Imagine you are a successful individual. You have the world as your oyster. You’ve done it all right. People speak your name as an example to follow. You are the pride of your parents. But then, along comes a stranger who tells you that you are way, way off track and essentially losing the game of life. How would you respond? This is the story from John we are about to explore as Jesus encounters religious Nicodemus in “Surprise!,” part of The Gospel According to John Series.
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MESSAGE STUDY NOTES (also as PDF download above)
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WARM UP
What was the best surprise you received so far?
READ
John 3:1-12; Ezekiel 36:25-27
KEY INSIGHTS
What can we do?
1. Let Jesus humble you
2. Allow for mystery
3. Believe him
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. What mysteries do you wish the Bible would clear up for you? Why?
2. Has Jesus humbled you lately? In what way(s)?
APPLICATION
How might Nicodemus have received his encounter with Jesus and what do you think that could teach us about how we respond to Jesus today?
FOR MENTORING
What technique did Jesus use to disciple this religious leader? When do you think it would be good to duplicate this strategy?
