Read: John 18:26-27, Luke 22:60b-62, Hebrews 12:5-11
Who knew that Peter way lying about being a disciple of Jesus? What does this reveal about getting away with it?
Why is this important for every Christian to remember? What will happen if this is minimized or rejected?
What specific lie do you need to confess and stop doing today? Take time right now to confess and repent.
Read: John 18:18, 25, James 3:6-9
In what way does James 3:6-9 highlight the need to contain lying? What happens if this doesn’t take place?
Given lying can take place in many ways (i.e., ½ truths, omitting, etc.), how have you rationalized the sin of lying?
What similar situation do you find yourself needing to be more honest about today? What practical steps will you take?
Read: John 18:18, 25, Matthew 26:69-74a, Luke 22:54-60a
Given Peter ended up lying multiple times to those around him, what does it reveal about lying?
How could Peter have initially responded without lying? What would this have prevented from taking place?
In what way have you underestimated the impact of a simple lie? What is God teaching you about being on guard?
Read: John 18:13-17, Matthew 26:31-35, 55-56, 5:37, James 5:12
In what way did Peter put himself in harm’s way by following Jesus after He was arrested? Why?
How was this different from the other disciples? Why did Peter lie about knowing Jesus?
What does this highlight about the temptation to lie? How can you fall into this trap? How can you avoid it?
Read: John 18:13-17, Genesis 2:8-9, 15-17, 3:1-4, John 8:44
How did Satan lie to Eve and ultimately Adam about eating the forbidden fruit? What was the result?
What does this highlight about the dangers of lying? How did Jesus emphasize this truth in John 8:44?
In what way do you think Christians have minimized the sin of lying today? How does this adjust you?
Read: John 18:1-12
As you review this week’s passage, what has had the most impact on you? Why?
In what way has this challenged the way you typically respond when someone hurts or betrays you? Be specific.
How will applying these truths help you live out the Gospel rather than make things worse?
Read: John 18:6-9, 17:12, 10:17-18, Matthew 20:28, 26:26-28
Why did Jesus ask the arresting soldiers and Pharisees two times who they were looking for? Be specific.
How did this protect the disciples? What does this highlight about Jesus trusting God and not playing the victim?
Why is this important to remember when you’ve been betrayed by someone? How can you avoid playing the victim?
Read: John 18:3-5, Matthew 26:48-50, John 13:1-5, 21-27
How did Jesus respond when the guards came to arrest Him? (i.e., “came forward”) What did He say to Judas?
In what way was this a similar response to washing Judas’ feet? What does this highlight about handling betrayal?
How do you typically respond to someone who has hurt you? How does Jesus’ approach to Judas adjust you?
Read: John 18:1-2, Genesis 2:7-8, Matthew 26:36-39, 1 Corinthians 15:45-49
In what way does the Garden of Gethsemane relate to the Garden of Eden and God’s redemptive plan?
Explain why Jesus is referred to as the “last” Adam. How does this relate to Jesus praying in the garden?
Given Jesus picked a familiar place for Judas to find Him, what does this highlight about God’s plan?
Read: Luke 9:23-25, Acts 2:37-38, Romans 10:9-10, James 2:18-19
What conditions did Jesus give for becoming a Christian? How does this relate to repentance and faith?
In what way does this refute the idea that becoming a Christian is simple “belief”? (c.f., James 2:18-19)
How have you stepped into this truth? What has been the result? How can you help others do the same?
Read: Luke 24:25-27, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 4:12
How did Jesus correct the faulty thinking of the disciples regarding their view of Jesus? (i.e., resource)
What does this highlight about how to keep an accurate view of Jesus and avoid fraudulent thinking?
In what way does this all have an impact on Good Friday and Easter Sunday? Be specific.
Read: Luke 24:21, John 3:16-17, 10:30, 14:6, Matthew 10:26-28
Many people claim Jesus was one of many important religious leaders in history. What did Jesus say?
Many people would say Jesus was simply a Jewish Rabbi executed by Rome. What did Jesus say?
Many people might say they follow Jesus but don’t believe in hell. What did Jesus say? Why does it matter?
Read: Luke 24:21, Matthew 11:19, John 10:14-21
Why do you think the people Jesus encountered struggled with who He claimed to be?
In what way has culture today done the same thing? Why is this important to recognize?
Why does this ultimately impact the resurrection of Jesus? How does this adjust your view of Jesus?
Read: Luke 9:18-20, 24:13-21, John 18:33-36
In what way did the two disciples traveling to Emmaus misjudge the mission and purpose of Jesus?
How did their personal preferences play into it? What were the results and implications? Be specific.
Given we primarily know about Jesus from the Bible, what does this highlight about avoiding a fake Jesus?
Read: John 17:26, Ephesians 4:14-16, Philippians 1:9-11
In what way has spiritual maturity been defined in today’s Christian churches? Be specific.
Where do you think “love” honestly lands on the list? Why do you think this has happened?
Before this study, how would you have measured your spiritual growth? Be specific. What do you need to change?
Read: John 17:26, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, Matthew 22:36-40
Love can be a very confusing word based on emotions and how one feels. How does 1 Cor. 13:4-8 help?
Why will loving others be a challenge? How does this also relate to unity? How can identifying self-love help?
As you review the list in 1 Cor. 13:4-8, what specific areas of love do you need to work on today?
Read: John 17:24-26, 3:16, 1 John 4:7-8, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3
Why is love so important to Jesus? In what way does His prayer reflect this truth during passion week?
Why should this be the most important practice for every Christian to engage in? (c.f., John 3:16)
How would you rate your focus on loving others? Why? How does this redefine your “best practices” this week?
Read: John 17:20-23, Matthew 5:23-24, Ephesians 4:3-5, Galatians 5:19-20, Romans 12:18
Jesus prayed the disciples would be one so that others would “believe”. What does this highlight about the Gospel?
What does this also highlight about the value of unity? Why will unity always be a challenge and require effort?
As you consider your struggling relationships, how is the gospel being represented? How do you need to change?
Read: John 17:22-23, Luke 22:24-27, 19:29-38
Given Palm Sunday had alRead: y taken place, how might the disciples have been tempted to be competitive?
In what way could this have prompted Jesus’ unity prayer? Why will a competitive spirit always lead to division?
How do you think Christians today have missed this important part of discipleship? How does this adjust you?
Read: John 17:20-21, 10:30-33, Matthew 26:57-66
Why did Jesus highlight the unity between Him and the Father in His prayer? (i.e., who was listening?)
Given that Jesus has mentioned this truth multiple times to the disciples, what does this highlight? Be specific.
In what way did the trial of Jesus also highlight this truth? Why is this important to recognize? (i.e., modeling)
Read: John 17:19, 10:11, Matthew 20:28, 1 John 2:1-2
How did Jesus consecrate or set himself apart for the disciples? Why would they be unable to do it for themselves?
In what way is this the Gospel? Why will non-Christians need to understand this in order to become a Christian?
What can happen if this isn’t understood? (i.e., legalism, etc.) How does this help you confirm your Christianity?
Read: John 17:18, Matthew 5:14-16, 10:32-33, Romans 10:9
Why will real Christians be motivated to talk about Jesus and share their faith with those around them?
Why will non-Christians avoid this and often maintain a “private” faith? What does this highlight about value?
Given we talk about what is important to us, how often do you talk about Jesus? Why? What does this reveal?
Read: John 17:18, Matthew 28:19, Acts 1:6-8, Mark 6:7-13
How were the disciples going to fulfill what Jesus started in being “sent”? How was it a past and a future statement?
Why will this ultimately expose a real Christian or non-Christian? How did Judas highlight this truth?
What does this imply about Christians today fulfilling the great commission? How does this challenge you?
Read: John 17:17, 3:16, 16:13, Hebrews 4:12, 2 Timothy 3:16, Ephesians 1:13-14
What did Jesus mean by praying “your word is truth”? In what way did Jesus live out and express this truth?
How does this include the Holy Spirit? In what way does this highlight how a believer will interact with the Bible?
Why will this also be a key indicator if someone is truly a Christian? How is God speaking to you?
Read: John 17:14-15, 13:25-30, 14:30, 1 John 5:18, Romans 8:35-39
What is the difference between rescued vs. protected? Why didn’t Jesus pray God would rescue the disciples?
In what way did Judas highlight the need for spiritual protection? Why will non-Christians always be at risk?
How does it make you feel to know God spiritually protects you? How should you adjust your “rescue” prayers?
Read: John 17:16, 14:3, Philippians 3:20-21, Matthew 6:19-21, 1 Corinthians 15:19
As Jesus prayed for the disciples, how do you think they might have felt hearing “they are not of this world”?
In what way would this have helped them for their future moving forward? How is this the same for all Christians?
Why is this the centerpiece for Christianity? How does this truth adjust your current perspective on everyday life?
Read: John 17:13, Hebrews 12:2
In what way did Jesus highlight the key to joy in how he looked at the cross? Be specific.
Why will this be a challenge when times are tough? Why will the world not be able to experience this joy?
What does this teach you about your current attitude and what you are focused on? How can you change?
Read: John 17:12-13, 16:20, 15:11, Romans 15:13, Galatians 5:22a
Why did Jesus pray that the disciples would experience joy? Why would this have felt like a contradiction?
Even though life can be extremely challenging, how can a Christian still experience joy? (Hint: doesn’t stay there)
Given the second fruit of the spirit is joy (Gal. 5:22a), how is your joy factor? What is God revealing to you?
Read: John 17:12, 13:21-30, 6:60-65, Psalm 41:9, 109:4-13
Even though Judas was an artificial Christian, what is implied that this wasn’t revealed until the very end?
Why do you think the disciples were surprised about Judas? Be specific. How can this happen today?
In what way is this a warning for churches and Christians today? How is this a warning for you?
Read: John 17:11, Matthew 5:21-26
In what way does Jesus put His prayer into action in Matthew 5:21-26? What does this highlight about priority?
How is this different than most people would approach conflict resolution? (i.e., proactive vs. reactive)
As you consider your struggling relationships, how might God want you to be proactive in bringing unity?
Read: John 17:11, Galatians 5:19-24
Given division is listed with orgies and sexual immorality as fruits of the flesh, what does this highlight about unity?
How does the Holy Spirit relate to unity taking place? (c.f. Gal. 5:22-23) What does this highlight about Christians?
In what way does this adjust your perspective on conflict resolution with other believers? What steps will you take?
Read: John 17:11, 16:32, Romans 12:18, Ephesians 4:3
What was Jesus praying for by asking the Father to “keep them in your name”? What does this imply about unity?
Why would the disciples have needed this prayer? (c.f. John 16:32) Be specific. How does unity impact the Gospel?
What does this say about multiple Christian denominations today? What has been your experience with this truth?
Read: John 17:9-10, 3:3, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Titus 3:4-6
In what way does the comment Jesus made about being “glorified” in the disciples highlight the work of the Holy Spirit?
What does this imply about claiming to be a Christian with your words rather than by your life? Be specific.
Why will this always be the case when it comes to being a real Christian? How have you experienced this truth?
Read: John 17:8, Matthew 14:22-31, Hebrews 11:7-11
Why do you think Peter wanted to come to Jesus on the water? How did Jesus respond? What happened?
In what way did Peter demonstrate this process of developing faith? Why will it always include struggle & doubt?
How do you see faith developing in your life over the past year? What are some ways you can practice now?
Read: John 17:7-8, Hebrews 11:6, Romans 4:4-5, Galatians 2:16
Explain the difference between the disciples receiving God’s word and “coming to know the truth”. (i.e., faith)
Why is this distinction important? What does it highlight about how faith grows and develops? Be specific.
Why will this always be a key indicator for someone claiming to be a Christian? How does this help you?
Read: John 17:6, 13:21-27, 16:8, 9:13-15, Matthew 7:22-23, 23:25-28
Why do you think Jesus had such a problem with the Pharisees, given they represented God? (Hint: loopholes)
How did they demonstrate an unwillingness to change? (e.g. Sabbath rules) What does this say about their heart?
In what way can this happen in churches today? Why is it dangerous? Explain why this isn’t true Christianity.
Read: John 17:6, 6:44, 13:36-38, 14:8-11, 16:29-33, Hebrews 12:6, Ephesians 1:13-14
Explain how God “gave” the disciples to Jesus. How can this also highlight the work of the Holy Spirit?
In what way had they “kept” God’s word given Jesus needed to correct and confront them during their meal?
How does this highlight attitude over behavior and being a real Christian? How does this encourage you?
Read: John 17:1-5, Matthew 23:15, 33, Luke 12:1-10, 1 Corinthians 15:19
Why is it important to believe in hell as much as it is to believe in heaven when it comes to Christianity?
What happens to the Gospel if the topic of hell is rejected by a non-Christian? (i.e., “saved” from what?)
How does the topic of hell make you feel? Why should it motivate Christians to share the Gospel?
Read: John 17:4-5, 1:1, 14, 11:25-26, 1 Corinthians 15:16-17, 1 Peter 1:3-4
Why did Jesus ask the father to “glorify” Him? What does this highlight about the preincarnate state of Jesus?
In what way does this also relate to the resurrection? What happens to the Gospel if there was no resurrection?
What does the resurrection of Jesus teach you about your personal resurrection and the afterlife?
Read: John 17:3, 3:35-36, 14:6, Acts 4:12
What is Jesus implying by saying the “only true God”? What does He also imply by including Himself?
What does this highlight about the exclusivity of the Christian faith? How does this protect the Gospel?
In what way does this always come back to the cross when compared to other religious leaders? Be specific.
Read: John 17:1b-2, 3:16-17, Luke 2:11, Ephesians 2:8-10, Romans 10:9-10
What does it mean that Jesus has “authority over all flesh”? (Hint: sinful nature) Why do we not have this authority?
Why is it important to also recognize that Jesus has the authority to “give” eternal life? What is the alternative?
Given this is the central message of the Gospel, explain how Jesus provides for the afterlife. Be specific.
Read: John 17:1a, 1:29, Romans 3:23-25, 6:23, 2 Cor. 5:20-21, Luke 22:17-20, Hebrews 10:1-4
Given the “hour” refers to the crucifixion of Jesus, how does this relate to heaven and the afterlife? Be specific.
What does this imply about living a good life and earning your way to heaven? Why does this include everyone?
In what way has the world today missed this critical truth when it comes to Jesus? How does this adjust you?
Read: John 17:1a, 2:1-4, 7:1-6, 28-30, 8:20, 12:23-24, 27-28, Mark 10:45
Why did Jesus often tell others that His hour had not yet come? What changed during the last supper?
What does this highlight about the purpose and ministry of Jesus? (i.e., the cross) Why is this important?
In what way has the world redefined the purpose and ministry of Jesus? How does this help you stay focused?
Read: John 16:33, Romans 8:37
Explain what Jesus meant by “tribulation”. Given it’s ongoing, what does it mean to “take heart”?
How does this tribulation have an emotional component as well? In what way does the promise of “peace” relate?
Given emotional struggles will be a life-long challenge, how does this challenge your expectations? Be specific.
Read: John 16:29-32
In what way did the disciples show emotional and spiritual growth? What did Jesus predict would happen later?
What does this imply about managing emotions and the Christian life? Why is this important to fully understand?
Why should this prevent Christians from judging other Christians? How does this encourage you?
Read: John 16:23-28, Matthew 11:28, Luke 18:1-8a, Philippians 4:6-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Why is prayer a lifeline when it comes to emotional struggles? How is this an advantage over non-Christians?
What is promised when you have continual conversations with God? Why will this be hard in emotional struggles?
What is the solution? What is the mistake? In what way does this adjust your current approach? How can it change?
Read: John 16:23-24, Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25-28
What did Jesus teach His disciples about prayer? Why would this have been a new concept for them?
In what way does this refer to the cross? (i.e., “in my name”) As a result, what does Jesus promise?
What does this also imply about our emotional struggles and prayer? How will you be more prayerful today?
Read: John 16:20-22, Matthew 6:28-34
What question does Jesus pose to those who struggle with worry in Mt. 6? How was He addressing a perspective?
What can happen if this isn’t properly understood? What does this also highlight about faith?
How can you struggle with this? Give an example. What is the solution? How will you step into this today?
Read: John 16:20-22, 1 Peter 1:3-7
What is implied about feelings when Jesus says the disciples will experience both sorrow and joy?
In what way does a mother giving birth relate? Be specific. How can emotional struggles lead to growth?
What emotion are you struggling with today? (i.e., anger, sadness, fear, etc.) How does today’s truth help?
Read: John 16:19-20a, 6, 14:1, 27
What is implied about our emotions given Jesus predicted and allowed the disciples to emotionally struggle?
Explain the balance that is necessary between experiencing negative emotions and letting them guide you.
In what way does this help you in a current emotional struggle? What steps can you take toward balance?
Read: John 16:19-20a, Matthew 28:18-20, Hebrews 13:5-6
Given Jesus knew what the disciples were thinking and going to feel, what does this imply about God & our struggles?
Why is this important to remember when it comes to experiencing emotional struggles? Give an example.
What emotions do you find difficult to deal with today? (e.g., worry, sadness, etc.) How does today’s truth help you?
Read: John 16:16-18, Genesis 17:3-8, 15-18, 16:1-2
Given God promised Abraham he would be the father of a nation of people, why did he laugh at God?
What does this highlight about his confusion and the ability to make sense of the situation?
In what way was this another example of what the disciples were struggling with? How does this encourage you?
Read: John 16:16-18, Romans 11:33-36, 1 Corinthians 2:16
In what way did the disciples’ confusion lead to emotional instability? How were they really struggling with control?
What does this highlight about a controlling attitude? (i.e., emotions) Why will this be a struggle in today’s culture?
How can you be tempted into this struggle? How can you practice sitting in the “undone” today? Be specific.
Read: John 16:16-18, 10, 7:33, 12:35, 13:33, 14:19, Mark 8:31-32
Why do you think Jesus warned His disciples multiple times that He was leaving? (i.e., emotional preparation)
What was Jesus specifically referring to by “a little while”? How did the disciples respond emotionally?
What does this highlight about emotions and confusion? How is this normal? What does this teach you?
Read: John 16:14-15, 2 Corinthians 12:7-9
In what way did Paul the Apostle experience the truth of John 16:14-15? Be specific.
In what way does Paul also demonstrate a listening heart when it comes to praying and a spiritual battle?
How does this encourage you? What are some ways you can incorporate a Pauline approach to your prayer life?
Read: John 16:14-15, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Ephesians 1:13-14, Galatians 4:4-7
In what way does the Holy Spirit typically speak to people? Give an example of how it has happened to you?
What does this highlight about how the Holy Spirit might speak when it comes to the spiritual battle? (c.f. John 16:8)
How does this also relate to listening to the Holy Spirit and prayer? How can you do a better job listening today?
Read: John 16:13, 7, 15:26, 14:6
Explain what it means that the Spirit will speak “whatever he hears”. What does this highlight about Jesus?
In what way does this all relate to “truth”? Why is this an important issue when fighting the spiritual battle?
Why should this motivate Christians to pray? How does it motivate you? How will you apply this today?
Read: John 16:12-13, Ephesians 6:18-19, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, 2 Thess. 3:1, Philemon 6
How does “praying for insight” relate to the ministry of the Holy Spirit? How does the Apostle Paul practice this?
Why is this important when we are talking about a spiritual battle? What happens if this isn’t practiced?
How does this challenge the way you currently approach a personal struggle or struggle with others? Be specific.
Read: John 16:12-13, 14:16, 26, 15:26, 1 Corinthians 2:10-13, Revelation 1:1-2
In what way will the Holy Spirit guide Christians into “all truth”? How did this happen to John? (i.e., Gospel, Revelation)
What does this imply about the Holy Spirit’s role in the spiritual battle? Why is this important to always remember?
How do you typically rely on the Holy Spirit to “help” you? How does this adjust or encourage you to change?
Read: John 16:8-11, Acts 2:1-41
What impresses you about the Holy Spirit’s arrival? How did the misunderstanding provide a Gospel opportunity?
In what way did Peter preaching the Gospel demonstrate the role of the Holy Spirit in John 16:8-11? Be specific.
What was the result? What does this teach you about living for Jesus? How does this adjust your current approach?
Read: John 16:8-11, Acts 2:37, 1 Peter 3:18, Colossians 2:13-15, 1 Thessalonians 1:5
In your own words, explain the role of the Holy Spirit when the Gospel is being shared. (i.e., convict, judge, etc.)
What does this reveal about your ability to lead someone to Jesus? Why is this important to remember?
When was the last time you talked to a non-Christian about Jesus? Why? How would the Holy Spirit help you?
Read: John 16:7b, 15:26-27, 14:16-20, 25-26
Given Jesus told His disciples to be His witnesses, what does it imply that He is sending them the Holy Spirit?
In what way do the names of the Holy Spirit (e.g., helper, Spirit of truth, counselor) highlight this truth?
How does this relate to the spiritual battle taking place when sharing the Gospel? How does this encourage you?
Read: John 16:2-7a, Acts 11:22-28
In what way was Paul’s life and ministry a living example of the warning Jesus gave to His disciples?
How might you have misinterpreted Paul’s sufferings in light of winning a spiritual battle? (i.e., winning vs. losing)
How does this challenge the way you currently live for Jesus and share with others? What steps can you take today?
Read: John 16:2-3, Acts 7:51-8:3, 22:3-11
In what way did Saul of Tarsus demonstrate the type of spiritual battle that Jesus said will take place?
How does this ultimately demonstrate a hardened heart? What did it take for Saul to change?
How have you seen this type of hardened heart in non-Christians? How does Saul’s experience provide hope?
Read: John 15:27-16:1, Matthew 28:18-20, Acts 2:1-14
In what way did Jesus hold the disciples accountable to the Great Commission? Why might they have bailed out?
In what way did Peter demonstrate the interaction with the Holy Spirit and a responsibility to share the Gospel?
What does this imply about your role in the spiritual battle to “bear witness”? What changes do you need to make?
Read: John 15:26, 14:7, 14:16-17, Acts 1:7-8
In what way would the promise of a “helper” (Holy Spirit) have been an encouragement to the disciples?
Why is the work of the Holy Spirit necessary in a spiritual battle? How will the Holy Spirit actually “bear witness”?
How does Acts 1:7-8 play into it? What does this imply takes place when you share your faith with non-Christians?
Read: John 15:22-25, Romans 12:19-21, Matthew 13:24-30, Hebrews 10:26-31
Why does Jesus encourage the disciples that those who oppose them and the Gospel will be held to account?
How might they have been tempted to react? Why? What does this highlight about the temptations of the enemy?
How can you be tempted to impose your own justice toward those who reject the Gospel? How will you avoid this?
Read: John 15:24-25, 8:31-41, Hebrews 2:1-4, Matthew 11:21-24, Psalm 35:19
If you remove the miracles of Jesus from His ministry, what ultimately happens to His authority? Be specific.
What does Jesus say takes place when people attempt to do this? How does this relate to a spiritual battle?
In what way do you see this taking place today? How does the warning from Jesus help you to not bog down?
Read: John 15:22-23, Matthew 23:1-36
Explain the truth behind John 15:22. What does this highlight about accountability and the spiritual battle?
In what way can those who oppose Jesus still claim to follow God? Give an example.
How can this happen today? Why is this important to recognize in light of the spiritual battle? Be specific.
Read: John 15:18-21, Ephesians 6:12, 2 Corinthians 4:2-6, Colossians 1:13
In what way does the whole idea of a spiritual battle challenge the way you’ve been approaching your faith?
How does it also change the way you view spiritual opposition and rejection? Give an example.
What can a lack of spiritual opposition also reveal about your walk with Jesus? How can this help you today?
Read: John 15:20b-21, Acts 4:1-4, 16:1-24
What is the difference between hatred (John 15:18) and persecution (John 15:20)? Why is this distinction important?
In what way did the disciples live out the warning in John 15:20b? How did Jesus’ warning help them to respond?
How does this make you feel when you see this type of spiritual rejection? How does this also motivate you?
Read: John 15:20b-21, Matthew 5:7, Mark 13:9
In what way did Jesus highlight two different responses to the Gospel? How did this prepare the disciples for rejection?
How could they have misinterpreted spiritual pushback? (i.e., taking it personally vs. spiritual battle)
How do you typically handle rejection or take things personally? Why will you be blessed if you address this in your life?
Read: John 15:18-20a, Matthew 4:1-11
Explain the three primary ways Satan tempted Jesus. Why would this have been a battle for Jesus?
How did Satan essentially tempt Jesus to give into His feelings? What does this reveal about the spiritual battle?
In what way can you be tempted to “fit in” to today’s world? How will you better spiritually protect yourself?
Read: John 15:18-20a, 1 John 3:1-8, 1 Peter 4:1-4, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Romans 12:1-2
Why will growing in your walk with the Lord always be a spiritual battle? (i.e., invisible enemy)
In what way does this reveal why Christians feel out of place being around non-Christians? Be specific.
How do you feel when people disagree with your Christian beliefs? How does Jesus encourage you to stand strong?
Read: John 15:18-20a, Matthew 10:24-25
Why do you think Jesus warned the disciples about a spiritual battle that will take place?
In what way will every Christian experience this same battle? What does it ultimately confirm?
How does this warning change your perspective in how you view daily life and interaction with non-Christians?
Read: John 15:16, Matthew 6:9-15, Luke 11:1-4
Given all the miracles Jesus performed, why do you think the disciples only asked Him how to pray?
What prayer principles are presented in Matthew 6:9? (e.g., your will be done) How does this relate to answered prayer?
Take some time right now to use these principles in prayer. Allow for some silence and being still.
Read: John 15:16a, Matthew 4:18-20, Ephesians 1:3-6, 1 John 4:10
In what way was Jesus trying to encourage the disciples when He told them “I chose you”? Be specific.
Why did they need this reminder? How did this take place both practically and spiritually?
When you consider this same truth in your life, how does it make you feel? Take time right now to thank God.
Read: John 10:14, 22-28, 15:13-15
What was Jesus highlighting when he used a sheep/shepherd relationship to illustrate His relationship with you?
How is this similar to being a “friend” of Jesus? In what way would this be a surprise to non-Christians today?
Why is this important when it comes to spiritual growth? (i.e., religion vs. relationship) How does this adjust you?
Read: John 15:13-15, 3:27-30, James 2:23, 4:1-4
Explain the distinction Jesus makes between being a servant and being a friend. How are they similar and different?
What does this also highlight about daily Christian living? (i.e., personal) How does this adjust your expectations?
How would you rate your friendship with Jesus today? In what ways do you need to avoid a “servant” perspective?
Read: John 15:9-13, 17, 13:14-15, 34-35, 1 Corinthians 13:1-7
How did Jesus demonstrate the most important way to grow spiritually in the Christian life?
Why would this have been challenging to the disciples? How is this challenging to you? Be specific.
In what way will loving others always go beyond a feeling? Be specific. How will you apply this truth today?
