There are a lot of places people look to for “truth” – themselves, their heroes, their parents, their friends, famous philosophers. Jesus says He is the source of truth and that those who follow Him will not only walk in the truth but experience freedom because of it. Why does knowing the truth set us free?. (John 8:31-32)
Sermon OutlinE
Following: X/Instagram vs. Jesus
- “Come, follow Me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.” (Matthew 4:19)
- The definition of a disciple of Jesus: A disciple is following Jesus, being changed by the Holy Spirit, and committed to the mission of God.
“To the Jews who ______________________________ Him…”
- “On hearing his words, some of the people said, “Surely this man is the Prophet.” Others said, “He is the Messiah.” Still others asked, “How can the Messiah come from Galilee? Does not Scripture say that the Messiah will come from David’s descendants and from Bethlehem, the town where David lived?” Thus the people were divided because of Jesus.” (John 7:40-43)
“…if you _____________________ to my _____________________ ,…”
- Hold = abide; remain in, grasp onto, dwell among
- Teaching = words
- “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7)
“…you are _____________________ my disciples.”
- Really = reflecting a true reality, without a doubt
- “Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” (Matthew 14:33)
“Then you will _____________________ the _____________________ … ”
- Know = experiential not intellectual knowledge
- Truth = “truth” does not refer to a philosophical ideal or the opposite of falsehood; it is knowledge of God as revealed in Jesus’ own self.
- “Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)
“…and the truth _____________________ you _____________________ . ”
- Without Jesus we are enslaved to sin
- “Everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin.” (John 8:34 )
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Open Up:
- What does it mean for someone to “really” be a part of your family? How would I know?
- When you think of the word “freedom,” what comes to mind?
Dig In:
Pray for God to reveal His truth to you in this passage.
- Read Matthew 4:19
- When you consider the definition of a disciple Eastbrook is using (see definition at left),
- How could having this definition of a disciple in mind help guide you forward in your journey with God?
- Read John 8:31-38
- What did you find surprising, confusing or helpful about this text? Why?
- Why do you think John emphasizes that these words were spoken to those “who had believed Him”?
- Do you consider yourself disciple of Jesus? Why or Why not?
- In what ways might we “believe” but not be His disciples? How can we move past this?
- How would you describe what it means to be a “slave” to sin? What doesn’t it mean?
- In what way does “truth” set a person free from the slavery of sin?
- Where have you seen this in your own life?
Live it Out:
- If you’re still exploring who Jesus is, what Christianity is about and/or if you want to become a disciple of Jesus, what specific step will you take this week to continue your exploration?
- If you’re a new or growing disciple of Jesus, what are some specific ways you are trying to “abide” in His Word? Is there a new way will try to make it a part of your life, morning, noon and night?
- If you’re a Christ-centered disciple (someone whose life could be defined as “abiding” in Jesus), who are people in your life you can encourage to “hold to the teachings” of Jesus and how will you do so?