It’s Christmas time. It is a time of year that life gets a little bit crazy. There are lights, decorations, presents, carols and more. In the midst of all that we remember the birth of Jesus. In contrast to modern day Christmas celebrations the biblical stories of Jesus birth and early life can seem understated and brief. Today we begin an exploration of the birth and early life of Jesus as told in Matthew’s gospel.

Matthew begins the story of Jesus birth with a genealogical record, and who doesn’t love a good genealogy? If we are being honest, we probably more often than not skip over the genealogy. But what is it there for? What does it tell us about the importance of Jesus birth?

Almost 2000 years after his birth, what significance does the story of Jesus’ birth have for us? The answer is all in his name(s).

If all of history and our own lives point towards the importance of the “Jesus Event”, How should we respond to the story of Jesus birth?

As our life groups gather this week, we have attached our reference verse and some questions to prompt a deeper discussion and search into this week's topic.

If you are not currently part of a life group, and would like to join a small group of like minded people in fellowship and connection during the week, please contact Nick on 0417472474 to register your interest.

1. What traditions do you and your friends/family have to celebrate Christmas with?

2. In what ways has your own life experience and events lead you towards Jesus?

3. What does the birth of Jesus as our saviour mean for you in this season of life?

4. God is often thought of as far off and distant, yet Jesus is described as “God with us.” Do you perceive God as near or far? Why?

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