Jesus Restores (John 21:15-25)

 
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TEXT: John 21:15-25
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What do you do when you fail miserably? This was certainly a question Peter considered. He had spoken boldly of his commitment to Christ, then denied him three times in the hour of greatest need. In the final passage of John's gospel, we read of Jesus graciously restoring Peter. Not only is he restored, but he is equipped to serve the Lord and his people. This is the grace of the gospel-- Jesus restores failures, equips them, then sends them out to accomplish his purposes.


REFLECTION QUESTIONS

HEAD: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.

  • Take a few minutes to go back to John 18:15-18, 25-27. Try to imagine and articulate what Peter was thinking and feeling as Jesus began to ask him these questions in John 21. 

  • How do you see God’s grace at work grace in the conversation between Jesus and Peter?

  • Peter is overly concerned with John (v.20-23). How did Jesus respond? What lessons do we learn from Jesus’ response?

HEART: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God

  • Because of past sins, we may be tempted to think, “God could never forgive me.” According to this passage and what we have seen in John’s gospel, why is that a false statement?

  • Because of past sins, we may also be tempted to think, “God could never use me for his purposes.” According to this passage and what we have seen in John’s gospel, why is that a false statement? 

  • Scotty Smith says, “Gospel surgery is free, but not always easy. Grace produces redemptive pain, not punitive pain.” What kind of “Gospel surgery” is Jesus performing in your life right now?

HANDS: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).

  • “Feed my sheep” refers to Peter’s work as an apostle and pastor. What does this tell us about the necessity of the Word of God for your spiritual growth?

  • Verse 18 tells of Peter’s future suffering for the sake of Christ. Peter moved from fear of others to boldness for Christ. What made the difference? How are you growing in boldness for Christ?

  • Spend some time reflecting on your study of John’s Gospel. How has God changed you through this study?

 

clint@sevenmileroad.org