LIFE GROUP OR PERSONAL STUDY | ADVENT 1
Sunday, December 01, 2024
Context:
As we enter the season of Advent, we begin a new series called “Voices from the Edge,” and start in the rarely preached-on book of Revelation. In Revelation 21, we are reminded of who we are as the Bride of Christ. John’s vision offers us a glimpse of the church in her glory, adorned as a bride for her bridegroom. This vision not only stirs our hope for Christ’s return but also reminds us of our identity and calling in the present.
Icebreaker:
Share about a wedding you’ve attended or been part of that stood out to you. What made it memorable? How did it reflect love, joy, or commitment?
After the icebreaker, read aloud Revelation 21:1-5.
What stands out to you about John’s vision of the new heaven and the new earth? How does this imagery impact your understanding of God’s promises?
John’s vision depicts the church as the Bride of Christ. What does it mean to you that you are part of this Bride? How does this identity shape the way you live and serve in your daily life? The church can sometimes lose its “beauty” as a bride and become downright ugly when argumentative or hateful. How have you seen the church as “Bridezilla?” How do we avoid that mentality and instead embrace the selfless love of Christ?
Discuss the statement: “You can’t make yourself a bride. You are a bride because someone loves you.” How does this truth help us rest in Christ’s love rather than striving to earn it?
What does living as part of the Bride of Christ look like today? Make as many connections to marriage as you want (where appropriate). How can your group encourage one another to live in this identity?
As we close, pray, thanking Christ for his love, which makes us his Bride. Ask for open eyes to see where he is making all things new and hearts ready to reflect his love in the world.