Part 2 – Entering the Temple
Discussion Guide
In so many ways, God was revealing Jesus as the Way even in the architecture of the tabernacle and temple. Let’s enter a study of the temple gate and outer courts and find truth about Jesus there.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. What surface level of “knowing God” was the most prevalent in your life? Is it still true?
2. Read John 14:6. What do you feel Jesus is saying here? Is there any way to misconstrue it? Did you agree with the message, that Jesus is the only way to God and for salvation? How did the tabernacle, and later the temple, reinforce this principle? (If you are unsure of or if you are uncomfortable confidently expressing this belief, please take time to work through the Deeper section this week.)
3. Read Hebrews 13:8-9. How do you see culture redefining God? In what ways does knowing God is our Creator define us? What does verse 8 assure you? What “rights” does this verse take away from you? Why does the author warn us not to be led off by strange, diverse, false teachings? How does the Lord help you discern who to follow and what to do?
4. Read John 10:9-11. In this passage, Jesus refers to Himself as “the door.” What things does He provide in that capacity, according to this verse? How did the tabernacle and temple gates point to Him?
5. Read John 10:12-15. What is the difference between the Good Shepherd and the hired man? Does Jesus know you, and do you know His voice? What steps can you take to avoid being misled?
6. Read Mark 11:15-18. Why is Jesus offended at the money changers? Why did this in turn offend the religious officials? How can you make the worship service and even the church building a place to connect with God? What will you do this coming week to implement this?
7. Action Step: Would you go on a date with Jesus, get out alone with Him? Talk to Him. Listen to Him. Let your family or roommate know, then grab a sandwich or cup of coffee, and go spend an hour with Jesus.
Deeper
8. Have you ever wondered if Jesus is the only Way? Does this seem exclusive to you? Consider this devotion by Susan Murray, Cove Leader:
“Many people believe that there are multiple ways to God. To say that there is only one way to heaven—though Christ—sounds offensive. Yet, Jesus Himself said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6, ESV). Our culture strongly insists on inclusion, meaning all ways to live and all other religions are acceptable to God; to say they are not acceptable is judged to be bigoted and exclusive. The truth is that the Gospel is available to anyone, no matter their history, heritage, or present situation.
“All religions, including Christianity, have moral rules to live by. They all say, ‘Don’t steal,’ ‘Be kind,’ ‘Be generous,’ and ‘Forgive others.’ All religions, except Christianity, require you to meet those rules to gain favor with God so you can go to heaven or reach a higher plane of happiness. That is very exclusive. You must measure up to meet that mark. But what about when we fail to measure up? Christianity is different. Instead of us doing well in order to reach God, God reached down to us first. ‘God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us’ (Romans 5:8, NIV).”
9. Watch this video (or read the transcription in the article). Take time to look up all the verses and assure yourself of this basic truth of Christianity.