A Caring Community With a Global Vision to develop every person into a fully devoted follower of Christ
 

Prepare for the Crib

Sunday, November 28, 2004
Luke 3:1-18
Rev. Jeff French

Studying the Bible:

Read Luke 3:1-6. What did John say was necessary for forgiveness? How difficult is that step? After reading verses 4-6, what images point towards the radical change necessary to prepare for Jesus?

 

What radical preparations are necessary for you to see Jesus? Where are you ready to make a difficult step of change and transformation?

 

Read Luke 3:7-14. What is John concerned the crowds will rely on instead of repentance? What is the true measure of transformation? What are some examples John gives of real repentance?

 

What things, even religious things, can you rely upon instead of radically preparing your heart for Jesus? Are there some things you can cut out or measures you can take to add meaning to this season to truly prepare for Jesus?

 

Read Luke 3:15-18. How does John describe Jesus’ arrival? After looking at verses 17-18, do you find it strange that John uses an image of judgment which is then described as good news in the next verse? Explain how these fit together.

 

How can the difficult preparation for Jesus’ arrival and ultimate judgment become good news for you as a believer? What radical change do you need to view as a positive because it leads you closer to Jesus?

 

Quotes to Consider:

"Foresight is the beginning of holiness. If you learn this art of foreseeing, you will be more and more like Christ . . ." Mother Theresa (1910-1997)

"A lasting work requires extensive preparation." author Douglas Rumford

"You better live your best and act your best and think your best today, for today is the sure preparation for tomorrow, and all the other tomorrows that follow."
economist and novelist Harriet Martineau (1802-1876)

"The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." Malcom X (1925-1965)

"Before the farmer sows the seed, he works the acreage, removing the rocks and pulling the stumps. He knows that seed grows better if the land is prepared. Confession is the act of inviting God to walk in the acreage of our hearts. "There is a rock of greed over here, Father; I can’t budge it. And that tree of guilt near the fence? Its roots are long and deep. And may I show you some dry soil, too crusty for seed?" God’s seed grows better if the soil of the heart is cleared." author Max Lucado

Outline:

I. Radical change is required to prepare for Jesus

 

II. Simple religious acts cannot prepare us for Jesus

 

III. It is good news to prepare for Jesus

 

Action Points:

  • Identify one major change necessary to prepare for Jesus
  • Do not settle for empty religious acts
  • Experience the fulfillment of God coming to fill our deepest needs