Search

Study Guide ;Gospel of John / week 6

Day 1 / John 16:5-33

Jesus said that it was for the disciples' good that he go away and that the Counselor come. Why was the Spirit's presence more profitable to the disciples than Jesus' presence?
What did Jesus say the Spirit's ministry would be toward the world (vv. 8-11)?
The Spirit's ministry is one of communication. What specific things did Jesus say the Spirit would communicate to the disciples (vv. 13-15)?
Jesus answers the questions the disciples ask in verses 17-18, not by giving them an explanation but by making them a promise (vv. 19-22). What was the promise?
Why would Jesus' promise bring them joy in the midst of their grief and confusion?
How would Jesus' assurance of the Father's love help the disciples in the days just ahead of them (vv. 25-33)?

How can this incident help us when our questions to the Lord seemingly go unanswered?
How do you respond to the promise in verses 23-24?

Give God the desires of your heart, knowing that he wants to make your joy complete.

Day 2 / Read John 17

Jesus makes only one request for himself—that the Father would glorify him so that he might glorify the Father. In what way would each one glorify the other (vv. 1-5)? Why do you think that was so important to Jesus?
According to verses 6-19, what specific ministries did Jesus have toward his disciples?
Twice Jesus asked the Father to protect his disciples from the evil one (vv. 11, 15). Why would that protection have been so important in Jesus' mind as he faced the cross?
Jesus prayed that those who believe in him would be one "so that the world may believe that you have sent me" (vv. 21, 23)? Why is our unity a powerful argument for the reality of Jesus?

Jesus also asked the Father to sanctify his disciples through his word (v. 17). How can we allow God's Word to have that kind of effect on our lives?
Jesus obviously prayed this prayer out loud to bring comfort and assurance to his disciples. In what particular ways do Jesus' words encourage or assure you?

Ask God to bring unity to your church or fellowship.

Day 3 / John 18:1-27

Why would Jesus go to a place where Judas knew he might be found (vv. 1-3)?
When the soldiers say they are seeking Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus replies "I am he" (lit. "I am"; v. 5). How would you explain the reaction of the soldiers (v. 6)?
What insight do Peter's action and Jesus' rebuke (v. 11) give you about our attempts at times to "help God out" in our own strength and wisdom?
Think back to the deepest sin of your life. How does a look at your own sin change your attitude toward Peter's denial of Jesus?
What specific events in this passage display (a) Jesus' courage, (b) his power and (c) his obedience to the Father?

Applying the Word

What can we learn from Peter's failure about being ready to stand against the world's challenges?
How will this study change the way you will face a time of testing in your own life?

Ask God to make you ready to face difficulties with grace.