Study Guide: Gospel of John / week 5

Watch the part 2 video for the Gospel of John at YouTube.

Week 5 has 5 days of homework

Day 1 / Read John 13:1-17

According to John, what did Jesus know about himself (vv. 1-3)? In light of that knowledge, what is remarkable about what Jesus did next (vv. 4-5)?
Footwashing was normally done by servants or slaves. Why do you think that Jesus washed his disciples' feet instead of simply talking to them about love?
Was Peter simply being humble when he refused to allow Jesus to serve him (vv. 6-8)? Explain.
What spiritual truth was Jesus trying to communicate to Peter (and to us) in verses 8-11?
Based on Jesus' words in verse 17, how would you describe the relationship between knowledge, action and joy in the Christian life?

What has this chapter revealed to you about your attitude toward serving?
In what specific ways can you model the humility of Jesus toward those with whom you live or work?

Ask God to give you a humble spirit.

Day 2 / Read John 13:18-38

Jesus takes this opportunity to predict his betrayal. How would his prediction dispel any doubts the disciples might have and strengthen their faith (v. 19)?
Evidently, the disciples did not know who would betray Jesus (v. 22). What does this tell us about how Jesus had treated Judas?
Why does the kind of love Jesus describes convince all of humanity that we are Jesus' disciples (v. 35)?
Do you think Peter's declaration in verse 37 comes from pride or from sincerity? Explain.
Three people stand out in this passage—Jesus, Judas and Peter. What one character quality of each—good or evil—impresses you the most?

How would you have treated Judas if you knew he would eventually betray you?
John later wrote: "This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers" (1 Jn 3:16). In what practical ways can you exhibit this sacrificial love?

Pray for a strong faith that won't lead you into betrayal when times are tough.

Day 3 / Read John 14

How would the promises Jesus makes in verses 1-4 bring comfort to his disciples?
In light of verses 5-14, why is it crucial for our focus to be on Jesus himself?
According to Jesus, how will the Spirit bring comfort and help to his followers (vv. 15-27)?
What is the relationship between our love and obedience to Jesus and his love and presence in our lives (vv. 15-24)?
How does the peace Christ offers differ from that which the world offers (vv. 25-31)?

Think of a friend who is going through a personal crisis. How could this chapter help you to minister to that person?
How can Jesus' words help you in a personal crisis or when you have a troubled heart?

Ask God to comfort someone you know who is troubled.

Day 4 / Read John 15:1-17

Jesus' instructions to his disciples in this passage revolve around three symbols—the vine, the gardener and the branches. What is Jesus trying to communicate by calling himself the true vine?
What does it mean to remain in Christ (v. 4)?
The Father prunes fruitful branches to make them more fruitful (v. 2). In what ways have you experienced the Father's "pruning"?
What spiritual benefits result from remaining in Christ (vv. 7-11)?
What are the requirements and benefits of friendship with Christ (vv. 14-17)?

There are three categories of branches described in this passage—those bearing no fruit, those bearing some fruit, and those bearing much fruit. In which category would you place yourself and why?
If you are not bearing much fruit, what is Jesus' counsel to you in these verses?

Picture yourself as a tree laden with plump, healthy fruit. Ask God to help you become the person he wants you to be.

Day 5 / Read John 15:18-16:4

If love is to characterize our relationship with other believers, hate will characterize our relationships with the world. What reasons does Jesus give for the world's hatred?
What does Jesus mean when he says that without his coming, his words and his miracles, the world "would not be guilty of sin" (15:22-25)?
In what specific ways will the Counselor and the disciples themselves continue the ministry begun by Jesus (15:26-17)?
What kind of treatment can the disciples expect from those who do not know Christ (16:1-4)?

What kinds of persecution are more probable for us in our society? Explain.
If we as Christians are not persecuted in some way, what might that imply about our spiritual commitment?
How are you experiencing the world's hatred as a Christian?

Pray for those around the world who face persecution for their faith.