The Gospel of John: Expository Sermon #47
John 12:27-36
Sermon Notes & Reflection Guide
1. Listening to the Word
- What was the core message of today’s sermon?
- The glory of Christmas began in the manger in Bethlehem, but its completion was realized on "the Cross of Golgotha." We must meditate on Jesus, who chose to endure suffering alone amidst the festive atmosphere, and deeply engrave the 'Spirituality of the Cross,' which chooses 'the Father's glory' even in the midst of affliction.
- Write down any sentence or expression from the sermon that stayed with you.
2. Questions for Understanding the Passage
- In verse 28, when God said, "I have both glorified it and will glorify it again," what specific action of Jesus had God already viewed as glorious?
- When Jesus declared that 'the ruler of this world will be cast out' (v. 31) through the cross, why did the crowd fail to understand His words, citing the Law that the Messiah 'abides forever'? (v. 34)
3. Questions for Application
- Do my prayers still remain at the level of 'Please just spare me this suffering'? Do I have the courage to pray like Jesus, "How will the Father’s glory be revealed through this pain?"
- When you heard the comfort in the sermon, "It’s okay," what situation of loneliness or pain resonated most deeply in your heart?
- Jesus urged, "While you have the Light, believe in the Light." If there is a faith-related decision (repentance, service, dedication, relationship restoration, etc.) that I have been postponing until 'later,' what is it, and what specific step will I take to obey 'now,' today?
4. Sharing Together
- If you have experienced suffering alone amidst the world's festive atmosphere, share what comfort and empathy you gained from today's message.
- Share a testimony of how the place where 'my will was broken' transformed into 'a glorious site to anticipate God’s work' in your life.
- Pray
- Prayer for Obedience and Glory: In all the troubles of my life, may I choose obedience by confessing, "Father, glorify Your name," instead of following my own will, just as Jesus did.
- Prayer for the Resolution to Hold the Light: May I cast aside the excuse of "later," believe and follow Jesus, the Light, 'now' even in the darkness, and live as a child of light.
- Prayer for the True Meaning of Christmas: May next Sunday's Christmas be a day of genuine dedication and awe born from the love of the cross, rather than just a day of gifts and celebration.
