Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (John 6:60-71), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• Jesus’ own disciples are portrayed as people prone to unbelief, confusion, grumbling, fickleness, abandonment, even betrayal. Why do the Gospels so frequently record traits like these among Christ’s followers, even among his inner circle (“the Twelve”)? Can you relate to them? Is it worrisome, or encouraging to you?

• [60-62] The idea of eating Christ’s flesh and drinking his blood is “hard to swallow.” Jesus seems to think his ascension would be even more difficult to accept. Why would that be? (Maybe Acts 7:54-58 is relevant?)

• [63, 66-69] People walk away; Jesus stays, and speaks words of eternal life. He is “the Holy One of God,” utterly unique in his steadfast love. Where in your relationships are you on a trajectory away from God and others? Is that what you really want, or would you like to be with Jesus and moving toward others? What will that take?