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Devo-Growing-Deeper-Guide-_-John-11_17-2-34.pdf
Discussion-Growing-Deeper-Guide-_-John-1-49.pdf
Small-Group-Growing-Deeper-Guide-_-John--85.pdf

Sermon study guide for next-level growth.

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Sermon Overview

In the face of loss and heartache, we often find ourselves grappling with difficult questions about life, death, and the nature of God's love. The story of Lazarus's death and the profound interaction between Jesus and Martha offers us a powerful lens through which we can explore these weighty matters and discover a hope that transcends our earthly understanding.

Sermon Series: 
John: The Explicit Gospel
The Resurrection & the Life
Key Passage:  John 11:17-27

Key Takeaways

  1. Jesus is the resurrection and the life, not just an abstract concept but a person.
  2. Jesus has ultimate power and authority over death.
  3. We are resurrected from spiritual death at salvation.
  4. Jesus will resurrect our physical bodies at the rapture.
  5. Jesus will eventually eliminate death once and for all.

Discussion Questions

  1. The sermon discusses Martha's disappointment when Jesus didn't arrive in time to heal Lazarus. Have you ever felt disappointed or confused by God's timing in your life? How did you work through those feelings?
  2. Pastor Steve Buckner mentioned that "Jesus genuinely shared Martha's pain but didn't follow her plan." How does this statement resonate with your own experiences with God?
  3. What does Jesus mean when He says, "I am the resurrection and the life"? How does this statement impact your understanding of who Jesus is?
  4. Pastor Steve Buckner emphasizes that knowing Jesus is even more important than the miracles He performs. How can we cultivate a deeper relationship with Jesus beyond just seeking His blessings or interventions?
  5. Discuss the concept of the rapture as presented in the sermon. How does the promise of future resurrection impact how we live our lives today?
  6. Pastor Steve Buckner mentions that "pain and perfect love often go hand in hand." How have you experienced God's love in the midst of difficult circumstances?
  7. The main idea of the sermon is that "the resurrection power of Jesus makes it possible for us to know Him and be with Him forever." How does this truth affect your daily walk with Christ?

Practical Applications

  1. Spend time this week meditating on Philippians 3:10. Journal about what it means to know Christ and the power of His resurrection in your own life.
  2. Identify an area of your life where you may be holding back from fully trusting God. Take a step towards "selling out" for Christ in that area.
  3. Reach out to someone who may be experiencing disappointment or confusion in their faith journey. Share how Jesus has been the "resurrection and life" in your own experiences.
  4. Create a gratitude list focusing on the ways Jesus has brought life and resurrection to various aspects of your life.
  5. Commit to memorizing John 11:25-26 this week, internalizing Jesus' words about being the resurrection and the life.

Closing Prayer

Encourage group members to continue reflecting on the sermon throughout the week and to share any insights or experiences at the next meeting.