GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: Thomas and the disciples had reason to doubt or to be skeptical of a risen Messiah; there had been a few failed ones before Jesus. This prompted Thomas, despite the witness of his companions, to ask for evidence absolutely no one could give him except Jesus himself. Have you ever been in a position where someone, whether due to skepticism, doubt, or past experience, asked you questions about your faith and about Jesus you couldn't answer? Do you have questions and doubts that you wrestle with? What do we do when we don't have an answer? This passage shows us what we can do, what only Jesus can do, and the opportunity we have in the midst of those who doubt.
Main Points:
What we can do
What only Jesus can do
The opportunity
On-Ramps:
Do you have anyone in your circle who is an honest seeker?
Where are you seeking Him, honestly?
Be a guide
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
Take some time to read and reflect on how Jesus responded to Thomas’s doubts. What does it tell us about Jesus?
What is something you wonder about when it comes to God and/or following Him? What would be the difference in action between just asking and actually seeking in that wonder?
How can you be someone who is open and available to people who don’t know Jesus yet but are curious? How can you be someone who is open and available to people who do follow Jesus but have serious doubts and questions?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: Isaiah 6:1-8
