December 31, 2023
Big Idea
As Everlasting Father, Jesus invites us to live with an eternal purpose.
Scripture
Ecclesiastes 3:11, 1 John 1:1-2, 2 Corinthians 4:18, and John 6:68
Overview
Happy New Year! Each week of our Christmas series, “Above All Names”, we will consider the names given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6, what it tells us about who Jesus is, and how that particular name can bring tremendous significance to our lives.
Opening Question
Are you a New Year’s resolution fan? If yes, what is yours for this coming year? If not, why are you not a fan?
Bible Discussion
- Read Ecclesiastes 3:11. How does this idea of God planting eternity in our hearts impact you? Is it a concept you have considered before? Why or why not?
- What or who does the “Word of life” refer to in 1 John 1:1-2? How do we access this eternal life referred to in verse 2?
- Read 2 Corinthians 4:18. In what ways does this passage encourage us to look beyond our temporary struggles and challenges?
- Read John 6:68. How does Peter acknowledge Jesus? Do you recognize Jesus in the same way? Why or why not?
Life Application
- Share a moment in your life when you wished you could pause and savor what you were experiencing.
- Have you encountered a time when focusing on the eternal helped you navigate difficult circumstances? If so, how did that help you?
- Jesus wants to give us the eternal gifts of love, joy, and purpose for our lives today and this coming new year. What would it look like in your daily life to invest more of your time, energy, and resources into eternal things? In your parenting, marriage, or friendships, how you interact with your neighbors or coworkers, or how you spend your time and resources. End your group time by praying, asking God to help you fix your eyes on Him and those things that will last for all eternity.
