WEEK 33.7 Discussion questions below.

Episode Summary

In this Week 33 Explore episode, Nick and Jamie jump into the second half of John 13, focusing intensely on Jesus's central theme of love. They explore Jesus' statement that "whoever receives someone I send receives me," examine the dramatic betrayal scene with Judas, and unpack Jesus's "new commandment" to love one another. The episode emphasizes that love isn't just a feeling but practical action empowered by Jesus' presence, while addressing Peter's misplaced focus on dying for Jesus rather than living out love for others.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction and Welcome 

01:37 Recap of John 13 

01:50 Exploring the Theme of Love 

05:47 Practical Acts of Love 

13:52 The Betrayal of Jesus 

29:21 Exploring Darkness in John's Gospel 

31:16 Jesus' Final Discourse Begins 

35:57 The New Commandment: Love One Another 

49:55 Peter's Denial Foretold 

56:36 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Key Points

• Jesus Present in Loving Actions: When disciples practice the "foot washing ethic," Jesus goes with them and is present in acts of love - not in theory but in actual practice

• The Betrayal Scene Details: Understanding ancient dining customs reveals Judas held a place of honour next to Jesus, making his betrayal even more painful and Jesus' love even more remarkable

• Satan Enters Judas: Not demon possession but Judas being used by forces of darkness as "accuser" against Jesus - though Judas remains fully responsible for his premeditated choice

• "And It Was Night": John's dramatic literary device showing both literal nighttime and metaphorical darkness of evil forces gathering against Jesus

• The New Commandment: "Love one another as I have loved you" - new because it's directed inward to fellow disciples and measured by Jesus' own sacrificial love

Discussion Questions

• Jesus Present in Loving Actions: Jamie shares how Jesus' presence became tangible when they gave a ride to their struggling neighbour. When have you experienced God's presence most clearly during acts of service or love?

• Judas' Place of Honour: Despite knowing Judas would betray him, Jesus gave him the honoured seat and the special bread. How does this challenge your understanding of loving enemies or difficult people in your life?

• Love vs. Dying for Jesus: Peter wanted to die for Jesus but missed the call to love for Jesus. Why do you think dramatic gestures (like dying for faith) sometimes seem easier than daily acts of love?

• The New Commandment: Jesus commands disciples to love "one another" - including Christians who are very different from us. How well does the modern church demonstrate love across political, theological, or cultural differences?

• Training to Love: The hosts suggest love is learned through spiritual practices, studying Jesus's example, and putting it into practice. Which of these three areas do you need to develop most in your own life?

Takeaways

• Love is the Point: Following Jesus without orientation toward love means missing the entire point of Christianity - love must be our primary identity and practice

• Start with Whoever Crosses Your Path: Don't be overwhelmed by all the world's needs - simply practice love with whoever God brings across your path each day

• Jesus Empowers Love in the Moment: We don't need to generate loving feelings first - when we choose to act in love, Jesus's presence and power become available

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