The Anticipated King: Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon explores the profound question that Solomon wrestled with at the dedication of the Temple: 'When our sin creates a chasm we cannot cross, how can God ever dwell with us again?' The message reveals that only God can close the gap that our sin has created between us and Him. Solomon's Temple was not a human achievement but God's gracious initiative to draw near to His people. However, the Temple could only point forward to Jesus, who is the true and better Temple - God in flesh who actually bridges the chasm through His perfect sacrifice. The sermon emphasizes that we cannot reach up to God through our own efforts, religious practices, or moral achievements. Instead, God comes down to us through Jesus Christ. Unlike every other religion that gives rules and rituals, Christianity offers grace. Jesus replaces the need for a physical temple because He is the dwelling place of God on earth, and through His death and resurrection, anyone who calls on His name can be forgiven and reconciled to God.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us through Your Word. Help us to set aside our distractions and preconceptions, and make us receptive to the truth You want to reveal to us. We acknowledge that we cannot bridge the gap between ourselves and You, but we thank You that You have come down to us in Jesus. Guide our discussion today and help us to encourage one another in our faith. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one Christmas tradition or story that you remember from your childhood that made you feel a sense of wonder or magic?
Key Verses
2 Chronicles 6:18-21
Colossians 1:19
John 2:19
Hebrews 10:11-14
Romans 10:13
Questions
Solomon asked, 'Will God indeed dwell with man on the earth?'
What are some ways people today try to bridge the gap between themselves and God through their own efforts?
How does understanding God's transcendence (that even the highest heavens cannot contain Him) change your perspective on trying to reach God through human achievement?
The sermon mentioned that the Temple was God's initiative, not Solomon's achievement. How does this truth about God making the first move impact your understanding of salvation?
What does it mean that Jesus is the 'true and better Temple'? How is this different from the Old Testament Temple?
The pastor said that Christianity is unique because it offers grace while other religions only offer rules and rituals. How have you experienced this difference in your own spiritual journey?
Solomon's prayer was inclusive - welcoming kings, commoners, and even foreigners. How should this inclusiveness shape how we view and treat others who are far from God?
The sermon used the analogy of a child crying out to their parent in the night. How does this picture help you understand how God responds when we call out to Him?
How can remembering that Jesus has already 'come down the stairs' help you when you feel distant from God or struggle with shame over your sin?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you've been trying to earn God's approval or closeness through your own efforts (better behavior, more prayer, religious activities, etc.). Instead of striving harder, practice simply 'calling out' to Jesus in that area, acknowledging your need and resting in His finished work. Each day, remind yourself that God has already bridged the gap through Christ, and you don't need to climb up to Him.
Key Takeaways
Our sin creates a chasm between us and God that we cannot bridge through human effort or achievement
God is transcendent and infinitely above us - even the highest heavens cannot contain Him
The Temple was God's gracious initiative to draw near to His people, not a human achievement to reach God
Jesus is the true and better Temple - the fullness of God dwelling among us in flesh
Only God can close the chasm our sin created, and He has done so through Jesus' perfect sacrifice
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of discussion and reflection on Your Word. We are amazed that You, the God whom the highest heavens cannot contain, chose to come down to us in our sin and brokenness. Help us to live this week in the freedom and joy of knowing that You have already bridged the gap between us and the Father. When we feel distant or ashamed, remind us that You have come down the stairs to meet us where we are. May we rest in Your finished work and share this good news with others who need to know that You are near. We pray these things in Your precious name, Amen.