Scripture: John 18:28-40
Main Themes: Truth, allegiance to Jesus, nonviolence, faith in a world of power and empire, discerning God’s will.
Discussion Questions:
- Truth and Power
- In the scripture, Pilate famously asks Jesus, “What is truth?” Why do you think this question still resonates today?
- The sermon suggests that truth in John’s Gospel is not an idea but a person—Jesus. How does this shape the way we understand faith and discipleship?
- Being Boxed In
- The sermon begins by describing how people sometimes “back themselves into a corner.” Where do you see this happening in the story between Pilate, the religious authorities, and Jesus?
- Have you ever felt trapped by expectations, assumptions, or choices? How did you respond?
- Jesus’ Kingdom
- Jesus tells Pilate that his kingdom is “not from this world.” What do you think Jesus means by this?
- The sermon describes Jesus’ kingdom as a way of life rooted in nonviolence and the sacred worth of every person. Where do you see glimpses of this kingdom today?
- Allegiance and Identity
- The sermon suggests that following Jesus means placing allegiance to him above nation, political party, or even family. What challenges or questions does that idea raise for you?
- How might our lives change if our primary loyalty truly rested with Jesus’ way of truth and compassion?
- Living the Truth
- In a world that often treats violence or power as normal, what might it look like to live according to Jesus’ truth?
- What is one small way you can embody Jesus’ way of truth, compassion, and nonviolence in the coming week?
