Kingdom Incarnate Part 9 with Discussion Guide

Kingdom Incarnate Part 9 Discussion Guide

Summary

This sermon focuses on the story of Lazarus from John 11, exploring Jesus’ power over death and His transformative impact on those who believe in Him. Jesus isn’t afraid of our brokenness and wants to free us from our old ways of living, comparing our past life to ‘grave clothes’ that need to be removed. The message highlights that when we come to know Jesus, resurrection power begins working in our lives now, not just in the future.

Intro Prayer

Lord, as we gather to discuss Your Word, open our hearts to understand the power of resurrection life available to us now. Help us to be honest about the ‘stones’ in our lives that need to be rolled away, and give us the courage to help one another remove the ‘grave clothes’ that bind us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What’s the most dramatic transformation you’ve ever witnessed in someone’s life?

Key Verses

John 11:25-26
John 11:35
John 11:43-44

Questions

What do you think was going through Martha and Mary’s minds during the four days they waited for Jesus?
Why do you think Jesus wept even though He knew He was about to raise Lazarus?
What are some ‘stones’ people use to hide their brokenness from others?
How does the community of believers help remove each other’s ‘grave clothes’?
What’s the difference between Lazarus’s resurrection and Jesus’s resurrection?
How do you see resurrection power working in your life today?
What ‘grave clothes’ might you still be wearing that Jesus wants to remove?
How can we help others experience the freedom Jesus offers without feeling condemned?

Life Application

This week, identify one area of your life where you’re still living as if bound by ‘grave clothes’ – old patterns, guilt, shame, or regret. Share this with a trusted believer and ask them to pray with you and help you walk in the freedom Christ has already given you.

Key Takeaways

Jesus isn’t afraid of what’s behind our stones – our mess and brokenness
We need community to help remove our ‘grave clothes’
Resurrection power is available to believers both now and forever
In Christ, we are no longer bound by our old way of living
When we come to Jesus, we become a fragrant offering instead of something that ‘stinketh’

Ending Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the resurrection power that’s available to us today through Jesus Christ. Help us to live fully in the freedom You’ve given us, removing the grave clothes of our past and walking in newness of life. Give us courage to help others experience this same freedom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.

Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.