Community Group Discussion Guide

John 18:1-11 - Weekend of July 7th & 8th

I. Starter Question:

How do you know what God’s will is?

II. Discussion of Scripture:

John 18:1-11 (ESV) - 18 When Jesus had spoken these words, he went out with his disciples across the brook Kidron, where there was a garden, which he and his disciples entered. 2 Now Judas, who betrayed him, also knew the place, for Jesus often met there with his disciples. 3 So Judas, having procured a band of soldiers and some officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, went there with lanterns and torches and weapons. 4 Then Jesus, knowing all that would happen to him, came forward and said to them, “Whom do you seek?” 5 They answered him, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus said to them, “I am he.”[a] Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. 6 When Jesus[b] said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7 So he asked them again, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus of Nazareth.” 8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am he. So, if you seek me, let these men go.” 9 This was to fulfill the word that he had spoken: “Of those whom you gave me I have lost not one.” 10 Then Simon Peter, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest's servant[c] and cut off his right ear. (The servant's name was Malchus.) 11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?”

Brief Explanation: Jesus takes the disciples in the garden where He is ultimately arrested. Jesus takes them to a familiar place, a place they have been before, knowing what events will take place. He remains obedient to the Father’s plan and offers Himself up to the soldiers.

For Discussion:

1. What does Jesus' responses to the soldiers show about His trust and peace concerning the events that will soon take place?

2. Why do you think Judas felt the need to bring torches and weapons? What does this say about how well he knew Jesus?

3. Why is it important that John included the detail in verse 4 that Jesus knew what was going to happen?

4. What in this passage shows that Jesus did not come as a military leader to bring a political or military order?

5. What in verse 8 shows that this mission is solely for Jesus?

6. Why does Jesus respond to Peter that way in verse 11?

7. Was Peter sinning when he drew his sword and struck?

III. Responding in Prayer:

1. Jesus was resigned to the mission of the cross, submitting to the Father’s will. Spend time in prayer reminding yourself that God is in control of all things.

2. Spend some time in prayer not forcing your own will, but seeking the Father’s will for your own life.