Small Group Discussion Guide
Martha Confronts Jesus Over Lazarus's Death
Season 4 · Episode 7 - 5:51
How to introduce this clip
“Without question, one of the most powerful moments in all of the gospel accounts is when Jesus resurrects Lazarus from the dead. But the moments before that moment are just as powerful—particularly the moment when Martha, Lazarus’s sister, confronts Jesus out of her pain and grief. It’s impossible not to relate to her and the points she raises. The Chosen captures it beautifully in Season 4, so I want to show a clip for our time together. Let me set the scene as to where we’re at in the story. Lazarus has died, and Jesus has finally—finally—arrived at the village where Lazarus lived with his sisters, Martha and Mary. Let’s watch together…”
*If your church does not know about The Chosen, before you show the clip, you might also want to tell them the following: “The Chosen is a television show that tells the story of Jesus through the eyes of the people who knew him.”
Discussion Questions
1. Let’s take a moment to read John 11:1-16. Why did Jesus wait?
2. It is easy to be angry with Jesus when we think he is far from us or doesn’t come when we think he will. When have you experienced what Martha experienced?
3. Even in her pain and anger, what struck you about Martha’s faith, her hope, her love?
4. What truths does Martha place her hope in?
5. What are the results of the faith of those who believe Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life?
6. We know from the rest of this passage that Jesus outwardly grieves Lazarus’s death, too. What is it like to have Jesus grieve with you in times of loss and heartache?
7. How can you rest in the same truths Martha rests in?