We realize you may not be able to discuss Discussion Questions all the questions. Pick the ones you like. Read John 9 Small Group Questions 2. When Jesus and the disciples saw the man who was “What Do You See? ” born blind, what motive was behind the disciples’ John 9:1-41 question: curiosity? a guilt trip? real compassion? Previous message summary: Peter speaks to Christian a. In verses 3-5, what does Jesus answer reveal leaders commanding them to shepherd God’s flock. As about how he views the man’s suffering? shepherds, leaders should set an example for others in b. In this story: the way they are willing and eager to serve, knowing that their reward will be a crown of glory that never fades. i. What is the “work of God”? ii. What is the “night that is coming”? What we learned: Every Christian can be used to lead and shepherd the people God has entrusted to their care. iii. What is the “light of the world”? Our flock may be our children, students, friends, peers, or 3. When Jesus encountered the blind man, he put mud the people in our neighborhood. We can be used in the on his eyes and told him to go wash in the Pool of place where God has put us to set an example to the Siloam (700 yards away). Why do you think Jesus people we are around. Pray that God would help you as healed the man in this manner? you lead. a. What Jewish law was Jesus accused of Introduction breaking when he healed the blind man? 1. Blindness is a disability that most of us can’t b. Was this the first time Jesus healed on the imagine. Do you know anyone who is blind? Sabbath? See John 5:1-15. a. What effect would losing your eyesight have on c. In John 9, after the blind man was healed, was your life? he timid or outspoken about what Jesus did for him? What example is this for us? b. If you had to choose one of your five senses that you would have to give up–sight, hearing, 4. In verse 16, what was the Pharisees’ dilemma touch, smell, taste–which one would you concerning Jesus healing this man? choose? Why? a. Why was this event so important to the c. The beggar in this passage was born blind, Pharisees that they felt the need to interrogate and never knew what it was like to be able to the man who was healed, and his parents? see. Do you think he knew what he was b. If you were interrogated for your faith, would missing? How would you explain the gift of you be able to give a reason for what you being able to see to someone in this condition? believe? d. What physical or emotional misfortune in your c. How important is our witness (telling others) of life has turned into an opportunity for God to God’s work in our life? demonstrate his power? 5. After the man was thrown out by the Pharisees, b. Have you ever been criticized for helping Jesus found him. What did Jesus communicate to someone in need? What was that like? What him in verses 35-38? have you learned from that experience? a. What was the main point of Jesus’ healing the Challenge: The message of John chapter 9 is that God blind man? Was it for the man’s benefit or so does not do things the way the world thinks they should that people might believe that Jesus was the be done. When we see things from God’s perspective, we Son of God? begin to understand that his way is perfect and we can trust in him completely. When we trust in the world’s way b. How many times does the word “believe” show of doing things (which we do so often), we find ourselves up in this chapter? frustrated and discouraged. Make a commitment to see c. Obviously the power of God in this story leads people and situations from God’s perspective, trusting people to believe in Jesus. Does the power of that he can make a difference. God lead people to believe in Jesus today? Does the testimony of this blind man still bear Action: Pray that God would give you his eyes to see witness to who Jesus is today? things clearly this week. Commit to trusting in God’s plan, and following his lead, as he works in your life. 6. Read verse 39. What do other scriptures teach about good eyesight? Read John 3:3, Matt. 4:12-17, 1 Cor. 2:6-16. Next Steps: 7. In verse 40-41, what is the real sin that Jesus points Today: Luke 4:16-22 out? G I will strive to look at my life and relationships a. Because the blind man was born without sight, through the lens of faith in Jesus Christ. he never knew what it was like to see. In what way, before we became a Christian, were we G I will testify to the truth in Jesus Christ with boldness like the blind man? by telling my story. Once I was ______but now I ______. b. What blinded you from knowing the truth before your decision to follow Jesus? G I will be intentional daily about knowing and growing in The Word (Jesus). 8. In John 5:3, we read that there were many people in Jerusalem who wished to be healed, and yet Jesus G I will worship him as the living Lord who came to chose this man who was blind since birth to heal and restore my sight. reveal himself as the Savior. Talk about what it means to you to be chosen by the Savior. Why did he choose you? a. Have you ever had to deny someone’s request for help? What was that like? Did you learn anything from that experience?