The Magnetic Power of the Cross

The Magnetic Power of the Cross

By Richard Smith

5-27-25

*NOTICE: The emphasis of our discussion is to see how the Written Word (Bible) and the Spoken Word (Preaching) work together to build up the believer, so when you see WORD in the questions, know it refers to the Scripture and the Sermon.

Recap: Look back for evidence of God’s word reshaping your heart and life.

1. Does anyone have a testimony of how you have been held up or encouraged to endure by someone else in the group?

Engage:  Look into the Word of God in light of Sunday’s preached sermon.

2. Read John 12:23-24, 32 as a group and discuss your initial observations of the text.

Reflect: Look deeper at the preached and written Word.

3. How does Jesus’ statement that He would have more influence after His death than during His life challenge our understanding of legacy and impact?

4. In what ways does the cross serve as a ‘telescope’ to help us see the magnitude of God’s love and wrath more clearly?

5. How does the concept of the cross as a ‘magnet’ drawing all people to Christ inform our approach to evangelism and sharing our faith?

6. How does the message of the cross differ from other religious or philosophical approaches to improving one’s life?

Respond: Look ahead and around to see how you can be obedient and missional.

7. How might regularly thanking Jesus for His sacrifice on the cross impact our daily walk with God and our sense of guilt or shame? What does it look like for you to implement that practice this week?

8. The sermon emphasized the importance of including the message of the cross in evangelism. How comfortable are you with sharing this message, and what challenges do you face in doing so?