Study Questions

1. Peter had a "Top Ten" moment when he confessed Jesus as the Messiah, followed quickly by a "Not Top Ten" moment when he rebuked Jesus. Can you think of a time in your own faith journey when a high moment was followed by a failure or struggle? What did you learn from it?
2. Jesus described his mission as one that would include suffering, rejection, and death. Why do you think the disciples had such a hard time accepting this? In what ways do we sometimes create a version of Jesus that fits our own expectations rather than accepting who he truly is?
3. When Peter rebuked Jesus, Jesus responded by saying, "You do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns." What does it look like practically to shift from thinking with human concerns to thinking with the concerns of God?
4. Jesus calls his disciples to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow him. What does self-denial look like in your everyday life? What is the hardest part of this call for you personally?
5. Jesus says, "Whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it." What are some ways people today try to "save their own life" apart from Jesus? How have you seen this play out?
6. During the Transfiguration, Peter felt compelled to speak and suggest building shelters when silence may have been more appropriate. Why do you think we sometimes feel the need to fill sacred or uncomfortable moments with words or actions? What would it look like to simply be still before God?
7. Moses and Elijah appeared with Jesus on the mountain, representing the Law and the Prophets. Why is it significant that both point to Jesus as the Messiah? How does understanding the Old Testament deepen your appreciation for who Jesus is?
8. God's voice on the mountain commanded the disciples to "Listen to him." In what areas of your life do you find it hardest to listen to and trust Jesus? What gets in the way?
9. The disciples had previously been able to drive out spirits but failed in this instance. Jesus told them afterward that "this kind can only come out by prayer." Why do you think the disciples forgot to pray? Are there areas in your life where you rely on your own ability rather than depending on God through prayer?
10. The father of the demon-possessed boy said, "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" How does this statement resonate with you personally? Is this a prayer you need to pray right now?
11. Throughout these stories, Jesus responds to the disciples' confusion and weak faith with patience, continuing to teach and reveal himself to them. What does this tell us about the character of Jesus and how he responds to our own imperfect faith?
12. Shane said, "The truth is that our faith journey is not about our highlights or our bloopers, it's all about Jesus and how good He is." How does shifting the focus from your own performance in faith to the goodness of Jesus change the way you approach your walk with God?