The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the Advent sermon on December 23/24, “The Word Became Flesh” (John 1:14). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection.

Outline

• The Incarnation (v. 14)
• The Glory (v. 14)

Main Point: The Word became flesh.

Discussion Questions

• What does John mean by the word “Word” in John 1:1–5 and John 1:14. How does the Old Testament background help establish the meaning?
• Explain the three references to Exodus 33–34 in John 1:14: (1) “tented,” (2) “we have seen his glory,” and (3) “full of grace and truth.”
• Why do people struggle to see through the veil of the ordinary at Christmas? What is ordinary? What is extraordinary? Why do people struggle with the offensiveness of salvation and the ordinary aspects of the Christian life?

Application Questions

• Do you have personal areas of struggle with Christmas or Christianity? Are you sometimes tempted to doubt the reality of the truth when it is not as big and dramatic and impressive as you would expect?
• Do you ever struggle with the offensive freeness of salvation? Does it seem too easy or unimpressive? Why is humility essential for accomplishing salvation and receiving salvation?
• What areas in your own life cause you to struggle when it comes to the ordinary nature of your life as a Christian? What do you do when your life is not big and dramatic and impressive?

Prayer Focus
Pray for a grace to believe and humbly receive the grace of God in the Christmas message. Pray for a grace to see and savor and sing of his wondrous love and mercy. Come let us adore Him!