John 9 And The Power of The Dark
John 9:13–17; 24–34
Richard Dahlstrom, Senior Pastor, stepbystepjourney.com
Our fixation on ‘solar Christianity’ has led to an obsession with doctrines, answers, and certitude. But the reality is that the rhythm of darkness and light seen in nature is intended to teach us the necessity of darkness in our lives, as well as light, because it’s only by acknowledging our darkness that we are led to the light of true seeing–and truly embodying Christ.
I. The Story & Questions
II. Blindness
III. Seeing
IV. Choice
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Read John 9:13-17; 24-34 This text asks whether we are people who are blind or people who see. It goes on to suggest that those who know they're blind will see, and those who think they can see are blind.
1. There are seasons in our lives: dark, light, doubt, certainty, clarity, uncertainty, etc. How would you describe the season you're in right now?
2.
The Pharisees have a strong response to this healing of a blind man.
a. How would you describe their response?
b. What do you think is the underlying issue around why they got so upset?
3. What labels do the Pharisees use on Jesus and the man born blind?
4. What is the result of their response & labels?
5. What are the things that society, particularly non-Christians, feel heckled/judge by from Christians?
6. There are 3 attributes to those who see: ? (Hungry for more revelation, those who know their failures are open to repentance, when our world explodes we're open to new power)
a. What do you recall about them
b. Which of these is easier for you? Why?
c. Which is more challenging? Why?
7. Was there anything in Tom & Claudia's story that encouraged or convicted you?
8. When you hear Richard saying & confirming that there's "Nothing we can do":
a. What is your response?
b. What is the context around that that makes it true?
(Recall that he's saying that there are seasons and situations that we have no control over: illness, other people’s actions, etc.; but explore how how that feels to people in your group)
9. How would you fill in the blank: "Lord, I don't know the way with _________.”?