Small Group Discussion Week 2

Dwell

Week 02 – Jesus is Human

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 heard the overarching story of the Bible and saw that God Himself is our rescuer.

Context:

This week’s message is focused on the reality that even though God is our rescuer (from sin and death), it was essential for Him to be fully human. Firstly, anything other than a human would not be fit to pay for our sin. But also, our rescuer would need to be perfect (not tainted by sin as we are). Only an uncorrupted human is fit to take on the wages of our sin and die in our place.

Opening Questions:

• In the gospels, what stories of Jesus do you love/appreciate the most, and why?

• To you, why is it important that Jesus was fully human? Share the story of a time in your life when you especially related to Jesus being a real human.

Scripture/Storying: John 1:1-14

Discipleship Questions:

• Compare John 1:1-14 with Genesis 1. What do you see in both passages?

• What are the different ways that John shows that Jesus is God Himself?

• What does it mean that God gave those who believe in the name of Jesus and receive Him have been given the right to become God’s children? If you have done this, how does this impact your thinking and the way you live?

• Explain v14 in the context of what John has said in the opening of his gospel. What is his point and why does he make it? (FYI, the word translated as only Son can also be translated as only begotten Son. See also,

John 3:16.)

• Read Hebrews 9:11-28. Why was it essential for Jesus to be fully human? What is your response to what Jesus did for you?

• Read Hebrews 2:10-18 and 4:14-16. In what ways does it benefit you that Jesus is fully human? How does this reality impact your everyday thoughts and actions?

• What is the Holy Spirit leading you to think or do from your time in group today?

Prayer time:

This week we are praying for Hope Resource Center.

Please pray for...

• The patients’ physical health and well-being

• That the patients would have healthy (godly) mental attitudes throughout this holiday season

• Endurance and wisdom for the staff