The Promised King: Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon explores Genesis 3 to answer the fundamental question of what has gone wrong with our world and who can make it right. Pastor Mike explains that sin has ruined God's good world through humanity's rejection of God's kingship, beginning with Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden. Sin is not merely rule-breaking but rule-taking - placing ourselves on the throne that belongs to God alone. The effects of sin extend to all areas of life: relationships, marriage, family, work, and even nature itself. However, even in humanity's darkest moment, God provides hope through the promise in Genesis 3:15 of a coming King who would crush the serpent's head. This promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who came to deal with the root of sin, bear its weight, and begin restoring all that sin has ruined. The sermon calls listeners to surrender to Jesus as their true King and receive the restoration only He can provide.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather together to study Your Word, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us today. Help us to be receptive to Your truth and willing to examine our own hearts honestly. We pray that You would speak to each person here according to their need, and that we would leave this time changed by Your grace. Guide our discussion and help us to encourage one another as we grow in understanding of Your love and Your plan for restoration. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What's one Christmas tradition from your childhood that you still enjoy or remember fondly today?
Key Verses
Genesis 3:15
Isaiah 64:6
Romans 3:10-12
Hebrews 2:14
John 8:44
Questions
Pastor Mike described sin as 'rule-taking' rather than just 'rule-breaking.' How does this perspective change the way you think about sin in your own life?
According to the sermon, even our good deeds can be motivated by fear and pride rather than love for God. Can you think of examples where your own good actions might have been driven by these motivations?
The sermon outlined how sin affects relationships, marriage, family, work, and nature. Which of these areas do you feel the effects of sin most acutely in your current season of life?
How does understanding that our world's problems stem from spiritual rebellion rather than just political or social issues change your perspective on current events?
Pastor Mike mentioned that we all hide behind 'fig leaves' - ways we protect ourselves and manage our image. What are some modern-day 'fig leaves' that people use?
Genesis 3:15 is called the 'first gospel' - the first promise of a Savior. How does seeing this promise at the very beginning of the Bible's story impact your understanding of God's plan?
The sermon described Jesus as entering 'the machine that we broke' and allowing himself to be crushed by it for us. How does this imagery help you understand what Jesus accomplished on the cross?
As we enter the Advent season, how can remembering that Jesus came to deal with the root of sin (not just help us be better people) change the way you approach Christmas this year?
Life Application
This week, identify one area where you've been trying to 'fix' yourself through your own effort rather than trusting in what Jesus has already accomplished. Instead of trying harder, spend time each day thanking Jesus for dealing with the root of sin in your heart and ask Him to help you live from the freedom He's already provided rather than striving to earn it.
Key Takeaways
Sin is not just rule-breaking but rule-taking - rejecting God's kingship and placing ourselves on His throne
The effects of sin extend to every area of life: relationships, marriage, family, work, and even nature itself
Even our good deeds can be motivated by fear and pride rather than true love for God
Genesis 3:15 contains the first promise of a Savior who would crush Satan's head and restore what sin has ruined
Jesus came not just to help us be better people, but to deal with the root of sin and provide complete restoration
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for this time of discussion and reflection on Your Word. We are humbled to realize how deeply sin has affected every area of our lives, yet we are filled with hope knowing that You came to restore what was broken. Help us to live this week not from a place of trying to earn Your favor, but from the joy of knowing we are already forgiven and free. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, may we remember that You came not just as a baby in a manger, but as the promised King who would crush the enemy and make all things new. Continue to work in our hearts and help us to surrender more fully to Your loving rule. In Your precious name we pray, Amen.