Gift Exchange: Religion to Relationship
December 24, 2023
Description:
In this Christmas Eve sermon, Pastor Bryan Hay reflects on the true meaning of Christmas and the purpose behind the gifts we exchange. He emphasizes that the best gifts are ones that hold value and meaning from someone we hold dear. The purpose of gifts, especially those given in the name of Jesus, goes beyond the material. The true purpose of Christmas is to bring people closer to God through a relationship with Jesus, establishing a relationship between God and humanity, and making the presence of God the ultimate present.
In light of this week’s message, we encourage you to consider these questions and dig in a little deeper with your personal study, with your family, or with your small group.
- (Ice breaker) What is the best Christmas gift you ever received? Does who gave it to you make a difference?
- In what ways can the deepest and most valuable gifts be more about relationships rather than material possessions?
- Read Matt. 1:18-23. Why was the reference to Immanuel so important?
- Read John 3:16 and 1 John 3:16-18. How does love and giving relate to each other?
- Read Ephesians 2:8. Pray for one another to embrace the relationship with God by ridding ourselves of trying to earn God’s love rather than receiving God’s love and living in His love.