John chapter 6

THE BREAD MAKER WHO WALKS ON WATER

Discussion questions:

-In these two stories people have big fears. One is the fear of not having enough food and the second is the fear of being caught in a big storm at night. Do you have any big fears in life? Share a fear that you had as a child and then share a fear or two that you have right now? It could be anything, don’t worry if it sounds silly.

-If you could ask God to do any miracle what would you ask him to do?

Text Questions
-This story mentions the Passover again. This is the 2^nd   of 3  times that John mentions that it is close to Passover time. (Can you remember the other previous time and can you guess when he the Passover will be mentioned again?). Tell us what the Passover is and why it’s important.

-Read verses 5-6:  Why do you think Jesus asks the question in verse 5 when he already knows what he is going to do?

-Read verses 7-9: Who do you think showed the most faith Andrew, Philip or the boy? Why? Since this is a test grade them on their faith.

-What does Jesus do to make this miracle happen? Now this one is a bit tougher, but give it some thought. What does this miracle say about who Jesus is and what he cares about?

-Look at this whole story. What is the role of the followers of Jesus in this miracle? What does that say about our role in God’s work today?

-What do you think the 12 baskets left over mean? And why is Jesus so concerned that none of it be lost?

-Look at verse 15: How does Jesus respond when they want to make him king? Why do you think he responds this way?

-Look at verses 16-21: How do you think the disciples view of Jesus changed when they saw him walking on water? Do you think they wanted to run away from him or follow him even more?

-Can you think of any stories in the Old Testament where God does something similar to what Jesus does in these two stories? Share them. What does this say about Jesus?

Closing Reflections:

-Have you ever felt like God was giving you a test? If so share.

-How do you feel when  you are tested or challenged? Do you usually respond well or do you have a difficult time with tests (try to think beyond the test you have in school. Though you can certainly share about them too)? Why do you think you respond the way you do?

-Do you think you have faith in difficult circumstances? Why or why not? Explain.