Discussion Questions, 7/15/12

Here are some questions for discussion (for either Life Groups or families) about tomorrow's sermon, which is from Luke 7:11-17.

1. How does our society typically cope with the reality of death? How does this differ from the Bible's teaching on death?

2. How often do you think about death? What kinds of emotions does the thought of death arouse?

3. What are some ways in which the circumstances in this event (Luke 7:11-17) is different from the one recorded in verses 1-10? How are the stories similar?

4. What do you find particularly striking or encouraging about the way Jesus acts in this passage? How do the truths we learn here about Jesus give us courage and hope in the midst of our grief?

5. The widow at Nain was the recipient of a great miracle? What encouragement is there for those of us who have not experienced that kind of miracle in our lives?

6. Do you ever struggle to believe that the miracles recorded in the Gospels really happened?  What can you do to encourage or strengthen your faith in the midst of doubt?

A few other passages you might want to explore (either on your own or with your family or Life Group) in connection with the content of this message are: 1 Corinthians 15, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Hebrews 2:14-18, Revelation 21-22, Psalm 56, Ephesians 2:1-10.