Sermon Response
April 2, 2017
The Text: Read John 12:9-11
A very short passage letting the reader know that Lazarus has now been deemed guilty by association with Jesus. We know of absolutely nothing that Lazarus did to warrant the religious leaders wanting to take his life but they had to do something because many people were putting their faith in Jesus due to the miraculous testimony of Lazarus.
Discuss:
Why were the religious leaders so scared of Jesus and Lazarus being in Bethany together?
Why do you think so many people believed in Jesus after he raised Lazarus from the dead?
Respond:
Those who call themselves disciples of Jesus should be seen as guilty by association. Would the world see you as guilty of associating with Jesus? Explain.
Read John 15:18-19 and Luke 6:22. Why should disciples consider it a good thing to be “hated” by the world?
Read 1 Peter 2:11-12. How can we be a part of the world but not partake in the sin of the world? How do you do this?
How do you need to grow in your discipleship to be associated with Jesus?
Prayer
Lord let us be more like you. May we live in such a way as to be guilty by association.