Movie 4 – Wonder
Discussion Guide
In our movie this week, we see great courage and huge struggles. In our lives, we watch others suffer or we suffer ourselves. Let’s learn how to encourage ourselves and others while we lean on the love of Jesus.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. Relay one time when you were terrified to start something new? Or watched someone you loved go through something terrifying?
2. Read John 11:32-35, ESV. What emotions did Jesus exhibit when He saw the grief of His friends? How does it affect you, that Jesus had these emotions? Have you ever let your friends down? Have you ever made half-hearted promises to help? What practical steps can you take to be present? Who is God wanting you to notice and care about?
3. Read 1 Peter 5:7, NIV. How does this verse give comfort? Who will be there in your struggles? What “size” troubles are worth “bothering” God with? Share one very small worry that God has carried for you. This week, care about something—even a small thing—that is bothering your friend, your child, your coworker. Begin to pray for them and that situation.
4. Read Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV. “Everyone is fighting hard battles... you just have to look.” Have you ever wanted to give up on a relationship? Have you ever been stuck and needed encouragement? Would it turn around if you took the time to apply this Hebrews passage? What practical things do these verses suggest? Would you take the time to “look” and not turn away? Would you ask God if He is okay with you giving up on this relationship or if He wants you to really work on loving that person?
5. Read John 11:25-26, ESV. Martha didn’t need someone to weep with her; she needed answers. She needed truth, not just comfort. What is the encouraging truth that Jesus shares to Martha? How can you remind others that Jesus wants to see them and know them?
6. Remember: God loves your face, no matter what you have done. Jesus wants to know you. Take courage and joy from His deep desire to know and love you!
Deeper
7. This week, let’s look at the story of the raising of Lazarus and what it means for our lives. Read John 11:1-44, ESV.
a. Though Jesus knew about Lazarus’ illness, He did not rush to him. Read verse 4. What do you gather about God’s timing?
b. Jesus makes plain the situation in verses 11-15. What has happened? Who will benefit from the delay?
c. Earlier, the disciples have warned Jesus not to go to Bethany, towards Jerusalem (verses 7-8). What do you make of verse 16?
d. Martha went and confronted Jesus directly and immediately. What do you learn from their conversation (verses 20-27)?
e. Mary’s conversation with Jesus was one of deep grief. See verses 29-36. What excuse did Jesus make? What words of comfort?
f. Jesus came late to the sick bed so that the Glory of God and the Son of Man might be revealed. What happened to reveal God’s power? Read verses 39-44.