Jesus and Pilate discussion Archives - Roland Park Presbyterian Church https://www.rolandparkchurch.org/tag/jesus-and-pilate-discussion/ A warm, welcoming community of faith in Northern Baltimore City Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:36:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Sermon Discussion Guide: Were You There? Questions of Faith https://www.rolandparkchurch.org/sermon-discussion-guide-were-you-there-questions-of-faith/ Tue, 17 Mar 2026 16:36:41 +0000 https://www.rolandparkchurch.org/?p=9191 This discussion guide accompanies Pastor Mark’s sermon “Were You There?: Questions of Faith.” Through scripture, reflection, and thoughtful questions, it invites individuals and small groups to explore what it means to follow Jesus—the one who embodies truth—in a complicated and uncertain world.

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]]> 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:

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

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