9.15.24 John 12
Read: John 12:20–36
Optional theological reflection on Christ:
To be biblically faithful, we must affirm Jesus was fully God and fully human. This isn’t simply pie-in-the-sky theology that has no bearing on our lives. Why did Jesus have to be fully human? Jesus had to be fully human so he could act as our representative, bearing the penalty for our sin and sympathizing with our weakness. Why did Jesus have to be fully divine? Only a divine savior could satisfy the infinite offense of sin with his perfect righteousness. Only a divine savior could satisfy God’s wrath and secure for us righteousness and peace through his perfect obedience. We need a redeemer who is fully God and fully human. Only the God-man, Jesus Christ can save.
Q1: In vs 27, Jesus says “Now is my soul troubled.” This emphasizes Jesus’ humanity. He had a human body, like you and me. He had a human mind and a human will, like you and me. How does reflecting on Jesus’ humanity help you connect with him as your Savior?
Q2: Jesus experienced the full range of human emotions. However, it’s important to stress Jesus never sinned. For example, he was never sinfully angry, though he experienced anger. Do you have trouble thinking about Jesus’ humanity? Why or why not?
Q3: Jesus’ first-line response to being in the shadow of the cross was prayer. What attitudes do you have toward prayer? Do you want to pray more? How can you grow in this area?
Q4: Throughout the New Testament, Jesus prays Scripture. Through memorization and meditation on Scripture, Jesus let Scripture shape his response to trails and distress. How can you grow in filling your mind with the Bible?
Q5: Jesus felt deep distress at the thought of his impending death on the cross. Yet, he did not let this derail him from his mission. What can you learn from Jesus as you face difficulties and trials in your life?
Q6: Prayer often reveals what is in our heart. In light of his coming crucifixion, Jesus prayed, “Father, glorify your name.” What would it look like for you to seek God’s glory in the face of personal trials and difficulties?
Q7: The cross was not optional. No cross, no savior. Jesus emphasized the centrality of the cross for his mission. Aaron gave examples of various examples of groups that find fault with the cross (e.g., Islam, ancient Greeks, liberal Christianity). Why is the cross so scandalous?
Q8: In 1 Cor 1:18, Paul says that the cross is the “power of God.” How can you reflect on the power of the cross in your life this week?