Small Group Discussion Guide

Sermon Series Name: Christmas Is For Everyone

Sermon Title: Christmas Is For Everyone

Short Summary of the Message: Pastor Carter's message explores the genealogy of Jesus as presented in Matthew 1, highlighting the unexpected and imperfect individuals included in His lineage. It emphasizes that Jesus came for all people, regardless of their past failures or societal status. The message draws parallels between Matthew's own life as a tax collector and the grace extended to him by Jesus, illustrating that Christmas is a time to remember that Jesus' love and salvation are available to everyone.

Ice Breaker Question: What is one of your favorite family holiday traditions, and why does it hold special meaning for you?

Review of Previous Week's "I Will" Statement: (Leader, please ask participants to share how they applied their "I Will" statement from last week. Encourage sharing of experiences and insights.)

Discussion Questions:

1. Question: What stood out to you about the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1?
   • Context: The genealogy includes individuals with flawed pasts, such as Manasseh, Rahab, and David.
   • Application: How does knowing Jesus' lineage include imperfect people impact your understanding of who He came for?
2. Question: How do you relate to Matthew's story of feeling like a failure but being called by Jesus?
   • Context: Matthew was a tax collector, considered an outcast, yet Jesus invited him to be a disciple.
   • Application: In what areas of your life do you feel like a failure, and how can Jesus' invitation to "follow me" change your perspective?
3. Question: Why do you think Jesus chose to associate with sinners and outcasts?
   • Context: Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick."
   • Application: How can we, as followers of Christ, extend love and acceptance to those who feel marginalized or unworthy?
4. Question: How does the message of John 3:16 resonate with you during this Christmas season?
   • Context: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son..."
   • Application: How can you share this message of love and hope with others during the holidays?
5. Question: What steps can you take to embrace the gift of Jesus and let go of feelings of failure?
   • Context: The message emphasizes that Jesus came to save us and wipe our slates clean.
   • Application: What practical actions can you take this week to live in the freedom and grace offered by Jesus?

This Week's "I Will" Statement: I will embrace the gift of Jesus by letting go of my past failures and sharing His love with someone who feels like an outcast.

Prayer Prompts:

• Begin by asking for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for the courage to accept Jesus' invitation to follow Him, despite our past failures.
• Ask for guidance in extending love and acceptance to those who feel marginalized or unworthy.

Rewatch the Message: www.pathwaychurch.com/messages