Searching scripture is one of the ways we stay in love with God. To this end, we will study the writings attributed to John from the New Testament over the next three weeks in worship. We will begin with the Gospel of John, then turn to the the Letters of John, and conclude with reflection on the Revelation of John.
Outline of Worship Series.
November 9, 2014 Gospel of John (John 3.16)
November 16, 2014 Letters of John (1 John 4.7-21)
November 23, 2014 Revelation of John (Revelation 22.1-7)
Consider what you know about the Gospel of John. What feelings or memories, if any, does the Gospel of John evoke?
The New Interpreter’s Bible states: “It is crucial for the Fourth Evangelist [John] that God’s judgment of the world arises precisely out of God’s love for the world, but each person must decide whether to accept that offer of salvation…One of the distinctive characteristics of the Fourth Gospel narratives is that they…are constructed so that readers are led to their own encounters with Jesus through the words of the Gospel text….the narrative enables the reader to experience Jesus.” (NIB p.553-554)
John 3.16 is a well known bible verse which has enabled many people to experience Jesus. John 3.16 states: “For God so loved the world that God gave God’s only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”
What does this verse tell you about God? What does this verse tell you about Jesus?
What are some ways you feel saved by God’s love?
What are some of the fears or anxiety you have in relation to this verse?