GROUP GUIDE
Leading a group through these questions? Here’s a simple guide for 1.5-2 hour GROUP meeting.
Welcome and Opening Prayer. (5 minutes)
Read the passage aloud. (5 minutes)
Guide the group through the questions. (30-60 minutes)
Take time to share prayer requests and pray for each other. (15-30 minutes)
TEACHING RECAP
Summary: In the well-known story of Jesus flipping tables in the temple lobby, we are challenged to rethink our softened view of Jesus and to consider where he may want to flip some tables in our churches or our personal lives. As we dig into this significant moment in the Gospel of John, we’ll get a glimpse of the truth that Jesus will do more than clean the temple; he will completely replace it.
Main Points:
Jesus’ passion for the Father’s house motivates him to clean up.
Jesus will do more than clean the temple; he will completely replace it.
Jesus sees with perfect clarity not just into his church but also into our hearts.
On-Ramps:
When it comes to your involvement in church, how might Jesus want to challenge your attitudes, words and actions?
When it comes to your personal life, what “tables” might Jesus want to flip? (Attitudes, words, actions).
Confess your sin. Receive Jesus’ forgiveness. Let him make you into a new person.
Discussion
What stands out to you from this passage? How does this passage most challenge or encourage you?
Read 1 Peter 2:4-10 and 1 Corinthians 3:16-17. As God’s people, we have been made into a living temple for God to dwell in our midst. From these passages, does anything stick out to you about the importance of the church?
Read Revelation 2-3. What are some examples of the things that Jesus wants to change in these churches? What stands out to you the most?
There are so many things in this modern society that are in excess and are competing for our time and attention. What things do you think Jesus would be zealous about removing?
As Jesus is seen cleaning up in the Temple, what things in our church do you see that Jesus would want to remove with the same kind of passion and zeal?
Jesus is the locus point of our relationship to the One True God. He has chosen to make His dwelling amidst the people of God, His Body. As you look at your life, what areas do you see Jesus working through you to build and strengthen His church? What things need to be zealously removed?
How do you want to respond to this passage in your daily life?
PRAYER
How can we pray for you as a group?
Next week: Luke 12:22-34
