Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (John 13:31-38), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• [34] In the sacrificial love of Jesus, God has humbly treated you more significant than himself (Phil. 2:3-8). He died the ultimate death that sinners deserve, to spare you from it. He gave his life for yours—and now he commands you to love each other in the church with the same love. What might that look like, specifically, in your life and relationships? Are you interested in this kind of love? Why or why not?

• [35] (See also John 17:23.) How is this verse related to the creation mandate in Gen. 1:28? (“Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth…”) Does this mean if church people love each other, the whole world will be converted to Christianity and we’ll usher in the New Heavens and the New Earth?

• [37] Peter has pretty high self-esteem. In fact, before Pentecost he overestimates himself consistently. Can you relate? How is he a picture of regular old sinners? Why does he change so dramatically at Pentecost? What kinds of changes do we see in him? Have you seen any such changes in your own life as a result of the Spirit’s presence and work in you?

• [38] How is it gracious and loving for Jesus to tell Peter the hard truth of Peter’s coming denial? Have you received such hard words from Jesus about yourself? Have you received them as his love to you?