John

John 1-3

The beginning talks about the Word being God and how Jesus was with God in the beginning. This is the account of John’s witness to Jesus’ testimony. Jesus’ first disciples are formed. The first of Jesus’ miracles turning water to wine. Jesus’ conversation with Nicodemus about being born again and his confusion. John the Baptist shares his testimony.

Imagination Question: How is this gospel already different from the others?
Critical Question: The Gospel of John closely resembles the beginning of Genesis. Why is that?

John 4-6

Jesus forms a relationship with a Samaritan woman at the well and also heals the official’s son. The Healing at the Pool on a Sabbath with causes controversy. The second Passover in Galilee. Jesus feeds the 5,000 and walks on water and discourses how he is the bread of life.

Imagination Question: What if Jesus didn’t talk to the Samaritan woman?
Critical Question: How would you react to Jesus walking on water?

John 7-9

Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem, he teaches in the temple. The reactions to what Jesus is doing is quite diverse, some people happy and others mad. Jesus is described as the light of the world and the truth. Jesus heals a man born blind on the Sabbath near the Pool of Siloam which causes great controversy with the Pharisees.

Imagination Question: Would you be happy or mad at Jesus if you were a child of a Pharisee?
Critical Question: If Jesus came to you in passing and saw you suffering, what would you ask him to heal you of at that very moment?

John 10-13

In chapter 10 the Feast of Dedication takes place and Jesus retreats across the Jordan River. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead at Bethany. The Final plot of Jesus takes place and Jesus retreats to Ephraim. The final anointing at Bethany. The Last Supper takes place where Jesus discusses what the communion is, he washes his disciples feet, foretelling of Judas’ betrayal and Peter’s Denial.

Imagination Question: Why do you think that verse 11:38 is only two words: Jesus wept?
Critical Question: How would you react to seeing a man raised from the dead?

John 14-17

Chapter 14, 15 and 16 are known as “The Farewell Discourses”. In 14 Jesus talks about not being fearful and to find peace because he promises peace. 15 he talks about being vines and branches and not to bear anything that is not in glory to God, to remember to Love and not hate. 16 he talks about Joy and prayer. One of the most noted things in John is Jesus’ Great prayer in 17.

Imagination Question: Did Pilate feel any remorse or know any better?
Critical Question: Do you take comfort in Jesus’ promises?

John 18-21

Jesus is arrested in the Garden by Pilate. Peter denies Jesus and stands behind him. Jesus has trial in which he is crucified sent to death and buried. Jesus’ tomb is found empty and the Lord is risen and is revealed to Mary Magdalene, to the disciples and to Thomas. Peter’s love and the beloved disciple.

Imagination Question: What do you think Mary’s face looked like seeing Jesus after being killed?
Critical Question: Who do you think is Jesus’ beloved disciple?