Looking Above - Episode 3

This week we'll take a look at John chapter 5 and 6.  We see Jesus as the Son of God, clearly claiming to be the Messiah and giving proof of why He can make this claim. He heals a man at the pool of Bethesda, feeds the 5,000, and walks on water.  He also explains how He is the bread of life, and that feasting on Him leads to everlasting life.  The more we know Jesus, the more we abide in Him, the more we can experience the abundant life He offers.  

Discuss these chapters with a friend or your small group:  

1. Contrast how we live differently if we want to be healed versus if we do not want to be healed (physically, emotionally, relationally, spiritually).
2. Share some examples of what faith in action looks like.  What does God ask of us, and how do we show forth our faith by our actions?
3. Jesus believed that the Sabbath was to be used for doing good - to be a blessing to others. Brainstorm what this might look like today.
4. You can know the Scriptures without knowing Jesus.  How do you get to know Jesus better?
5. Whose glory/esteem matters more to you?  How do you seek the esteem of people?  How can you begin to change your heart so that you focus more on seeking the esteem of God?
6. Are you more like Philip or Andrew?  How so?
7. The little boy offered his loaves and fish, what do you have to offer God?  In your wildest dreams, what might God be able to accomplish thru you?
8. Are you currently in a "storm"? How might letting Jesus in the boat change your view of that storm?
9. (ch 6, vs 27) Are you focus on perishable things, or do you spend your energy seeking eternal life?  What is one practical step you can take this week to "look above"?
10. How do you abide in Christ? How do you feast upon Him? Can you tell a difference in your life between the seasons where you were abiding, and those in which you drifted and focused on the things around you?