Scripture: John 18:12-27
Main Themes: Courage and discipleship, standing with Jesus, peace and nonviolence, justice, faithfulness in moments of pressure.
Discussion Questions:
- Standing with Jesus
- In this passage, Peter denies Jesus while Jesus stands calmly during his trial. What do you notice about the contrast between Peter and Jesus in this moment?
- Pastor Mark asks the question, “Where do you stand?” What situations in our lives today make it difficult to stand openly with Jesus’ values?
- The Temptation to Assign Blame
- The sermon begins by reflecting on our tendency to point fingers and assign blame. Why do you think humans often look for someone to blame in difficult situations?
- How might shifting from blaming others to examining our own responses change the way we live out our faith?
- The Way of Peace
- Jesus stands firm in nonviolence even while facing injustice and hostility. What does this tell us about the kind of peace Jesus represents?
- How does Jesus’ vision of peace differ from the “peace of compliance” or power that Pastor Mark described?
- Following Christ’s Example
- The sermon highlights that the word Christian means Christ-like. What qualities of Jesus in this passage challenge or inspire you most?
- Where do you see opportunities in your daily life to embody Christ-like love, mercy, or courage?
- Standing with the Oppressed
- Pastor Mark notes that Jesus stands with the oppressed and the victims. Who are the vulnerable or marginalized people in our communities today?
- How might we, as individuals and as a church, stand alongside them in meaningful ways?
- Living the Question
- Jesus promises to stand with us in our trials. When have you felt God’s presence during a difficult moment?
- As you reflect on the question “Where will we stand?” what is one small step you can take this week to live more fully in the way of Jesus?
