LifeGroup Notes

BIG IDEA
This week, we saw the parents of the man born blind. Even though they had seen what Christ had done, they chose to reject Him for their own sake. They valued their own reputation over honoring Christ. They were only two of many who chose to reject Him. Yet He came to be the sacrifice for all people, in spite of what He would face. As we reflect on the sacrifice He made, we can find hope in the words of the song “Man of Sorrows.”

Man of Sorrows, Lamb of God, by His own betrayed.
The sin of man and wrath of God has been on Jesus laid.

Silent as He stood accused, beaten, mocked, and scorned.
Bowing to the Father’s will He took a crown of thorns.

Sent of heaven, God’s own Son to purchase and redeem.
And reconcile the very ones who nailed Him to that tree.

Oh, that rugged cross, my salvation where Your love poured out over me.
Now my soul cries out, “Hallelujah, praise and honor Lord to Thee.”

Passages we’ll review:
Isaiah 53:3-5; John 1:10-13; Matthew 10:26-33; Philippians 3:7-11

OPENING
What stood out to you from the message this week? What led you to really think? Did anything challenge you? Have you ever had to share something that you really loved, something that had immense value to you?

How would you feel if someone took all the credit for a major accomplishment you had achieved? How would you feel if someone took the responsibility and consequences for a major mistake you made? Which of these would you be more likely to let happen?

READ

Read Isaiah 53:3-5

In today’s passage, we find that the One sent to be our Redeemer was the most unlikely person expected! Nothing about His appearance drew the attention of others. They saw no worth in Him. They didn’t believe in His teachings. And yet, He was exactly what we needed in a Savior!

How should we respond to the Suffering Servant illustrated in this passage?

Read John 1:10-13

Let’s think back to the earthly life of Jesus. Who despised Him during His birth and ministry? Why did they despise Him so much?

Looking back at our passage from Sunday, John 9:13-23, why did the Pharisees doubt the man’s testimony (Verse 16)? How did the Pharisees, and even the people of Israel as a whole, not realize that Jesus was indeed their Messiah?

How does this apply to us today as followers of Christ?

Jesus was viewed in the light of any other servant of the day. He was mocked, rejected, even hated. Those in power sought to silence Him, even to the point of death. In fact, He was sold out by one of His own for a measly 30 pieces of silver, the amount given to the master in the event that his slave died an accidental death. They were ashamed of Him because He didn’t live up to their standards. Yet He proved through His actions that the things valued by man weren’t needed to be successful in doing God’s work! —Editor’s Note

Read Matthew 10:26-33

How does Jesus fulfill the character and the calling of the Servant of God?

Which of the promises in verses 6 and 7 stand out most to you? Why?

We have an invitation to follow Christ’s example and become what He desires us to be as Kingdom people! When we confess Jesus as our Lord and Savior, it is more than just mere words; it is about living it out! We must not just talk the talk, but also walk the walk! —Editor’s Note

DIGGING DEEPER

Read Philippians 3:7-11

Just as we saw with the Pharisees, many in Paul’s time refused to leave the old way of life and put aside their own self-righteousness, or the righteousness of the law, in exchange for the righteousness that comes from God.

What is the difference between the righteousness that comes from the law and righteousness that comes from God?

What was Paul’s goal in verse 10? What does it mean to know Jesus? How can we know the power of His resurrection and be conformed to His death?

Paul saw it as a privilege to suffer for Christ’s sake. As we grow in Christ and do His work, we will be attacked by the enemy, Satan. While wes uffer this attack and even possibly face death, we can rest assured in knowing that our future is eternal life with Him! —Editor’s Note

LET’S PRAY

Consider the following as you pray together:

1. Reflect on your own personal journey. What are some sorrows you have suffered in life as Christ did?

2. Take time to evaluate the “things” in your life that matter the most. What “gains” in your life are the most challenging to view as a “loss?” What have you given up for the sake of Christ? Was it worth it?

3. Will you follow Christ, regardless of what man may say or do? The man born blind did! Following his example, take a look at your own life. How do you respond when the pressure is put on you? Do you respond like the man born blind and give credit to God, professing your faith in Him? Or do you respond as his parents and pretend you don’t know Him or His ways?

As you go through this week, remember the suffering Jesus endured in order that we could have a relationship with Him! Then, as you face difficulties in living for Him, you can find hope in His word!

But when you do good and suffer, if you endure, it brings favor with God. For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in His steps. (1 Peter 2:20b-21)