LifeGroup Questions

Sermon Passage: Matt 26:26-75; John 21:15-19

Sermon Title: Shattered Dreams

Sermon Big Idea:

On Palm Sunday, the disciples expected Jesus to establish an earthly kingdom and give them power and position. But Jesus, fully aware of what lay ahead, predicted betrayal, denial, and suffering. Though their hopes were shattered, God’s plan was unfolding perfectly. Through Peter’s failure, Jesus reveals His power, love, and grace—showing that our lowest moments can bring us closer to Him for His glory and our good in serving Him.

Sermon Points:

  1. Trust the Lord who reigns (Matt 26:30-35)

  2. Rest in the Lord who loves without needing us (Matt 26:36-75)

  3. Return to the Lord who restores the broken (John 21:15-19) 

Questions: (Use, modify, be selective according to the needs of your LifeGroup)

  1. Matt 26:30–35 – What is the significance of Jesus predicting Peter’s denial?

    • How might that have helped Peter beforehand, and how could it have comforted him afterward?

    • How are you personally comforted by the fact that Jesus knew all your sins and failures—past and future—when He chose to die for you?

  2. Matt 26:36–75 – Where did Peter go wrong? What attitudes led to his denial?

    • How does Jesus’ look at Peter (Luke 22:61) reflect His heart toward him?

    • How do verses like Deut 31:6 (cited in Heb 13:5), Luke 22:31–34, and Matt 28:19 give insight into Jesus’ intention in that moment?

  3. What situations tempt you to stay quiet about your faith? If widespread persecution broke out in our country, how might we—at Foothills or personally—respond?

    • How do we encourage brothers or sisters who are discouraged about failure (Gal 6:1)

  4. Matt 26:30, 36 – At a pivotal moment in redemption history, Jesus still prayed and sang.
    Why are singing (Col 3:16) and prayer (Luke 18:1; Phil 4:6) vital in the Christian life?

  5. John 21:15–19 – What is accomplished in Jesus’ conversation with Peter?

    • What’s the significance of the repeated question, “Do you love me?” and the commands to “feed my sheep” and “tend my lambs”?

    • How would this have comforted Peter, and what does it reveal about the heart of ministry?