Have you ever attempted to do something good that ended up backfiring or going wrong?

Jesus’ miracle of bringing Lazarus from the dead turned out to be a polarizing event, leading people to either believe in Him more or to turn against Him for good. Even though the religious leaders claim to follow God, they have seen enough and begin to actively plot to kill their Messiah.

Have someone volunteer to read John 11:45-48

What captured the loyalty and love of the religious leaders more than God? What are they willing to sacrifice to keep it?

In the same way, what in our lives has the same potential to take our hearts or our allegiance away from Jesus? What can we do to keep our hearts focused on Him?

Have someone volunteer to read John 11:49-52 & Genesis 50:20

How is Caiaphas’ declaration actually a summary of the gospel and the very answer these religious leaders need?

What do these passages teach us about God’s plan in relation to the plans of people?

After experiencing the miracle of resurrection, Lazarus has become well known throughout the region. Yet, there are a growing number of people who wish to kill him because of the new life he has received. His very existence is proof of Jesus’ power. Sometimes, when we step over the line of faith and experience life change, we can be met with opposition or aversion instead of support.

Have someone volunteer to read John 12:9-11 & John 15:18-21

Reflect on John 15:18-21 // What do you feel after reading Jesus’ words? What do they tell us about what following Jesus will be like?

As we have been walking through the Gospel of John the last few weeks, what is something that you learned for the first time OR has been a good reminder for you?