“Jesus is distinct”
Scripture Reading: (John 1:1-18) (I Corinthians 8:5-6) (Hebrews 13:8) (Please read and discuss with the questions)
Introduction
If someone asked who you are, what would you say? Maybe you’d say your name. Or maybe you’d say, “I’m a musician. A basketball player. A friend. A daughter or son. I’m a human!” Those things might be true, but have you ever felt like you’re still figuring out who you are, what you’re good at, or why you’re here? The stories of Jesus, John the Baptist, and the words of Paul, will help us see why discovering who Jesus is, helps us discover who we’re meant to be. Not only is Jesus distinct from anyone who has ever lived, but God made us distinct too. With distinct gifts we can use to serve God and others, and unique distinctions that are worth celebrating.
Discussion
The official definition of “distinct” is when something is “recognizably different” or “distinguishable by the senses.”
- Which of your senses is best at noticing the differences between things? Give us an example!
- When do you think being different is a good thing? When do you think it’s a bad thing?
There were a lot of unique things about Jesus, but the most distinct thing about Him is this: He claims to be God. (John 1:1-18)
- Was there a time you realized Jesus was distinct? Tell us about it.
- In what ways do you think Jesus is a lot like you and me? How is He different from everyone else?
Paul made it very clear that, even though some people will try and worship fake “gods,” there is only one God who is different from them all — Jesus. ( I Corinthians 8:5-6)
- Why do you think John and Paul wanted to make it clear that Jesus is God?
Because Jesus is distinct from anyone else, He has the distinct ability to change our lives in distinct ways. (Hebrews 13:8)
- Who is Jesus to you? Share why you chose the words you did.
- How has knowing Jesus changed your life so far?
- What questions do you still have about what Jesus is like?
Conclusion
Jesus is distinct, there is no one like Him. Other gods, ideas, people, and even objects have been worshiped over time, but Jesus is the only One who has stood the test of time. Both John and Paul proclaimed and trusted in this truth: there is no one like Jesus. He’s fully God, fully human, and fully capable of changing our lives. So what do we do about this claim? Let’s choose to receive, believe, and trust that Jesus is everything He says He is and more. And let’s let Jesus change us from the inside out. Because Jesus is distinct, and He has the distinct ability to change our lives in very distinct ways.
Prayer
- Let us thank God for sending Jesus to earth and making Him so unique and distinct. (John 1:1-18)
- Let us thank God for making us so unique and distinct as well.
- Pray for one another as needed.
Announcements
- Next Small Groups December 7, 2022