This message explores the first sign of John’s Gospel, where Jesus turns water into wine at the wedding of Cana in Galilee.
(John 2:1-12)
Sermon Outline
“. . . but you have saved the best till now.” (John 2:10b)
Seeing Jesus
- Mary Saw
- Disciples Saw
- Cana Saw
Invited by Jesus
- Mary Invited
- Disciples Invited
- Cana Invited
Come and See
- Provision
- Purification
- Proof
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
- Have you ever hosted a gathering where you ran out of food? How did that feel? Have you ever been to a pary where there is just not enough? How was that?
- This week we continue our sermon series “Look for the Signs,” which is the second part of an extended journey through the Gospel of John. This week we focus on John 2:1-12. Whether on your own or with others, begin your study in prayer, asking God to speak to you, and then read that portion aloud.
- What do you think is the significance of Jesus going to a wedding? Why did John think that this sign was important for readers have at the start?
- Mary was confident in Jesus’ ability to help the wedding party, ponder, are you as confident as Mary was in Jesus’ ability to provide for you?
- Put yourself in the shoes of the wedding guest receiving better wine, a better gift, late into the celebration. How would you feel? What message would that send to you?
- Talk about a time when you have been on the receiving end of generosity, how was it?
- How did this sign reveal who Jesus is?
- The purification jars are a key focal point in this story, what is the significance, to you, that Jesus used these vessels as a means of abundant provision and cultural celebration?
- What is one thing you sense God is bringing to your attention through this week’s study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and then pray about what you shared. If you are on your own, write it down, pray about it, and consider sharing your thoughts with someone this week.
DIG DEEPER
Exploring Faith
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When we explore the generosity of Jesus it conjures many meanings. Take some time to view this video at the Bible Project, bibleproject.com/videos/generosity/. Note how a fuller understanding of generosity may call us to consider how we live and interact with those around us.
Growing in Faith
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How could you be involved in your community, school, apartment building, etc. in a way that invited people to see who Jesus is?
Centered in Faith
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Are there people in your life that you could be generous with? Pray about how you can pass along the abundance of God’s grace to those around you, act on it.