Puyallup Nazarene Church
The resurrected and resurrecting work of Jesus is ours through his great love and power for us. As we embrace what Jesus has done for us and enter into glad surrender to his passion for us, we come alive, chains fall off us and we live increasingly in freedom and joy!
Jesus promises and provides. We give permission.
John 8:31-38 NIV
Running further with faith; taking it deep. Verses 31-32, 36
Freedom flows from this core: Gaining Liberty through Prayer
John 17.22-23, 26
In pursuit or in protest? verse 33
"A stronghold is a mindset of hopelessness that causes us to accept as unchangeable something that we know is contrary to God's will."
Jesus' invitation to yield to the fullness of His Liberating work.
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NIV
Discussion and Application Questions for Group Life Communities and Personal Study- John 8:31-36
Observe-
- Read the passage multiple times. What words or phrases stand out to you?
- What does it mean ‘to hold to the teaching’ of Jesus (v31)? (Check other translations….the word can mean ‘to abide or make your home in).
- What does Jesus mean by truth?
- What does Jesus mean by freedom? Where is freedom found?
Interpret-
- Do you think there are various levels of discipleship? Jesus says if you let my life and word dwell in you, you are REALLY my disciple. What do you think he means? Does this require additional intentionality?
- Is it possible to become overconfident about our ability to live in freedom? How can our church pedigree or self-reliance get in the way of true discipleship?
Apply-
- Simple faith in Jesus and obedience leads to freedom. Where are you experiencing this freedom as you allow Christ to live in you?
- Where has God brought you to the place of humility when He has shown you areas of selfishness, self-reliance, or sin in your life? What do you do when that occurs?
- How would you explain the freedom Christ offers to a friend who in not yet a disciple?
As we live into the Four Principles for Living the Missio Dei:
*Share in life with people who do not yet know Jesus.
*Inspire others to know and follow Jesus by living your faith attractively.
*Grow with others in your faith and obedience.
*Serve others with sacrificial love.
