This Deep Dive episode follows on from the teaching on 'God With Us' by Ps Glenn Bleakney.
Use the notes below to help you and your small group to go deeper into the concepts and application of the truths of 'God With Us'.
Small Group Bible Study Notes
Title: Immanuel: God With Us
Key Passage: Matthew 1:18-23
1. The Word: The Truth Sets Free
Key Scriptures:
- Matthew 1:23 – "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us").
- Acts 10:38 – "God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power... for God was with Him."
- Philippians 2:6-8 – Jesus humbled Himself, taking on the form of a servant.
- Ephesians 3:19 – We are filled with the fullness of God.
Reflection:
The name "Immanuel" signifies God's tangible presence with humanity. Jesus, though fully God, demonstrated His ministry as a man anointed by the Holy Spirit, showing us the power of living in close communion with God.
2. The Walk: How Does This Apply to My Life?
- Faith Connection: Jesus modeled reliance on the Holy Spirit, showing us that we too can live empowered lives by walking closely with God.
- Identity in Christ: We are the dwelling place of God’s presence. Embracing this truth transforms how we see ourselves and our purpose in the world (Ephesians 1:23).
- Transformation: Romans 8:29 calls us to be conformed to Christ’s image. This means choosing intimacy with God over comfort and allowing His glory to be revealed through us.
Discussion Questions:
1. How does knowing "God is with us" change how you approach challenges?
2. In what areas of your life do you struggle to live in awareness of God's presence?
3. How can you grow in reflecting the image and glory of God in your daily life?
3. The Work: Living It Out Loud
Action Steps:
1. In Your Personal Life:
- Set aside daily time to seek God’s presence through prayer and Scripture.
- Memorize a key verse (e.g., Matthew 1:23) to remind yourself of God’s nearness.
2. In Your Family and Community:
- Share testimonies of how God has been with you in specific situations.
- Model Christ’s love and humility by serving others selflessly.
3. In Your Church or Workplace:
- Be a reflection of God’s presence by practicing integrity and compassion.
- Lead or participate in a ministry that helps others encounter the reality of "God with us" (e.g., prayer groups, outreach).
Practical Exercise:
This week, write down instances where you sense God’s presence in your life. Share one experience with the group next session to encourage and build faith.
4. Conclusion and Application
As we reflect on "Immanuel: God With Us," let us remember that this promise extends beyond the miraculous story of Jesus' birth—it is a reality for every believer. God's presence in our lives empowers us to live in a way that reflects His glory to the world.
Here is the challenge: How will we, as God's people, live out the reality of "God With Us"?
1. Cultivate His Presence Daily
Commit to a life of intimacy with God. Spend time in His Word, in prayer, and in worship. Like the early disciples, let it be evident that you have "been with Jesus" (Acts 4:13). Ask yourself daily, "Am I carrying His presence into my relationships, workplace, and community?"
2. Be the Light in Darkness
In a world searching for hope, let the anointing of the Holy Spirit work through you. Share the love of Jesus with boldness and compassion. Let your life be a testimony of God's transformative power, just as Jesus' ministry was marked by healing and deliverance (Acts 10:38).
3. Live in Unity with the Body of Christ
Unity in the Church is more than agreement; it is a lifestyle of love and honor. Romans 12:10 urges us to "be devoted to one another in love and to honour one another above yourselves." This means:
- Preferring one another: Actively seek the well-being and growth of others, placing their needs above your own.
- Honoring one another: Celebrate the gifts, callings, and contributions of others without jealousy or competition.
- Bearing with one another: Show patience and grace, forgiving as Christ forgave us (Colossians 3:13).
- Working together for His glory: Serve side by side in humility, recognising that we are stronger together as one body with many parts (1 Corinthians 12:12).
Let the world see the love of Christ in how we treat one another.
4. Step Out in Faith
Be intentional in your actions. As Zechariah 8:23 describes, people will be drawn to those who carry the undeniable presence of God. Ask God how you can be an instrument of His glory and step out in obedience to His call.
Finally, as we walk out of here today, let us carry this truth with us: the world is not just waiting to hear about God—they are longing to encounter Him through us. We are destined to be a people wholly filled with the glory of the Lord. Let’s live in such a way that those around us can say, “Truly, God is with you.”
Closing Prayer:
Ask God to deepen your awareness of His presence in every area of your life and empower you to reflect His glory to the world.
