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
Most people never think about a chair before they sit down. We simply expect the chair to be there and to hold us. That is why pulling a chair away as someone sits is so dangerous. The person falls backward without warning and can injure their back, spine, or head. When something we trust to work every time suddenly does not, it is disturbing.
Consider the following experiences and think about trust. For each one ask: What makes this situation hard to trust? What would help someone trust more?
- Trust Fall. A person falls backward and depends on others to catch them, even though they cannot see the people behind them.
- Skydiving. A person jumps from an airplane and relies on a parachute system and training.
- Rock Climbing. Climbers rely on ropes, anchors, and another person managing the safety rope.
- Getting a Shot. A nurse or doctor gives an injection that may hurt briefly but protects health.
God has never failed to keep a promise. How do we learn to trust the promise Jesus gives in John 14:1-4?
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 speaks these words when the disciples have reason to be troubled. He has just spoken of betrayal, departure, and denial. Yet His first instruction is not a plan but a direction for the heart: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” Faith becomes the response to anxiety. “You believe in God; believe also in me.” The trust they place in the unseen Father must now rest in the Son (John 12:44-45).
Jesus then shifts their thinking from loss to preparation. He is not leaving to abandon them but to prepare a place. The image of the Father’s house reflects the biblical hope of dwelling with God (Psalm 23:6). The promise is personal: “I will come back and take you to be with me.” The goal is not simply a place but a relationship. The center of the promise is being with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
Then comes the surprising statement: “You know the way.” Jesus is not giving directions but pointing to Himself. The way is not a map or a set of steps. It is the person standing before them. They may not understand the journey yet, but they know the One who will lead them there (John 14:5).
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.