December 3, 2023

Scripture

Isaiah 9:6, Psalm 145:1-7, Matthew 2:11 and Psalm 34:1-3

Overview

On Worship Experience Sunday, we only aimed to adore our King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We started this Christmas season by setting our hearts and minds on Jesus through music, reflection, and prayer. Let’s look deeper into the Scriptures used as the foundation for our Worship Experience and end our group time listening and worshipping together.

Opening Question

What is your favorite worship music? What is it about that song that resonates with you?

Bible Discussion

  1. Read Isaiah 9:6. What is the context of this passage? What is the significance of the titles given to the coming child in this context? How do we know these verses describe Jesus? (See Matthew 4:12-16 for a hint.)
  2. The Psalms teach us about the power of praise and worship to our Great God. Read Psalm 145:1-7 slowly, taking in every word. Which verse stood out to you and why? Why do you think verse 4 is important? How do these verses encourage us to focus on God’s character in times of challenge or difficulty?
  3. Read Matthew 2:11. Who did this for Jesus and why? Have you ever thought of giving financially to the mission of Jesus to be a form of worship? How could the extravagant gifts from the Magi inspire and encourage us in our generosity?
  4. Read Psalm 34:1-3. How does David’s continual praise of God challenge your personal worship practices?

Bible Discussion

  1. For an example of how simple it can look to share your story, read John 9:1-34. Discuss the blind man’s journey of faith throughout this passage. How does Jesus use physical healing to address spiritual blindness? What are some signs from the story that the Pharisees are spiritually blind? How does the blind man respond to them?
  2. In Genesis 12:1-3, God makes a divine calling to Abram. What is it? How does Abram respond? How does this compare to other instances of divine calling in the Bible?
  3. How has God blessed all people through Abram? Read Acts 3:25 and Galatians 3:8-9 to develop your answer.

Life Application

  1. Given the four names describing Jesus in Isaiah 9:6, which role of Jesus do you need right now?
  2. When the praise of God is shared with others, they, in turn, are encouraged to praise Him. How have you recently praised God or told others about all He has done for you?
  3. Close your group time listening to one or two worship songs of your choice. Have some blank paper in front of you and write anything the Lord puts on your heart while listening to the worship song(s). It could be a word, a Scripture, or even a picture. If time allows, share the significance of what you wrote or drew. Praise God for who He is and what He has done in sending the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords to earth.