Sermon Discussion Guide 12-15-24

Sermon Discussion Guide
The Roots of Christmas | Advent Week 3 | Ruth

Gathering Question
Share a time when something seemingly small or mundane ended up being significant in your life.

Gathering Prayer 
Father, by Your Spirit, would you guide us into all truth. Help us to hear and be attentive to Your voice as we work through this study. In the name of Jesus, Your Son, we pray, Amen.

Opening Questions

• What stood out to you in the sermon? 
• What insights did you gain? 
• What questions did it raise?

Ruth 1:15-18; Ruth 2:1-3; Ruth 4:13-17

• What stands out to you in Ruth’s actions and words?
• Why do you think Ruth is so committed to Naomi? 
• Focus on Naomi’s bitterness. How would you describe her understanding of God? 
• While there are no blatant or obvious miracles, what are some ways that you see God at work in the book of Ruth? 

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 | God’s Hand in the Ordinary and Foolish

• What are some ways that the world’s “wisdom” misses God’s action?
• Why do you think people demand signs, or even proof, of God? Why are these demands not helpful?
• Reflect on ways that Jesus didn’t fit into the “wisdom” of the world. How can we make sure our faith and trust rest on God’s Provision, and not in our own wisdom and understanding?

Jesus is God’s Provision

• Are there times when you are tempted towards hopelessness like Naomi faced? 
• How do you see Jesus reflected in Ruth’s commitment and faithfulness? Can you think of a recent time when Jesus has been faithful (especially in a mundane or ordinary situation)? 
• When Jesus is faithful in mundane times, do you tend to give thanks and acknowledge his presence or do you chalk it up to circumstances or “luck”? Why?

The Family Line of Jesus | Matthew 1:1-17

• Out of all the people to include in the family line of Jesus, why does Matthew include Ruth? What is he telling us about Jesus? What does this mean for our lives? 

Closing Prayer