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LIFE GROUP STUDY How Jesus Reframes Everything Gospel of John 10-20 UPSIDE DOWN How Jesus Reframes Everything Gospel of John 10-20 Series Intro This study will go along with the Summer 2016 Sermon Series. Each week will focus on a chapter from the second half of the Gospel of John and look at how Jesus turns our worlds and the world upside down and reframes everything with His radical truth and grace. We have included the schedule for the sermon series below. Note that the Upside Down Sermon Series schedule does not follow the chapter order. The Life Group Study Series, however, will be done in chapter order (week 1 chapter 10, week 2 chapter 11, etc.). Each session will be stand alone so you can go through them all or select the ones you want to use based on your group’s schedule.

STUDY SCHEDULE SERMON SCHEDULE Week Chapter Sermon Date Sermon Date Chapter Week 1 John 10 Sunday, June 26 Sunday, June 12 John 11 2 2 John 11 Sunday, June 12 Sunday, June 26 John 10 1 3 John 12 Sunday, July 3 (11:11 only) Sunday, July 3 (11:11 only) John 12 3 4 John 13 Sunday, July 10 Sunday, July 10 John 13 4 5 John 14 Sunday, July 24 Sunday, July 17 John 15 6 6 John 15 Sunday, July 17 Sunday, July 24 John 14 5 7 John 16 Sunday, July 31 Sunday, July 31 John 16 7 8 John 17 Sunday, August 14 Sunday, August 7 John 20 11 9 John 18 Sunday, August 21 Sunday, August 14 John 17 8 10 John 19 Sunday, August 28 Sunday, August 21 John 18 9 11 John 20 Sunday, August 7 Sunday, August 28 John 19 10 12 John 21 Sunday, September 4 Sunday, September 4 John 21 12

There are no books to purchase or read for the series except the Bible. Your group will get the most out of the series if they spend time reading the chapter from John and reflecting each week and also if they listen to the sermon, take notes and bring the notes to your group time to discuss. If you miss a sermon you can find the podcast or video at http://purposechurch.com/category/sermons/ Note that group members can fully participate in the discussion even if they miss a week’s reading or sermon. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 1: John 10 ______

LEAN IN Option 1 – As a kid what was your favorite pet? How did this pet respond when it heard your voice? Option 2 – What person or group did you an your friends “follow” when you were teens? Option 3 – Describe the best leader you ever “followed”

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 10 and Pastor Glenn’s June 24, 2016 message “The Good Shepherd”. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 10 that especially spoke to you?

BIBLE DISCUSSION: LOOK DOWN Read the passage for it’s original meaning LOOK OUT Dig into the passage for it’s meaning in today’s world LOOK IN Apply the meaning of the passage to our lives LIVE IT OUT What if we held tightly to the truth of this passage and lived it out completely? How would our lives be different? Our church? Our communities? Our world?

LOOK DOWN Read John 10:1-18 w Who do the sheep, shepherd, and stranger represent in these verses? w In this UPSIDE DOWN series we are looking at how Jesus Reframes Everything. How is Jesus unlike the “thieves and robbers” in verses 8-10? w What does Jesus mean by likening himself to a gate for the sheepfold? w How does Jesus identify himself with the good shepherd in verses 11-15? w What final claim does Jesus make in verses 17-18? w Knowing that scholars believe this took place only three months before the crucifixion, how much do you think His original hearers understood these words? On this side of the crucifixion and resurrection how much deeper of an understanding are we able to have?

LOOK OUT w Why did Jesus use sheep to represent us? In what ways are we most like sheep? w What is it that makes it tempting for us to follow the voice of a “stranger”? LOOK IN w How has Jesus been a “gate” in your life? w What are some specific ways you have experienced Jesus as your Good Shepherd recently? w How do you discern the voice of Jesus from those of so many others that vie for your attention? w What are some ways that following the voice of Jesus can turn your world upside down? Turn the world upside down.

Read John 10:19-30 Those who were present to hear these words of Jesus were divided in their response and what they believed about His identity. What difference does Jesus’ identity make in terms of His promise in verse 28?

LIVE IT OUT w What are some ways your daily life would be different if you were more attentive to the voice of Jesus? w What is a step you will take to follow your Shepherd more closely this week? w If you expected to live only a few more weeks, which verses in this chapter do you think would be the most significant to you?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 2: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 11 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. LOOK IN w How has Jesus been a “gate” in your life? w What are some specific ways you have experienced Jesus as your Good Shepherd recently? w How do you discern the voice of Jesus from those of so many others that vie for your attention? w What are some ways that following the voice of Jesus can turn your world upside down? Turn the world upside down.

LIVE IT OUT w What are some ways your daily life would be different if you were more attentive to the voice of Jesus? w What is a step you will take to follow your Shepherd more closely this week? UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything w If you expected to live only a few more weeks, which verses in this chapter do you think would be the most significant to you? Week 2: John 11 ______

PRAY LEAN IN Option 1 – When did the news of someone’s death (friend, family member, national figure) hit you the hardest? Why? Option 2 – How patient are you when it comes to waiting? What situations or relationships does your impatience come out the most? Option 3 – What is the earliest experience in your childhood in which you can recall learning about death?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 11 and Pastor Lisa’s June 12, 2016 message “When God is Late”. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 11 that especially spoke to you?

LOOK DOWN Read John 11:1-37 w What kind of a relationship did Jesus have with Lazarus and his family (vs. 1-5)? w Why do you think Jesus delayed two days before setting out to see Lazarus (v. 6)? w Why do the disciples object to going back to Judea (vs. 8 & 16)? w What is Jesus teaching the disciples about death and Himself in verses 11-15? w How long had Lazarus been dead by the time Jesus arrived (v. 17)? w What do you learn about Martha from the way she talks with Jesus in verses 21-27? w How does Jesus stretch Martha’s faith by his claim and question in verse 25? w Compare and contrast Mary’s greeting and interaction (vs. 28-33) to Martha’s? What do we learn about Mary from these verses? w Where did the Jews think Mary was going when they followed her (vs. 30-31)? w Jesus knew He was going to raise Lazarus (11:11) and He did not cry when he first got word about Lazarus’ death, but He did cry when he went with Mary to the tomb. Why? w What lies behind the comments of the mourners in verses 36-37? LOOK OUT w If you had been Martha and Mary, how would you have felt about Jesus knowing He was so close but didn’t come right away? What feelings would you have towards Him when he finally came? w If you had been one of the disciples and saw Jesus crying, what would you have thought? Felt? w Read verses 25-26 again. Have you ever attended a funeral where there was no sense of eternal life in Jesus? Compare what that was like with the experience of a funeral of a Christ follower who lived and died with an assurance of eternal life.

LOOK IN w Describe a time when you were disappointed by God and what seemed like His lack of response? w What current attitudes of disappointment are you holding onto? How can you turn to God to trust in His sovereign timing? w What loss, hurt, struggle, or burden is currently blocking or hindering your faith in Jesus?

Read John 11:38-45 w How does Martha’s response in verse 39 compare with her faith and confidence in verse 22? w Describe a time that you have been like Martha—full of faith in Jesus until you were faced with a real life application of your faith. w Review the people in this chapter: how would you describe the way in which their world, their perspective, their faith was turned upside down by what they experienced in this chapter: -Thomas and the disciples (vs. 7-16) -Mary (vs. 3, 20, and 29-33) -Martha (vs. 3, 20-28 and 39) -The Jews present (31-37, 45) -Lazarus

LIVE IT OUT w What is one difference this chapter makes in the way you look at: Death? God’s timing? God’s power? Your faith? w What is one way that living out the truths from this chapter would turn your world “upside down” and bring glory to God? w For what “miracle” in your life do you need to thank God today? w What struggle or weakness in your life will you give to God in prayer, so that He may use them to bring glory to Himself? w What specific situation do you need to trust God to work out in your life? PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 3: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 12 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 3: John 12 ______LEAN IN Option 1 – If you had a year’s wages to blow on your closest friends or family, how would you spend it? Option 2 – When you think of the Rose parade what comes to mind? Bands? Floats? Horses? Grand Marshalls? Crowds and traffic? Distraction from football? Other? Option 3 – Are you more likely to panic in the big crises or the little ones? Explain OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 12 and Pastor Glenn’s July 3, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 12 that especially spoke to you? BIBLE DISCUSSION: LOOK DOWN Read the passage for it’s original meaning LOOK OUT Dig into the passage for it’s meaning in today’s world LOOK IN Apply the meaning of the passage to our lives LIVE IT OUT What if we held tightly to the truth of this passage and lived it out completely? How would our lives be different? Our church? Our communities? Our world? Look Down Read John 12:1-11—Jesus Anointed at Bethany w What new significance does this story have knowing what had happened to Lazarus, Martha and Mary in chapter 11? w Martha served, Lazarus reclined at the table with Jesus, Mary anointed Jesus with perfume. Discuss how each of them was able to express their love for Jesus through their actions. w Given the value of the perfume (v. 5) how do you think you would you have reacted to Mary? w How does Judas respond to Mary’s action? w How does Jesus respond to Mary’s action? w How is Jesus’ comment in verse 8 especially applicable to Judas? w What does the priests’ reaction to Lazarus say about them? Look Out w Mary freely gave of her most precious resources to worship Jesus. How can we do the same today? w What are some ways we can mask selfishness with the appearance of concern for others? Look In w If you were given a year’s salary or time to use for Jesus, how would you use it? w Instead of waiting to be given an extra year’s time or money, what are some ways you can use more of the time and money God has given you for His purposes? Look Down Read John 12:12-19—Palm Sunday w The crowds were flocking to Jerusalem for the Passover. What had these crowds heard about Jesus? What do you think their motive was for coming out to meet Jesus? w Read Zechariah 9:9. Why a lowly donkey for Jesus? w With Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead and both the crowds and the plots to kill Jesus growing, what do you think each of these were feeling now: Disciples? Crowds? Jewish Leaders? w What do you think were some of the mixed motives that the crowds had for seeking Jesus? Look Out w What was it that you heard about or experienced that led you to seek Jesus? w What are some of the mixed motives that cause people to seek Jesus today? Look In w When the people spread the word about what Jesus had done it caused others to seek Him. In what way, or with whom do you need to spread the word about what Jesus has done this week? w What impure motives do you need to confess to God and ask Him to purify? Look Down Read John 12:20-43—Jesus Predicts His Death w What brings Gentiles to Jerusalem during the time of a Jewish religious Feast? w Why do you think Philip went to tell Andrew about the request? w Several times in the earlier chapters, Jesus said that “His time had not come” (2:4; 7:6 & 30). What regarding this request caused him to say that now it has come? w Who is the “kernel of wheat” in verse 24? w What does Jesus call His disciples to do in verses 25-26? What promise do they receive? w What would it have been like to be in the crowd with Jesus on Palm Sunday and to hear, see and experience verses 27-32? w How does the peoples response to Jesus change from the triumphal entry to verses 34, 37 and 42-43? What are the reasons for the change? Look In w Jesus called us to die so that we might live. What do you tend to hold on to rather than following Jesus wholeheartedly? w What is it that causes us to pursue the praise and acceptance of other people rather than the praise and acceptance of God? Live it Out w Martha served, Lazarus spent time with Jesus, and Mary gave extravagantly. Which of these acts of worship do you need to grow in right now? w Who can you share the good news of what Jesus has done with this week? When and how can you do this? w In what personal circumstances do you want to seek God’s approval over the praise and acceptance of others?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 4: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 13 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 4: John 13 ______LEAN IN Option 1 – What holiday or special meal did you look forward to most when you were growing up? Thanksgiving? Birthday dinner? Christmas? 4th of July/Memorial day BBQ? Why? Option 2 – Who was a childhood hero of yours who later let you down? Option 3 – Who is someone in your family, or our church, who exemplifies selfless, tireless servanthood?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 13 and Pastor Glenn’s July 10, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 13 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 13:1-17—Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet w What did Jesus know that the disciples’ didn’t understand yet (vs. 1, 3, 11)? w What additional significance does this give to Jesus’ washing their feet? w If you were Peter do you think you would have reacted as he did? Why or why not? w While Peter is talking about the literal washing of his feet, what do you think Jesus meant by His statement in verse 8? Verse 10? w How would Jesus’ example and words (vs. 12-17) have turned the disciples ideas upside down? w How would this experience and teaching reframe the way they thought about their role as leaders and followers? Look Out w When do you find it difficult to serve others? Why? w When do you find it difficult to allow others to serve you? Why? w Who is someone who has “washed your feet” (humbly served you)? What did they do? w What are some specific ways we can wash the feet of others today? Look In w When you are in a group and a need arises, is your natural tendency to: -be the first or last to notice the need? -jump into action or hope someone else will take care of it? w In what relationships or settings do you tend to act out of competition, comparison or pride rather than of service, sacrifice and humility? w What would it look like for you to practice “footwashing” in your family? At work or school? In your neighborhood? In the church?

Look Down Read John 13:18-38—Jesus Predicts His Betrayal and Peter’s Denial w What did Jesus say about the person who shared his bread (v. 18)? w Why did Jesus tell His disciples He would be betrayed (v. 19)? w How did Jesus’ foreknowledge about his betrayer affect Him (v. 21)? w How did the disciples respond when Jesus said one of them would betray Him (vs. 22-25)? w What was Jesus telling Judas to do and what did the disciples think He was telling him in vs. 27-29? w Why do you think Jesus wait till Judas was gone to share what He does in verses 31-36? w What do you think Peter was thinking and feeling in verses 36-38? Look Out w Judas’ betrayed Jesus and Peter denied Him in very obvious ways. Our betrayal and denial of Jesus is often much more subtle. What are some ways we betray or deny Jesus in our daily lives today? w If someone were to observe you in your relationships with those closest to you, on a scale of 1-10 how readily would they know by your love that you are a disciple of Jesus? w How could you increase this score?

Look In w When and why are you most tempted to “betray” or “deny” Jesus in your daily life? How will you ask God to help you change that this week?

Live it Out w Specifically, how will you put “footwashing” into practice in at least one relationship this week? w What is one way you want to stop betraying or denying Jesus in your daily life this week? w From this passage we show the world that we are followers of Jesus by the way that we serve and the way that we love. From this study, what is the area that you feel you need to follow Jesus’ example of service and love and more closely? -serving those closest to you? -serving those who are far from God? -loving your family members? -loving your enemies or those who have hurt you? -______

PRAY In Preparation for Next Week - Week 5: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 14 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 5: John 14 ______

LEAN IN Option 1 – What is your favorite house you have lived in? Why? Option 2 – If you could build a dream house – where would it be and what would it be like? Option 3 – Who was the best counselor or adviser you ever had? What was it about this person that made him or her so special?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 14 and Pastor Tamiko’s July 24, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 14 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 14:1-14—Jesus Comforts His Disciples w Look at Peter’s question in 13:36, Thomas’ in14:5, Philip’s in 14:8, and Judas’ in 14:22. What do these questions tell us about what the disciples were wresting with? w What comfort does Jesus offer them in these verses? w The disciples had spent all their years living under the Jewish teaching of the law and sacrifice being the way to God. How do you think Jesus words in verses 6-7 turned everything upside down for them? w With what tone of voice do you imagine Jesus speaking in verses 9-14? w Do you think Jesus’ promises about prayer in verses 12-14 are “blank check”, “make a wish” promises or are there some conditions for them? If so, what? w What does Jesus mean in saying that His followers will do greater things than He did? Greater in power? Greater in scope? Greater in impact? Look Out w In light of verse 6 how would you respond to someone who says, “there are many ways to God”? w Read 1 Peter 3:15—What would be important to remember in your response so that you could share truth with “gentleness and respect”?

Look In w What promise or promises of God have given you comfort, hope or courage recently? w What pictures of heaven does this passage give to you?

Look Down Read John 14:15-31—Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit w What teaching does Jesus repeat in vs. 15, 21, 23 & 24? Why do you think He repeats it four times? How does verse 31 strengthen this teaching? w What do you learn about the Holy Spirit from verses 16-17 and 25-27? w What is the relationship of the Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit to the believer? To each other?

Look Out w What are some ways the world offers or claims to give us peace? What is the difference between that and the peace Jesus offers (v. 27)?

Look In w Of all the promises made here (vs. 16, 17, 18, 21, 23, 26, 27) which one means the most to you right now? Why? w How “at home” are the Father, Son and Spirit in your life right now? Are they more like owners or temporary guests? w On a scale from 1 (in the middle of a storm) to 10 (“smooth sailing”), what is your peace quotient now? w Where do you need to experience Jesus’ peace, comfort or hope most in your life right now?

Live it Out -Jesus is preparing a place for us in heaven. What can you start doing, or stop doing, this week to prepare yourself for eternity with Jesus? -With whom do you need to share about “the hope that is within you”, about Jesus being “THE Way” this week? -What problem, struggle, or fear do you need to turn over to God this week? -What can you do today to experience and enjoy the peace Jesus has for you?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 6: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 15 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 6: John 15 ______

LEAN IN Option 1 – When it comes to gardening or caring for plants—do you have a green thumb? How much interest or enjoyment do you get from it? Option 2 – What is a type of food or music that you hate or strongly dislike? Option 3 – Peaks & Pits: share one of the “highs” and one of the “lows” of the past week?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 15 and Pastor Glenn’s July 17, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 15 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 15:1-17—The Vine and the Branches w How does Jesus describe His role and the Father’s role in life and growth (vs. 1-4)? w What does Jesus say happens to the branches that are bearing fruit and the branches that are not (vs. 1-4)? Why? w Jesus repeats “remain in me”, “love” and “bearing fruit” throughout this passage. How are these words and phrases related? w What is the “fruit that will last” (v. 16)? w How do verses 9 and 12 tie together? w How do verses 12-13 take Jesus’ command to love even further than 13:34-35? w What is the link between obedience and prayer (vs. 7 & 16)? Look Out w What does it mean to bear fruit as a Christian? w The word love is used so often in so many ways in our culture that it loses it’s meaning. How do Jesus’ words in this passage reframe and deepen the meaning of love for us?

Look In w As a branch on Christ’s vine, how would you describe the fruit of your life: Growing? Diseased? Maturing? In a drought? Green? Dying on the vine? Ripe and flavorful? Eaten by Worms? w Do you feel more like Jesus’ servant or friend? What would help your friendship with Jesus?

Look Down Read John 15:18-27—Jesus Warns of Hate and Persecution w Since the emphasis in verses 9-17 was on love, why does Jesus now talk about hate? w How is the relationship of the disciples to the world like that of Jesus’ relationship to it? w What does Jesus mean here by “the world”? w What lesson did Jesus teach by the phrase “no servant is greater than his master” in 13:16? How does that lesson compare to this one (v. 20)? w How did Jesus’ coming turn the world upside down by highlighting the reality and evil of sin (vs. 22, 24)?

Look Out w Where in our culture do you see hate and persecution towards Christians? What about other parts of the world?

Look In w Share about a time when speaking truth and showing love resulted in hostility from others?

Live it Out w What is one step you can take to develop a more connected, intimate relationship with Jesus this week?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 7: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 16 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 7: John 16 ______

LEAN IN Option 1 – How are you at saying goodbye? Is it harder for you to be the one leaving or the one left behind? Option 2 – What was a painful experience in your life that resulted in joy? Option 3 – Peaks & Pits: share one of the “highs” and one of the “lows” of the past week?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 16 and Pastor Brian’s July 31, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 16 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 16:1-16—The Work of the Holy Spirit w What are the disciples feeling now? w What is their grief keeping them from understanding? w How would you paraphrase the three goals of the Spirit’s work (vs. 8-11)? w What other roles does the Spirit play (14:16-17, 26-27; 16:13-15)?

Look Out w If you were a disciple how would you feel hearing verses 7 and 16?

Look In w Of the various roles of the Holy Spirit described by Jesus, which one have you come to appreciate recently? How so? Look Down Read John 16:17-33—The Disciples Grief Will Turn to Joy w What tones of voice do you hear in the disciples in verses 17-18? w If you were there, would Jesus’ answer encourage you, or confuse you more? Why? w What event is Jesus talking about in verses 20-22? w Contrast the world’s “joy”/rejoicing (v. 20) with the joy the disciples will experience (v. 22)? w What adjectives would you use to describe the relationship we can have with the Father because of Jesus (vs. 23-27)? w Which of Jesus’ words in this passage would have been alarming to the disciples and which would have brought relief?

Look Out w Both Jesus and the world offer a form of peace (14:27; 16:33), joy (15:11; 16:22-24), and love (13:34-35; 15:9-19). Describe how you have experienced both sides of one of these?

Look In w In v. 33 Jesus guarantees that in this world we will experience trouble and loss and can experience peace and His overcoming power at the same time. Describe a time when you experienced the truth of this verse in your life.

Live it Out w What trouble or loss are you facing right now? What encouraging truth from this passage will you rely on? w Who is someone in your life facing trouble or loss that needs to experience God’s peace and overcoming power?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 8: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 17 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 8: John 17 ______

LEAN IN Option 1 – What kind of relationship did you have with your parents when you were growing up? Are they still alive? What is your relationship like now. Option 2 – What going away gift have you received that still warms your heart? Option 3 – Peaks & Pits: share one of the “highs” and one of the “lows” of the past week?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 17 and Pastor Glenn’s August 14, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 17 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 17:1-26—Jesus Prays for Himself, His Disciples & All Believers w What “time has come” (v. 1)? w What does it mean to “glorify” someone (vs. 4-5, 10, 22, 24)? w How is Jesus’ deity emphasized in these verses? w What does Jesus pray for His disciples in verses 6-19? How would this prayer have made you feel as one of His disciples? w What is Jesus’ concern in verses 11 and 15? w Who or what is the focus of Jesus’ prayer in verses 20-26? w What are some of the reasons that unity is so difficult for Christians to achieve? w How should the example of the Father’s relationship with the Son change our relationships with other Christians (21-23)? w What does Jesus’ ultimate desire (v. 24) reveal about his love for us? Look Out w If Jesus had prayed only for the urgent needs of his disciples, how would this prayer have been different?

Look In w How are your prayers for others like and unlike Jesus’ prayer? w In what ways would your prayers for others to become more like Jesus’ prayer?

Live it Out w What change in your lifestyle do you need to make to distinguish your identity from that of the world? w What is one thing you can do this week to build unity among fellow Christians? w What aspect of Jesus’ prayer do you need to apply to your life this week?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 9: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 18 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 9: John 18 ______

LEAN IN Option 1 – When did you feel betrayed by a person or a cause you believed in? Option 2 – Where do you go when you need to prepare yourself for a very stressful time? Option 3 – Peaks & Pits: share one of the “highs” and one of the “lows” of the past week?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 18 and Pastor Glenn’s August 21, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 18 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 18:1-14—Jesus Arrested w How did Judas know where to find Jesus and His disciples? w Who did Judas guide to this place (v. 3)? w What do you think the disciples were feeling when they saw all of them coming? w How do you account for the soldiers’ deference (v. 6)? w What do we learn about Jesus from these verses? The soldiers? Peter?

Look Out w If you had been with Jesus the night He was arrested, how do you think you would have responded? Look In w Jesus was ready to “drink the cup” of obedience. What issue of obedience is challenging you now? w Following Jesus’ example, how would you respond differently the next time you are wrongly accused or mistreated?

Look Down Read John 18:15-40—Peter’s Denials/Jesus Before the High Priest & Pilate w What do you think Peter and the other disciple (John) hoped to do (vs. 15-16) w How do you account for the difference between Peter here (v. 17, 25, and 27) and in the garden (v. 10)? w What thoughts do you think were running through Peter’s mind? w What feelings must Peter have had after the rooster crowed (v. 27; 13:37-38)? w What is so ironic about the religious leaders in verse 28? w In his pursuit of “truth” do you think Pilate is trying to absolve himself, Jesus or Barabbus?

Look Out w Since both Peter and Pilate “caved in” under pressure, why do we tend to scorn Pilate but honor Peter?

Look In w When and where is it hardest for you to openly acknowledge your relationship with Christ? w When have you felt like Peter? w How does the story of Peter both challenge and encourage you? w Do you see any of Peter or Pilate’s qualities or tendencies in yourself?

Live It Out w In what setting might you need to stand up for the truth this week regardless of the consequences? w What is one way you can rearrange your priorities this week to honor Jesus as king?

PRAY

In Preparation for Next Week - Week 10: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

PREPARE FOR COMMUNION? Next week’s study from John chapter 19 covers the crucifixion of Jesus. Decide if you would like to have communion together and make plans to bring the elements needed. SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 19 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 10: John 19 ______LEAN IN Option 1 -- Peaks & Pits: share one of the “highs” and one of the “lows” of the past week?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 19 (the crucifixion and death of Jesus) and Pastor Glenn’s August 28, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 19 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 19:1-16—Jesus Sentenced to be Crucified w What did Pilate and the soldiers do to Jesus (vs. 1-3)? w In light of Pilate’s convictions (vs. 18:38; 19:4, 6) why do you think he had Jesus treated this way? w Put yourself in Pilate’s place, how would you describe to your wife what takes place in verses 4-16 and why you finally let Jesus be crucified?

Look In w When have you made a decision based on fear and ambition, rather than on what is right? w What can we do to guard against making decisions like that?

Look Down Read John 19:17-27—The Crucifixion w According to the sign on Jesus’ cross, for what reason was He crucified? w What meaning does this title have for Pilate (18:33-37)? For the soldiers (19:2-3)? The chief priests (19:14-15)? w For what purpose does Pilate have it written in all three common languages (v. 20)? How does God use this for His purposes (12:32)?

Look Out w If Jesus preached the same gospel today that He preached in the first century, who might be the “chief priests”, the “Peter’s”, the “Pilates” now? Who would you be? Look In w Try to put yourself in the place of the following people at the crucifixion. How do you think you would have reacted in their place? -soldiers (vs. 16-18, 23-24) -chief priests of the Jews (vs. 20-21) -Jesus’ mother Mary, his aunt, Mary wife of Clopas (note: this is the only reference--scholars are not sure who this is), and Mary Magalene (vs. 25-27) -John (“the disciple” vs. 26-27)

Look Down Read John 19:28-40—The Death & Burial of Jesus w What did Jesus know during His last moments on the cross (v. 28)? w What did Jesus mean when he proclaimed “it is finished” (v. 30)? w Why would secret believers like Joseph and Nicodemus risk public exposure now?

Look In w When and how did the meaning of Jesus’ death become real to you? w With whom or in what settings have you kept secret that you are a follower of Jesus?

Live It Out w How would you explain the need for the crucifixion to someone who really wanted to understand (John 3:14-16)? w To whom do you want to reveal openly that you are a disciple of Jesus?

Communion/Lord's Supper Take time as a group to celebrate the Lord’s Supper together and have a time of prayer thanking God for Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross for you! Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 to prepare.

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In Preparation for Next Week - Week 11: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read John chapter 20 and look for insights and applications in regards to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Week 11: John 20 ______LEAN IN Option 1 -- Peaks & Pits: share one of the “highs” and one of the “lows” of the past week?

OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 20 (the crucifixion and death of Jesus) and Pastor Eric’s August 7, 2016 message. In this UPSIDE DOWN series we will be studying a chapter from the Gospel of John each week to see how Jesus turned (and turns) the world upside down, reframing every aspect of our lives. What was one thing from the message or reading John 20 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 20:1-18—The Empty Tomb and Jesus’ Appearance to Mary Magdalene w If you were Mary, having seen Jesus torturous death, what is your emotional state two days later? w Why do you think she visited so early? w What would go through your mind when you realized the body was gone? w What do you think Peter and John were thinking (vs. 2-10)? w Given the disciples response, why is Mary crying? w What finally breaks through her grief and confusion? w How does her return to the disciples contrast to that in verse 2?

Look In w What do you rely on for evidence that Jesus rose from the dead? w How has Jesus “spoken your name” in a tie of grief? How did it affect you?

Look Down Read John 20:19-31—Jesus Appears to Disciples and to Thomas w Why are all the disciples fearful now? w Of all the things Jesus must have said, why does John record “peace be with you” three times (vs. 19, 21, 26)? w Look at each statement Jesus makes in verses 21-23. Imagine you are one of the disciples in the room when Jesus appeared. What thoughts and questions would go through your mind as you heard each of the things which Jesus said? w How does Thomas’ response compare to Mary’s? To the other disciples? What do you think the tone was behind Thomas’ statement in verse 25? w Why do you think Jesus waited seven days to appear to Thomas? What conversations do you think took place between Thomas and the others during those days? Look Out w If Jesus preached the same gospel today that He preached in the first century, who might be the “chief priests”, the “Peter’s”, the “Pilates” now? Who would you be? w How would you explain the need for the crucifixion to someone who really wanted to understand (John 3:14-16)?

Look In w What are the two things Thomas called Jesus in verse 28? What would each of these mean to Thomas? How would you define what each means to you personally? w With the words of verse 31 in mind, how has this Upside Down study of John deepened your faith, even though you may have been a believer for a long time?

Live It Out w Read 1 Corinthians 15:17—We are so familiar with the resurrection story that we take It for granted. What difference does the resurrection make? w What difference could it make to remind yourself daily about the resurrection? w How can you celebrate your relationship with the living Christ this week? w Who is someone you want to tell about Jesus’ resurrection and it’s impact on your life? How will you?

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In Preparation for Next Week - Week 12: UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything

PLAN SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR YOUR FINAL SESSION As a group decide if you want to plan a meal together or something special for your final session of this study.

SCRIPTURE READINGS & REFLECTION: Read the final chapter of John (chapter 21) and look for insights and applications in egardsr to how Jesus Reframes Everything in your world and in the world. Spend some time reflecting on the whole Upside Down series John 10-21 and what God has been showing you through the study. UPSIDE DOWN: How Jesus Reframes Everything Final Week 12: John 21 ______OPEN SHARING FROM READING & SERMON This week’s session is based on John Chapter 21 and Pastor Glenn’s September 4, 2016 message. What was one thing from the message or reading John 20 that especially spoke to you?

Look Down Read John 21:1-15—Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish w Which disciples were here for this encounter with the resurrected Jesus (v. 2)? w Where are these seven disciples now? How far was this from Jerusalem where they last saw Jesus? w Peter has gone back to his hometown, why do you think he goes fishing? w Compare this story with Luke 5:1-11. Why do you think Jesus chose to repeat this type of miracle at this time?

Look In w How would you have felt if you were one of the disciples: -hearing Jesus instructions in v. 6? -when the net was overflowing with fish? -when they realized it was Jesus? -when they had breakfast with Him?

Look Down Read John 21:16-25—Jesus Reinstates Peter w Why do you think Jesus repeated the same question and charge to Peter three times? What do you think Jesus’ tone was as He spoke to Peter? w What changes do you think might have taken place in Peter’s heart as a result of his conversation with Jesus in verses 15-23?

Look Out w In the last verse of the book, John tells us that much more could be written about the life Jesus lived on earth. What further details of Jesus’ earthly life would you like to know more about? Look In w If Jesus asked you today the same question He asked Peter in verse 15, “Do you love me more than these?” With what Jesus knows about your own heart, what would the “these” refer to? w What can you learn from this passage that can help you when you “blow it” in your relationship to God? w Who do you know that needs to feel forgiven by God? By you? What can you do to let them know they are forgiven?

Looking Back w Think back through this study, what are some specific things you have you learned or been reminded about: Jesus? About the disciples? About what God is like?

Live It Out w Read James 1:23-24—What are some ways that this study in the book of John has been a “mirror” for you? What is one thing God has shown you, you should do? How can you make sure not to go away from this study and forget what He has shown you?

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