Grow Group Questions – December 10, 2023
Icebreaker:
What are some positive qualities you recall about your father from your childhood?
Sermon Discussion – Matthew 1:18-25
- What one word would you use to describe Joseph’s response to the angel’s message?
- How would you describe Joseph’s character based on this story?
- Joseph was gracious to Mary when he thought that she had dishonored him. What are some ways people “dishonor” each other in our world?
- Why is making the choice to extend grace when dishonored so difficult for us?
- According to the text, the people of Israel expected a political savior, but Jesus didn’t fulfill those expectations. Are there any other ways that the reality of Jesus’ life and mission did not meet people’s expectations?
- Reflect on the significance of the name “Immanuel” (“God is with us”). In what way have you experienced Jesus as “Immanuel” in your life recently?
Going Deeper Read Isaiah 1:16–20
- What sin issues were the people of Israel wrestling with?
- Which of those ancient sins still impacts our world? How do we see it today?
- Does Israel’s cycle of sin still apply in 2023? How might our version look different from ancient Israel?
- What solution is offered for Israel’s cycle of sin?
- In Isaiah’s depiction of the Servant, the text mentions that “YHWH was pleased to crush him severely.” How does this idea of God being pleased with the suffering of the Servant (Jesus) align with or challenge your understanding of God’s justice and mercy?
- Pastor Steve asked us to look at the problems in our lives and decide if we have a willingness to look at the real problem. (ex. Marriage issues, job issues, children)
- Share how you were challenged to live differently this week
Prayer:
Use the answers to the last question as prompts for how to pray for one another.
Reminder for Next week: We will be in Matthew 2:11-23 – Read ahead!