Connect

Main Idea: Purified gold was a gift fit for the baby King Jesus. Because of Jesus’ gift for us, we are purified through His sacrifice and are a presentable offering to God.

Introduction: This week, Pastor Chris walked us through one of the 3 gifts presented to Jesus at the first Christmas, gold. This gift had been prophesied for hundreds of years and was purified through fire.

Discussion Starter: What’s one of the most thoughtful gifts you’ve ever given?

Grow

Primary Scriptures: Matthew 2:7-12, 1 Kings 10:1-2, Isaiah 60:6, Isaiah 9:6-7, Matthew 1:23

Discussion Questions:

1. This weekend Pastor Chris said that the gold that was presented to Jesus had been purified and refined through fire. How has God refined you over time?
2. Read Romans 12:1 What are ways you offer yourself to live completely for God? What areas of your life are you holding back?
3. For hundreds of years, God’s people waited for Jesus to be born. Although we don’t have to wait for salvation like they did, we still want and need God to do things in our lives. Discuss what you are hoping and waiting for God to do in your life.

Protect

Suggestion: Consider breaking the group into twos or threes for this section.

This weekend, Pastor Chris encouraged us to “give more and don’t keep score.” Discuss how you can encourage each other during this season to avoid the trap of our culture to think of Christmas as a time of giving and getting “stuff” and how we can give of ourselves.

Discuss one thing your group can pray for you during this season.