Introduction to BC/AD What Changed Message Series

During Advent, the weeks leading up to Christmas, it's easy to get caught up in what is going on right now - in the world and in our lives. We want to ask the question, what has gone on because Jesus was born and lived 2000 years ago?

Yale historian Jeroslav Pelikan wrote, “Regardless of what anyone may personally think or believe about him, Jesus of Nazareth has been the dominant figure in the history of Western Culture for almost 20 centuries.

So, while we won't cover everything, we hope to gain some insights that may influence our Christmas season and our lives.

1. Calendars changed in a crib.

She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger

Reflection Questions
1. Describe something that is different today because Jesus lived?
2. Is there a BC/AD moment in your life? Is there a time when you remember putting your faith in Christ?
3. Can you describe a time before Christ was in your life that is different now that he is in your life?

2. Humility changed with a towel.

he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet

Reflection / Growth Group Discussion Questions
1. Can you define or describe humility?
2. Do you know a humble person?
3. Since Jesus was humble and washed his follower’s feet, what does that suggest about Christian leaders?
4. What does Jesus’ humility suggest about all his followers? About you?

3. Forgiveness changed on a cross.

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.”

Reflection / Growth Group Discussion Questions
1. Reflect quietly for a moment on a time you have been forgiven.
2. Quietly think of a time you have forgiven someone.
3. Is there someone or something you haven’t forgiven?
4. What feelings are stirred up as you think first of a person you have forgiven and someone you haven’t?
5. Without saying who, would you like to forgive someone? What stops you?
6. What step can you take towards forgiving them?

Next Step:

Make room in your calendar for moments of humility and forgiveness.

A Note from Pastor Neal
Two weekends ago in worship, I said an Ultimate Frisbee team is a community who all chip in when a need is expressed. As part of the StoneBridge community, I want to invite you to a brief meeting I’m calling The Ultimate Huddle, to discuss StoneBridge’s current financial climate. These brief meetings will be held after every worship service on the weekend of December 7/8. The Elder Board and I have a recommendation of how our church can be confidently sustainable in this season of leadership transition, while a new pastor is being called. Please join us for this important meeting.