The following outline and discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the Advent sermon on December 16/17, “The Word Was Received” (John 1:12–13). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection.

Main point: Those who receive Jesus become children of God who are born of God.

Outline

1. Those Who Receive Jesus (what they do) (v. 12)
2. Become Children of God (what they become) (v. 12)
3. Who Are Born of God (how that happens) (v. 13)

Discussion Questions

• What does it mean that someone “receives” Jesus by believing in his name? How would you explain these concepts to a non-Christian? What is the difference between saving faith and other forms of “belief”?
• Why is spiritual adoption an even better, over-the-top gift than justification or forgiveness?
• According to John’s Gospel, how does spiritual birth (i.e., the new birth) happen?

Application Questions

• In your own words, what does spiritual adoption mean to you? How can we grow in our ability and capacity to prize it as we ought?
• Are you believing in the name of the Jesus? How do you know? Are there aspects of the sermon that you need to share with others? Commit that to prayer.

Prayer Focus
Pray for a grace to receive and prize the gift of faith and spiritual adoption into God’s family.