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
Side Effects vs. Inside Effects
How have you experienced “side effects?”
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) Used for pain and inflammation [Common side effects: stomach irritation, mild nausea, dizziness]
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Used for pain and fever [Common side effects: generally mild, but can include fatigue or nausea if overused]
Antibiotics (Amoxicillin, etc.) Used to treat infections [Common side effects: upset stomach, diarrhea, changes in appetite]
Antihistamines (Benadryl, Claritin) Used for allergies [Common side effects: drowsiness, dry mouth, slower reaction time]
Cough and cold medicine (multi symptom syrups) Used for cold symptoms [Common side effects: drowsiness, jitteriness, dry throat, trouble sleeping]
Discuss how side effects affect you, then reflect on the Spirit’s “inside effects” by circling two or three you notice most in yourself and a few you experience the least.
Ever present Awareness Truth and belief
Intuition A sense of peace Conscience awakened
Conviction A quiet voice An impression
A dream that lingers A compelling need A nudge
Calling A sense of caution Prompt to act
A vision An epiphany A miraculous ability
Also, what other inward effects have you experienced that are not listed above?
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 begins with a simple but searching line: If you love me, keep my commands. Love is not just a feeling or admiration. It shows up in the direction of a life (John 15:10). The question is quiet but clear: What does love for Christ look like in daily life?
Then Jesus promises “another advocate,” the Spirit of truth. This is one who comes alongside to help, guide, and speak for us. The disciples had depended on Jesus being with them in person. Soon, that presence would come in a new way. The Spirit would not just visit but live with them and in them (1 Corinthians 3:16). What stood beside them in Jesus would now dwell within them.
Jesus also speaks to their fear: I will not leave you as orphans. They may feel alone when He leaves, but His promise says otherwise. Through the Spirit, His presence remains.
He ends with a deep picture of relationship: I am in my Father, you are in me, and I am in you. Faith is not only belief. It is a shared life with Him (Galatians 2:20).
The disciples felt fear of losing the “present” Jesus. Instead, they would know Him more deeply than before (Read John 14:12).
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.