Initiate
A video introduction using illustrations, personal stories, metaphors, or active learning examples to begin the discussion.
Interact
After the video, prompts are supplied for thinking and sharing with others personal perception and experience. This opening activity prompts participants to think about and relate to the topic, and to share with others
Think about everyday conversations. Where do you see people, or yourself, being indirect by hinting, softening the truth, joking around something serious, or saying what sounds right instead of what is real? Which one shows up most, and why do we choose this instead of being clear and honest?
Here are a few common communication styles people use when they are not being direct, with simple examples to help you recognize them.
1. The polite but vague response that says something that sounds kind but avoids clarity, for example: That is interesting, I will think about it
2. The passive hint that hopes the other person will pick up on what is not said, for example: It must be nice to have that much free time.
3. The indirect complaint that speaks about the issue without naming the person or situation,
for example: Some people do not really pull their weight around here
4. The over spiritualized answer that uses religious language to avoid a real response for example: I am just praying about everything right now.
5. The safe agreement that agrees outwardly but is not actually on board for example: Sure, whatever you think is best.
As you explore Jesus’ prayer in John 17, notice how He speaks openly and directly with the Father.
Insight
The Bible discussion begins with a careful reading of the whole passage, either from your own Bibles, or from the provided images below.
Then participants are to ask:
- What is going on in this passage of Scripture?
- What are the key words and phrases? Highlight them.
- Why do you think this passage is included in the Bible?
- What does it contribute to our “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ”?
Jesus talks to God in a way that feels simple and real. He looks up and says, “Father, the hour has come.” There is no script, just honesty. He focuses on what matters most, His purpose, His connection with the Father, and finishing what He was sent to do. When He says, “glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you,” it is not about attention, it is about being fully in step with God. Everything He does is connected to the Father, just as He said, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30).
The moment matters. This happens after the Last Supper, on the way to Gethsemane, right before His arrest (John 18:1). These are His final words before everything unfolds, and they are clear and steady. Jesus says eternal life is knowing God and knowing Him. Not just believing, but real relationship, something you can experience now (John 6:63). He even speaks as if the work is already finished, with quiet confidence and trust (Philippians 2:8).
What would it look like to be that clear and honest when life feels uncertain? And does knowing God feel distant, or something real to you right now?
Insight Out
A parting video clip with a personal invitation to apply the message to “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ” in the coming week.