What Were You Expecting?

Introduction:


The Biblical facts:

  1. You are born with a Sinful, Selfish nature. (Isaiah 53:6)

  2. You are Surrounded by a world full of people with sinful, selfish natures. (Romans 3:23)

  3. The world is under a Curse. (Romans 8:20-22)

  4. Satan is, for now, called the Ruler of this world and has incredible influence on it. (John 12:31, 14:30, 16:11).

Five Gifts Jesus has Provided that Give us Peace in a Hard World:

  1. People (John 13:34)

  2. Promises (John 14:2)

  3. Presence (John 14:16-17)

  4. Power (John 15:5)

  5. Prayer (John 16:23-24)

Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!

Small Group Questions (Whole Group):
Read John 16:33, and read corresponding verses with each point. 

  1. Tell of a time you were majorly disappointed by something (serious OR fun story!).

  2. Why do people seem to expect an “easy life"? How do your expectations affect other areas of your life?

  3. How can we actively love others (in our Small Groups, in the church) the way Jesus loves us? Be specific!

  4. What does it mean to "abide in Christ" (John 15:5, 10)? Is this a “passive” activity, or is there "action" to take on your part? Explain. 
     

Breakout Questions:

Confess areas of your life where you’ve had wrong expectations. Which "gift from Jesus" (hint: the 5 sermon points) do you personally need to experience most right now?