Killing Time

Read John 8:30-59

1. As Jesus concludes speaking in verse 29, John says that many believed on him. What is the purpose of Jesus’ words to these believers in verses 31 and 32?

2. What does it mean to continue in his word? What is implied about those who do not continue in his word? (See John 6:60-66)

3. What is it about knowing the truth that can make us free? What is the truth that Jesus is referring to? (see verses 34-36, John 14:6)

4. There are two main thoughts regarding who responds to Jesus statement in verse 33. One view assumes that the word “they” refers back to the Jews which had believed on Jesus who he had just spoken to. The other view takes into account that the crowd is likely composed of both believers and unbelievers and that it is the unbelievers who interrupt the conversation Jesus had started to have with the believers. What are the consequences of each position as the conversation continues to unfold? Who do you believe is responding to Jesus in verse 33? Explain.

5. What is wrong with the claim that they had never been in bondage to any man in verse 33? How is it possible that they could make such a statement?

6. How does committing sin make someone the servant of sin? In what ways does Romans 6:16-23 add to your understanding of the kind of freedom and bondage that Jesus is speaking of in these verses?

7. What is the difference between being Abraham’s “seed” (verse 33 and 37) and his “children” (verse 39)? How does this affect your understanding of Jesus’ words in verse 38?

8. How does Paul define who are Abraham’s children in Galatians 3:6-9?

9. What does Jesus provide as proof that the Jews are not Abraham’s children? (v.40)

10. The Jews claim God for their Father? How would they have responded to Jesus if this were true? (v42) How does this apply to us?

11. In verse 43 Jesus says they don’t understand him because they can’t hear his word. What is Jesus referring to? Why can’t they hear his word? (see v.47)

12. What specific characteristics of the Jews led Jesus to make the statement in verse 44?

13. What accusation do the Jews make against Jesus in verse 48? Why would they feel justified in their choice of those particular terms?

14. In verses 49 and 50 Jesus states that he honors His Father and that he is not seeking glory for himself. What are some events and teachings in the Gospel of John that illustrate the truth of these words?

15. Why did the Jews accuse Jesus of being demon possessed a second time in verse 52?

16. If all men die, how does the one who keeps the saying of Jesus never see death or taste of it?

17. At this point in the conversation, it seems that the Jews are beginning to understand something. What does verse 53 reveal about the direction their thoughts are starting to take?

18. What kind of a response does Jesus give them in verse 54-56?

19. How did Abraham see Jesus’ day? (see Hebrews 11:13, Galatians 3:6-9)

20. The Jews have one more question in verse 57. How does Jesus respond? (see Ex. 3:14, Is. 43:10-13)

21. Many people try to claim that Jesus never claimed to be God. What proof would you offer that this is absolutely who he was claiming to be?

22. John doesn’t claim this to be one of his selected miracles, but what takes place in verse 59 that could be considered in that light?