Brand New - Week 3

Sunday, April 2, 2023

Rehearse the purpose of the current series (now through Easter Sunday), “Jesus Changes People.” Last two weeks: “Jesus changes sinful people,” and “Jesus changes tormented people.” Today: “Jesus changes religious people.”

Have someone (or read as a group) read this week’s text: John 3:1-22.

  1. Overview question: Nicodemus was clearly surprised by Jesus’ teaching. What surprises you about this passage? (Create a list if possible)

  2. Jason defined a “religious person” as one who is an “unsaved believer.”

    1. What does that mean? Be as specific as possible.

    2. How might you recognize someone who fits this description?

    3. Does this describe anyone in the group’s past? Care to share?

  3. What’s the significance of Nicodemus’ “night” visit? What might be a parallel in our day?

  4. How would you explain being “born again” to a nonbeliever?  What are some ways people misunderstand this phrase in our culture? Both churched and non-churched?

  5. Does becoming born again look the same for everyone? Why or why not? What was your experience? (Tip: if you want to explore this further, see the following article by CS Lewis: Sunshine in September)

Read John 19:38-42.

  1. Contrast the scene at the cross with John 3. How has Nicodemus changed?

  2. Prayer time:

    1. Identify “religious people” in the lives of the group. Family and friends and co-workers and neighbors who we might identify as “unsaved believers.”

    2. Go around the circle sharing those names.

    3. Spend time praying for them.

    4. Also, be sure to pray for this week’s services including Good Friday and Easter (many an unsaved believer will attend church this weekend).

Scott Dixon