MIRACLES
OVERVIEW
Seeing God’s Power, Knowing God’s Heart
The Gospel of John records seven eye-popping miracles performed by Jesus. These mighty acts demonstrated to his disciples and to the watching public that Jesus was indeed the Lord of all creation and the true Messiah. But more than just amazing tricks, these supernatural events point not just to God’s power but to God’s heart. Each of these special moments reveals something about the true nature of God. And while we should be astounded by God’s divine strength, we should be even more amazed by his holy character. And John wants us to see both.
Introduction:
If you really want to know the real person, then watch how they act when they have power. When we have the upper hand or the bigger title, or the higher rank, this can change the way we treat people and the way we view ourselves. Interestingly, this is what makes Jesus’ miracles so fascinating. He had all the power but was careful in how he used it. He didn’t just perform miracles as a way to show off a unique talent. No, each miracle he performed taught his followers about who God really was. And knowing who God is personally is better than seeing God act at a distance.
Week 1: Changing Water into Wine (John 2:1-11)
Proposed Date: 02/19/2023
Discuss Freely
Share with your friend or family member a wedding fail that you have witnessed or heard about.
-Jesus’ presence at a wedding affirms the importance of social celebrations.
-Jesus was not ascetic (Matthew 9:14-15)
-Jesus cares about big things and not-so-big things
-Quote from NIV Commentary
Jesus’ sign points to another reality:
The word – sign – (σημεῖον) is A sign, mark, or token by which a person or a thing is distinguished from others and is known or a sign, prodigy, portent, i.e.,
- an unusual occurrence, transcending the common course of nature
Jesus uses ceremonial cleansing vats to hold the new wine.
2. This avoids an embarrassing situation
-But points to a larger reality
–Jesus’ presence is better than the temple
–Jesus’ touch is more powerful than ritual cleansing
–Jesus’ attendance brings celebration
Bottom line- Jesus is better than religion
Application:
Recall the last time you felt God got you out of a jam or helped you out of a sticky situation. What does that moment teach you about God’s character?
Did that situation teach you something more meaningful in your relationship with God?
Do you now trust God more than you did before?
Discussion Table Talk
