Overview

In 8 studies, trusted guides J. I. Packer and Carolyn Nystrom lead you through a study of Jesus’ farewell to his disciples in John 14-17. They help you discover what it means to abide in Christ during the time between Christ’s departure and his second coming.

Introduction

Getting the Most Out of Abiding in Christ
This section introduces the topic, explains the structure followed in each study and offers tips for those approaching the study on their own as well as those participating in a group.

Session One

A Life of Love
Of all the final commands Jesus might have left with his followers, why do you think he now says, "Love one another"? When have you been the beneficiary of this command?
John 13:31-14:4

Session Two

Which Way to God?
In verse 12 Jesus says, "Anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing." Mentally review your plans for the coming week. What personal challenge do you find in Jesus’ statement?
John 14:5-14

Session Three

Looking Within
Jesus draws their time together in the upper room to a close in much the same way that he began: "Do not let your hearts be troubled." Slowly read aloud the words of verse 27 as though Jesus is now speaking them to you. In what areas of your life do you most need, and now receive, this blessing of peace?
John 14:15-31

Session Four

Being Connected
Notice that several times Jesus uses the word remain (NIV) as he speaks of life on the vine. What does it mean to "remain in love"?
John 15:1-17

Session Five

Overcoming Rejection
In view of the kind of reception Jesus tells his disciples to expect, why do you think he still tells them, "You also must testify [about me]"?
John 15:18-16:16

Session Six

Anticipating the Future
"You believe at last!" shouts Jesus near the end of their conversation. How would these words and the rest of his closing statements help his disciples keep on believing through and beyond the difficult days ahead? What kinds of faith support has God provided you in your own difficult days?
John 16:16-33

Session Seven

Defining Purpose
Mentally picture a dozen people who follow you in one way or another. What would have to happen for you to be able to say at the end of your life, "Father, I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world"?
John 17:1-19

Session Eight

Leaving a Legacy
Jesus prayed for you, "May [insert your name here] also be in us so that the world may believe..." How can you begin or continue to live out that legacy?
John 17:20-26

Total number of pages - 63 pages

J. I. Packer is Board of Governors' Professor of Theology at Regent College in Vancouver, British Columbia. His books include Evangelism & the Sovereignty of God, Knowing God, Knowing Christianity and another LifeGuide® Bible Study, Meeting God.

Carolyn Nystrom, based in the western Chicago suburbs, has written more than seventy-five books and Bible study guide, including the LifeGuide® Bible Studies Christian Leadership (with John Stott), Friendship, Integrity, Money & Work, New Testament Characters and 1 & 2 Peter and Jude.