Christmas 2024 WK1b

The Word Made Flesh: Understanding the God Who Came to Us

Bible Passage: John 1:14

Summary: John 1:14 reveals the profound mystery of the incarnation: that the eternal Word, who was with God and was God, took on human flesh to dwell among us, revealing His glory and grace.

Application: This message can help teens understand their identity and worth as individuals loved by God, reminding them that God is not distant but intimately involved in our lives. It encourages them to seek a relationship with Christ, who understands their struggles and desires to walk with them through every challenge.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that the incarnation of Christ is central to the Christian faith. It emphasizes God's desire to connect with humanity and communicate His love and grace in a tangible way. Teens are encouraged to recognize the significance of Christ's humanity and divinity in their own lives.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader context of Scripture, the incarnation illustrates the fulfillment of God's promise to humanity through His Son. Jesus embodies the union of divine and human nature, representing hope and salvation for mankind. His birth, life, and sacrificial death show God's commitment to redeeming His creation.

Big Idea: The God who became man offers us grace and truth, inviting us into a relationship that brings transformation and hope amidst life's trials.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider exploring the implications of the phrase 'The Word became flesh' in relation to Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah, particularly in Isaiah and Micah. You might also examine different translations of John 1:14 in Logos to understand how the nuances affect our understanding of God's glory revealed through Christ. Engaging with commentaries on the Gospel of John could provide insights into its theological significance and application for a teenage audience.

1. God's Immediate Involvement

John 1:14a

You could emphasize that the Word, Jesus, becoming flesh signals that God takes the initiative to come close to us. Teens might see their worth reflected in this divine pursuit—the eternal Word engaging with humanity intimately. God is not distant but desires to understand our human experiences as He walked among us. Encourage them to embrace this close relationship, knowing Jesus truly understands and shares in human struggles.

2. God's Defining Dwelling

John 1:14b

Perhaps, focus on the idea of dwelling as a sign of God's persistent presence. Jesus didn't just observe humanity; He lived among us. This could resonate with teens facing feelings of loneliness or being misunderstood. Encourage the audience to seek God's presence in their everyday lives, assured that He lived through similar experiences and offers guidance and companionship.

3. God's Glorious Revelation

John 1:14c

Maybe you could highlight seeing glory as a revelation of God's character. Jesus's life unveils God's truth and grace. This could inspire teens to reflect on the visible traits of God’s glory in their life decisions, friendships, and ambitions. Urge them to witness God's presence by living in truth and extending grace to others, following the example laid by Christ.