John 1:14-18
Life Group Questions:

1. If you were not able to hear this week’s sermon, consider going to the church website and listening to it. What are some main ideas that you gathered from the sermon? What, if any, questions did the sermon cause for you or do you desire to have additional clarification?

2. John uses the same designation of the “Word” in verses 1 and 14. Describe the connection and relationship between these two occurrences? What does John want us to understand about the Word?

3. Why do you think John used the word “flesh” to describe what the Word became? What are some positive and negative aspects of the word flesh in Scripture (cf. Matthew 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 15:39; Romans 8:4; Galatians 5:16)?

4. John states that the Word dwelt among us. The Greek word for dwelt is literally “tabernacled.” How is the incarnation of Christ related to the tabernacle events of the Old Testament (cf. Exodus 40:34)? How does the tabernacle of the Old Testament foreshadow the incarnation of Christ?

5. What does it meant that Jesus Christ is the “only begotten” Son of God? In what way is he unique in character and position before God? How can our understanding of Hebrews 11:17 help us understand this term and its use?

6. As Christians we hold to the belief that Christ the Word always existed. What are some theological difficulties with the idea that the word “became” flesh? How could the Word, who is God (John 1:1), become a man and still retain his deity. Did becoming a man diminish any aspect of his deity? Did his being God make him any less of an authentic man? Explain.

7. John states that the Word is the only one who has seen God at any time. How do we view this statement in light of the fact that Moses saw the back side of God (cf. Exodus 33:18-20)? Did Moses see God or not? Did the early disciples see God (cf. John 14:9)? Explain the meaning of John’s statement about the Word.

8. Describe at least five differences between Moses and the Word. What point is John trying to make about the Law and grace? Was the Law devoid of grace? What are the benefits of living under grace as apposed to the Law?

9. List some of the implications of the incarnation for our personal lives. How should we live in light of the incarnation? What does the incarnation teach us with regard to humility, compassion, and willingness to reach people with the Gospel?