May 10 - UNEXPECTED JOY!

Unexpected Joy for the Fallen

Icebreaker
What is something you tried and failed at but eventually gave another chance?
Study Questions

1. Read John 21:12–17. What stands out to you most about the interaction between Jesus and Peter? Why?
2. Peter had denied Jesus three times before the crucifixion (John 18:15-27). The Gospels all show that Jesus first appeared to the women near the tomb. Paul tells us that Jesus then appeared to Peter before the other disciples (1 Corinthians 15:5). We have no record of what Jesus or Peter said during that appearance. After that appearance, we never see Peter say anything during any of Jesus' other appearances.
   
   1. Why do you think Jesus appeared to Peter before the disciples? 
      
   2. What do you think that first conversation was like?
   3. Why do you think Peter kept quiet during the other appearances?
3. Jesus asks Peter three times, “Do you love me?”
   
   1. Why do you think Jesus repeated the question?
      
   2. What might Peter have been feeling in that moment?
      
   3. Why do you think Jesus chose to restore Peter publicly after what had been a very public failure?
4. What do you think Jesus meant by “Do you love me more than these?” Do you think He was referring to Peter’s fishing life, comparing himself to the other disciples, or something else? Why?
5. What does this teach us about grace, forgiveness, and calling?

Application Questions

1. Have you ever experienced a failure that made you feel “finished” or disqualified? What helped you move forward?
2. Failure does not disqualify someone from following Jesus. Is that easy or hard for you to believe personally? Why?
3. What “other loyalties” might compete with fully trusting and following Jesus in your life right now?
4. Imagine yourself sitting with Jesus on the lakeshore and hearing Him ask, “Do you love me more than these?” What do you think your honest response would be?

Prayer
Take time to quietly confess any failures, regrets, or places where you feel distant from Jesus, trusting His grace and restoration. Pray for one another's needs, to receive Jesus’ grace, and to experience unexpected joy.