John 15:11-27
Key Verse: 15:14

“You are my friends if you do what I command.”

1. In verses 1-10, what did Jesus teach about his relationship with his disciples? In verse 11, what promise does he give to those who remain in his love?

2. What does Jesus say about joy? (9-12) How do many people seek joy? What does the Bible say about the source of joy? (Gal.5:22-23a; 1 Peter 4:13,14) What does Jesus mean by “joy”? By “complete joy”?

3. Read verses 12-15. Why is Jesus our best friend? Why did Jesus want his disciples to be friends, not slaves? What can we learn from God’s friendship with Abraham? (Isa.41:8) From David and Jonathan? (1Sa 23:15-18)

4. Read verses 16-17. What does it mean that Jesus chose the disciples rather than their choosing him? Why does God choose people? (See Ac 9:15-16)

5. Read verses 18-21. Why are Jesus’ disciples hated when they are only trying to do good? Read verses 22-27. Why did the world hate Jesus? When we are persecuted, what should we do? How does God help us?