The Gospel of John: John 2:13-3:36

As some of you know, we are going through the gospel of John this summer as a group. This next Sunday we focus on John 2:13-3:36, which is an exciting passage, filled with both theological concepts and deeply practical realities.
So, if you want to prepare for this coming Sunday, here's a couple things you could do:

1. Read the section: Go through it slowly. Observing repeated and emphasized words really helps you understand what the author was trying to say, along with recognizing linking phrases such as "therefore," "but," "so that," "because," and (you guessed it) "and." As you read, pray that the Holy Spirit would open your eyes to the meaning of the passage. Write down your observations and bring them to the group on Sunday. 
2. After you have read the passage,think about some of these questions: 
1. Jesus' spiritual metaphors are often misunderstood. The Jewish officials do not understand his usage of "temple" (2:18-22)and Nicodemus cannot understand how someone could possibly be born twice (3:1-8). Why do you think Jesus used metaphors to convey spiritual truth? What possibilities do metaphors provide when trying to communicate spiritual truth? What hinders people from understanding them?
2. Jesus emphasized the necessity of the new birth (3:1-8), something called "regeneration." How might you define regeneration biblically? How does one become "born again?"   
3. A large portion of this section deals with the reasons for not believing in Jesus and the consequences of that unbelief. From 3:16-21 and 3:31-36, what are the reasons John gives for refusal to receive Jesus for who he is? How do you see these reasons in unbelievers you know? What are the consequences of unbelief?

I hope you are excited for this study, and I look forward to studying the Gospel of John with you this summer

God bless, 
Casey D.