Sermon Discussion Guide: The Word Made Flesh

WEEK ONE: THE DIVINITY OF JESUS (JOHN 1:1-5)

1. How are you feeling moving into this Advent season? What emotions come to mind when you think about Advent in general?
2. This week we focused on the divinity of Jesus. Read John 1:1-5. This text points to the theological reality of the pre-existence of Christ. Where do you see evidence in these verses that Jesus was present at creation? Why is His presence at creation significant in affirming His deity?
3. Turn to Colossians 1:15-20. Where do you see parallels of the themes in John 1:1-5? What additional truths do we learn about Jesus?
4. What would it look like practically to recognize the divinity of Jesus in your everyday life? What might change?
5. Is His divinity something you rest in? Why or why not?

WEEK TWO: THE HUMANITY OF JESUS (JOHN 1:14-18)

1. Read John 1:14-18. Would you describe yourself as someone who has “seen Christ’s glory” (verse 14)? Why or why not? If the answer is “yes,” how have you seen the glory of Jesus around you or in your own life?
2. Take turns looking up the following verses and reading them aloud: Luke 2:7, 40, 52; John 4:6 and 19:28; Matthew 4:1-2 and 26:38; Luke 24:39. How do each of these verses affirm the humanity of Christ?
3. Imagine a child asks, “Why did God have to become human?” How would you answer? (For help, see Romans 5:12, 19; I Corinthians 15:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21.)
4. Which House Rule do you see in these verses? (See verses 14 and 17). How is Jesus the perfect example of this House Rule in action?
5. Take a moment to read “The Word Made Flesh” in the Grace magazine and discuss what stands out to you.

WEEK THREE: THE GENEROSITY OF JESUS (JOHN 1:9-13)

1. Read John 1:9-11. Why do you think Jesus wasn’t recognized in His day? Why do you think He was rejected?
2. What are some of the misconceptions people have about Jesus today? What were (or are) some of your biggest misconceptions? Why do you think people continue to reject Jesus today?
3. Read John 1:12-13. According to these verses, what is necessary for becoming a child of God? How could you paraphrase verse 12 in your own words?
4. Why do you think familial pain is heightened around the holidays? Would anyone like to share about some of the familial pain or wounding you’re carrying?
5. How do verses 12-13 offer comfort and hope for those wrestling with family pain and woundedness? How do they offer hope to all of us?

WEEK FOUR: THE EXCELLENCY OF JESUS (JOHN 1:43-51)

1. Read John 1:43-51. What stands out to you in this story?
2. Take a moment to read “The Stigma and Splendor of Nazareth” in the Grace magazine and discuss what stands out to you.
3. In verse 48 Jesus tells Nathanael, “I saw you.” Do you believe Jesus truly “sees” you in your current situation? Why or why not?
4. In verse 50 Jesus promises Nathanael, “You will see greater things than this.” Do you believe Jesus can do great and unimaginable things in your life? What prevents you from trusting Him to do good in your life?
5. What is one thing you would love to see God do in your life in 2023? Close by praying for one another in these areas.

Looking for a place to call home? We’d love to meet you! Click here to introduce yourself and learn more about Grace Church, or click here to find a campus near you.