Big Idea: Following Jesus will lead to persecution.

            Galatians 5:22-23

            John 15:18-21

            Ephesians 6:12

            Matthew 28:19-20

            John 6:68-69

Persecution and conversion go hand in hand.

            John 15:22-25

Persecution is not the same as being justly disliked.

Message Questions

If you only had hours left to live, what would you do? For Jesus, he chose to spend his last moments before going to the cross teaching his disciples the most important truths they would need to cling to once he was gone. These are the things Jesus knew they needed to know, and we do too. In this message series, we’ll be diving into John 13-16 as we learn more about the Heart of the Teacher: Jesus’ Final Words. This week we are in John 15:18-25, and the big idea is: Following Jesus will lead to persecution. 

Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do. 

1. Have someone read John 15:18-21. Jesus warns that following him will lead to persecution. Why do you think the world reacts this way toward Jesus’ followers? Have you ever experienced rejection or opposition because of your faith? 
2. Have someone read Ephesians 6:12. Scripture reminds us that our struggle is not against people, but against spiritual forces of darkness. How does this change the way we respond to opposition or hostility toward our faith? 
3. Have someone read John 6:68-69. When many people abandoned Jesus, Peter declared that only Jesus has the words of eternal life. How can we remain steadfast in faith when following Jesus becomes difficult? 
4. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit which should characterize our lives even in the face of persecution. How can you grow in displaying these qualities when dealing with conflict or opposition? 
5. Matthew 28:19-20 calls us to make disciples of all nations. How can we go and boldly share the gospel, knowing that persecution and rejection may come? What practical steps can you take this week to share your faith with courage?