Small Group Discussion Guide December 1, 2024

Bible Reading:
- Isaiah 7:14
- Isaiah 53:5
- Micah 5:2

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Observation Questions:
1. What specific signs did God provide in the Old Testament to indicate the coming of the Messiah, as mentioned in the sermon?
2. How does the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14 describe the birth of Jesus, and what significance does the name "Immanuel" hold?
3. According to Isaiah 53:5, what are the consequences of Jesus' suffering, and how do they relate to our spiritual condition?
4. What role does the town of Bethlehem play in the prophecy of the Messiah's birth, as highlighted in Micah 5:2?

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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the concept of "God with us" (Immanuel) provide hope in times of uncertainty, as discussed in the sermon?
2. In what ways does Jesus' sacrifice, as described in Isaiah 53:5, serve as the foundation of hope for believers?
3. How does the story of Flagstaff, Maine, illustrate the dangers of losing hope, and what lessons can be drawn from it?
4. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of recognizing and responding to the signs of God in our lives today?

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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt distant from God. How can the promise of "Immanuel" encourage you to seek His presence in your current circumstances?
2. Consider the signs of God in your life that you might have overlooked. How can you become more attentive to these signs and what steps can you take to respond to them?
3. Jesus' sacrifice offers healing and freedom from sin. What specific area of your life needs healing, and how can you invite Jesus into that process?
4. The sermon mentions the transformative power of hope. Identify a situation in your life where you have lost hope. How can you begin to restore hope in that area?
5. How can you actively share the hope of Jesus' birth with someone in your community this Advent season?
6. Reflect on the story of Flagstaff, Maine. Are there areas in your life where you have stopped caring or investing due to a lack of hope? What practical steps can you take to reignite hope and restoration in those areas?
7. The sermon emphasizes living with hope in God's promises. What is one promise from Scripture that you can hold onto this week, and how will it impact your daily life?