Weekly Discussion Guide

GROUP DISCUSSION
1. Open with prayer. (2-5 min)
2. Share your story ... Talk about a time when you were surprised that someone knew (or remembered) your name. Why is remembering names so important? (7-10 min)
3. Discuss these questions with your group. (20-45 min)
4. Read Matthew 2:11

Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, "Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him." (Matthew 12:7-8)

What are some bad reasons for which people look for Jesus? How can God redeem their search, even if it's done with unhealthy motives?

After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. (Matthew 2:9-11)

What are the wise men acknowledging by worshipping Jesus? What are we acknowledging when we worship Jesus?

Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way. (Matthew 2:11-12)

What could the gift of frankincense represent?

PLAN OF ACTION
Jesus gave nicknames to some of his disciples. If God were to give you a new name that not only reflected something unique about you, but also how much you mean to Him, what would it be? Praise God this week because He does know your name and that you mean so much to Him.