Discussion Questions for Sermon Series 90 Ninety - Week 6
 

Jesus claimed to be greater than the temple. He made the temple obsolete. Most of his followers assumed his end game was to declare himself king. The more discerning among them sensed something else was going on. Jesus spoke with authority but refused to take charge. He wielded extraordinary power, but never for himself. What was he up to? 
 

1. During the message, Jon said most of Jesus’ followers expected him to declare himself king. Talk about some expectations you’ve had of Jesus. How did he meet or defy those expectations?
    

2. Can you think of an example from culture in which someone leveraged their power on behalf of others? Why is that kind of behavior so rare?
    

3. Read John 3:1–10. The idea of a second, spiritual birth challenged Nicodemus’s assumptions about religion because it meant God’s love and gift of salvation extended beyond Abraham’s offspring. Can you think of any examples of people today acting as though they have exclusive rights to a relationship with God? Why is it so easy for people to fall into that pattern?
    

4. Read Luke 9:44–45. In what ways has not understanding what Jesus is doing in your life or the world around you been an obstacle to your faith?
    

5. Read John 3:16–17. What are some reasons it can be difficult for us to believe that God loves us so much he sent Jesus to die for us? Why is it sometimes easier to believe that God condemns us?

6. What is one thing you can do this week to embrace the truth that God loves you, that he gave his only son on your behalf, and that all you have to do is believe in Jesus and receive his gift? How can this group support you?
    

God loved. God gave. We believe. We receive. Does that sound too simple? If so, it’s because Jesus defies our expectations. “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him” (John 3:17)
 

Pray