Jesus and the Pharisee

"I perform, therefore I am accepted." This running narrative is ruining the way we see God, ourselves, and others. Just like with Nicodemus, Jesus wants to unravel this lie and replace it with the truth of the love of God. Jesus flips the equation and shows us that we are fully accepted by God and therefore live a life out of an overflow of that love. The central truth of God is simply this: you are loved.

Discussion Questions

  1. What was the main thing God taught you from John 3 and the message? How does that impact the way to see God?

  2. How have you believed the lie, "I perform, therefore I am accepted"?

  3. Is it easy or hard to believe that you are fully loved by God? Why?

  4. How does knowing the full acceptance you have in God through Christ impact how you see yourself, others, and God?

  5. What thoughts, feelings, or emotions come to your mind when living under the lie, "I perform, therefore I am accepted"? What thoughts, feelings, or emotions come to your mind when living under the lie, "I am accepted, therefore I perform"?

  6. What is one way you plan to live of God's word this week?

Sunday MessagesDerek MathewsJohn