Group Notes | April 12

He Lives…Do You? Fishing or Following?
Matt Willmington
April 12, 2015

Open:

So many circumstances can happen to us that totally change our lives. Can you think of situations you have had that completely altered your way of living?

Today we begin to center our thoughts on the difference the resurrection makes in the lives of those who meet Jesus, and deal with the question: has accepting the reality of His sacrifice changed you personally?

Discuss:

1. Read John 21:4-8. Why did the disciples return to fishing after the crucifixion?

2. The disciples were unsure what to do next, having seen Jesus alive again, but not having instructions from Him. What do you do when you are not sure what your next step should be after a disturbing experience?

3. Can you give an example of being uncertain of a next step, only to have Him suddenly make His will known? How were you obedient?

4. Read verses 9-14. Jesus was on the shore with the fire, some food, and His presence. In this situation, how would you have approached Him? Would your shame be foremost in your mind?

5. All the disciples had forsaken Him at the Garden of Gethsemane. Do you think they had to face their humiliation as they looked and listened to Him now? What about you—do you need to face past actions?

6. Read verses 15-19. Can anyone share a time when they were so out of God’s will that a re-commitment to Him had to be made? Notice that Jesus did not make the disciples come to Him, but He came to them—just as He meets us where we are, not where we should be!

7. Read verses 20-22. Jesus’ instructions to the forgiven disciples were plain and simple: “Come, follow Me.” Are you ready to follow Him or are you still fishing?

Close:

The same instructions Jesus gave His disciples are given to us as well. He wants us to follow Him with our whole heart, forgetting the past. As you break into small groups, let His Spirit bring to mind anything that needs confession or repentance, so that you can follow Him fully. Don’t forget to search the Life Groups at church to see if you can serve: there is always someone who needs comfort and encouragement from what you have been through!