Saved from the Condemnation of God
John 3:14-18, Numbers 21:4-9
Summary
In John 3:14-18, Jesus reveals why he came: not to condemn the world, but to save it. Like Israel in the wilderness, humanity stands under the just condemnation our sin has earned. Yet God, in love, “gave his only Son” so that all who look to Christ in faith are rescued from destruction and brought into the life of his grace. Eternal life is not merely a future hope but a present reality for all who trust the crucified and risen Savior. As we fix our eyes on Christ, who has been lifted up for us, we rediscover wonder, longing, and joy in the salvation he freely gives.
Discussion Questions
Summary
In John 3:14-18, Jesus reveals why he came: not to condemn the world, but to save it. Like Israel in the wilderness, humanity stands under the just condemnation our sin has earned. Yet God, in love, “gave his only Son” so that all who look to Christ in faith are rescued from destruction and brought into the life of his grace. Eternal life is not merely a future hope but a present reality for all who trust the crucified and risen Savior. As we fix our eyes on Christ, who has been lifted up for us, we rediscover wonder, longing, and joy in the salvation he freely gives.
Discussion Questions
- Jesus says that apart from him we “perish” and are “condemned already.” How does Jesus’ framing of the human problem differ from how our culture typically describes what’s wrong with us?
- What are some examples of the ways people try to deal with guilt, shame, or restlessness apart from God?
- Why do you think Christians often assume the seriousness of sin rather than letting its weight deepen our gratitude and worship?
- How does truly facing the reality of condemnation make the gospel more precious rather than more frightening?
- Jesus says that those who believe “have eternal life”—a present reality, not only a future one. What does “eternal life” look like in everyday experience? How would you describe it to someone new to the faith?
- In the sermon Pastor Billy addressed the danger of seeking the “presence of God” while neglecting the Word of God. Where are you personally tempted to separate God’s presence from God’s Word?
- Jesus compares his saving work to Moses lifting the bronze serpent to save those to looked to the serpent. What does it practically mean to “look to Christ” instead of merely “look at” him?
- How does meditating on the costliness of our salvation reshape your understanding of God’s love?
- Where in your life right now do you feel most aware of the ‘ruin of sin’? Where do you most need to remember the ‘realm of grace’?
- What is one concrete way you can fix your eyes more intentionally on Christ this week?
- Who in your life needs to hear this truth that salvation is as simple and profound as looking to Christ? How might God be calling you to point them to him?
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