Come and Follow (discussion questions)

Here are the discussion questions that accompany my message from this past weekend “Come and Follow” at Eastbrook Church.

Discussion Questions:

1.       We are beginning a new part of our walk through John’s Gospel called “Conversations.” In this series, we are looking at Jesus’ interactions with everyday people like you and me. What do you think it would have been like to encounter Jesus face to face when He was on this earth?

2.       In the background of Jesus’ first conversation with his first disciples are John the Baptist’s interactions with Jesus. Read through John 1:19-36. What do you notice about John the Baptist’s view of Jesus and himself in relation to Jesus?

3.       When we think of Jesus calling His first disciples, we often think of the story where Jesus walks along the Sea of Galilee and asks some men to leave their boats and nets to follow after Him. John presents other stories that complement those found in Matthew and Mark. After you read John 1:35-51, name the characters in these stories in order of significance.

4.       Jesus asks a penetrating question of Andrew and an unnamed disciple (possibly Philip): “What do you want?” What do you think these men wanted from Jesus or were hoping to find in Him?

5.       When you came to Jesus, what was it that you wanted that brought you to Him? Think through your own story of coming to faith. If you are in a small group, you may want to share a bit of your story with one another.

6.       Identify the names that are given for Jesus in this passage. What is the significance of each name within the context of this story? If you are unsure, you may want to consult a Bible dictionary.

7.       What is unique about both Andrew and Philip’s role in this story? How would you characterize them?

8.       Who is one person in your sphere of influence who you could introduce to Jesus? Write down their name and commit to: 1) praying for them regularly and 2) watching for opportunities to lovingly introduce them to Christ. If you are in a small group, share these names together and pray for one another in this way.