Discussion Questions John 3:22-36: The Bridegroom Increased

by Teresa^(1,656) Bronze Star

In our group study, three main questions arose for this portion of Scipture; why was Jesus referred to as the Bridegroom, why did John go to prison, and what does his statement, "He must increase, but I must decrease" mean to all believers? Following are Scriptures and questions that I hope will aid in greater understanding.

If you haven't read the summary, you can do so by clicking here.

Read John 3:22-36

Jesus the Bridegroom

Read the following passages of Scripture, and then answer the questions below.

Ezekiel 16:1-4; Isaiah 62:1-5; Matthew 25:1-13; Ephesians 5:22-32; Revelation 21:1-3; Revelation 21:9-27

1) What is the common theme among these passages?

2) How does Jesus fit the description of a Groom?

3) Who is the Bride, and how is this possible?

4) How does this picture of "marriage" change your thoughts on the relationship between husband and wife?

5) Why do you think God uses the tangible picture of family to reveal His character to man?

He must Increase - I must decrease

Read the following passages, and then answer the questions below.

Galatians 2:20; 2 Corinthians 5:14-17; 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8; Romans 8:28-30; Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 5:16-25, Ephesians chapters 2 & 4

1) What happens when we are born again?

2) What does Jesus desire/command of His children?

3) What is the common contrast before Christ and after Christ in our life?

4) How do we make it possible to let Jesus increase in us, and by what means?

4) Summarize in your own words how all of these passages give meaning to John's statement for your life?

John the Baptist Imprisoned -

Read the following passages, and then answer the questions below.

Matthew 4; Matthew 11:1-10; Matthew 14:1-1-12; John 3:22-36

1) How does Matthew chapter 4 add to your understanding on John 3:22-36?

2) Why was John put in prison?

3) How did he respond, and how did Jesus respond to John?

4) How does Jesus' response encourage you?

5) Do you think there was a connection between the rise of the ministry of Jesus and the death of John?

6) Based on John's way of life and his purpose in life, would you say he died too soon or at the right time?

How have these first three chapters of John encouraged or challenged your walk with God? What new questions have they raised? Share your answers and your thoughts.

Join us next week as we begin John chapter 4.

May the Lord bless you and keep you as you continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ!

(C) Teresa Ortiz - Book of John Study - 2010 - all rights reserved

Article submitted Sunday, February 13, 2011 & read 502 times.

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» left by Marijo Phelps from mountain meadow (1 year 90 days ago.)

I can't think of anything Jesus said which was not an encouragement - he gives hope even in his chastisement, doesn't he? GOOD stuff T!

» left by Teresa (1 year 90 days ago.)

Hi Marijo - AMEN - he conviction always came in the form of encouragement. We have a lot to learn when it comes to leading people to our Savior.

Thanks for following along and for the encouraging words. God's will be done! Working on Chapter 4 - the Samaritian Women - so much meat - what do I put? Holy Spirit lead the way!

We appreciate your comments!

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