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
Almost every place has certain things people say you must see, taste, or experience. What are the must-see places in your town, city, or state? What food must a visitor try? What activity should they experience? What would you tell someone they simply cannot miss?
Some “musts,” however, are far more important because they shape the direction of your entire life. You may hope for success, adventure, friendship, and happiness, but what choices must you make to truly live? Rank these seven “musts” as personal mission statements, beginning with the one you consider most important.
- I must choose the kind of person I will become.
- I must decide whom I will trust.
- I must choose how I will treat other people.
- I must learn to forgive and seek forgiveness.
- I must decide how I will use my abilities.
- I must choose how I will respond to failure and suffering.
- I must decide what is worth sacrificing for.
Which three belong at the top of your list? What would you add?
As you explore the final conversation between Jesus and Peter in John 21, consider one final question: What is the one “must” that Jesus places before every believer?
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”?
Peter hears something difficult about his future, but his first response is to look at John. Instead of facing his own calling, he wonders whether John’s road will be easier. We often do the same. When life becomes uncertain, we look sideways. Why is their life working out differently? Why do they seem to have fewer struggles or more opportunities? Comparison feels easier than surrender because it shifts our attention away from what God is asking of us. God does not ask Peter to understand John’s future. He calls Peter to be faithful with his own life.
Jesus brings Peter back to the one decision that matters. Peter cannot control what will happen, but he can choose whom he will follow. This is the “must” of discipleship. It is not the must of advertising, achievement, or public opinion. It is the deep necessity of building your life around Christ. Jesus had already taught that discipleship requires daily surrender (Luke 9:23). If Peter could see every hardship ahead, would he still follow, or would he run away? What about us? We may not choose everything that happens to us, but we must choose who will lead us through it. It’s a must: Will I follow Jesus?
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.