Read: John 10:22-26, 5:17-47, 6:29, 35-36, 7:37-39, 8:12-20, Hebrews 2:4
In what way did the Jews approach Jesus in somewhat of a hostile manner when asking a question?
How did Jesus respond? What does this indicate about their motive behind their question? (i.e., open vs defensive)
Why is this important to remember when talking with non-Christians about the Lord? How does this help you?
Read: Acts 2:42-47, 4:32-35
How does this image of community compare and contrast to your own experiences in community?
What practical ways can you seek and respond to the needs of others in community?
Read: Philippians 2:1-11
How does this example of Christ shape our view of ourselves and others?
Where in our life do we need to seek greater depths of humility?
How does a lack of humility impact community?
Read: Mark 5:25-34
What does this story say about the faith of the woman? What prompted her to go to Jesus?
What do you think it meant when it says the woman ‘told him the whole truth’? Where in your life do you need to come to Jesus with the whole truth?
How do you help create an environment for others to bring their whole selves to Jesus and others?
Read: Ephesians 4:1-3, Colossians 3:12-17, 1 Peter 4:8-9, Hebrews 10:24-25
Why did Paul call us to live lives of unity and peace? What specific ways can we be people who promote this?
What causes divisions in the community?
How can we tangibly encourage others to remain committed to authentic community?
Read: Matthew 5:14-16, 1 Peter 2:9-10
What do these words of Jesus and Paul say about His view of us?
How do these truths impact our calling to make ourselves available to Jesus and to others?
What unique spaces is Jesus calling you to step into to be a light?
Read: Luke 5:1-11, 27-32
What do these teachings about Jesus calling His first disciples show you about Jesus?
What did it cost each of the people?
What did you ‘leave behind’ when Jesus called you to come and follow Him?
Read: Ephesians 2:8-10
Before you knew Jesus, what were some of the old habits that you left behind?
Verse 3 says that some people deserve wraith. How does that square with a loving God?
For you personally, what does it mean that God is “rich in mercy?”
Read: Luke 7:16-17, 16:19-31, Revelation 1:1-18
Explain what Jesus was teaching in Luke 16:19-31. How does this make you feel? Why?
In what way do you see this being minimized today? Why? How does this ultimately relate to Easter?
Why is it important to consider death in your approach to living and living in your approach to dying?
Read: Luke 7:16-17, John 3:16-18, 5:24, 10:27-28, 14:6, Romans 5:6-9
Why is Christianity different than another religion, philosophy or moralistic ideal today?
In what way was Jesus sent on a rescue mission? Who needs rescuing? Why? What is at stake?
How does Easter and the widow’s son prove the rescue was a success? Have you been rescued? Explain.
Read: Luke 7:11-17, John 11:13-27, 45-57
Describe the two crowds represented in today’s reading in terms of their responses to a resurrection.
What was the impact? What does this imply about what should be the case on every Easter Sunday?
Which crowd are you in? Why is this important to recognize? What can you do to help others?
Read: John 20:10-18, 1 Corinthians 15:12-22
Why is Easter the centerpiece of Christianity? What would happen if the resurrection wasn’t true?
How does this challenge your view of Christianity? How often do you think about Easter and eternity?
Why do you think this is a challenge today, especially living in Orange County? What is God teaching you?
Read: Luke 7:11-15, John 11:32-44
What is similar or different about the two resurrection accounts in today’s reading? (i.e., make a list)
Given that both men (Lazarus and the widow’s son) eventually died, what was Jesus actually demonstrating?
Why is this critically important to understand about death and dying? How should this impact daily life?
Read: Luke 7:11-15, 2 Corinthians 5:1-9
Explain why Paul refers to daily life as living in a tent. What are the timing implications of life and death?
How does the resurrection of the widow’s son prove Paul’s point? How does this expand your thinking?
How comfortable are you with dying? Why? How does today’s study adjust your perspective?
Read: Matthew 27:62-66
During the Sabbath when Jesus was in the tomb, what were the Jewish leaders doing? Why?
What does this imply about times when God appears to be silent? How can you fall into this same trap?
How can prayer help? In what way has your week of devotions prepared you to celebrate Easter?
Read: Matthew 27:1-61
On Friday, how was Jesus treated by others? What does this highlight about our sinful condition?
What does this imply about the way you should remember Good Friday? How does this challenge you?
Make it a point to thank God throughout the day for the cross. Worship Him for His sacrifice for you!
Read: Matthew 26:17-75
On Thursday, what strikes you about Jesus’ final evening with His disciples? What did He provide?
In what way does Jesus do the same for you today? How does this elevate the importance of communion?
How does this adjust you? What are some ways you can improve your upper room time with Jesus?
Scripture is silent when it comes to the events that took place on Wednesday of Passion Week.
Given that Jesus might have been resting, reflecting, and praying, take time to do the same with God today.
Reflect on Monday and Tuesday’s commitments. Pray and ask God for further insight and wisdom.
Read: Matthew 21:23-24:51
On Tuesday, why did Jesus confront the Pharisees in such an aggressive way? What was being exposed?
What did the Olivet Discourse emphasize about daily faith? How did the temple and discourse relate?
How often do you contemplate these truths? Why is it important? What is God teaching you today?
