Read John 6:24-35.

1. Pastor Mick told a story about stray cats at his mom’s house. What point was he trying to make relative to today’s passage?

2. Do you know anyone (or have you ever been) who is a “stray cat” or a “rice Christian” as described in today’s message? What is the problem with a faith life that functions at this level?

3. In verse 27, Jesus talks about two different kinds of food. What are these types of food and what is the difference between them?

4. Pastor Mick shared a comment from Bishop Palmer when he recently said we’re all truly hungry for (1) The Gospel/Good News, (2) Community, and (3) Transformation. Do you agree that these are things for which everyone truly hungers? Are there other things you’d add to this list?

5. What did Pastor Mick mean when he talked about “soul food”?

6. What was Jesus’ response to the crowd’s question, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” Do you think they were surprised by his answer? Do you think they understood his answer? What about people today? Are they still surprised? Do they understand? How about you?

7. Pastor Mick shared the story of an inner-city Chicago pastor saying, “Just be.” What did she mean by that? Do you think she makes a good point? Why/why not?

8. In verse 35 Jesus tells us He is the bread of life and whoever comes to Him will never go hungry again. What does He mean by this? Is He speaking literally, of physical hunger? If not, what is He talking about?

Prayer for the Week:
Lord Jesus, you are the Bread of Life, the Bread of God that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. Help us to stop working so hard for food that spoils, and instead feast on the food that leads to eternal life. As you stand at the door of our hearts and knock, we are excited to invite you in so that we will always be in your presence. Lord, give us the faith we need to seek true fulfillment in you and you alone. Fill us to overflowing with your love so that others may meet you through us, opening the door to their own hearts when you knock, and receiving for themselves the gift of life that is abundant and eternal. We pray this Lord Jesus, in your precious, holy and strong name. Amen.