Like Jesus

At Christmas, we celebrate Jesus coming to Earth as our Savior and Lord. This December, we are looking at Old Testament figures who were Like Jesus in different ways. Called a “Type of Christ,” God uses these lives as foreshadowing - an incomplete picture of what was/is to come. Each week, as we look back at these powerful examples, we will better recognize & appreciate who Jesus is and what He has done for us. Because we are called and committed to become more and more Like Jesus too.

Small Group Tips

  • Make note of anything that sticks out to you.

    Write down thoughts that may be sparked as you listen.

    You can facilitate meaningful discussion based on your notes. 

  • They may find something interesting, or even have a question about something. 

    It’s good for them to share that, and good for the group too!

    Some of your best discussion will come from what individuals heard that was particularly challenging or helpful to them. 

  • Even if it seems silly to you (we know every personality is different), it’s supposed to be fun and easy.  Hopefully it can get people laughing together, and comfortable sharing.  It can also bring out some great memories. 

    Groups should be social and spiritual.  It’s good to start light and build friendships, as we discuss God’s Word and share personally. 

  • We give you a few questions.  We hope they work well.  But you know your group. 

    You may pick a few and skip a couple.  You may have a great question that you think of!  There’s no pressure to do every question.

Click the topics below after each week’s message for discussion questions and other resources.

MESSAGES

  • A “Type of Christ” is someone in scripture who God uses for foreshadowing, an incomplete picture of what was/is to come, someone who is Like Jesus. Abraham was like Jesus. He was called to leave his comfort zone and trust God’s plan. He also was chosen by God to be used to bless the whole world. In a similar but more complete way, Jesus left Heaven to come to earth to be used by God to save the world. And then Jesus says to His followers, “Go.”

    ICE BREAKER:

    Name a time that “leaving your comfort zone” paid off.

    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    1. What did you take away from the message this weekend?

    2. Reread Genesis 12:1-4. God intentionally spells out benefits to obeying Him in this passage. What did He promise Abram?

    3. Faith seems to be jam packed with moments where we have to trust God and take “bold steps.” What is a time you took a bold faith step?

    4. Jesus’ bold step of coming to earth and bringing forgiveness to the world led to another bold step he invited us into (the Great Commission). What is the most challenging part of sharing your faith with someone who doesn’t yet believe?

    5. Who is one person you can either start a faith conversation with or invite to a church event this Christmas season?

    EXTRA RESOURCES:

    To invite someone to church this Christmas season, send them to missionbible.church/christmas

  • Until recent history, the world was ruled by the mighty. There was no democracy. There was no promise of peace. If a king wanted land, cities, or slaves, he would attack and try to take it. This is the world that King David knew all too well. There were some good kings, but mostly greedy, power-hungry tyrants. But David knew that there was one true King of Kings who was perfect and eternal.

    ICE BREAKER:

    What is your favorite movie or show about kings and kingdoms?

    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    1. What did you take away from the message this weekend?

    2. How does David being Like Jesus help us recognize and appreciate Jesus?

    3. Read Psalm 145. What verse or idea is meaningful to you?

    4. How would you describe the difference between Jesus being your Savior and your King?

    5. As you have followed Jesus, what has helped or hurt you in keeping Jesus as your King.

    6. How can the Christmas season affect your ability to focus on Jesus as your King?

    EXTRA RESOURCES:

    To invite someone to church this Christmas season, send them to missionbible.church/christmas

  • Isaac is such an incredible example of an Old Testament figure who helps us recognize and appreciate Jesus for who He is. He was a promised son, and a miracle conception. But there was a long wait before he came. And then the heart-wrenching saga of his near sacrifice. The more we lean into what Abraham, Sarah, and Isaac must have felt and wondered, the more we can learn for our own growth.

    ICE BREAKER:

    As an adult, whats something you’ve had to wait for?

    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    1. What did you take away from the message?

    2. How does Isaac help us recognize and appreciate Jesus as The Messiah?

    3. Can you share a time when God felt quiet or far away?

    4. How underrated is Jesus’ virgin birth?

    5. Read Genesis 22:1-18. This passage can be hard to stomach. How does this example of a real human father and son help you appreciate God sending Jesus to save you?

    6. Scripture says Jesus would come, and He did, even though the world wasn’t ready. Scripture says that Jesus will come back. One day, He will. How ready do you think the world is to greet Him?

  • Moses was Like Jesus. He helps us recognize and appreciate who Jesus really is and all that Jesus accomplished for us. It’s no coincidence that God chose such a humble servant to bless and use in such powerful ways. God is still looking for humble servants to bless and use in powerful ways. Jesus shares His mission with every one of His followers. When we walk humbly with God and for God’s glory, we too are Like Jesus.

    ICE BREAKER:

    Who is the most humble person you know? And what does that mean to you?

    DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

    1. What did you take away from the message this weekend?

    2. How did God humble Moses?

    3. How has God helped you to be humble?

    4. Read Matthew 16:24-25. What does it mean to deny yourself?

    5. Read Philippians 2:1-8. What is something you can do this week to apply this passage?