Discussion Questions
You Asked For It - Part 1
If God is good, then why is there evil and injustice? It’s a question a lot of people have wrestled with. Today we will discuss how Christianity offers a solution for the evil and suffering that we experience.
1. What stood out to you in Pastor James’ message this week?
2. Have you ever been in a situation where you questioned whether or not God was good or just?
3. Read John 3:12–13. Jesus states that his purpose is to reveal who God is to the people. How does it challenge us to examine our own perceptions of God and align them with the revelation brought by Jesus?
4. How would you respond if you were asked the following question? How do you know if something is evil or not?
5. Read John 3:16. Jesus says God is so good and loving that he loves the world. How does this verse inspire us to respond to God’s love in our own lives?
6. Read John 3:17-18. The standard of good and just is found in God, the God that Jesus revealed to us. This is why we believe and think that God is good and just. How do these verses challenge the common perception that God is judgemental and punitive?
7. Pastor James said, "Jesus revealed that there is a sovereign God who is indisputably good and just.” How does Jesus’ revelation about God challenge us to examine our own beliefs and their alignment with the message of the Gospel?
8. Read John 3:19-20 "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed." Rephrase these verses in your own words.
9. Injustice is not a reflection of God’s character but a repercussion of evil human choices. We all have added to the hurt and brokenness of our world. We are the problem of why there is injustice and evil. Our actions have consequences that extend beyond ourselves, impacting others and the world around us. How have you seen the sinful actions of one person impact the lives of people around them? How much do you suppose your sinful actions have impacted the world?
10. Jesus proclaimed that the solution to evil and injustice was found in Him. How does John 3:17 support that statement?
11. Read John 17:15 & 18. Remember, this is Jesus praying for you here. "My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one…As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world." Jesus redeemed you to work through you for good and justice. How do you suppose God wants to use the church to overcome and change an unjust world?