Ever wonder what God's heart might look like at a funeral? (After all, unlike us, he could fix this.) In these next two Sundays, Jesus shows us: tears and anger at his friend's funeral. Why does it matter that 'Jesus wept'? What does it reveal about God's heart toward us and the broken things of this world? And what hope does it give us in the face of the worst things that could ever happen to us? Jesus, show us who you are!
Discussion Questions
Why did Jesus treat Martha and Mary differently? Has the appearance of favoritism and partiality ever turned out to be the best thing for you? Why is it so difficult for us to trust God when he acts differently toward others in comparable situations? Notice verses 21-26. (cf. Luke 10:38-42)
Mary presses Jesus, and he responds with tears. Why does it matter so much to us that Jesus wept (v.35)? The Greek term here depicts deep, shuddering sobs. How does this moment challenge our potentially stoic notions of what godly suffering should look like?
How do Jesus' tears (and ours) make us 'aching visionaries'? What is it we are longing for beyond the immediate relief of our pain? If you’re in pain now, what is it that you are really wanting? Try to go further than your initial response.
Jesus holds truth and tears side-by-side in this passage. Which of these two are your greater tendency?
How can we embody both compassion and truth in our daily workplace and communities? What opportunities are there?
On the cross, Jesus voluntarily bore our suffering. How might growing in his love lead us to do the same for others? How might that become good news; not only for them, but also for us?
What did you need to hear in the sermon or during this discussion?
