Sermon Discussion Guide 3-1-26

Sermon Discussion Guide
The Book of John | John 17

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 17

The Church is One

• Read 1 Cor 12:12-20. What is the difference between unity and uniformity?
• Where do you see real Christian unity across differences?
• Is there a church tradition you’ve been dismissive of? 

The Church is Holy

• What does Jesus mean by “sanctify them in the truth”?
• How is holiness different from moral superiority?
• How can a church be holy while still full of sinners?

The Church is Catholic (Universal)

• How does belonging to the global and historic church guard us from arrogance?
• How does it protect us from isolation?
• What are some challenges to the “catholic” nature of the church today?

The Church is Apostolic

• When you hear “apostolic,” do you think more about authority, mission, history, or doctrine? Why?
• What are subtle ways we might elevate personal experience over apostolic teaching?
• The apostles were sent ones. In what sense is the church still “sent” today?
• How does being apostolic shape how we think about evangelism?

What does this mean for us?

• Which of the four marks challenges you most right now?
• Which gives you the most comfort?
• Where do you see your church reflecting these marks well?
• Where do we need growth?

Closing Prayer