Week 18 - The New Testament
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Fun Small Group Warm Up Question:
What is your favorite movie?
New Testament
Mark 16 ~ Luke 24 ~ John 20 ~ John 21 ~ Acts 1
1. Look at Mark 16:1-8 or Luke 24:1-12. When these ladies encountered the angels, they were overwhelmed with fear. What situations in life have overwhelmed you? How did God comfort you and carry you beyond those experiences forward to encounter Him and His peace?
2. Luke 24:8 “they remembered His words” but to others Luke 24:11 “these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them.” What Bible truths or passages did you once disbelieve but now bring you great strength, comfort and wisdom?
3. What is your favorite Bible verse or passage? How has God made your heart “burn within you” through His truth and power (Luke 24:32)?
4. Why do you think Jesus appeared several times in person to His disciples before His ascension to Heaven? Read Luke 24:45. Based on this verse, how should we pray before we hear a sermon, do a devotional, have a Sunday School class?
5. How does Luke 24:5-53 describe the disciples’ response after Jesus’ departure? How is it similar or different from Acts 1:6-11?
6. Read the story of Jesus’ encounter with Thomas in John 20:24-29. What stands out to you? What sort of doubts did you have before you became a Christian? What sort of doubts have you had since you became a Christian? How has Jesus increased your faith in your encounters with Him?
7. What is the purpose of the book of John? (John 20:31) Why do we need that reminder?
8. When we sin, how does that affect our relationship with God? Even though Peter failed Jesus in his abandonment and denials, how did Peter respond when he saw Jesus in John 21:7? How does that encourage us to respond when we sin? Who do you know who has been avoiding God (or Christians, the Bible, or church) out of guilt and shame and needs to hear this story? How could you share this story in an encouraging way?
9. How would you define mercy? Grace? In John 21:15-19 we see Jesus restore Peter. Why do you think God tells us about Peter’s restoration? What does that show us about His mercy? His grace? How does that comfort you in your past, present, and future failures?