Small Group Discussion Week 3

Dwell

Week 03 – Seekers and Haters

Transition:

This year our Christmas series is called Dwell. The premise is that God came to dwell with us so that we (His children) could dwell with Him. Each message will be predicated on the word dwell (although the meaning will be used in various ways). Last week we saw that Jesus had to become fully human so that (among other things) He would be qualified to rescue humans from sin and death.

Context:

This week, the message was based on the reality that not everyone was excited to hear that Israel’s Messiah (and Savior) had arrived. Some even opposed Him while He was just a child. Nothing has changed in that regard since then. Ultimately, there are only two kinds of people—those who want more of Him and those who despise Him.

Opening Questions:

• When were you first drawn to Jesus? What attracted you specifically? What happened as a result?

• Have you ever had a conversation about Jesus with someone who opposes/denies Him? If so, share the story. (Be sure to mention what the person had/has against Him and how the conversation ended).

Scripture/Storying: Matthew 2:1-18

Discipleship Questions:

• In today’s reading, who are the characters mentioned and what is each one’s reaction to the news that the Messiah had come?

• Who are the wisemen? From where do you think they came? How do you think they heard about Israel’s Messiah? How does this encourage your walk with the Lord?

• Read the following OT passages...Psalm 2, Isaiah 9:1-7, Isaiah 49:1-7, and Micah 5:2-5a. What do you learn about Israel’s Messiah? (FYI...the passage may not mention the word Messiah specifically.) If you were alive (and an adult) at the time of Jesus’ birth, with these Scriptures in mind, how would you recognize Him?

• Read 1 Peter 2:1-10. How does an outsider become an insider (a member of God’s family)? How does God view the outsider who becomes an insider (once he or she is inside)? Of the descriptions given in v9, which do you identify with the most right now? Why? How does it affect the way you view life?

• Read Luke 4:6-13. Why do you think people from Jesus’ hometown reacted the way they did to His declaration that He was the fulfillment of the passage He read? How do we help people who think they know the real Jesus, but in truth, do not? Have you ever had the chance to help someone in this way? If so, share the story.

• What has God taught you this past week? In what ways is God currently working in your life, heart, and/or mind to be transformed into the image of Jesus?

Prayer time:

This week we are praying that our Christmas Angel Tree will be successful. All gifts are for Street Hope, a ministry that we support as a church. Pray for the leaders ...that they will have wisdom and keep their focus on Jesus Christ and His vision for the ministry. Pray for the participants...that they would find healing for their souls. And pray for the workers...that they would continue to rely on God’s strength as they courageously help the participants.