Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (John 2:1-11), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• The bridegroom is unable to provide what’s necessary to keep his party going (3a). Jesus’ mother subtly tries to boss him around (3b). The master of the feast is cynical about human nature (10). Do you recognize aspects of yourself in these people? How does Jesus treat these people? Do you recognize his treatment of you in his treatment of them?

• A rural wedding might seem to be an underwhelming setting for Jesus’ first sign, but it reveals his glory as the one who is committed to the celebration of our union with God. Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to… a wedding feast” (Matthew 22:1). Does this surprise you? Have you, or specific people you know, suspected that God is a killjoy? Why? How do you feel about the commencement of eternity being characterized as a wedding feast (Revelation 19:6-9)? What difference do you imagine it might make in your life now?

• [4] Jesus (relatively) gently rebuked his mother, a gracious reminder that he will not be pressured to obey her/our will, that what he does, he does freely, because he is the Lord. Why is it gracious of him to remind her/us of this? Why is it good for us to know that God’s actions are freely chosen by him?

• Jesus made a lot of wine for the party! About 150 gallons (750 bottles; 62 cases)! How should we think about the use/abuse of wine or other alcoholic drinks? (See Genesis 27:28; Deuteronomy 14:22-27; Nehemiah 8:10; Psalm 104:14-15; Proverbs 3:9-10; Ecclesiastes 9:7; Isaiah 5:22; 25:6; Amos 9:13; John 7:33-34; Matthew 26:27-28; Ephesians 5:18; 1 Timothy 4:1-5; 5:23.)