Life Groups

Am I believing, receiving and experiencing Christ in all the ways He has revealed himself? In this 8 week series we will study the names and titles of Jesus and enter into a deeper understanding of who he is and what He came to do in our lives. As we study his names and titles, that we would know him better, experience Him deeper, and accept him more fully in all the ways He has revealed himself. That He would become first in our thoughts and first in our heart and that we would be enabled to trust Him and treasure him more we ever have before.

1. New Group? Take time to get introduced and share what you hope to get out of the group.

Re-gathering? Share a personal high and low since you last gathered.

2. In our 8 weeks we will focus on a different name of Jesus each week and read through the gospel of John which is all about Jesus and where many of the names come from that we are studying. We will discuss both each week. John’s states his purpose for writing his gospel in John 20:30-31. Take a moment to read it out loud. His purpose is that we would believe in Jesus as Messiah and Son of God, which leads to life. What circumstances, events, or key moments in your life convinced you that Jesus is who he claims to be? Are there areas of doubt or any hang-ups that you have overcome or even still struggle with in your faith?

3. Watch John 1 video from bibleproject.com. What was a takeaway for you?

4. Read John 1:3 and Col 1:15-20. How does knowing you were created by and for Jesus change the way you think about yourself and your purpose for living? Describe somebody in your life who is struggling with their identity and purpose. What could you do to speak life into them this week?

5. Read John 1:14 and Phil 2:4-8. Jesus took on flesh and entered into our corrupt and suffering world for our redemption, and we are called, in a sense, to do the same. How do you feel about that call? Does it make you fearful? Excited? In what way does it challenge you?

6. Optional: Psalm 119 is about trusting and treasuring God’s Word. God’s written word in the OT points to the ultimate revelation of Jesus as the living word (John 1:1). Have a volunteer read Psalm 119:9-16 aloud. Now, as the leader, read it again, except this time say “Jesus” in place of any reference to word/commands/laws/decrees etc. How does this change your understanding of Jesus as the Word? And, how does it impact your view of the Law?

7. The daily reading starts(ed) Monday, Sept 26. Come prepared, if you would like, to discuss an insight or question you have from the reading when we meet next week.

8. Take time to pray for one another.

Resources for Further Study from Bibleproject.com

1. Introduction to the Gospel of John pt. 1

2. How Do God's Words Create?

LIFE GROUP DISCUSSION

Name Above All Names

Week 2: The Good Shepherd

Fun Question: What’s the strangest thing you know about your family history?

2. Have a few people share an observation or question from the daily reading of John

3. Read John 10:11. Jesus is the good Shepherd, but Satan’s greatest attack is to get us to doubt His character. How have you seen God’s goodness in your life even in the midst of difficulty?

4. Read Psalm 23:1-2. Jesus leads us to "green pastures” and “still waters” through spiritual habits like worship, small group and personal bible reading and prayer. What are other ways you can experience the soul rest and refreshment Jesus offers as our Shepherd?

5. Read Psalm 23:3 and John 10:3-4. How can we discern the guidance and voice of the good shepherd in contrast to our own thoughts and desires?

6. Read Psalm 23:4.

God has promised his presence, protection and comfort when we go through a battle or a valley. Why does He not necessarily remove the situation?

How would acknowledging God as my protector and provider change the way I make everyday choices?

7. PRAYER TIME:

Where in your life right now do you need the Good Shepherd’s acomfort, guidance or protection?

Who is on your heart that is weak, hurting, straying or lost that you can reach out to this week and be the hands and feet of the Good Shepherd?

APPLICATION:

As the Good Shepherd, Jesus still desires to speak to us. This week, plan a specific time each day to get alone with God, turn on some worship music, read the Word, and write down what you think God is saying to you through what you read that day.