Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (John 11:38-44), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• [38] Jesus (who is God the Son in the flesh) was “deeply moved” as he came to his friend’s tomb. Can you imagine him having this same response if it were your tomb, or the tomb of your loved ones? Why or why not? Is his the response of someone who can’t do anything about death? What does he do about the problem of death?

• [40] Jesus tells Martha that faith (personal belief, trust) would be required if she were going to be able to see the glory of God in what Jesus was about to do. Does this spiritual paradigm—believing is seeing—make any sense to you? Why can we not perceive God’s glory unless we believe?

• [41-43] Describe the glory of God as revealed in Jesus’ prayer and loud cry. What’s your response to this glory?

• [39, 44] Through his commands, Jesus makes others to participate in what he is doing in the resurrection and restoration of Lazarus. He didn’t “need” their help, but involved them anyway. Why do you think he did this? Do you see any parallels with his commands to love, to minister, to evangelize?