God Is With Us! (Matthew 1)

Do you have any ancestors or relatives that you are ashamed of? Tell the group why.

Have everyone in the group choose one name from the list in Matthew 1:1-16 and tell something they know about that person.

Tracing Jesus' genealogy demonstrates that he was a true historic figure who was born through an actual birth. This is a great reminder to us that Jesus was fully human. Why is it important to you that Jesus was fully human?

Read verses 18-19. What kinds of thoughts do you think went through Joseph's mind when he discovered Mary was pregnant? How would you have responded if you were him?

The Bible says Joseph was a "just" or "righteous" man, yet he still didn't want to put Mary through public shame and humiliation (even though that was the appropriate response to those caught in adultery).

What is the BEST way to respond when someone does something wrong to you?

• Get revenge
• Make them suffer
• Follow Joseph's example (if you pick this one, explain what how it might work in today's world.)

Jesus' purpose in coming (according to verse 21) was to save his people from their sin. Make a list of all the ways you can think of that we need to be saved from sin and its consequences.

How does someone's life change when they are saved from their sins? How does their future change?

"Immanuel" means "God with us". Why do you think sin keeps God from being with us? How does your own sin keep you from pursuing God?

How do you think you would have lived differently today if God had been physically with you all day? Are there any things you would have done or said differently? Why?

Will God be with you tomorrow? What will you do differently?