Essentials: Jesus, the One & Only Star

Small Group Discussion Guide: Jesus in the Old Testament
based on a sermon preached by Greg Ballog, 11/30/25

Opening Prayer:
"Heavenly Father, we gather in Your name to explore the richness of Your Word. Open our hearts and minds to the truth of Jesus' presence throughout the entire Bible. Guide our discussion and deepen our understanding and love for Your son, Jesus Christ. Amen."

Scripture Readings:

1. Genesis 3:1-15*
   *Focus: The Promise of Redemption*

2. Romans 16:20  
   *Focus: The Crushing of Satan*

3. Isaiah 9:6-7 & Luke 1:30-33*
   *Focus: Prophecy and Fulfillment of Jesus' Birth and Reign*

4. John 1:1-5  
   Focus: Jesus as the Eternal Word

5. Hebrews 9:6-12 & 14-15*
   Focus: The Superior Ministry and Sacrifice of Jesus

Discussion Topics and Related Questions:

1. Jesus in the Old and New Testament:
   - How do you see Jesus' role as a savior begin in Genesis?
   - Discuss how Genesis 3:15 is considered the "Protoevangelium" or the first announcement of the Gospel.

2. The Importance of the Full Story:
   - Why do you think 90% of sermons are from the New Testament? How does knowing the Old Testament enrich our understanding of Jesus?
   - Reflect on the quote: "When you only read, study, know, and believe half the Bible - you miss the full story of Jesus."

3. Jesus' Prophecies and Fulfillment:
   - Which Old Testament scripture about Jesus resonates with you the most and why?
   - Discuss the significance of Jesus' lineage, as mentioned in Matthew 1:1-6, concerning His fulfillment of prophecy.

4. *esus as the Perfect Sacrifice:
   - How does Hebrews describe Jesus' role compared to that of the high priest? Why is His sacrifice considered perfect?
   - What does "There is no middle man in Christianity" mean to you in this context?

5. Personal Reflection:
   - In what ways can understanding Jesus' presence in both Testaments impact your daily life and faith journey?
   - Reflect on how you might read the Bible differently, considering the statement: "The Bible has never been. Never is. Never will be about you."

Follow-up Exercise:
Ask participants to choose one Old Testament prophecy about Jesus and study it more deeply throughout the week, looking at how it is fulfilled in the New Testament. Encourage them to share their reflections over email or in your next meeting.

Closing Prayer:
"Lord, thank you for revealing the truth of Jesus throughout your Word. Help us to carry these truths into our lives, knowing that Jesus is our everlasting Savior and King. May our hearts continually seek Him in all scriptures, and may we live out His love and light in our communities. Amen."


No Comments


Recent

Archive

 2025

Categories

Tags