faith discussion guide Archives - Roland Park Presbyterian Church https://www.rolandparkchurch.org/tag/faith-discussion-guide/ A warm, welcoming community of faith in Northern Baltimore City Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:09:13 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Sermon Discussion Guide: Were You There? https://www.rolandparkchurch.org/sermon-discussion-guide-were-you-there/ Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:09:13 +0000 https://www.rolandparkchurch.org/?p=9167 This discussion guide accompanies Pastor Mark’s sermon “Were You There?” from John 18:12–27. It offers reflection questions for individuals, families, and small groups to explore what it means to stand with Jesus in moments of pressure and uncertainty. Wherever you are in your faith journey, these questions invite deeper conversation about courage, peace, justice, and the way of Christ.

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]]> Scripture: John 18:12-27
Main Themes: Courage and discipleship, standing with Jesus, peace and nonviolence, justice, faithfulness in moments of pressure.

Discussion Questions:

  1. 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?
  1. 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?
  1. 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?
  1. 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?
  1. 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?
  1. 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?

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