These questions are a menu, not a checklist. Choose one opening question, one or two for deeper conversation, and one next step.
Share only what you are comfortable sharing. Passing is welcome. Listen to understand. Avoid quick explanations, unsolicited advice, or statements such as everything happens for a reason. Allow honest questions and anger without correcting someone's feelings. Keep personal stories confidential. A helpful response is, I don't know why that happened, but I am glad you told us.
1. What part of the passage or teaching stayed with you, and why?
2. How did you respond to the disciples asking whose sin caused the man's blindness? Where do you see people making that connection today?
3. Why do we move so quickly toward blame or explanations when someone suffers? What kind of response helps you feel cared for?
4. The man's understanding of Jesus grows throughout the chapter. What helps faith grow when some questions remain unanswered?
5. Jesus finds the man after he is pushed out. What does this show you about God's character? If you wish, share a time someone sought you out when you felt alone.
6. Which part of Jesus' description of the Good Shepherd helps you most in uncertainty? What makes trusting him difficult right now, if you are comfortable sharing?
7. If helpful, finish this sentence: I don't know ______, but one thing I do know is ______. It is also all right to say what you are still hoping to know.
8. What is one faithful step you could take this week, and how could this table support you? Or who might need you to seek them out and offer care?
Before we finish, is there anything you would like this table to pray with you about?
Ask permission before sharing anyone's request beyond the table.
