DOWNLOAD PDF VERSION
As Jesus continues to teach about the grace of God offered in the Gospel we see numerous different responses. His own brothers don’t believe him. Some are curious while others are confused. The simmering hatred of the religious leaders continues to grow, while Nicodemus seems to be growing in his understanding of Jesus, coming to his defense. In the midst of varying opinions of his identity, Jesus again gives a clear invitation; “Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’”
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Even Jesus’ own brothers misunderstood his identity and didn’t believe in him. What does this tell us about the nature of saving faith (a theme we have seen repeatedly in John’s Gospel)?
List out the various responses to Jesus and his teaching given in this chapter ( Verses 3-5, 11-12, 15, 20, 26, 30-31, 40-46, 50-51). Which of the responses listed best describe you before God saved you by his grace?
HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
Read Verses 37-39. Where have we seen similar language from Jesus in John’s Gospel? Read Proverbs 4:23 and Isaiah 58:11 (verses Jesus likely had in him). What do verses teach us about the Gospel?
In what ways are our souls thirsty for what Jesus offers here? (think about both the longings of your own heart and the longings of the world around us)
HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
Believing the Gospel leads to a life of abundant joy and satisfaction in God (v.37-39). What threatens to rob you of such joy? How do you fight for such joy with the power of the gospel?
Notice the willingness of Nicodemus to defend Jesus. It seems that he is on a journey of faith as he considers the life and work of Christ (See also 3:1-15). How does this encourage us as we long to see others come to believe the Gospel?