STUDY GUIDE – A Planned Goodbye

Icebreaker: Do you have a preference saying to a loved one “Goodbye” or “See you later?” Why?

Sermon Title – The Jesus Platform – “A Planned Goodbye” – John 16:5-7

Group Discussion

Read Luke 9:51, 1 Timothy 3:16, & Luke 24:50-53 – Jesus planned to leave. In what ways do these passages reveal the significance of Jesus’ departure for His disciples and the early church? How can Jesus’ departure shape our understanding of His mission and our role today living for Him?

Read Acts 2:32-35, John 16:7, & Ephesians 1:19-21 – Jesus left to declare his reign. How can we completely embrace this truth of Jesus as the King of Kings, especially in our own lives? Considering the significant gift of the Holy Spirit when we are baptized, what are some ways we can welcome and nourish the Spirit in our lives?

Read Hebrews 9:24 & 10:12-14 – Jesus left to ensure our salvation. How do these verses address doubts we might experience regarding our salvation when Satan attacks? How can we use truth to practically “silence” these accusations? Share other scriptural truths to reaffirm our assurance of salvation in times of doubt (e.g., 1 John 1:9, Romans 8:1)?

Read John 14:1-2 – Jesus left to prepare our home. How can this promise shape our understanding of what it means to have a home with Jesus? In what ways can the hope of our future dwelling with Him influence our daily lives and our perspectives, especially when facing challenges?

Read Genesis 3:15 & 2 Corinthians 13:8 – Align with Jesus and be unstoppable; fail to align with Jesus and be left behind; get in the way of Jesus and be crushed. How do these arguments reflect the importance of aligning ourselves with Jesus’ truth and purposes? What practical steps can we take to ensure that we are aligned? And what are the potential consequences of resisting His will in our lives?

Spiritual Discipline: Take time this week to engage with our additional sermon resources that support this message located on our Church Center app at: Church Center / Home / Sermon Resources

Action Steps: (1) Alignment – Regularly examine your thoughts, priorities, and actions to ensure they align with Jesus’ teachings, (2) Community – Surround yourself with other believers who can encourage and challenge your faith journey, (3) Mission – Identify opportunities where you can demonstrate Jesus’ love, and (4) Evaluation – Set aside time each week for self-reflection and prayer asking God to reveal areas to improve