Bible Study Questions and Notes

Small group Bible studies meet each week to discuss topics relating to the weekend service.  These study notes act as a guide for the Bible study participants.  Note that on weeks where there is a guest speaker or the Bible studies are not in session, there may not be a set of study notes posted.

Scripture passage: John 16:4-15
Speaker: Senior Pastor John Neufeld

Some years ago, the phrase “Power Evangelism” was very popular.  It meant that the gospel should not only be preached, but it should be accompanied by signs and wonders.  This was a call for believers to have the faith to do miracles in the name of Jesus.  While all believers will acknowledge that miracles can have a powerful effect on unbelievers, the story of the gospels illustrates that they do not lead people to Christ.  Instead, something else is required.  I am arguing for a power that comes only from the Holy Spirit.  I am arguing that he brings about a transformation that changes the world.

A.  The transformation of vision

            1.  From self centered to Christ centered

B.  The transformation of effectiveness

            1.  Sin and salvation become issues

            2.  Relativism is replaced by absolutes

            3.  Just consequences become apparent

C.  The transformation of insight

            1.  The full gospel is understood

            2.  We receive illumination

            3.  The glory of Christ is everything

SMALL GROUPS BIBLE STUDY QUESTIONS

John 16:4-15  – By Pastor Jonathan Neufeld

Read John 16:4 – 15. 

Thinking – developing a biblical approach to all areas of life

In John 16:7 Jesus tells his disciples that it is good that he goes so that the Counselor (the Holy Spirit) might come.  Examine each of the following scriptures and discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in each case: 

1.      John 16:13 

a.       What does this mean?

b.      How is the Holy Spirit important in helping us to understand the Bible? (see 1 Corinthians 2:10 – 12) 

2.      John 16:8 

a.       Why is it important to understand that it is the Holy Spirit that convicts the world, and not us? 

b.      How should this knowledge affect how we do evangelism?  How can you tell if the Holy Spirit is working in the life of someone who isn’t yet a Christian?  How should we respond if someone shows no evidence of the Holy Spirit convicting them?  

3.      John 3:5 – 8

a.       What role does the Holy Spirit play in the act of salvation? 

b.      What role does Jesus play (see Romans 3:21 – 26) 

c.       What role does God the Father play (see John 3:16 – 17)

4.      Ephesians 1:13 – 14

a.       When does the Holy Spirit enter a believer? 

b.      What is the value of knowing that the Holy Spirit lives in you?  (See Romans 8:15 – 16)   

5.      Eph. 5: 17 – 18

a.       Why does Paul make a connection here between the Holy Spirit and drinking alcohol?  

b.      How do we ‘drink’ of the Holy Spirit? 

6.      1 Corinthians 12:7 – 11

a.       What does this passage teach us about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives?

b.      What is your spiritual gift(s)?

7.      How does understanding the various roles of the Holy Spirit give us confidence when it comes to sharing the Good News with the world around us?     

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