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Inglewood First UMC reflects on the sermon and scripture from the previous Sunday’s worship. Below, you fill find questions that can be used for Bible Study, small groups or personal devotion. Let the scripture speak in to your life! Expect great things!
Opening Prayer
Kind and gracious Lord, you are the creator of all things, the author of life, and our loving God. We thank you for your faithful presence in our lives, and we thank you for the Word of God.
As we prepare to study your Word together, we ask you to open our minds. Help us clear away the clutter and quiet any outside voices so we can hear only what you long to speak to us.
Scripture: John 3:13-17 (New Revised Standard Version)
13 No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man.[a] 14 And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.[b]
16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
17 “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world but in order that the world might be saved through him.
Summary:
‘On Second Thought’ is a phrase that expresses openness to “thinking about something again.” We may think we know everything we need to know about faith in God, but every now and then, it’s important to be open to think again.
Many Christians use John 3:16 to judge those who aren’t believers. John 3:17, however, reminds us that Jesus came not to judge (or condemn) the world, but that the world may be saved through him. Did Jesus come to judge the world or to save the world?
Reflection Questions:
- What is a word, phrase or image that comes to mind when you read or hear the text?
- When do you remember first learning John 3:16? How often do you recall reading John 3:17?
- Christians often talk about what Jesus saves us from. We must also discern what Jesus saves us for. For example, we believe we are saved from slavery, sin and death. If we are saved from slavery, we are saved for freedom. If we are saved from sin, we are saved for righteousness (patience, kindness, generousity, justice). If we are saved from death, then we are saved for life. For what purpose did Jesus save you? What does Jesus have for you to do in this world?
- What does this scripture teach you about salvation?
- What does God invite you to do, change or be through this passage?
Discipleship Huddle Questions:
- How is it with your soul?
- How does your soul prosper?
Closing Prayer
God, who lifts up the humble, give us guidance to see how we might be part of your mission of the redemption of the world. Give us the hands of compassion to extend your love and grace. Amen.