, death and burial of Jesus, what is new or something you’ve never noticed? (Read Matthew 27:27–66, Mark 15:16–47 & Luke 23:26–59)
- In some of His final words, Jesus speaks to His mother and the disciple John (19:26–27). Why do you think John includes this personal moment right before the cross?
- As we read through the gospel of John, it’s easy to get caught up in the conflict between Jesus and the Jewish leaders and all of the details of the story. When Jesus says His final words, “It is finished”, what is the bigger story of what Jesus completed with His death on the cross?
- Take time to pray and thank the Lord for the gifts of salvation, redemption and forgiveness.
-
Week 13: John 20:1–18
- Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope as Christians. How do the gospel authors portray the resurrection and empty tomb? Compare the similarities and differences by reading Matthew 28:1–15, Mark 16:1–8 & Luke 24:1–12.
- Step into the shoes of the disciples as Peter and John ran to see the empty tomb. What are the disciples thinking as they returned to their homes (20:10)?
- When Jesus spoke to Mary by name, she immediately exchanged weeping with worship. Has there ever been a time when your emotions completely reversed? What does this feel like?
- Reflect on Easter and the joy of our risen Lord. Why do we celebrate in such an extravagant way?
April 2024 Discussion Questions
-
Week 14: John 20:19–31
- What stood out to you on Easter as we celebrated our risen Savior?
- As Jesus appears to the disciples, how does John’s gospel compare to Matthew and Luke? (Read Matthew 28:9–10 and Luke 24:13–49)
- As an eyewitness and disciple who was with Jesus, what specific details does John include to invite you into this story and provide evidence for the resurrection of Jesus?
-
Put yourself in the shoes of the disciple Thomas, who did not simply rely on the experience of the other disciples. How do you relate to Thomas and share his desire to encounter Jesus for himself?
-
Week 15: John 21:1–25
- While John doesn’t end his gospel with the Great Commission, John does say that Jesus is sending the disciples (20:21). Yet, what do the disciples default back to in 21:1–14? What do you think about this?
- Why does Jesus allow the disciples to fail in fishing? How does this scene of fishing foreshadow the mission for them to become fishers of men?
- What does Jesus teach Peter about the most important thing that will sustain his life and career in ministry?
- The first and last words that Jesus spoke to Peter were, “follow me.” How does this statement sum up the Christian life? Why does John end his gospel with these same words?
- How does the ending of John’s gospel leave you with a sense of wonder and awe?
-
Week 16: Review & Reflect
- John was the youngest disciple to follow Jesus and he lived to be the oldest, dying at 90 years old. John had a close relationship with Jesus. He was the one called “beloved.” He was the one whom Jesus entrusted to take care of His mother. After reading the gospel of John, what stands out about this man? How was John’s life changed by Jesus?
- Take a few minutes to skim through the main headings of John’s gospel. What is one truth or takeaway that has impacted you from this series? In what ways are you encouraged or challenged?
- Looking back, what is one theme or scene that stood out as the most memorable or something you’ve never seen before?
- After completing John, why do you think this gospel is the first book of the Bible that people are often encouraged to read? What makes the book of John so distinct and special?
- Would you feel comfortable taking someone through John’s gospel? How would you do this?