A Really Cool Boy: Small Group Discussion

Opening Prayer: Begin the session with a prayer asking for guidance and insight as the group explores the themes of the sermon. Pray for open hearts and minds to see Jesus in their lives more clearly.

Scripture Readings: Focus on key scripture passages from the sermon to set the stage for discussion. You might choose Isaiah 52:13-53:7, Matthew 9:9-13, Luke 2:39-50, and 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. Read each passage aloud, encouraging group members to listen closely for phrases that resonate with them.

Discussion Topics and Related Questions:
1. The Nature of Jesus – Discuss the character of Jesus as described in Isaiah. How does his humble appearance and the way he was perceived relate to how we view leadership and success today?
   - Question: What do these passages reveal about what true greatness looks like?

2. Discipleship and Association – Reflect on Matthew’s encounter with Jesus and the subsequent meal with tax collectors and sinners.
   - Question: What does Jesus' interaction with sinners demonstrate about the nature of discipleship and our interactions with others?

3. The Wisdom of Jesus – Consider the story of young Jesus in the temple as seen in Luke.
   - Question: How might we nurture our own spiritual growth and wisdom to emulate Jesus’ dedication even from a young age?

4. Seeing beyond the Physical – Relate to the difference between sight and vision as discussed in the sermon.
   - Question: How can we develop spiritual eyes to see beyond physical appearances and circumstances?

5. Embracing the Eternal – Focus on 2 Corinthians 4 and discuss the contrasts between temporary struggles and eternal glory.
   - Question: How can adjusting our focus from the temporary to the eternal influence our daily lives?

Follow-Up Exercise: Encourage each group member to spend the next week practicing spiritual sight. This might include daily devotionals, prayer, and reflecting on where they see Jesus in their daily interactions. Ask them to note any experiences or insights they gain throughout the week.

Closing Prayer: Conclude the session with a prayer that reinforces the themes of the discussion. Ask for clarity and courage to see more deeply and be transformed by the vision of Jesus in everyday life. Pray for the strength to follow Jesus closely and to exhibit His character in all interactions.