Experience Jesus Like Never Before
in My In-Person Bible Study
at Cherry Hills Community Church

One of the most memorable miracles in John’s Gospel is Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead in Bethany, revealing his authority over death and his deep compassion. Martha and Mary summon him when Lazarus falls ill, yet he delays to strengthen his disciples’ faith and display his glory. Upon arrival, Jesus weeps with those who mourn and then calls Lazarus from the tomb after four days. This astonishing event persuades many to believe in him but also stirs up religious opposition. Ultimately, Lazarus’ resurrection foreshadows Jesus’ own victory over death and affirms him as the source of eternal life.

In the second class, we explore Jesus’ retreat to Perea, a region under Herod Antipas that includes both Jews and Gentiles. There, Jesus meets the rich young ruler, heals Bartimaeus, and interacts with Zacchaeus, each event highlighting different facets of faith, discipleship, and grace. These encounters demonstrate the gospel’s universal reach and the sacrifices required to follow him. After returning to Bethany, Jesus attends a dinner where Mary anoints his feet with costly perfume, provoking Judas’ objection. This chapter underscores the balance between Jesus’ inclusive mission and the personal devotion he inspires, challenging readers to consider generosity, faith, and the complexities of human relationships in their own spiritual journeys.

This class highlights Jesus’ humble act of washing his disciples’ feet, revealing a model of true leadership rooted in service. Predicting both Judas’s betrayal and Peter’s denial, he exposes vulnerability among his closest followers. Jesus then introduces a new commandment to love one another as he loves them and underscores the importance of remaining connected to him, using the metaphor of the vine and branches. In anticipation of future hardships, he promises the Holy Spirit as an advocate to guide and strengthen his followers amid persecution. Concluding with his High Priestly Prayer, Jesus highlights his courage and selfless mission, inviting readers to embrace his teachings on love and resilience while fostering a unified community grounded in enduring faith.

This class focuses on Judas’ betrayal, which leads to Jesus’ arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane and triggers a series of tense events that test the loyalty of his followers. As soldiers seize Jesus, his calm demeanor contrasts with the aggression around him, revealing his steadfast resolve. The interrogation before Annas and Caiaphas showcases Jesus’ unwavering commitment to his mission, while Peter’s three denials expose the fragility of human loyalty. Tensions mount as the Jewish authorities question Jesus’ claim to kingship, highlighting the clash between divine truth and earthly power. This session lays the groundwork for Jesus’ impending trials and crucifixion, illustrating the profound human and spiritual conflicts at stake.

This class begins with the disciples’ fear and uncertainty after Jesus’ resurrection, as they remain behind locked doors. Jesus appears among them, offers peace, and breathes the Holy Spirit on them, empowering them for their mission. Thomas, absent during this encounter, doubts until Jesus invites him to touch his wounds, prompting the profound declaration, “My Lord and my God!” We then explore Jesus’ commissioning of the disciples to forgive sins, the miraculous catch of fish by the Sea of Tiberias, and the shared breakfast that deepens their fellowship with him. Finally, we witness Jesus restore Peter by questioning his devotion three times, establishing the disciples’ transformation from fearful followers to bold leaders in the early church.