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Oikos Sermons

Exegesis of John 3:16, Part 1

Phil Gons · May 21, 2017 · Spring Creek Bible Church · 56m

Part 4 of Introduction to New Testament Exegesis

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56:02

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For families

Ages Teens

This is a careful, methodical introduction to biblical exegesis using John 3:16 as the teaching text. The pastor models how to ask good questions of Scripture, consult different translations, and trace theological themes—skills that will serve young people well in their own Bible study. It’s meaty without being heavy, and genuinely invites listeners into the work of understanding God’s Word.

Worth knowing: The sermon includes discussion of sin, judgment, and perishing, though handled matter-of-factly rather than graphically.

Character of GodJesus’ life & wordsGospel

Talk about it together (5 questions)
  1. The pastor says that asking good questions about the Bible is ‘a critical part of being an investigative thinker.’ What’s one question about John 3:16 that you’ve always wondered about?
  2. Why do you think the pastor spent time comparing different Bible translations of the same verse instead of just reading one version?
  3. The pastor mentions that John wrote his Gospel quite late—maybe 60 years after Jesus rose from the dead. How might that affect what John chose to write about and how he explained things?
  4. Look at the connection the pastor makes between the bronze serpent in Numbers 21 and Jesus being ‘lifted up’ on the cross. Why do you think John wanted his readers to remember that Old Testament story?
  5. The pastor identifies five major themes in John’s Gospel, and says John 3:16 touches on most of them. Which of those themes matters most to you right now, and why?

Used by permission of Phil Gons — philgons.com