WEEK 2.7: Discussion questions below.
In this episode of A Slow Journey Through John, Nick and Jamie guide listeners through the complexities of the opening verses of the Gospel of John.
We delve into the significance of 'the Word' and its dual meaning for Greek and Jewish audiences, explore the profound concepts of 'Zoe' life and divine light, and discuss the Trinity with its relational and participatory nature. We also reflect on the importance of acknowledging darkness within ourselves while trusting in the ever-present light of Christ.
Tune in for a deeper understanding of how to abide in Jesus and find light in the midst of darkness.
00:00 Welcome and Introductions
02:00 Vision Behind 'Slow Journey Through John'
03:27 Review of Last Week's Teachings
05:56 Deep Dive into the Prologue of John
09:19 Understanding 'The Word' in John
20:06 The Concept of the Trinity
27:41 Exploring Zoe Life
30:51 Light in the Darkness
36:00 Maturing in Faith
41:44 Practical Takeaways
45:04 Final Thoughts and Farewell
JOURNAL PROMPTS / DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1. Jesus is described as "the Word" in John's Gospel. How does understanding Jesus as the complete expression and communication of God change or deepen your perspective of who God is?
2. "Zoe life" is described as life in its fullest, most vibrant sense. What about living an abundant, purposeful life appeals to you? Do you feel like you’re simply existing? Is there a way for you to grab hold of the abundant life offered by Jesus?
3. Jamie shares about experiencing God's presence differently in various seasons - sometimes tangibly feeling God's presence, other times having to trust without feeling. How has your own experience of God's presence evolved over time? Is it hard for your to trust in God’s presence and love when you can’t sense him?
4. We discussed how we often try to avoid looking at the "darkness" within ourselves through busyness and distraction. What practices help you face difficult truths about yourself while remaining grounded in God's love?
5. We explored how spiritual maturity sometimes means trusting God's presence even when we can't feel it. What has helped you develop deeper trust in times when God feels distant?
End your time with an “I will…” intention. One small, practical step you’ll take this week to put your learning into practice.
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SJTJs a year-long contemplative journey through the Gospel of John. We invite you into Scripture, reflection, and intentional practices to help you pause, listen, and respond to God’s love in transformative ways.
Weekdays are 10(ish)-minute devotionals to help you abide in the presence of Jesus and the Word of God, learn by studying the Scriptures, and go with intention to love the world.
Weekends we release a short prayer of examen reflecting on the previous week and/or a longer teaching podcast that more deeply explores the themes and implications of John.
Occasionally we have an excursus episode, which is basically an extra episode addressing listener questions or certain topics that require extended exploration.
Bibliography
Visit our website
Follow us on social media for weekly practices: @gothewildway
Contact us: podcast (at) thewildway.ca
All Scripture from the Common English Bible (2012) unless otherwise noted.
Music credits:
Weekday music by Maksym Dudchyk on Pixabay. Used with permission.
Examen music: Music by Laniakea from Uppbeat. License code: HRU7UD9ID388DFJT
Teaching podcast: Music produced by Nick Osborne
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