Advent: Born to Dwell With Bible Study FellowshipSample

Audio Teaching

Listen to deeper insights and practical applications from days 16-20.

Experience Jesus’ Glory

The eternal Word of God became man, and John lived with him for years. John experienced the very glory of God in the man Jesus Christ. John intimately knew the human mind, emotions, will, words, and actions of the Lord Jesus Christ. At the same time, John also walked with, talked with, and witnessed Him as the unique Son of God. John also saw a fuller glimpse of Jesus’ all-encompassing glory at His Transfiguration. (1)

In 1 John, the apostle testifies to his eyewitness experiences from the letter’s opening verse:

“That which was from the beginning,

which we have heard,

which we have seen with our eyes,

which we have looked at

and our hands have touched—

this we proclaim concerning the Word of life.”

Experience Christmas!

Every person who encounters the Bible’s Christmas story should approach Christ’s Incarnation with wonder and respond with humility, reverence, and praise. As God’s light sovereignly drew the Magi into Jesus’ presence, God’s light still illuminates truth, so we can see Jesus for who He is. That light continues to shine as we grasp more and more of the wonder of Jesus. The path of a believer only grows brighter as we move to the future.

2 Corinthians 4:6 reminds us, “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.” Now, in this world, we see Jesus “dimly,” but we will see Him face to face one day. (3) Though darkness still casts shadows in this world, Jesus is our hope, faith, joy, and peace. Will you join John and all other witnesses and walk in God’s light?

Will you make these words your own through faith and let truth shine into the world from your heart: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Questions

1. John 1:14 mentions gifts Jesus Christ brings with Him: peaceful dwelling, glory, grace, and truth. What do you personally know and wish for about each gift? Write your response as a prayer to God.
2. How does this verse describe Jesus Christ, the “one and only Son,” and what does it take to know Him?
3. In your own words, explain how Jesus Christ is altogether different from human beings created by Him?

Reflect

It’s time to look back at what we’ve discovered throughout this study. Let the two points below guide your reflection and help you grow.

Through our study of Christ’s Incarnation, we understand more fully why this truth calls for celebration: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” What two or three verses, images, or discoveries do you want to carry with you from this study to share with others in the weeks ahead?

The story of Advent tells of God’s hope for humankind. God’s highest purpose for people is intimate, soul-satisfying fellowship that continues into eternity. How does believing this story impact your desires and priorities, and what are the consequences of unbelief?

Related verses:

1. Jesus’ Transfiguration: Matt 17:1-9; Luke 9:28-36
2. Reconciled to God: Rom 5
3. Dimly now: 1 Cor 13 :12