Small Group Discussion Guide

Sermon Series Name: Christmas is for Everyone
Sermon Title: Part 3

Short Summary of the Message:
In Pastor Elliott's message, we explored the theme of grief during the Christmas season, acknowledging that grief and hope can coexist. His message highlighted the story of Jesus' birth and the grief experienced by families during King Herod's reign. It emphasized that Jesus, the embodiment of hope, was born into a world of grief and that we, too, can grieve with hope. The message encouraged us to support those who are grieving and to remember that Jesus grieves with us, offering us hope and comfort.

Ice Breaker Question:
What is one Christmas tradition that brings you joy, and why is it meaningful to you?

Review of the Previous Week's "I Will" Statement:
Reflect on last week's I Will Statement "I WILL share my disappointment with God and trust He is at work."  How did you act on your "I Will" statement, and what impact did it have on you or others?

Discussion Questions:

1. Understanding Grief and Hope:
   • Question: How do you see grief and hope coexisting in your own life or in the lives of those around you?
   • Context: The message discussed how grief and hope can occupy the same space, as seen in the story of Jesus' birth.
   • Application: Consider ways you can acknowledge both grief and hope in your daily life, especially during challenging times.
2. Jesus' Example of Grieving:
   • Question: What does Jesus' reaction to Lazarus' death teach us about how to handle our own grief?
   • Context: Jesus wept for Lazarus, showing that even with hope, grief is a natural and human response.
   • Application: Reflect on how you can allow yourself to grieve while still holding onto hope in Christ.
3. Supporting Others in Grief:
   • Question: How can we effectively support someone who is grieving, based on the insights from the message?
   • Context: The message emphasized being present and offering love rather than trying to fix someone's grief.
   • Application: Identify practical ways you can be a source of hope and comfort to someone in your life who is grieving.
4. Personal Reflection on Grief:
   • Question: How has grief impacted your faith journey, and what role has hope played in that process?
   • Context: The message shared personal stories of grief and how hope in Jesus provides strength.
   • Application: Share a personal experience where you found hope in the midst of grief and how it shaped your faith.
5. Living with Hope:
   • Question: What steps can you take to live with hope, even when faced with grief or loss?
   • Context: The message encouraged us to grieve with hope, knowing that Jesus is with us.
   • Application: Commit to a specific action this week that will help you or someone else embrace hope in a tangible way.

This Week's "I Will" Statement:
I will give hope to someone who is grieving.

Prayer Prompts:

• Begin by asking for prayer requests from the group.
• Pray for those who are grieving, that they may feel the presence and comfort of Jesus in their lives.
• Ask for guidance and courage to be a source of hope and support to those around us who are experiencing grief.

Rewatch the Message:
www.pathwaychurch.com/messages