Experience the Miracles of Christmas Sermon Study Guide – FGMB

Advent 3 - “The Miracle of Meeting God”

December 27, 2015 Scripture Readings: Isaiah 7:13-14, Proverbs 8:22-31, John 1:14-18, Ephesians 1:1-14 Sermon Notes: The Creator Enters into Creation The Miracle of God with us – “Pitched His tent among us – Tabernacle-ing” The Miracles of Union with God – “We do not look to ourselves to know more about God” Discussion Questions:

1. In Isaiah 7:13-14, the prophet declares that the answer to the king’s struggle will be found in “Immanuel – God with us.” What are some of the overwhelming things that you are facing in your daily life right now? How does the idea of God’s presence in these situations change things? Be honest, does it really seem that God is “with us” in your challenges? What does that look like?

2. The idea of meeting God implies that incarnation and relationship with God are connected. What are some of the ways that you intentionally spend time in “meeting God” on a daily basis? Would you say that these habits are strongly formed in you or do you need encouragement? Who will you ask to walk with you and be your accountability support?

3. Reading the Proverbs 8 passage about “wisdom” as linked to the person of Jesus (John 1 – logos/Word) opens a new way of thinking about Jesus in the Old Testament. (Note: A poor reading of v.22 might suggest that Jesus is “created” rather than creator.) Aside from this, what are some new insights that this passage brings to your mind?

4. Ephesians 1 says that our salvation through Jesus has been in the mind of God since the beginning. The term “grace” is mentioned several times in this text. How would you describe how the incarnation is an act of grace? Take turns explaining it to one another in your group.

Take Action: “Truly knowing someone takes time…” Take time this week to deepen a relationship with someone that you “kind of” know. Who are they? What motivates them? What do they love? What needs do they have I their life – relationally, materially, spiritually? Now share with them who you really are! Additional Resources: Article: Who is “Wisdom” in Proverbs 8? http://www.equip.org/article/who-is-wisdom-in-proverbs-8/ Definition of skeno’o (dwelt among us): http://biblehub.com/greek/4637.htm N.T. Wright sermon – “Full of Grace and Truth”: http://ntwrightpage.com/sermons/Christmas06.htm