John 1:9-11 – 9 The true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. (English Standard Version)

The Good News

☺ Jesus _________________________ into the world

Matthew 2:1-6 – 1 Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, 2 “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” 3 King Herod was deeply disturbed when he heard this, as was everyone in Jerusalem. 4 He called a meeting of the leading priests and teachers of religious law and asked, “Where is the Messiah supposed to be born?” 5 “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote: 6 ‘And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.’ ” (New Living Translation)

The Bad News

☹ Jesus was _________________________

John 1:10 – He was in the world, the world was there through him, and yet the world didn’t even notice. (The Message)

John 1:26 – [John the Baptist speaking,] “. . . But somewhere among you stands a man you do not know.” (Phillips Translation)

☹ Jesus was _________________________

John 1:11 – He came to his own people, but they didn’t want him. ( Message)

What Must I Do to Recognize and Receive Jesus?

▸ I must have a ______________________ to see Jesus

▸ I must open my _______________ to see Jesus

▸ I must be ___________________ enough to see Jesus

▸ I must ____________________________ Jesus to see Him

John 1:38-39 – 38 . . . They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are you staying?” 39 “Come and see,” he said. (New Living Translation)/

John 1:45-46 – 45 Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, “We have found the very person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His name is Jesus, the son of Joseph from Nazareth.” 46 “Nazareth!” exclaimed Nathanael. “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” “Come and see for yourself,” Philip replied. (New Living Translation)

John 1:49 – Then Nathanael exclaimed, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God – the King of Israel!” (New Living Translation)