Chicago UBF > Gospel and Acts > John 11:1-44

(Next) Jesus’ “I Am” Series-5: "I am the Resurrection and the Life"

Question

 
Messenger: Michael Diaz (Chicago UBF)
 
 
I AM THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE
 
Key Verses: 11:25–26
 
  1.  Read verses 1–3; identify the siblings and their relationship to Jesus. Note verse 4: what does Jesus say is the ultimate purpose of this illness? How does this contrast with how we tend to see tragedy? How does viewing your situation through the lens of God’s glory change the way you process difficulty?
  2.  Observe the precise timeline in verse 6. After hearing Lazarus is sick, Jesus intentionally stays where he is for two more days. Connect verse 5 with verse 6. How does this help us see God’s love even in his delay? In what ways might this help you in your prayers right now?
  3.  Analyze the dialogue in verses 7–16. Why are the disciples terrified of going back to Judea? What does Jesus’ teaching about “twelve hours of daylight” mean in terms of safely doing God’s will? How does Thomas’ exclamation (16) reveal the limits of human loyalty? When fear threatens to paralyze you, how do Jesus’ words here help?
  4.  In verses 17–24, observe Martha’s actions and words. In her first statement to Jesus, what is the profound tension between faith and disappointment? How can her words here help us process how to pray when we are struggling?
  5.  Look deeply at verses 23–26. Martha speaks of her faith in the resurrection in the future tense, but Jesus says, “I am.” What does he ask her at the end of verse 26? In seemingly “dead” or hopeless situations, what does it mean for you to trust in Jesus as the resurrection and the life right now?
  6.  Read verses 33–38. The Greek words for “deeply moved in spirit and troubled” mean intense indignation or outrage. As he approaches this weeping crowd and the tomb, why is Jesus angry? How can this comfort us in our personal grief?
  7.  In verses 39–44, contrast the logistical objection of Martha with Jesus’ absolute command in verse 40. What happens when he speaks the name of Lazarus? What area of your life have you written off as too far gone, and how does this miracle help you reconsider what Jesus can do?

 

 

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