GROUP DISCUSSION
1. Open with prayer. (2-5 min)
2. Share your story: Without identifying the person, talk about a time when you thought someone had your back, but then left you twisting in the wind. (7-10 min)
3. Read Luke 22:47-23:25.
4. Discuss these questions with your group. (20-45 min)
Looking back at your notes from this week’s message, was there anything you heard for the first time, stuck with you, challenged or confused you?
While he was still speaking, there came a crowd, and the man called Judas, one of the twelve, was leading them. He drew near to Jesus to kiss him, but Jesus said to him, “Judas, would you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:47-48)
Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are talking about.” And immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. And Peter remembered the saying of the Lord, how he had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny me three times.” And he went out and wept bitterly. (Luke 22:60-62)
If you missed it, both Judas and Peter denied Jesus. What are the differences between Judas’ betrayal of Jesus, and that of Peter’s?
Pastor Matt said that all of us, at some time, will deny Jesus.
When that happens, will you be more like Judas or Peter? Explain.
Pilate then called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, and said to them ... “Look, nothing deserving death has been done by him. I will therefore punish and release him.”...
[But] Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, for whom they asked, but he delivered Jesus over to their will. (Luke 23:13-16; 24-25)
In what ways did Pilate deny Christ (at least the justice that was due to Jesus)?
What could Pilate have lost if he didn’t give into the crowd’s demands?
What might tempt you to distance yourself from Jesus?
LIVING IN 4D
In what settings are you most likely to distance yourself from Jesus? With friends? Your family? Your work? At school?
What aspects of your faith are you most likely to “soft sell” to protect yourself or influence? What are some healthy ways to respond when you’re faced with these decisions?
What is the one important thing you will take away from this weekend’s message or our community group discussion? Is there any challenge, difficulty or praise that you would like to share with the group for prayer?
Message Notes
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