1. Our Need for Direction March 13

2. Remember the time … What was it like when you were in a situation where you suddenly had no source of light? Today we look at one of the “I Am” claims by Jesus – Jesus is the Light who reveals the way we should go

3. Listen for how to receive light. John 8:12 (NIV) When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

4. Jesus – The Light of the World Who did Jesus say that He was? What did Jesus say would be the result of following Him? In what setting might Jesus have been speaking that led Him to use light as his second “I am” statement? Why is light a fitting metaphor for Jesus?

5. Jesus – The Light of the World To what does light stand in contrast? Where do you see evidence of darkness in today’s world? In what way is Jesus a "light"? How is Jesus the light in your world?

6. Jesus – The Light of the World How are people in a state of darkness before they believe in Jesus? What does it look like never to walk in darkness (spiritual darkness)? How would we, on a daily basis, walk in the “light of life?”

7. Listen for a legal argument. John 8:13-15 (NIV) The Pharisees challenged him, "Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid." 14 Jesus answered, "Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going. But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going. 15 You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one.

8. Jesus – True and Trustworthy How did the Pharisees challenge Jesus? Why did Jesus say His own testimony was valid? Why could the Pharisees not understand who Jesus was and the validity of His statements?

9. Jesus – True and Trustworthy What are some reasons people give today for rejecting God’s Word as truth? Why is Jesus’ testimony credible to you?

10. Listen for comments on Jesus’ Father. John 8:16-19 (NIV) 16 But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone. I stand with the Father, who sent me. 17 In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two men is valid. 18 I am one who testifies for myself;

11. Listen for comments on Jesus’ Father. my other witness is the Father, who sent me." 19 Then they asked him, "Where is your father?" "You do not know me or my Father," Jesus replied. "If you knew me, you would know my Father also."

12. Jesus – Makes Known God the Father Why did Jesus say His decisions were right? What two witnesses did Jesus claim testified on His behalf? To what did Jesus appeal in these verses to prove He is the Light of the World?

13. Jesus – Makes Known God the Father Why did Jesus say to His opponents that in spite of what they claimed, they truly did not know the Father? What decisions must we make in order to follow Jesus’ judgments and directions? How does Jesus continue to be your light?

14. Application Identify – Consider a challenge you face that has frozen you in your tracks. – You are afraid whatever decision you make might be wrong – Ask the Lord to show you light to take the step you need to take

15. Application Guide – Maybe you know someone facing a difficult decision – This week offer to meet with him or her to discuss the issues and pray together about the decision

16. Application Study – With a concordance and study Bible, research how John uses the concept of light in his Gospel – Take notes on what you find, meditate on the concepts

17. Our Need for Direction March 13