The Big Drop: Why Did Jesus Weep?

Student Takeover weekend 2025, Pastor Edwin goes into the significance of why did Jesus weep, and how that's a picture of God's plan for us.

Dive deeper into the message with these discussion questions! 

John 11:1-37

General:

  • In what ways have you experienced life feeling like a roller coaster, especially with unexpected “drops”?
  • During a recent or past “big drop” in your life, who or what did you turn to for comfort or direction?
  • What stands out to you most in the story of Lazarus in John 11, and why?
  • Mary and Martha both approached Jesus differently in this passage. How do their different responses impact you?
  • Can you think of a time when it felt like Jesus was silent during a season when you desperately wanted answers? How did you respond?
  • Re-read John 11:25-27. What does it mean that Jesus, Himself, is the resurrection and the life? Do you truly believe His promises about eternal life?

Take Home 1: What if sometimes God allows big drops so we can give him the glory that is rightfully His?

  • Are there situations in your life where you’ve struggled but later realized God was working through them for His glory? What were they?
  • What’s something in your life that might need to be surrendered or “laid to rest” so that God’s power can be made known?
  • When has God proven His power or presence to you, even if it wasn’t the outcome you expected?

Take Home 2: Just because we're blind to Christ's glory, doesn't mean it isn't about to shine (John 11:36-37)

  • What are some things that keep us distracted or “blind” from Jesus for who He is?
  • Where do you currently need to let go of fear or doubt so that you can believe what God has promised?
  • What is one way you can “clutch onto Jesus” this week—especially when life feels uncertain or overwhelming?

Take Home 3: What if our tears are part of being molded into the image of Christ? (John 11:35)

  • How can tears (whether your own or someone else’s) be used by God to connect us more deeply with one another?
  • Pastor Edwin said that Jesus (the one who created the universe) stood face to face with the one thing He didn’t create: death. How does that truth deepen your understanding of His compassion and power?
  • Re-read Re 21:1-4. How does the promise that Jesus will one day wipe away every tear give you hope in your current situation?
  • What does it mean for you to trust God with your pain, knowing He sees your tears and is using them to shape you into Christ’s image?

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