YOUR AUGUST 2024 SMALL GROUP BIBLE STUDIES

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August 2024 Study #1

Small Group Bible Study: John 19:16-27

Open It:

Icebreaker Question: Have you ever been in a situation where you had to take responsibility for someone else in a difficult or critical moment? What was that like for you?

Dig Into It:

1. Jesus is led away to be crucified, carrying His own cross to the place called the Skull, or Golgotha (John 19:16-17). How does Jesus’ willingness to carry His cross symbolize His acceptance of His mission, and what does it teach us about embracing our own burdens or callings?

2. Pilate has a sign prepared that reads "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews," posted on Jesus’ cross, written in multiple languages (John 19:19-22). Despite the chief priests' protests, Pilate refuses to change it. How does this sign, and Pilate’s insistence on its wording, serve as a declaration of Jesus’ identity, even in an unintended way?

3. The soldiers divide Jesus' garments and cast lots for His tunic, fulfilling Old Testament prophecy (John 19:23-24). What significance does the fulfillment of these details add to the narrative of Jesus’ crucifixion?

4. Jesus, seeing His mother beside the disciple whom He loved, entrusts His mother’s care to this disciple (John 19:25-27). What does this action reveal about Jesus' concern for relational and familial obligations even in the midst of His suffering?

Reflect On It:

1. How does Jesus’ action of carrying His cross and facing His crucifixion challenge or inspire you in dealing with your own life challenges or moments of sacrifice?

2. Pilate’s sign over Jesus’ cross was meant to be ironic, yet it spoke a profound truth. How can we find deeper meanings or divine truths in situations that seem mundane or even contrary?

3. The soldiers’ actions in dividing Jesus' clothes might seem minor, but they fulfill prophecy. How does this attention to detail in the gospel narratives strengthen your faith in the reliability of Scripture?

4. Jesus’ care for His mother in His final moments is a powerful testament to His character. How can this influence our own priorities and actions in caring for family and loved ones?

5. Reflect on the importance of spiritual community and support systems, especially during times of suffering. How has your community been a source of strength in difficult times?

Pray About It:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the depth of Your love, displayed so vividly in the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus. Help us to carry our crosses with the grace and strength He showed, and to fulfill our responsibilities to those You have placed in our lives with love and dedication. Guide us to recognize and declare Your truths, even when they come packaged in challenges or ironies. Strengthen our faith and deepen our relationships, that we may support one another in times of need as Jesus taught us. In His precious name, we pray. Amen.

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