GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: Loss and grief are unavoidable in this world. So how do we deal with these experiences, and how do we walk alongside others in difficult times? In the story of Lazarus, Jesus identifies himself as the source of hope and models for us how to grieve well.
Main Points:
When his friend dies, Jesus’ actions confuse his followers.
When his friend dies, Jesus offers hope and grieves.
When his friend dies, Jesus brings him to life.
On-Ramps:
When you encounter death, where do you look for hope?
When you don’t understand God’s timing, will you wait with cynicism, criticism or trust?
When you are grieving, will you welcome Jesus in or push him out?
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
WORD:
How does this chapter deepen your understanding of the connection between faith and eternal life?
We read in verse 35, “Jesus wept”. Jesus is God became man and God, in human flesh, wept. How does this or should this shape your ideas about God? How does this help you deal with evil and suffering in the world and questions of God’s goodness?
WORLD:
How can the themes and messages of this chapter inspire you to live out your faith more boldly?
Part of growing in our walk with Jesus is maturing in our faith. A mature faith is able to recognize that God doesn’t answer all of our prayers how we want Him to answer them. Write down and/or share about a time where you matured in your faith through trials.
LIVES:
Are you afraid of death, why or why not? Does having faith that will triumph over death keep you from fear of the dying process or of losing those you love?
How does a sure faith change how we think about and approach death as compared to those who do not know Christ?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: John 12:1-11
