Week of Aug 3
John 8:12-20
OPENER
- What was your favorite comfort object or strategy as a kid when the night got a little too spooky (e.g., a specific blanket, a favorite stuffed animal, or a “secret” hiding spot under the covers)?
DISCUSSION
- Read John 8:12 In what specific areas of your life do you currently feel like you’re walking in the dark and need Jesus’ direction?
- Jesus is our “Pillar of Fire” leading us through situations that are dark and confusing. How can you intentionally trust Jesus as your guide in a specific challenge or new season you are currently navigating?
- Our main problem is not the darkness around us, but the darkness of sin that is within us. Can you share a time when Jesus’ light revealed something uncomfortable about your own heart or life that needed to change?
- Read John 3:19-21 People resist the light because they don’t want their lifestyle exposed. What are some ways you might be tempted to “fight or flee” the light when it exposes an area in your life you’d prefer to keep hidden?
- Depending on Jesus as our light begins by realizing we need him to guide us, and that trust shows up in the way we pray. How can you practically grow in your daily dependence on Jesus, perhaps through your prayer habits or by being more transparent with God about your struggles?
- The blessings in our lives are like roads that lead you to know and enjoy Jesus even more as the “light of life.” How can you shift your perspective to view your current blessings as opportunities to better know and enjoy Jesus?
- Walking in the light means letting God’s word rule over your life, shining light on our motives, actions, and relationships. In what specific area of your life do you need God’s word to shine light and guide your decisions or actions this week?
- Just as the moon shines only because it mirrors the sun’s brilliance, we’re meant to reflect the light of Jesus—through acts of love and bold conversations that point others to Him. What’s one way you can reflect Jesus’ light this week—by letting your words or actions point someone toward Him?
ACTION STEP
- Read 1 John 1:7-9 When Jesus shines the light on areas in our lives that need change, we should admit where we’ve fallen short and ask God to help us live more like Him. What is one area in your life that Jesus is currently illuminating that invites you to take a new step of confession, repentance, and surrender?
SERMON RESOURCES
SERIES RESOURCES