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: Life can feel like a sudden fog rolling in, making it hard to see what’s ahead. The disciples felt that confusion, but Jesus pointed them toward something deeper—His resurrection would change everything. Because He rose, we can see God’s plans more clearly, we can have direct fellowship with Him, and we can live with peace even in the middle of life’s hardest struggles. Jesus never promised an easy road, but He did promise this: “Take heart! I have overcome the world!”
Main Points:
Because of Jesus’ resurrection, we can understand God’s plans more clearly.
Because of Jesus’ resurrection, we can experience direct fellowship with God.
Because of Jesus’ resurrection, we can live with peace in the midst of difficulties.
On-Ramps:
Immerse your life in Jesus through scripture, prayer and Christian community.
Ask God to help you see your difficulties through the lens of the resurrection.
Practice praying “in Jesus’ name” with boldness and humility.
Resist a victim mentality by sharing the hope of Jesus with others.
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
Jesus said in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble”. Why do you think he emphasized this reality to His disciples?
Jesus says in verse 26, “In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf.” What spiritual truth is Jesus communicating to His disciples, and to us?
The world often promotes self-reliance and independence, while Jesus invites us into direct fellowship with God. How does this difference impact the way we deal with stress and uncertainty?
When facing trouble, the world might suggest distraction, denial, or escape. How does Jesus’ invitation to “take heart” and find peace in Him provide a different approach?
What does “take heart! I have overcome the world” mean to you right now in the situation you find yourself in?
What is one way that you can encourage someone else with the truth of Jesus’ victory this week?
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: Matthew 28:18-20
