The Wedding Invite: Discussion Guide
Bruce Lawrence
Part of Baxter Sermons
September 23, 2024

Summary

In today’s sermon, we explored the story of Jesus’ first public miracle at the wedding in Cana, as described in John 2. This miracle, where Jesus turned water into wine, signifies the beginning of His public ministry and is rich with symbolic meaning. The sermon delved into the significance of the ‘third day,’ the role of Jesus’ mother in His ministry, and the deeper spiritual implications of the miracle, such as purification, sacrifice, and the abundance of God’s blessings. The message emphasized the importance of loving God and loving others, and how Jesus’ actions and teachings guide us in these tasks.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for bringing us together today. As we gather to discuss Your Word, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to the lessons You want us to learn. Help us to understand the depth of Your love and the significance of Jesus’ miracles. May we be inspired to love You more deeply and to love others as You have loved us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is your favorite celebration or event to attend, and why?

Key Verses

  1. John 2:1-11
  2. Luke 2:51
  3. Isaiah 53
  4. Exodus 3:18

Questions

  1. What stood out to you the most about the story of the wedding at Cana?

  2. Why do you think Jesus chose a wedding for His first public miracle?

  3. What is the significance of the ‘third day’ mentioned in the sermon?

  4. How does the role of Jesus’ mother in this story impact your understanding of obedience and submission?

  5. What does the transformation of water into wine symbolize in your own spiritual journey?

  6. How can we apply the concept of ‘filling to the brim’ in our daily lives?

  7. In what ways can we share the blessings we receive from God with others?

  8. How does understanding Jesus as the ‘living water’ and the ‘wine’ change your perspective on communion and sacrifice?

Life Application

This week, challenge yourself to identify one area of your life that you have not fully surrendered to God. Pray for the strength to ‘fill it to the brim’ with His presence and share the blessings you receive with someone in need.

Key Takeaways

  1. Jesus’ first public miracle at the wedding in Cana signifies the beginning of His public ministry.
  2. The ‘third day’ is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing sacrifice and new beginnings.
  3. Jesus’ obedience to His mother highlights the importance of submission and timing in God’s plan.
  4. The transformation of water into wine symbolizes purification and the abundance of God’s blessings.
  5. Our blessings are meant to be shared with others, reflecting God’s love and generosity.

Ending Prayer

Lord, we thank You for the insights and revelations we have received today. As we go forth, help us to apply these lessons in our lives. May we be vessels filled to the brim with Your love and grace, ready to share Your blessings with those around us. Guide us in loving You with all our hearts and loving others as You have loved us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.