Check-In (Highs & Lows) 15 min
A great, quick way to catch the highlights of what is happening in the lives of the people in your group is to take turns quickly sharing the “highs & lows” of your week. High: What was your biggest highlight since we last met? Low: What was the low point during this time?
Settle-In (Ice-Breaker) 10 min
If you could be transformed into any animal for 24 hours, which one would you choose; and what would be the first thing you’d do as your new animal self?
Dig-In (Scripture) 35 min
1. Read John 3:1-2. What do we know about the man named Nicodemus and why is this important to know? Why do you think Nicodemus went to Jesus at night? What heart posture do we see from Nicodemus as he talks with Jesus?
2. Read John 3:3-5. The Greek translation for again is “from above.” If you combine verses 3 and 5, Jesus is saying that no one can see or enter the kingdom of God unless they are born from above, of water and spirit. What is Jesus trying to tell Nicodemus?
3. Where else in scripture do we see this idea of being born again?
4. Read John 3:11-15. Nicodemus was asking questions to help him fully understand what Jesus was saying even though Jesus had been testifying to these things previously. Have there been moments in your life where you questioned like Nicodemus? What did that do for your faith? Did you find answers? If you didn’t, did that impact your faith?
5. Read John 3:16-18. We see God’s love for the world and his initiative to save humanity in verse 16. How has your understanding of God’s love and initiative changed your perspective on your own faith and belief in Jesus?
Gear-Up (Application) 15 min
1. If you have already been baptized, how can you recommit to Christ in a fresh, new way?
2. If you have not been baptized, what challenges might you face when deciding to publicly declare your faith and be reshaped by Jesus, similar to Nicodemus?
3. What steps can you take to overcome any challenges that are distracting you from deepening your faith and commitment to Jesus at this time?
Step-Up (Homework)
ONE MORE check in!
1. Who did you have in mind, or who did you write down as your ONE MORE? Have you been able to have a spiritual conversation with them or invite them to church since you identified them as your ONE MORE? How can you commit to taking a step towards reaching out to your ONE MORE this week?
2. Continue to be in prayer this week for ways that God can continue to multiply his presence in you.