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Group Discussion
Questions for facilitating dynamic discussion
The Table
November 19,2023
Week 4: Serving Up Love
Jeff Griffin
John 6:26-35
Matthew 15:32-39 and John 6:1-40
Jesus often dined with new friends, sparking conversations and transformation that echoed through eternity. This week, let’s learn from Jesus about how we can best serve our family and friends in love — to help people far from God find new life with Him.
Kicking It Off: In honor of Jesus feeding the multitudes, what’s your favorite side dish at Thanksgiving (or another major holiday meal)? How about the least favorite?
1. When you hear the story of young Helga coming to America and being loved on with such compassion, who or what comes to mind? How has someone cared for you (or someone you know) in that way? If you’re comfortable, share that story with your group.
2. What were some aspects that stood out to you about Jesus feeding the 5,000 and later feeding the 4,000 — with just bread and fish? Why do you think that resonates with you? How did Jesus prove the point that He cares for both Jews and Gentiles, as shown in Mark 8:19-21? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?”
“Twelve,” they replied. “And when I broke the seven loaves for the four thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?” They answered, “Seven.” He said to them, “Do you still not understand?” ˆ(NIV)
3. Jeff described three steps to really loving people. What are some ways that these concepts might encourage you to show tangible forms of love to someone? How might having credibility work in your favor in ministering to someone far from God?
o CARE. (From the heart with empathy — pray for the love!)
o NOTICE. (Observe what they’re going through.)
o CONSIDER. (Use your mind to get creative.)
4. Read John 6:32-33. Why did Jesus note what God did, versus what Moses might have done? What’s so important about discovering the love of God and the true point of life?
Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, Moses didn’t give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” (NLT)
5. When someone trusts Jesus with their future, what does that entail? What might be the natural consequences if they were to reject Him?
Wrapping Up: This week, we’re reminded that our spiritual needs are greater and more important than our physical needs. Thank God for the assurance found when we trust in Him as our Lord and Savior.
Jesus replied, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” (John 6:35, NLT)