NASHVILLE (BP) — This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Explore the Bible curriculum.
Bible Passage: John 2:11-23
Discussion Questions:
- What can we learn about Jesus in John 2:11-23?
- How does our worship help us maintain a right relationship with God?
- How should Jesus’ authority affect the lives of Christians today?
Food for thought:
In John’s Gospel we find seven signs, or events, that point to Jesus’ identity as the Son of God. The first sign is found in John 2:1-11 when Jesus turned water into wine at a wedding. John explained that Jesus changed water into wine as a sign that revealed His glory. The disciples believed in Jesus as a result of witnessing this miracle. Following the wedding, Jesus spent time with His mother, family and disciples in Capernaum.
While in Jerusalem for the Passover, Jesus encountered merchants doing business in the temple. A place intended for worship was now anything but worshipful! Jesus crafted a whip and drove the people out of the area, declaring that His Father’s house was not a marketplace.
At this, the Jews challenged Jesus by asking for a sign to validate His authority. Jesus’ answer was anything but clear to them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it up in three days” (v. 19). This statement confused the Jews who thought He was talking about the literal temple, which had taken 46 years to build. But Jesus was pointing to His death and resurrection (vv. 21-22). He would be put to death, but three days later He would rise to life.
Jesus’ actions gave evidence of His identity. Only the Son of God could do what He did. Christians today can recognize His authority over all things and give Him the worship He is due. How can we recognize His authority in our own lives? What changes can we make that demonstrate His lordship in our work, families and community? As the Son of God, Jesus is our Savior and Lord!
Explore the Bible
Explore the Bible is an ongoing Bible study curriculum that helps groups dig into the key truths of each Bible book, while keeping the group on pace to study through the Bible books in a systematic way. More information can be found at Lifeway.com/ExploreTheBible.
