Message Notes for December 8, 2024

Series: Unwrapped

Title: Visible Word

Does anything last? Will the gifts of this Christmas stand the test of time? Is there something more beyond the tinsel and the tree; the pretty lights and the gifts; the gatherings and the meals? Can this Christmas be more than the highs and lows of emotions and feelings? Does the Bible really hold the truth of a timeless gift? Is there a mystery that is waiting to be discovered? Is there a God who wants us to see and know Him? UNWRAPPED! Some

gifts really do last forever!

The power of unwrapping the gift of Jesus.

Luke 1:26-38 – The power of the word!

John 1: 1-4, 14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.  2  He was in the beginning with God.  3  All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. … 14  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.

“Rhema” = A Spoken Word

“Logos” = a broader meaning to reference God’s message for humankind.

Notes:

Family/Group Study Notes for the week of December 8, 2024

Series: Unwrapped

Title: Visible Word

* Share with your family or group a time when someone spoke a word over you that changed your direction or even your life?

* Read John 1: 1-14. In what ways is Jesus described in this passage? What are the promises given in this passage? How do we become a child of God? Why does being a child of God matter? How do these different images of Jesus become relevant for your life?

* How would you describe Jesus as the Word of God to someone who does not know God or Jesus?

* Read Colossians 1: 15-23. Describe the ways Jesus is recognized in this passage? What does it mean that Jesus is the head of the body – the Church? Why should Christian’s love and take care of the Church? How do you see Jesus holding things together? What does that look like in marriages,

communities or our world? What does it mean that Jesus made peace through the blood of the cross? What was our position with God before the cross?

* Read Romans 8:3-11. How does Paul describe the critical importance of Jesus in this passage? Why are we unable to please God apart from His Spirit and His presence in us? What is the promise we all receive in this passage? What is the warning?

* Read Luke 1: 26-38. What stands out the most for you in this passage? Why? Mary submitted to the Word of God. Where is the Holy Spirit convicting you to come more under the obedience and promise of God’s Word for you?

* Gather in small groups and pray for each other and your own walk and submission to Jesus.