Matthew 1:23
“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son,and they shall call his name Immanuel”
(which means, God with us).
Main Idea
JESUS CHRIST IS GOD INCARNATE
Outline
THE INCARNATION IS SUPERNATURAL (v23A) - JESUS IS NOT JUST GOD BEYOND US; HE IS GOD BESIDE US
THE INCARNATION IS THEOLOGICAL (v23B) - JESUS IS NOT JUST GOD AMONG US; HE IS GOD BECOME US
THE INCARNATION IS RELATIONAL (v23C) - JESUS IS NOT JUST GOD OVER US; HE IS GOD WITH US
Discussion Questions
THE INCARNATION IS SUPERNATURAL (v23A) -
JESUS IS NOT JUST GOD BEYOND US; HE IS GOD BESIDE US
What does the supernatural birth of Jesus reveal about God’s initiative in salvation?
How does this truth challenge the idea that we can save or fix ourselves?
Where in your life do you most need to trust God’s power rather than your own ability?
How does knowing Jesus is “God beside us” encourage you in ordinary or overwhelming moments right now?
THE INCARNATION IS THEOLOGICAL (v23B) -
JESUS IS NOT JUST GOD AMONG US; HE IS GOD BECOME US
Why is it essential that Jesus was born as a real human child and not merely appeared in human form?
How does Jesus sharing our full humanity help us better understand His role as Savior?
In what ways do people today tend to reduce Jesus to something less than God incarnate?
How does the incarnation help you trust that Jesus truly understands human weakness, temptation, and suffering?
How might this truth shape the way you approach Jesus in prayer or during times of struggle?
THE INCARNATION IS RELATIONAL (v23C) -
JESUS IS NOT JUST GOD OVER US; HE IS GOD WITH US
What does the name Immanuel teach us about God’s desire for relationship with His people?
When are you most tempted to feel that God is distant or absent?
How does the truth of “God with us” speak into experiences of loneliness, fear, or suffering?
Who in your life might God be calling you to reflect His nearness to this Christmas season?
Looking Forward
In the upcoming days and weeks, which of these three aspects of the incarnation do you feel most called to focus on this upcoming week? How do you intend to practically focus in on and live out that truth?
Prayer Focus
Pray for…
a deeper awe and wonder at the supernatural work of God in the incarnation of Jesus.
greater trust in God’s power, especially in areas where we are tempted to rely on ourselves.
humility to receive salvation as a gift, not something we earn or control.
gratitude that Jesus became fully human, entering our weakness, suffering, and limitations.
confidence that Jesus truly understands us, including our temptations, fears, and pain.
bold faith to approach Jesus honestly in prayer, knowing He sympathizes with us.
a stronger awareness of God’s nearness, especially when we feel lonely, anxious, or overwhelmed.
comfort from the truth that God is with us, not distant or indifferent.
renewed joy and hope this Christmas, rooted in Immanuel—God with us.
hearts that reflect God’s presence to others, showing compassion, patience, and love.
opportunities to share the hope of the incarnation with those who do not yet know Christ.
a deeper love for Jesus, who is not only God over us, but God beside us and God with us.