Sermon Discussion Guide 7-13-25

Sermon Discussion Guide
The Gospel of John | John 5:1-9
 
Gathering Question:
What is one way you’ve experienced God in your life this week?
 
Gathering Prayer:
Father, by Your Spirit, would you guide us into all truth. Help us to hear and be attentive to Your voice as we work through this study. In the name of Jesus, Your Son, we pray, Amen.
 
Opening Questions:

• What stood out to you in the sermon? 
• What insights did you gain? 
• What questions did it raise? 

 
Read John 5:1-9

• So far in the Gospel, Jesus has been approached to perform miracles--like supplying more wine for the wedding or healing the official’s son. In this story, Jesus searches out the man on the mat. What might be a reason (or reasons) why Jesus takes the initiative? How might Jesus take the initiative with you/us? 
• John says that there were many people around the pool who were sick or lame. He doesn’t tell us that Jesus talked with any of the others, or that any of the others were healed. What questions would you like to ask God about this? 
• Jesus extends healing to the man on the mat who seems to display very little faith. How do you understand the significance of faith in healing? What was the man’s responsibility? 

 
Read John 5:10-15

• After the healing, there was a big kerfuffle because Jesus healed on the sabbath –  

a no-no to the temple rulers! One interesting aspect is that the man was called on to testify who healed him, but he was unaware, until Jesus tracked him down and told him who he is.
What does this say to you about healing? What does it say about God? Can you imagine/see God at work in all times and all places?

• Jesus will tell the man to “stop sinning or something worse might happen to you”  

– what do you imagine was his sin? How does this speak to your soul?
 
Read 2 Timothy 2:11-13

• What does this early hymn say about Jesus that challenges or comforts you? 
• How did this description of Jesus show up in the life of the man on the mat? How does Jesus show up like this in your life?   

Closing Prayer