LifeGroup Notes

BIG IDEA
There is a famous Mark Twain quote that says: “It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.” There is definitely some truth to this in that it reveals the degree to which people can allow themselves to deny the truth and believe untruth. In this week’s passage we see two examples of how committed one can be in their denial of the truth of the gospel.

Passages we’ll review:
Matthew 26:30-35; John 18:25-32; Isaiah 26:3-9

OPENING
What stood out to you from the message this week? What led you to really think? Did anything challenge you?

Have you ever made a very sincere promise that you weren’t able to keep? How did it make you feel and why?

READ
This week’s passage starts with Peter’s second and third denial of Jesus - as prophesied by Jesus. When we go back to Jesus’ words to Peter, we see a striking contrast between what Peter said he was going to do and what he actually did. Let’s start our discussion by looking back at a passage that covers Jesus’ prophecy regarding Peter’s denial.

Read Matthew 26:30-35

In verses 30-32, Jesus has some good news and some bad news.

What’s the bad news?

What’s the good news?

Which part do the disciples, and specifically Peter, seem to focus on? Why do you think this is?

How could Peter be so confident and yet, in the end, so wrong about his dedication?

Why did God allow Peter to go through a time of testing, knowing he would fail?

This brings us to our passage from Sunday, which begins with Peter’s second and third denial.

Read John 18:25-27

In the moment, what do you think some of the reasons were for Peter’s denial of Jesus?

What is the significance of the fact that one of Peter’s accusers was related to the man whose ear was cut off?

What do you think was going through Peter’s mind when the rooster crowed?

What are some situations we could face in our time and culture that could lead us to deny the truth of Christ as Peter did?

Can people recognize you as a disciple of Jesus?

As sad as the story of Peter’s denial is, we do find hope in Peter’s eventual conviction over his denial and in his future restoration with Christ. The next part of this passage reveals a more frightening extent to which truth can be denied. The Sanhedrin, the very ones who should have been able to most recognize Jesus for who He truly was, are seen working in direct opposition to Him. Furthermore, we see by their words that they are convinced they are in the right.

Read John 18:28-32

How would you describe the goal of the Sanhedrin in their conversation with Pilate?

What do the Sanhedrin’s words in verse 30 reveal to us?

What is the significance of the Sanhedrin’s words in verse 31?

The only reason you believe the truth of the Gospel is because of the power of God at work within you. So we should see that the only way we are able to stand firm on His truth is by that very same power - not our own. We should always be aware of our capability to deny truth in our thoughts and actions despite all that God has done for us. And our knowledge of this should push us to rely on God all the more.

DIGGING DEEPER

Isaiah was a prophet called by God to speak to the nation of Israel, calling them out on the sins they had committed, both individually and as a nation, as they chose to deny God and live for themselves. Yet even in the midst of God’s condemnation and judgement, Isaiah reminded them of God’s mercy that would be given to those who are steadfast and rely on Him! —Editor’s Note

Read Isaiah 26:3-9

What does God promise to those who rely on Him? Why is it so difficult for us to rely on God completely?

What are some of the modern day examples of the “lofty places” or “lofty cities” referred to in verses 5 and 6? In what ways are we tempted to live like those in the “lofty places”? How can these verses ultimately lead to a reason for us to have joy?

What benefits are promised to those who look to Him for their strength? Which of these is most encouraging to you now and why?

God does not promise an “easy” life for those who follow Him - look at what Jesus endured! However, He does promise that He will guide and direct our paths if we trust in Him alone. We can overcome the obstacles that are intended to pull us down and avoid the unnecessary paths that will make our journey in life more difficult if we will seek Him above everything else that this life has to offer! —Editor’s Note

LET’S PRAY

Consider the following as you pray together:

1. Can people recognize you as a disciple of Jesus by the way you live your life each day? What changes do you need to make in your life so that you don’t betray Jesus with either your words or your actions?
   

2. Where might you need to stand up for the truth this week, regardless of the consequences? Pray for strength to stand for Jesus whenever the opportunities arise.
   

3. Is your mind in “perfect peace” right now? If not, what is interfering with your perfect peace? This week, pray for God to help you turn these things over to Him and focus on Him, trusting Him to be your strength.