John 1:9-13
9 The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. 10 He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him. 11 He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him. 12 But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, 13 who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.
Main Idea
We are called to become children of God.
Outline
Through Christ: Truth Has Come (v9)
Through Christ: Creation Was Made (v10)
Through Christ: We Are Adopted (vv11-13)
Discussion Questions
Through Christ: Truth Has Come (v9)
What words or phrases stand out to you in verse 9?
How does the image of light help us understand what Jesus came to do?
In what ways does Jesus reveal truth about God, ourselves, and the world?
Where do you see people today searching for truth apart from Christ?
What does it look like to live as someone who has stepped out of darkness and into Christ’s light this week?
Through Christ: Creation Was Made (v10)
What is surprising or tragic about verse 10?
What contrast do you see between Christ’s role in creation and the world’s response to Him?
How does this verse challenge the idea that ignorance of God is neutral or innocent?
Are there areas of your life where you benefit from Christ’s rule but resist His authority?
Through Christ: We Are Adopted (vv11-13)
According to this passage, how does someone become a child of God?
What does verse 13 say is not the basis of becoming God’s child?
How is becoming a child of God different from simply being God’s creation?
What does adoption communicate about God’s initiative, love, and authority?
Where do you tend to seek worth or belonging apart from your identity as God’s child?
Looking Forward
As we continue the Becoming Campaign, what are you planning to make as your commitment for next week’s commitment cards?
Prayer Focus
Pray for hearts that receive the true Light of Christ and turn away from darkness.
Pray for clarity to recognize Jesus as the source of truth in a world full of competing voices.
Pray for humility to acknowledge Christ as Creator and rightful Lord over every area of life.
Pray for repentance where we enjoy God’s gifts but resist God Himself.
Pray for faith to receive Christ rather than reject Him.
Pray for deeper confidence in our identity as children of God, not based on performance or background.
Pray for gratitude for the grace of adoption that comes only through Christ.
Pray for obedience that flows from being loved sons and daughters, not from fear or obligation.
Pray for boldness to reflect Christ’s light as children of God in our homes, workplaces, and communities.
Pray for reverence for all human life, created by God and bearing His image.
Pray for unborn children to be protected, valued, and welcomed as gifts from God.
Pray for mothers facing unplanned or difficult pregnancies to receive courage, wisdom, and loving support.
Pray for fathers to step into responsibility with compassion, strength, and sacrificial love.
Pray for families who have experienced abortion or pregnancy loss to find forgiveness, healing, and hope in Christ.
Pray for the church to reflect God’s heart by offering truth, grace, and tangible care to vulnerable families.
Pray for adoption and foster care ministries as visible expressions of the gospel of adoption.
Pray for lawmakers, judges, and leaders to pursue justice that protects the most vulnerable.
Pray for pregnancy resource centers and caregivers to have provision, wisdom, and perseverance.
Pray for hearts to be shaped by the light of Christ, recognizing every life as known, loved, and created by God.