It may seem strange to focus on the cross of Christ during a season in which we focus on the birth of Christ, but the scriptures are clear: Jesus was born that he may die. He who was laid in a lowly manger was lifted up on a Roman cross that we may behold him by faith and have our sins forgiven. In order to rightly understand the beauty of Advent, we must look at the birth of Jesus in the shadow of his death.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
THINKING: Questions aimed at our minds to help us understand God’s word.
Read Luke 2:33-35. What does Simeon’s prophecy tell us about Jesus?
Read John 19:12-16. Note the irony in Pilate’s words in verse 14. How does this passage help us better understand the purpose of Jesus’ birth?
FEELING: Questions aimed at our affections to help us love God.
What does the birth of Christ tell us about God’s heart for sinners?
What does the death of Christ tell us about God’s heart for sinners?
DOING: Questions aimed at our hands to help us live for God (Personally, Communally, and Missionally).
In Philippians 2:1-11, Paul shows us how the birth, life, death, and resurrection of Christ apply directly to our daily lives. Read the passages and discuss all of the ways we should respond….
Personally
Communally (relationships)
Missionally (sharing the gospel with others)
