Sign of the Stone

 

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April 20, 2019

Small Group Discussion Questions for April 21 Sermon

“The Sign of the Stone”
Series:  “Signs of Life”
Text:  John 11:1-44

Icebreaker: Ask group members to talk about the best thing they’ve ever seen happen at a funeral.  It’s an odd question, but you might get some interesting stories.  Good things can happen, even at funerals!

Discussion:

  1. Read John 11:1-37 or listen again to the three narratives (Services online). What was the mindset and attitude of the disciples as they headed to Bethany?  What were Martha and Mary feeling?  Share about a time in your life when you felt like God wasn’t being responsive to you and when you didn’t understand his timing.
  2. Read John 11:38.  Jesus feels our loss and grief. Why do you think Jesus was so upset in this situation even though he surely knew that He was going to raise Lazarus from the dead (v.33-38)?  Can Jesus really empathize with our suffering and grief (see also Hebrews 2:17)?
  3. Read John 11:39-42.  Jesus asks us to trust him completely. Why did Jesus ask for the stone to be removed?  What is the meaning of Jesus’ prayer in v.41-42?  Can you describe a time when God put you into a situation that required faith?
  4. Read John 11:43-44.  Jesus can give us new life. Why do you think Jesus called to Lazarus in a “loud voice”?  What would have been the impact of seeing Lazarus standing there all wrapped in grave clothes?  How does this miraculous sign picture what Jesus has done for us?
  5. Read John 11:45-53. What was the impact of this miracle on the people in general and on the religious leaders specifically?  How does this illustrate everyone’s options in responding to the Gospel?
  6. Read John 11:25-26 again. In what way did Jesus show that he is “the resurrection and the life”?  How is this different from just being someone who can perform a resurrection or give life?

Action Steps:

  1. If you are going through a struggle or a sorrow, know that Jesus identifies with your grief and is weeping with/for you.  Thank him for his tears!
  2. Are you wearing grave clothes that need to be removed?  If there’s a sin or temptation that has you tied up, confess that and ask Jesus to free you from those grave clothes!
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