John 5:16-30
Sermon Response
The Argument
Then read John 5:16-30
The beginning of an argument between Jesus and the religious leaders. The religious leaders are accusing Jesus of healing the lame man on the Sabbath and therefor breaking their laws. Jesus says he did nothing different than God, His Father, is doing. Jesus’ statement is blasphemy and is punishable by death. Jesus then goes on the defensive, giving a 3 point argument supporting his claim to be the Son of God.
Argument number 1 - There are many similarities between myself and God.
Argument number 2 - I do things only God can do. Ie. Raise the dead and Judge mankind.
Discuss:
What stands out to you the most about Jesus’ argument? Can you fathom how ridiculous he must have sounded to the religious elite of the day?
When Jesus says that soon they will see even greater things than these and they will be amazed. To what do you think he is referring?
3. Why do you think God gives Jesus the authority to judge mankind?
Respond:
Jesus describes two resurrections. The first a spiritual resurrection from sin to life in Christ. The second from death to eternal life with God. Have you experienced this first resurrection? Explain?
Vs. 29 seems to say that a person is judged by the good or the evil things that they do. How can Jesus make this statement and not contradict Ephesians 2:8-9?? For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.
What do you think “living faith” or “transforming faith” looks like? Is it present in your life?
Prayer
Ask to hear God’s voice daily. Ask for the grace to respond to His call in faith and walk in a new life, full of the Holy Spirit. Ask God to daily help you live out your faith in such a way that on your judgment day He will look at you and say, “Well done good and faithful servant come and share in your Masters goodness!!”