December 27, 2025
A video introduction using illustrations, personal stories, metaphors, or active learning examples to begin the discussion.
After the video, prompts are supplied for thinking and sharing with others personal perception and experience. This opening activity prompts participants to think about and relate to the topic, and to share with others.
If you were to walk down the aisles of a grocery store and examine the labels on everyday products, you would see some interesting distinctions in products. Some items boldly claim to be “real,” while others—sitting right beside them—offer something that looks similar but isn’t the same. The labels tell the story: one is genuine, the other an imitation or substitute. Notice and discuss the difference between items like these:
“Made with Real Fruit” versus “fruit-flavored snacks”
“Real Vanilla Extract” versus “vanilla flavoring”
“100% Real Maple Syrup” versus “maple-flavored syrup”
Real butter versus vegetable oil spread
“100% Real Juice” versus “juice drink” or “juice beverage”
“Made with Real Cheese” versus “cheese-flavored product”
And even “Made with Real Sugar” versus high-fructose corn syrup products.
The labels may be subtle, but the ingredients reveal the difference. In the same way, John’s Gospel shows how Jesus distinguishes between those who seem to follow Him and those who truly do.
The Bible discussion begins with a careful reading of the whole passage, either from your own Bibles, or from the provided images below.
Then participants are to ask:
Jesus’ words in John 8 show a distinction between believers and real disciples? Belief begins the journey, but “real disciples” are those who hold to His teaching and let His word shape their decisions and desires (John 15:7). This kind of abiding opens the door to knowing the Truth, not just as information but as a relationship with Christ Himself (John 14:6). Real discipleship is not measured by enthusiasm but by an enduring walk with Christ.
Jesus then raises a second question: Do you recognize the difference between freedom and being free indeed? His listeners might think of political liberty, but Jesus speaks of the deeper bondage of sin. What is “real freedom” in Christ? Read Galatians 4:4-7. Jesus, the Son, offers not partial relief but a freedom that restores identity, dignity, and belonging. “If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” Where do you see false freedom promising much but delivering little? What does real freedom look like?
A parting video clip with a personal invitation to apply the message to “knowing Christ” and “living in Christ” in the coming week.