The Home of God

Fellowship – Snacks or a Meal (10 minutes with snacks; longer, obviously, if there is a meal).

Gathering Time (5-10 minutes). In pairs or groups of three, have participants answer, “Whom do you think of when you hear the phrase ‘saints in your life’?”

Group Dialogue (Approximately 30 minutes). Read Revelation 21:1-6a and John 11:32-44 (All Saints Day texts)

• What is the significance of the "new heaven and a new earth" in Revelation 21:1? [The "new heaven and a new earth" signify the complete renewal and transformation of creation. It represents the fulfillment of God's plan to restore everything to its intended glory, free from the corruption and brokenness of the current world. This new creation reflects God's desire to dwell with God’s people in a perfect, harmonious relationship.]
• What does Jesus’ weeping tell you about his relationship with Lazarus and the people around him in John 11:35? [Jesus’ weeping shows his deep compassion and empathy for those mourning Lazarus's death. It also reveals his humanity and his genuine love for Lazarus, Mary, and Martha.]
• What does Jesus’ prayer in John 11:41-42 reveal about his relationship with God? [Jesus prays aloud to show his dependence on God and to make it clear to the people that this miracle is done through the power of God.]
• How does the raising of Lazarus point to Jesus’ resurrection? [The raising of Lazarus is a powerful sign that foreshadows Jesus’ resurrection. It demonstrates his authority over life and death and his ability to give new life. Just as Jesus called Lazarus from the tomb, Jesus will rise from the dead, confirming his identity as the resurrection and the life.]
• “Jesus said, ‘Take away the stone’” (John 11:39a). What might the “stone” represent in your life and how are you called to remove it? [The “stone” could represent anything that blocks you from fully experiencing God’s power and grace—doubt, fear, sin, or grief. Just as the people had to act by moving the stone, you are called to confront and remove obstacles through faith, prayer, and community support.]
• "We need to give space for that as we worship. But those tears and that sadness are not to be seen as a denial of faith in eternity or the hope of reunion in a heaven beyond description. We can hold both things together, grief and hope both. Joy and sadness often sit side by side in our hearts and in our communities. Indeed, we grieve not only for the loss of our named loved ones on this day, but for all the saints of the church, and for the innocents who are being lost every day in our broken world. At the same time, we hold out hope for the vision of kin-dom described by Jesus where faith bubbles up in surprising places and binds us together around this shared vision.” (Preaching Notes, Nov. 3)
  • What is your reaction to this reading?
  • What is one way you will bring hope or healing to someone experiencing loss or despair this week?
  • How can you live out hope and renewal?

Prayer (10 minutes). Share prayer requests and respond appropriately.

Sending Forth (2 minutes). Pray the following prayer, a similar prayer, or the Lord’s Prayer:

Gracious and loving God, we thank You for the promise of a new heaven and a new earth, where You will dwell with us forever and for the gift of resurrection and new life. Fill our hearts with compassion and hope. Guide us to be instruments of Your healing in the world. Strengthen our faith and empower us to live as witnesses of Your love and power. Amen.

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Discipleship Ministries staff created this small groups resource with assistance from AI tools.