Grow Guide | March 29, 2026
Text Study for Sunday, March 29, 2026
Series Theme: That They May All Be One
Reading: John 12:20-28
CONNECTING QUESTIONS
Google the hymn, “Seed that in Earth is Dying.” What lyrics speak to you?
PRAYER FOR ILLUMINATION
Merciful God, accompany our journey through these forty days. Renew us in the gift of baptism, that we may provide for those who are poor, pray for those in need, fast from self-indulgence, and above all that we may find our treasure in the life of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, Amen.
CONTEXT
Our series, That They May All Be One, we will focus on Jesus's life and ministry as he journeys to the cross. Easter people, we are also on a journey! A journey for Easter church to settle into one building together. A journey to rediscover Christianity that prioritizes care for our neighbor and discipleship that mirrors the transformative love of Jesus. A journey to notice Jesus in unexpected ways and as he unites us all in his life, death and resurrection. John 17:20-21 “I ask not only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” Jesus does not let anyone remain in suffering or without community. Jesus calls us together! What will you do this Lent to come to closer to Jesus and to everyone in our community? How will we share God’s love in Jesus together, as one people?
From Dr Craig Koester at EntertheBible.org:
Jesus says that unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. On one level this saying describes Jesus’ ministry. Jesus performs many miracles for people, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and even raising the dead. Often, however, people misunderstand or are offended by these miracles. Since he heals on the Sabbath, some think he is a lawbreaker. Since the miracles make him popular, some think he will create a political movement that will prompt the Romans to take violent action against the Jewish people. At the end of his ministry, Jesus is like the grain of wheat: he is very much alone and misunderstood, even though he is physically surrounded by people. His ministry will bear fruit through his death, resurrection, and ascension, which will make it possible for God’s love to extend to the world. Later on, the disciples will be called to bear much fruit by being the branches connected to the vine which is Jesus (15:5).
LOOK AT THE BOOK
How is it with your spirit this week?
What was one take-away from listening to the Carry On Cast podcast that connects with this Grow Guide?
The author of the book, Stranger God, Richard Beck, invites us to pay attention this Lent to how Jesus may show up to us in disguise. Where might have you seen Jesus in disguise this Lent so far?
Open to John 12. The community is celebrating the Passover festival. What do you know about this festival?
Passover was one of three pilgrimage festivals. Tell about a time you took a journey that ended up having major life significance for you?
Who wants to see Jesus? Why? Read Acts 1:8. Read John 20:30-31. How are they connected? What is happening in this passage?
What do you think “glorified” means in John 20:23? Jesus recognizes that his work is being recognized by others. Is this good or bad?
Jesus goes on in verse 24 to use a powerful metaphor. What do you think Jesus is saying?
In what ways can Easter Lutheran Church become a “grain of wheat, that is planted in the earth?” What transformation(s) do you see in our church right now?
What is Jesus’s call in verse 26? How can everyone participate in this call?
How is Jesus good news for us this week?
What would you like to talk about that we have not yet?
TAKING IT HOME
Who modeled service to others for you? Who are you modelling service to others for?
Sending Prayer
Holy God, you reveal your glory in Jesus Christ and make your people one in his name. Transform us through him and shine your light on the whole world, that we would move into the future you have for us with confidence and joy in his holy name. Amen.