GO & MAKE DISCIPLES WHO MAKE DISCIPLES.
***Updated every Monday!***
For the Newsletter Growing Deeper email click here.https://mailchi.mp/a8610c44103b/weekly-connection

Sermon study guide for next-level growth.

Sermon Overview

I hope this message finds you well as we reflect together on Sunday's powerful journey through John 19.  This Sunday, we explored the brutal reality of what Jesus endured on our behalf: flogging that many didn't survive, humiliation from soldiers who mocked the King of Kings, and condemnation to death despite being completely innocent. Yet all of this suffering was necessary, not just to fulfill ancient prophecies, but to pave the way for something beautiful: a new life where we can walk in forgiveness and gratitude. When we truly grasp the weight of what Jesus went through, we realize that the only appropriate response is surrender, not to earn salvation, but as an expression of profound gratitude for the gift we've been given.

Sermon Series: 
John: The Explicit Gospel
Key Passage:  John 19:1-16

Key Takeaways

  1. Jesus was tortured, mocked, and sentenced to death so that those who believe in Him may walk in forgiveness and gratitude.

Discussion Questions

Understanding the Passage
  1. Familiarity and the Gospel: Pastor Josh mentioned that we can become "too familiar" with the cross story. Have you experienced this? What helps you see the gospel with fresh eyes?
  2. Genesis 22 Connection: How does the story of Abraham and Isaac help you understand what God the Father did in sending Jesus? What emotions do you think Abraham experienced that might mirror God's heart?
  3. "Where is the lamb?": Isaac's question in Genesis 22 echoes through Scripture until John the Baptist declares, "Behold the Lamb of God." How does seeing Jesus as the answer to this ancient question deepen your appreciation for God's plan?
  4. Numbers 21 - Looking to Live: Why do you think God chose such a strange remedy for the snake bites (looking at a bronze serpent)? What does this teach us about faith and salvation?

Going Deeper
  1. Sovereignty vs. Accident: The sermon emphasized that the cross was "planned, not random." How does understanding God's sovereignty over the crucifixion affect:
    1. Your trust in God's plan for your life?
    2. Your view of difficult circumstances?
  2. Psalm 22 Prophecy: Which detail from Psalm 22 that was fulfilled in John 19 stood out most to you? Why?
  3. The Sign Above the Cross: Pilate wrote "King of the Jews" in three languages—Hebrew, Latin, and Greek. How does this detail reveal God's heart for all nations? How should this shape our view of the gospel message?
  4. Victory, Not Defeat: The sermon concluded by saying the cross was Jesus' victory, not Satan's. How does this perspective change the way you view:
    1. Spiritual warfare?
    2. Your own struggles with sin?
    3. Difficult seasons in life?