Small Group Questions

Reflect:

• We (1) celebrated the end of Roe vs. Wade. We (2) touched on that there is only one right religion that is based on what you do with Christ. We (3) analyzed Jesus' claim to be God. We (4) discussed God’s coming judgment. Each of these are loaded with cultural landmines. What is the most difficult topic for you? Why? Where do you need to grow in order to be able to understand and discuss with others?
• Agree or Disagree: Jesus is the fulcrum on which everyone’s eternal destiny hinges.
• On a scale of 1-10, how marvelous is it that Jesus has come early to make you his friend before he is your judge? On a scale of 1-10, how horrifying would it be if Jesus was not your friend, but your judge?

Repent:

• Repent of any self-righteousness that would make us not listen or respond to Jesus’ words.

Remember:

• Read John 5:18-30. How direct is Jesus?
• What issue(s) does Jesus force his audience to consider in this passage? (Examples: The authority of his word. His claim to deity.)
• Can you honor God while disregarding Jesus? Why or why not?
• How was your view of Jesus elevated?
• How was your view of Jesus challenged?
• According to John 5:21-23, what proof exists that Jesus is God?
• According to John 5:24, what is Jesus analysis of humanity? What did you learn about mankind? From what natural state does man start? How does that challenge the predominate worldview that everyone is neutral?
• Why is it a consolation for Christians that Jesus Christ is the Judge of mankind?
• Why is it a cause of concern for non-Christians that Jesus Christ is the Judge of mankind?
• According to John 5:29, does Jesus teach that we are saved by our works/good deeds? What is the relationship of faith and works?

Discipleship:

• What was something new that you have learned?
• What was something you knew, but needed to be reminded?
• Even though people see Christianity as narrow, why is the exclusivity of Christ (Jesus is the only way) not intolerant or narrow? Are you confident in why the exclusivity of Christ matters? Why do you think people today are so insistent that are religions are equal?
• Even though people want to deny a final judgment (probably preferring annihilation—death is just the end), why does God’s final judgment help make better sense of this fallen world? Can you imagine why it might be good to believe in a final judgment day? How does God’s final judgment help make sense of injustice and suffering? When people get rid of the idea of judgment and hell to make God more loving, do you think they actually make him less loving? Why or why not?
• Even though the world often says, “Surely all good, decent people can find God and go to heaven.” How would you respond based on John 5? What’s wrong with this statement?