Everyday Bible Conversations!

EBC 3, 2, 1!  – On Location in 2024! Leading to Worship Sunday, April 21, 2024

Reading:  John 10:11-18

EBC focuses on bringing the Bible into our Everyday Lives, emphasizing God’s Everyday presence by finding connections in our physical world!  EBC also has a video component on the St. John’s website and St. John’s You Tube channel.  This week’s video is from Arizona and looks at Jesus the Good Shepherd, both as a protector and a provider.  Click here:  https://youtu.be/dL8A2gZg-zQ  Welcome to this week’s EBC 3,2,1!  Three points, two questions, and one action step! 

Three Points

·       In John 10, Jesus describes himself as the “good shepherd.”  The good shepherd lays down his life for his sheep, and Jesus emphasizes that we are his own and he lays down his life for us. 

·       Jesus uses the imagery of a wolf to focus on the dangers we face, and contrasts his love and dedication against other “hired hands” (John 10:13) who run away from danger and do not really care for the sheep. 

·       [T]he Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again.  No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord.  I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it up again.”  (John 10:17-18)

Two Questions

·       What do you think is the particular significance of Jesus making clear that he “has the power” to lay down his life, and take it up again?  Do you consider yourself to “have the power” to give and sacrifice for others? 

·       This passage seems to focus on Jesus as a protector for us, even at the cost of his own life.  Are there ways also that Jesus is a provider for you, not just reacting to our hardships, but also leading to comfort, safety, and his Word?  (Hint: Psalm 23)

Action Step

·       Find your “power!” to give and sacrifice for others.  Caring for your fellow human herd is work and risk, but it is within you!  Jesus is with you on your path!

Don’t like these questions?  Do these verses say something different to you?  Great!  What it is?

And as always, you are encouraged to find a friend (or two or many) and take an EBC coffee break!  Find 15-25 minutes somewhere in the week and share your faith.  Have fun finding God this week in your Everyday Life!