Knowing Jesus - a bible study

 This is a wonderful goal. Knowing Jesus isn't just about collecting facts or memorizing dates; it’s about developing a deep, personal relationship with a Person who is both historical and currently present.

This four-part study is designed to help you move from knowing about Him to truly knowing Him.

Part 1: Observe His Humanity and Divinity

To know someone, you have to watch how they act and listen to what they say. The best place to start is the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).

  • Read: Mark, Chapter 1.

  • Reflect: Mark is the shortest Gospel and moves very fast. As you read, notice how Jesus interacts with people who are "outsiders" (the sick, the marginalized).

  • Discussion Questions:

    • What was Jesus' first priority when He started His ministry?

    • How does He respond to people in need versus people in power?

    • What does His choice of friends tell you about His heart?

Part 2: Understand the "I Am" Statements

In the Gospel of John, Jesus uses seven specific "I Am" statements to describe His character and His role in our lives. These metaphors help us visualize who He is to us.

  • Read: John 15:1–11 (The Vine and the Branches).

  • Key Insight: Jesus describes Himself as the "True Vine." He isn't just a teacher we follow; He is the source of our life and energy.

  • Reflection:

    • If Jesus is the vine and you are the branch, what happens when you try to do life on your own?

    • "Abiding" means staying connected. What are the things in your daily life that help you feel "connected" to Him?

Part 3: Look at His Heart

To know Jesus is to understand what makes Him tick. One of the most revealing passages about His internal disposition is found in the book of Matthew.

  • Read: Matthew 11:28–30.

  • Reflect: Jesus describes Himself as "gentle and lowly in heart." This is the only place in the Gospels where Jesus describes His own heart. He isn't a harsh taskmaster; He is a rest-giver.

  • Discussion Questions:

    • How does the image of a "gentle and lowly" Jesus compare to your previous perceptions of Him?

    • What "heavy burdens" are you carrying right now that you could bring to Him?

Part 4: The Power of His Presence

Knowing Jesus also means understanding that He is alive today through the Holy Spirit. He promised not to leave us as orphans.

  • Read: John 14:15–21.

  • Apply: Communication is key to any relationship. Knowing Jesus better involves prayer (talking to Him) and listening (noticing His prompts in your spirit or through Scripture).

  • Next Steps:

    • Set aside 5–10 minutes tomorrow morning just to talk to Him as you would a close friend.

    • Ask Him: "Jesus, show me who You are today."

A Simple Prayer to Start

"Jesus, I want to know You more than I do right now. Open my eyes as I read Your Word, and help me to see Your character, Your love, and Your presence in my life today. Amen."


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