Sermon Discussion Guide 3-8-26

Sermon Discussion Guide
The Book of John | John 18:1-14

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 18:1-14

Peter and the Sword

• Why do you think Peter reaches for the sword?
• The sermon said, “Rational thought and fear don’t coexist.”
  • When have you experienced that to be true?
• In what ways do we “grab swords” today? (Control, anger, reputation management, overworking, withdrawal, etc.)
• Why does grabbing control feel safer than trusting God?

Jesus’ Identity, Power, and Purpose

• What stands out to you about Jesus’ composure in this moment?
• Why is it significant that Jesus steps forward instead of hiding?
• The sermon emphasized that encountering the true God is overwhelming rather than merely comforting. How does that challenge modern ideas about spirituality?
• How does Jesus’ power make His surrender even more meaningful?

Theology of Glory or Theology of the Cross (Martin Luther, 1518)

• Theology of Glory (Trusts in human ability, Seeks visible victory, Grasps for control, Wants a powerful Messiah)
• Theology of the Cross (Trusts what God has done, Accepts weakness, Surrenders control, Receives a crucified Savior)
• Which theology feels more natural to you?
• Where do you see “theology of glory” creeping into Christian culture?
• Why is it hard to accept that God often works through weakness?
• How does Jesus drinking the cup instead of using the sword redefine strength?
• How does knowing Jesus willingly stepped between you and judgment change your ability to surrender control?

Closing Prayer