1a. Discovering Jesus
All materials used are from www.thejesusstrategy.com
Who is this for?
This is an introductory series for anyone who would like to learn more about Jesus. This series is good for preChristians (seekers), “Christians” who haven’t connected personally with God, and those who are considering reconnecting with God.
Overview
Jesus is arguably the most interesting character in the Bible. Many people are curious about Jesus and would like to read about Him themselves. This series will give readers a better understanding of what Jesus did and who He claimed to be. In John’s Gospel, he wrote that these signs were included so people would believe in Jesus and experience the life that is available for those who believe in Him (John 20:30–31).
nine signs and claims of Jesus
Water into Wine - John 2:1–12
Healing an Official’s Son - John 4:46–54
Healing an Invalid - John 5:1–17
Feeding Five Thousand - John 6:1–15, 35
Walking on Water - John 6:16–21
Healing a Blind Man - John 9:1–7, 13–15, 35–39
The Good Shepherd - John 10:7–15
Healing a Friend - John 11:4–9, 32–40
Reason for These Signs - John 12:36–48
Discovering Jesus discussion
Getting started
Discuss with participants if they would like to read the “Read Passage” and/or write answers to the discussion questions before your meeting (or wait to work on this together).
Following are the questions to ask when waiting to work on the scripture together.
Tips for effective group facilitation:
Be patient and give people time to think about how to answer.
Encourage everyone to express their answers, but don’t force anyone to speak.
Encourage more talkative members to wait and let quieter members answer first.
The group facilitator should share their thoughts last and keep their answers brief.
Create a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to share openly.
Remind everyone that what’s shared in the group must not be shared outside the group.
Use the following discussion format when you meet together:
Community questions:
What are you thankful for?
What are you struggling with, and how can we help? (Or what is causing you stress?)
Is there someone outside this group that we should help?
Review questions
What did we read about last week?
How did you act on it, and how did that go?
Who did you share your experience with?
New Scripture
A) Bible Passage
Ask someone to read the Scripture. Have one or two more people read it again.
Ask someone to retell the Bible story in their own words.
Ask others if anything was left out of the story.
B) Discovery Questions (Participants should each answer the following questions.)
What does this story teach us about God?
What does this story teach us about people?
What do you think God wants people to do as a result of reading this passage?
C) Application Questions
What action do you think God wants you to take as a result of reading this? What will you do? (Start your answer with: “I will . . .”)
With whom can you share about your experience with God through this passage?
Would you like to do this again next week?
