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Sermon study guide for next-level growth.

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Sermon Overview

This past Sunday, Pastor Nick explored the profound question of why people reject Jesus Christ, even in the face of overwhelming evidence. We delved into the concept of unbelief as a conscious rejection of God and His Word, stemming from a heart in rebellion against Him. The message emphasized that continuous rejection of Christ's light can lead to indefinite darkness, as God, in his just sovereignty, judicially hardens hearts that persistently turn away from Him.

Sermon Series: 
John: The Explicit Gospel
The Last Call To Believe
Key Passage:  John 12:37-50

Key Takeaways

  1. Unbelief is not due to a lack of knowledge, but a heart in rebellion against God.
  2. Continuous rejection of Christ's light can lead to spiritual darkness.
  3. Israel rejected Jesus as Messiah because they would not and could not see His glory.
  4. God's judicial hardening is a just response to persistent unbelief.
  5. There is still time to repent and believe, but judgment is coming for those who reject Christ.

Discussion Questions

  1. What does the bible say through Pastor Nick's message about the nature of unbelief? How does this challenge or confirm your understanding?
  2. Discuss the statement: "They would not believe and therefore they could not believe." What does this reveal about human responsibility and divine sovereignty?
  3. How does seeking human praise hinder our ability to see and believe in God's glory? (Reference John 12:42-43)
  4. Pastor Nick mentions God's patience throughout biblical history. How does this long-term perspective impact your view of God's character?
  5. What does it mean that Jesus came as "light" into the world? How does this metaphor help explain His mission?
  6. How do you reconcile the idea of God's love with His judicial hardening of hearts?
  7. What warnings does this passage give about rejecting Christ? How can we apply these warnings to our lives today?

Practical Applications

  1. Self-reflection: Take time this week to examine your own heart. Are there areas where you might be resisting God's light?
  2. Share the light: Identify one person in your life who may be struggling with unbelief. Commit to praying for them and looking for opportunities to share Christ's grace.
  3. Study God's patience: Read through some Old Testament stories that demonstrate God's patience with Israel. Reflect on how this impacts your view of God and your faith journey.
  4. Glory check: Pay attention this week to moments when you're tempted to seek human praise over God's approval. Practice redirecting your focus to God's glory.
  5. Urgency in evangelism: Considering the warnings in this passage, how might this motivate you to share your faith more boldly?

Closing Prayer

Thank God for His patience and the opportunity to believe. Ask for His help in seeing His glory more clearly and for courage to share the light of Christ with others.