JOHN

 

1. The Irony of the Cross (19:1–5)

While the Jewish religious leaders are decidedly against Jesus, Pilate, a Roman official, is still conflicted about what to do with Him. Deep down, Pilate knows that Jesus is no ordinary man and certainly not a criminal who deserves to die. There are many people who have deep convictions about who Jesus is, but because they live in a culture which is hostile to the gospel, they continue to deny Him. We who believe in Jesus must boldly and humbly stand for the truth. We must also pray for those who oppose the gospel—that God will change their hearts and open their eyes to see Jesus for who He truly is.

 

What are the dominant views and opinions about Jesus Christ in your community? How will you pray for those who do not yet know Him?

 

 

 

2. Delegated Authority (19:6–13)

Pilate thinks that Jesus is at his mercy, but Jesus knows better. Whatever authority Pilate might have has been given to him by God; it is a delegated authority that he is obligated to use responsibly. Jesus is not a victim of circumstances whose fate is in the hands of a Roman official. Rather, He is the One who has willingly subjected Himself to the cruel and unjust systems of the world in order to save sinners. If only they would recognize Him as their Savior! Likewise, we should never take our God-given opportunities for granted but always seek to discern God’s will and ask Him for the courage to accomplish it.

 

How has God called you to serve Him in your community? What are some of the greatest fears you have as you serve the Lord?

 

 

3. Carrying the Cross (19:14–18)

Everything about the way Jesus is crucified is humiliating, from the sham trial to making Him carry His own cross when He is already weak and exhausted from the flogging. And when He is finally crucified, He is stripped down and put between two notorious criminals. During His earthly ministry, Jesus exhorted those who would come after Him to carry their cross and follow Him. Christian discipleship is a call to die to our sinful desires and commit to following Jesus wholeheartedly. By choosing to follow Christ, we are saying that we are devoted to Him regardless of how the world treats us. Sometimes following Jesus comes at a great cost, but it is worth it.

 

How do you understand Jesus’ command to carry your own cross? What price are you prepared to pay for His sake?

 

 

 

4. The King and the Cross (19:19–22)

According to Pilate, Jesus’ crime is that of being the king of the Jews, which is stated on the notice he has fastened on the cross. Although the Jewish leaders protest the way Pilate has phrased it, he refuses to change the sign—thereby publicly and prophetically, though unintentionally, declaring Jesus’ true identity as Israel’s Messiah. The world may deny and reject Jesus’ power and authority for now, but in the end, every knee in heaven and on earth will bend before Him. We who trust Him as Savior will bow with glad and willing hearts while those who are perishing will be forced to face the reality of His supreme reign. May we live every day before Him in humble submission.

 

In what ways is Jesus’ authority a comfort or a concern for people today? How do you acknowledge His rule over your life?

 

5. Extended Ministry (19:23–27)

We see a stark contrast between the soldiers and Jesus: on the one hand, the soldiers are concerned with grabbing whatever they can from the helpless victim of their cruelty; on the other hand, Jesus shows concern for His mother while hanging on the cross, enduring the most excruciating pain. He still feels the weight of family responsibility as Mary’s firstborn son, so He entrusts her to the care of John. He is on a divine mission to save the world, but He also fulfills His basic human responsibilities. Jesus’ actions serve as an encouragement and example to us that even the little things matter to God and we ought to be mindful of all those under our care.

 

Who has God placed under your care? How does Jesus’ example motivate you to serve others despite your own predicaments?

 

 

6. Assignment Completed (19:28–30)

From the beginning, Jesus was on a mission to give His life as a ransom for sinful humanity. This was His ultimate purpose for coming to Earth, and He never allowed anything to distract Him from the will of the Father. Even while He goes through unimaginable pain for sins He never committed, He remains conscious of His mission. Knowing that His assignment has been accomplished, He cries out in triumph “It is finished!” His death is the greatest act of service that fulfills the requirements of the Law and ends all blood sacrifices and burnt offerings once and for all. The world which was estranged from God can now be reconciled to Him through the death of His Son.

 

In what ways do Jesus’ actions on the cross surprise you? How will you give thanks and praise to Him for His sacrifice?

 

 

Romans

7. God’s Indescribable Love (5:6–8)

God’s love for humanity is indescribable. Even the apostle Paul is at pains to paint the picture of what this love looks like. We were God’s enemies and deserving of His wrath, but He loved us even when we were at our worst and lowest. Ordinarily we respond to our enemies with disdain and hostility. We do not respond by surrendering our children to die for them! But because we are unable to save ourselves, God, in His grace and mercy, stoops down to love mortal human beings who are opposed to Him! The only sensible way to respond to this kind of love is to give our lives to Him and choose to live for Him daily.

 

How do you ordinarily respond to your enemies? In what ways do you find God’s love for you surprising?

 

 

 

8. Reconciled with God (5:9–11)

Paul uses two terms, one legal and the other relational, to describe the believer’s new standing with God, achieved by the blood of Jesus Christ shed on the cross. We have been justified or declared to be in right standing with God. We have also been reconciled with God—we are no longer His enemies but His friends. Because of this, we have assurance of our salvation. We have been saved from the penalty of sin and we shall be saved from God’s wrath on the day of judgment. We live out our discipleship in light of this precious truth. Our confidence and boasting is in the finished work of Christ on the cross, which He accomplished from beginning to end.

 

What is the basis of your confidence as a believer? How do you live for God in light of what He has accomplished for you through Jesus Christ?

 

John

9. Sent in His Name (20:11–23)

Both Mary and the apostles struggle with their dashed hopes about the Messiah, the troubling disappearance of Jesus’ body, uncertainties about their own futures, and dangers from the Jewish religious leaders on top of it all. Mary is so overcome with grief that she is unable to recognize Jesus until He calls her by name. The disciples, for their part, are overcome with fear and gather together in a locked room to avoid the Jewish authorities. But Jesus meets them all where they are. He supplies them with the strength and peace to look beyond their difficulties toward Him. He equips them with the power of His Spirit, then sends them: first Mary to the disciples, then the disciples to the world. No matter what we are facing, Jesus meets us where we are. Let us turn to Him and receive His strength, His peace, His Spirit, and His calling.

 

How has God comforted you during a difficult time? Who in your life can you share Christ’s message of hope with?

 

 

10. Setting Clear Boundaries (39:6–10)

Joseph proves to be so good at his job that his master entrusts him with everything in his household. Potiphar’s wife also takes notice of Joseph—but for different reasons. She finds Joseph physically attractive and attempts to seduce him. But Joseph shows great wisdom in that he understands that while he has been trusted with much, there are still things that are strictly off-limits. He cannot betray his master by sleeping with his wife, and more importantly, he refuses to commit such a wicked sin before God. In Joseph, we see an example of how to be a faithful steward of God-given success. We must not let it get to our heads but remain humble before the Lord, our Master and King.

 

What boundaries have you set to help you resist the lure of sin? What helps you remain humble when you achieve success in the eyes of the world?

 

 

Genesis

 

11. Moral Courage (39:11–18)

Potiphar’s wife seizes a moment when Joseph is alone in the house with her, but Joseph flees, leaving his cloak behind. With cunning and spite, Potiphar’s wife accuses Joseph of attempted assault, knowing that her word will win against a slave’s. A commitment to moral integrity will often put us at a disadvantage in a world where people gain power and profit by lying, cheating, and stealing. But God calls us to be obedient to Him no matter the personal cost. Our devotion to Him may jeopardize our worldly prospects, but when wicked people bring us down, God promises to lift us up again. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to empower us with wisdom and courage to always do what is right.

 

What unpopular decisions have you made because of your commitment to Jesus? In what area of your life do you need more courage to do the right thing?

 

12. Suffering for Doing Right (39:19–23)

Potiphar receives the false report from his wife and throws Joseph behind bars. Under these circumstances, Potiphar could have easily put Joseph to death for his alleged crime, but in this relatively lighter punishment we see that God is preserving Joseph’s life. Even in prison, God’s presence and favor remain with Joseph. Though it might seem like all of Joseph’s hard work and success in Potiphar’s household have amounted to nothing, God is not done with him yet. When we suffer for doing what is right, we may start to wonder if God has abandoned us. But Joseph’s story serves as a reminder that when the world punishes us for our commitment to Christ, God remains close to us, working out His plans in our lives.

 

When have you felt deeply discouraged in your spiritual walk? How does Joseph’s story inspire you to remain faithful to God?

 

13. An Opportunity to Serve (40:1–4)

Joseph experiences the same blessing and favor in prison as he did in Potiphar’s household. He is put in charge of two new inmates, who are in prison for offending the king. Joseph’s life demonstrates that regardless of where we are, there is always plenty of work to do for the kingdom of God. Every day is filled with opportunities to serve. We do not have to wait for conditions to be ideal or for some great mission to arise before we can start being useful to the Lord. Rather, anytime God brings someone into our lives, we have an opportunity to share His love with them. Let us commit ourselves to everyday faithfulness, serving God and others with the abilities and resources that are available to us.

 

What kind of people has the Lord brought into your life recently? How will you demonstrate His love to them today?

 

 

 

14. Ministry of Discernment (40:5–8)

The two officials under Joseph’s care have dreams on the same night. But stuck in prison, they do not have access to the king’s magicians or wise men who might be able to interpret their dreams. Joseph finds the servants dejected and his reply to their complaint reassures them that interpretations belong to God. Prison walls are no barrier for the presence and work of God. When we face a dilemma and become frustrated at our lack of understanding and the limitations of earthly resources, let us trust the Holy Spirit to help us discern the things that only God can reveal.

 

When have you found yourself frustrated because of a lack of insight or guidance? To whom do you tend to go when you are dealing with a complicated dilemma?

 

15. Enduring Faith (40:9–15)

The chief cupbearer and the chief baker have had dreams that trouble them. Joseph offers to interpret the dreams as he is aware that God can show him their meaning. He actively cares for his fellow prisoners despite his prolonged and unjust imprisonment. His faith in God also remains strong: after he interprets the chief cupbearer’s dream, he says “when all goes well with you,” not “if.” He is certain of God’s ability to interpret dreams and confident in the truth that God reveals. When we find ourselves in difficult or unfair circumstances, let us not lose sight of who God is. And as we trust in Him, let us serve Him by attending to the needs of those around us.

 

How do you respond when faced with prolonged struggles or injustice? How can you remain caring toward others even when you are struggling?

 

 

 

 

 

 

16. Remember God’s Goodness (40:16–23)

Only when the baker sees that the cupbearer’s interpretation is favorable does he seek the meaning of his dream. He seems desperate for a guarantee of his safety, which perhaps hints that his imprisonment, unlike Joseph’s, is a consequence of his own failings. Joseph predicts that the baker will be released only to be executed. Things go just as Joseph predicts for both inmates. The cupbearer, however, fails to show gratitude to Joseph and forgets him. When God lifts us out of a painful situation, let us not be so quick to get back to our usual routine that we forget what He has done for us. May we give God all the glory that is due to Him and show gratitude to all the people who helped us along the way.

 

When have you sought to evade responsibility for your wrongs? How can you cultivate a habit of remembering God’s goodness in your life?

 

 

17. God’s Plan Unfolds (41:1–8)

Pharaoh has two dreams, one of seven cows and the other of seven ears of grain. He does not know it yet, but they foreshadow the future abundance and famine that will come to the land of Egypt. And behind it all lies the sovereignty of God, who has planned these events and now provides these dreams as an advance warning. Pharaoh is shaken to the core by these dreams and hurries to seek counsel from his magicians and wise men, who are unable to interpret their meaning. Some seasons in life can feel like a series of random, upsetting events and it is hard to find any meaning or purpose amid the chaos. But behind the scenes, God ordains each detail of our lives for the good of those who belong to Him.

 

When has God worked seemingly unrelated events into something good? What helps you remember that God is sovereignly in control of all things?

 

 

 

18. Giving Credit Where Due (41:9–16)

The cupbearer, whose dream Joseph interpreted in prison, finally remembers Joseph’s ability. His eyewitness testimony of Joseph’s wisdom convinces Pharaoh to send for him. When Joseph arrives, Pharaoh mistakes his divine gift for personal talent. Joseph, however, makes it clear that it is God who will provide the answer. This is a risky move on Joseph’s part, for he is a prisoner in a foreign land, endorsing a deity that the Egyptians do not recognize. But this shows Joseph’s reverence for the one true God, who has remained faithful throughout Joseph’s unjust imprisonment. In our trials, may we be so steadfast in our faith that we will never hesitate to glorify God even where no one else acknowledges Him.

 

What do you tell others about God when you face seemingly unending trials? To whom can you share more about God’s power in your life?

 

 

19. Uncommon Grace (41:17–32)

God chooses to speak to Pharaoh, the powerful ruler of Egypt, in order to avert disaster upon the entire nation. Through Pharaoh’s dream and Joseph’s interpretation, Egypt is able to prepare and protect itself from a devastating famine that will come in seven years’ time. This is just one of many examples in Scripture where God graciously provides a way of escape for a multitude of people. The greatest example of God’s saving grace is found in Jesus Christ. Just as the Egyptians did not deserve God’s favor, none of us deserve the salvation that Jesus purchased for us on the cross—in fact, we deserve the very opposite! But God has mercifully provided a way for us to escape judgment through His Son.

 

How did God reveal His saving grace to you? What is the proper response to this gift of salvation?

 

 

 

20. God’s Training (41:33–36)

Joseph instructs Pharaoh to appoint a discerning and wise man to oversee the preparations for the famine. As Joseph describes the work that needs to be done, it becomes clear that he is the best man for the job. Knowing Joseph’s history, we can see that God has raised him up for this very mission. The experiences in his life—both good and bad—have provided him with the wisdom necessary to take on the monumental task of leading a nation through a potentially disastrous season. Just as God worked in Joseph’s life, He takes us through different challenges and experiences that will shape us into the people He wants us to be and prepare us for the things He wants us to do.

 

What do you rely on more: your natural abilities or the skills you have learned through life experience? What lessons has God taught you in times of hardship?

 

 

21. Shining God’s Glory (41:37–45)

Pharaoh is a worshiper of many different gods and probably knows almost nothing about the God of Israel. Yet, the work of God is so evident in Joseph’s life that even the pagan Pharaoh recognizes that the spirit of God is in Joseph, giving him supernatural wisdom and discernment. In Joseph, we see a shining example of what a Christian should look like. In everything we say and do, we should radiate God’s good character to the degree that even non-believers can see God’s work in our lives. Through us, people will come to realize that God is real and that He loves them. If we live like this, then we will have countless opportunities to bring glory to God and bring others to a saving knowledge of Him. This is our highest purpose: to love God and glorify Him.

 

What do people first notice about you? In what practical ways can you show others the presence of God in your life?

 

 

 

22. Preparing for Famine (41:46–52)

Just as Joseph predicted, Egypt experiences a season of abundance. Knowing that famine is coming, Joseph spends these years working hard to store up grain. In our own lives, we may also experience times of plenty when everything in life, including our relationship with God, seems to be flourishing. But there will also be dry seasons when we feel like nothing is going our way and God seems distant. No one ever looks forward to tough times, but it is possible to prepare for them. If we store up spiritual nourishment by feeding ourselves with the Word, setting up habits of prayer, and surrounding ourselves with life-giving community, we will not only survive but thrive in times of hardship.

 

What are some things that you could put in your spiritual storehouse? How have you drawn from past seasons of plenty to help you through the dry times?

 

 

 

23. Feeding the Hungry (41:53–57)

The famine is not confined to Egypt—it is everywhere. So, people from all over the world come to Egypt to buy the life-saving grain that Joseph has stored up over the years. In this way, the Lord provides Joseph with the opportunity to witness to the nations. These days, we do not need to wait for an opportunity for the nations to come to us. We have the ability to reach out to someone on the opposite side of the world in a matter of seconds! There are countless ways we can witness to the nations; the only hindrance is our own willingness. In this time of global spiritual famine, may we go out and feed hungry souls with the life-giving gospel of salvation.

 

Is there a particular country or people group that God has been bringing to your attention lately? How might you pray for and reach out to them?

 

24. Holding On to Hurt (42:1–8)

Jacob sends all of his sons, except Benjamin, to Egypt to buy grain. Joseph immediately recognizes them but conceals his identity, speaking harshly to them. We may wonder what motivates the tone he chooses—perhaps he wants to punish them, or simply lashes out in anger. Whatever his reasons might be, Joseph is likely filled with a myriad of complex emotions upon seeing the brothers who sold him into slavery. Many of us go through life nursing emotional wounds and trauma we have not properly resolved. But if we hold on to the hurt that has been inflicted on us, this will likely lead us to hurt others. Let us surrender our broken hearts to God and ask for His love to restore our souls.

 

How have you acted harshly toward those who have hurt you? For which past hurts do you need God’s healing and restoration?

 

 

 

 

25. Joseph’s Authority (42:9–17)

When Joseph remembers his dreams about his brothers bowing before him, he repeatedly accuses them of being spies. Perhaps the memory of his dreams emboldens him to exert his power and test how his brothers react under extreme pressure. One thing that is for certain is that Joseph wants to see his youngest brother, and he uses his authority to ensure that Benjamin is brought to him. As we consider how we can best serve the Lord and advance His kingdom, we should also leverage the gifts, abilities, and opportunities that God has given us to maximize our effectiveness. Let us seize every chance we have to achieve the kingdom goals that God has placed on our hearts.

 

How has God uniquely positioned and equipped you for His work? How can you make the most of these opportunities to advance His kingdom?

 

26. Misdeeds and Misfortune (42:18–22)

Joseph’s accusations and demands lead his brothers to conclude that they are being punished for their past sins—though they do not realize that the harsh governor they are dealing with is in fact their long-lost brother. Little do they know that what they are experiencing is not punishment but mercy—a mercy that will eventually lead to the salvation of their entire family. While it is true that sin produces consequences that we need to take responsibility for, we must not misattribute our present misfortunes as divine vengeance for past sins. Jesus Christ has perfectly atoned for all of our sin—past, present, and future. When we abide in Him, we can be confident that even our struggles and trials are for our ultimate good.

 

When have you felt like God was punishing you for past sins? How does the gospel reorient the way you look at your pain and suffering?

 

 

 

27. Navigating Challenges (42:23–25)

Joseph is overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing his brothers again and hearing them speak about the wrongs they committed against him. He turns away to weep secretly and ensures that they have everything they need for their journey back to Canaan to retrieve Benjamin. This reveals that Joseph is keeping up the ruse not out of spite toward his brothers but in order to achieve his greater purpose. There will be occasions in which we, as believers, need to be shrewd and creative to overcome challenges and achieve God’s purposes. Life is seldom straightforward, and when obstacles and complications arise, we should seek God’s wisdom to navigate our way through.

 

When have you had to find a creative solution to a problem you were facing? How has God guided you through a challenging situation?

 

 

 

 

28. Good Grief (42:26–36)

Jacob’s sons give their father a report of what happened in Egypt, and Jacob sees that they have brought back the silver that they took to pay for the grain. In response, Jacob laments that everything is against him and blames his sons for all that he has lost. We can certainly understand the old man’s sorrow, and it is not unreasonable for him to find fault with his sons. In the face of tremendous loss, it is human nature to take out our grief on whoever we believe is the cause of our distress. But such a reaction will only cause more hurt in an already painful situation. Let us instead pour out our grief to God who heals the brokenhearted.

 

When have you reacted to painful circumstances in an irrational or unhelpful way? What might help you remember God’s promises to the brokenhearted?

 

 

 

29. Hasty Promises (42:37–38)

Desperate for his father to agree to the Egyptian governor’s demands, Reuben swears on his own son’s lives that he will bring Benjamin back safe. But Jacob still refuses to allow Benjamin to go back to Egypt. In his mind, he has already lost Joseph, so he cannot endure losing Benjamin as well. That Reuben stakes the lives of his two sons on Benjamin’s return give Jacob no sense of security. Reuben’s words might seem noble, but they reveal how little he understands about his father’s heart. When a loved one is grieving, we might be tempted to offer a quick solution, but often the best thing we can do is to simply listen, be present in their pain, and pray for them.

 

How do you usually respond when a friend is distressed about something? What response do you desire from your friends when you are upset?

 

 

 

30. Stay Calm in Crises (43:1–7)

After some time passes, the unrelenting famine in the land prompts Jacob to ask his sons to go back to Egypt to buy more grain. This reignites the conversation about taking Benjamin along with them. The reality of the famine forces Jacob to set his emotions aside and consider the situation with greater objectivity. He is now able to have a calm conversation with his sons to gain clarity on what transpired. When we have conflicts with other people, especially fellow believers, let us be careful not to make assumptions or be stubborn in our own ideas of what is right. We must be willing to have open and honest conversations that seek truth and aim to reach a peaceful resolution.

 

How do you approach confrontations with people you disagree with? How can you ensure that you speak with truth and love in difficult conversations?