Returning to John 11, Sebastiano reminded us that Jesus raised Lazarus not only out of love for Lazarus, but so that those watching would believe that He had been sent by the Father. Yet the miracle produced two very different responses: many believed, while others resisted what was plainly before them because they trusted another story instead. Sebastiano challenged us to understand belief as more than intellectual agreement with Jesus. It is relying on and depending upon Him enough to follow His way, even when doing so requires surrendering our preferences, loving difficult people, and trusting that His way is better than our own.

The big question is: Do I trust Jesus enough to let His truth overrule what I want, think, or feel?

Group Discussion Questions:

1. What does it mean to believe? Sebastiano described biblical belief as more than agreeing that something is true; it means relying on or depending upon Jesus. How does that understanding deepen or challenge the way you think about "believing in Jesus"?

2. Have the truths we’ve heard changed the way we’re living? Looking back over the Strengthening the Family series, what truth has God been asking you not simply to agree with, but to depend on Jesus enough to actually put into practice?

3. What competes with the truth of Jesus? The religious leaders saw the same evidence everyone else saw, yet fear and self-interest shaped the story they chose to believe. What voices, fears, assumptions, or "half-truths" can make it difficult for us to trust and follow Jesus?

4. Whose way will I trust? Where are you most tempted to trust your own preference, perspective, or desire rather than depending on Jesus and seeking what is best for His body and His mission?

5. What will dependence on Jesus look like this week? If believing means depending on Jesus enough to live His way, what is one specific action He may be asking you to take this week?