Studies

Knowing God from the Gospel of John

C: Millions, even billions know about God, but a few know God on personal terms.

OQ: What are some different views of God? [ Grandfather in the sky. Santa Claus. A torturer--dangling man by a thread over Hell. Distorted father figure. Clockmaker--created, but uninvolved.]

1. Correct view of God. John 1:1-2, 14, 18. Q: What do we learn here? [· Jesus Christ, the Word, is God's communication to us.

· Jesus became flesh so that we might understand God. · Jesus has made God known.] C. To know God is to have a relationship with him.

2. The Only Way. John 14:6. C: Jesus says here that he is the only way to God. Q: What does this mean for us? [No other way to get to God.] Does this surprise you, that Jesus said this? [Yes, I thought he'd be more tolerant.] C: Let me give you a great quote: "As the way, Jesus is the answer to man's sin; as the truth; he is the answer to man's ignorance; and as life he is the answer to man's mortality" ( George A. Buttrick, Christ and Man's Dilemma ).

3. Jesus is the Answer. C: Jesus is the answer to man's sin. John 8:34-36. C: Here we see that Jesus sets man free from the guilt and power of sin. Q: Would people have fewer problems if they got rid of the sins in their lives? {Discuss.} C: If we look at verses 31-32, we can see how to get rid of sin in our lives. John 8:31-32. C: As we put in practice the teachings of Jesus, we will know the truth. And the truth sets us free from the sins that ruin us. Q: Where can we find the teachings of Jesus? [The Bible.]

C: I suggest that you fix up a time to study the Bible with someone who can help you find the answers in it for your life. Fix up a time for tomorrow evening, and be sure to come.

4. Jesus is the Life. John 11:25-26. Q: Imagine if a new health product said, "This product will give you eternal life." Would most people believe it? [No.] But here, what does Jesus say? ["If you live for me and believe in me you'll never die."]

John 10:10. In Jesus you can have abundant life. Q: How has Jesus improved the quality of your life? {SHARE YOURSELF, and let a few others share.}

Conclusion. C: Everyone in this room needs to know God! Q: Do you know God? Think about it. The way to get to know God is to know Jesus. Get to know Jesus, by reading the Gospel of John, and studying with someone here!