John part 13-Life and Death

John Part 13:  Life and Death

 

Key Verse:  “Jesus said to [Martha], ‘I am the resurrection and the life.  The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.  Do you believe this?”  John 11:25-26

 

 

In John Chapter 11, Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead and demonstrates His power over death.  He also portends His true purpose for coming to earth, which is to save us from death.  Not earthly death, but true death, which leads to permanent separation from God.  This week reflect on your understanding of death and whether you can answer “Yes” to Jesus’ question “Do you believe this?”

 

 

Read John 11:

 

·         How did Jesus respond to the news of Lazarus’ death?  How did He respond when He met Mary outside the village?  What did He do when He arrived at the tomb?  What do your answers to these three questions show about the character of Jesus (God)?

 

·         How did each of the characters in this chapter react to Jesus’ actions?  Which one do you most relate to?  Why?

 

Look back at John 3:16; John 5:21, 24; John 6:37, 39, 44; and John 8:51

 

·         What do these passages say about what happens when a person dies?

 

Read Philippians 1:21-23; John 14:1-3; 2 Corinthians 5:8; and Revelation 21:3-6

 

·         What do these passages say about what happens when those who are born again die?

 

Read John 3:36; John 5:28-29; John 8:24; Revelation 20:11-15; and Revelation 21:8

 

·         What do these passages say about what happens when an unbeliever dies?

 

Journal Prompt:  What is your reaction to death?   How did reading these passages change your perception of death?