Welcome to 2:42

Advent 2006:Incarnation

and Expectation

Incarnation and Expectation

• Advent:– A time of preparation and active-waiting

• Preparing for celebration of Christmas• Preparing for celebration of Jesus’ return

• Incarnation:– God choosing to work in the world through the work of

his Holy Spirit in human beings.

• Expectation– Living in the hope that God assures for those who

follow Jesus, revealed to us in “Word and Spirit”

Put on your Bi-focals

Looking Ahead in Hope Looking at Today’s Reality

Incarnation and Expectation

• “It is only when we become heavenly minded that we become any earthly use”–Anon

The Bible’s Bi-focals (1) Heaven

• Philippians 2: Looking at Jesus – … in very nature God– (but) found in appearance as a man– Therefore God exalted him – that at Jesus’ name every knee should bow– and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is

Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

The Bible’s Bi-focals: (2) Earth

• Philippians 2: Looking at Us – Being like-minded,

• having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose

– Doing nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit – Considering others better than yourselves. – Looking to the interests of others.– Continuing to work out your salvation – Doing everything without complaining or arguing

Our Bi-focals (1)

Looking Ahead in Hope

• What FUTURE HOPE does this passage spell out for you?

• What (other) Bible texts give you a “picture of heaven”

• What’s hard for you in “being heavenly minded” in your life?

Looking at Today’s Reality

• What PRESENT JOY does this passage spell out for you?

• What (other) Bible texts inspire you as you live day by day?

• What’s hard for you in “being like minded” in the church?

Our Bi-focals (2)

Looking At Jesus in Heaven

• What comfort do you gain about Jesus from this passage?

• What challenges you about Jesus in this passage?

• What’s hard for you in seeing Jesus as (quote) “Lord OF ALL or not Lord AT ALL”

Looking at Jesus on Earth

• Who do you look to as a role model of being like Jesus?

• What aspect of being more like Jesus can you pray for?

• What examples of Jesus “looking to the interests of others” can we follow?

“You’re never alone with a clone”

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2 3

4

1: Praying for unity & love to grow in the church2: Praying for growing Christ-like-ness in us all.3: Praying for those who don’t yet “bow the knee”4: Praying for Christ’s rule to be seen here + now

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2 3

4

1: Praying for people in need2: Praying for our witness and mission3: Praying for community needs in our town 4: Praying for needs in the wider country/world