Chapter Summary

The supper at Bethany. The triumphal entry. Jesus' answer to Greeks.

Discussion Questions for John, Chapter 12

1. What is the significance of the "anointing" of Jesus by Mary? In what ways is this connected to both Lazarus's death and Jesus's coming death?
2. Why is it ironic that Judas was so worried about the cost of the oil that Mary used to anoint Jesus? What was Judas' role amongst the disciples? What might this foreshadow?
3. What was the purpose of the religious leaders killing Lazarus? In what ways did pride and jealousy cause the death of Lazarus? How does jealousy lead us to make irrational and often wicked decisions?
4. According to Isaiah, why did many of the Jews ultimately not believe in Jesus? What does this teach us about God's sovereignty in salvation? What is our role in our salvation?
5. Verse 14 refers to the prophecy in Zechariah 9:9. What are the different ways that you can see these prophecies being fulfilled here in John? Why is it so important that these prophecies are fulfilled in specific ways?
6. How does sitting on a "donkey's colt" (HCSB) demonstrate humility by Jesus? Why is it important that Jesus portrays Himself as humble in this Triumphal Entry? In what ways do you need to grow in humility?
7. Have you ever realized that the same crowds in the triumphal entry are the same crowds that saw Lazarus raised from the dead? In what ways might that change your perspective on the triumphal entry? How does this contrast to the crowds at Jesus's trial?
8. In what ways do verses 32-33 foreshadow the crucifixion? Why is the specific manner of Jesus's death so important to this narrative?
9. Why does Jesus continually testify to the Father? Why is this important? What does this teach you about the Trinity, and the purpose of Jesus?
10. Verses 42-43 show the effects of the fear of man. Why do you think so many who believed in Jesus did not stand up for their beliefs? What is a time where you let fear of man prevent you from confessing Christ?

Key Words/Phrase

Rejection, vv. 4, 11, 19, 38, 40, 48.

Characters

Jesus, Lazarus, Mary, Martha, disciples, Judas, Philip, Andrew, Isaiah, Pharisees.

Strong Verse(s)

25, 26, 32, 35, 46, 48.