The Danger of Comparison in Following Jesus (John 20:20-22)

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20 Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them, the one who also had leaned back against him during the supper and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?" 21 When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?" 22 Jesus said to him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!"

Discussion Questions:

  1. Jesus quickly corrects Peter whenever Peter begins to compare himself with John. Why is comparing your life with the life of those around you so dangerous?

  2. Have you ever compared yourself to other believers and questioned God's intentions or plans for you? 

  3. What does it mean to follow Jesus?

  4. In verse 18 we see Jesus telling Peter about the death he was going to die. In verses 19 and 22 we Jesus invite Peter to follow him. This tells us two things: (1) following Jesus will not always be easy and (2) Jesus will be with us in the midst of trials. How does this bring us comfort as we follow Jesus?