The Original Christmas Tree

Series: Best Christmas Ever; Part 1

Isaiah 11:1-5

Pastor Joel Sutton; November 29, 2009

 Listen to this sermon

Background:

      Forest of Judah: wiped out

      Cedar of Assyria: cut down

Our Hope:

• Jesus is theking who brings life in death (v. 1).

• Jesus is the king who will be perfectly prepared by God (vv. 2-3a).

• Jesus is the king who will make everything right (vv. 3b-5).

Take Home Idea: Jesus is the original Christmas tree, the branch of Jesse, that is our hope.

Sermon-Based Discussion Questions

Are there any thoughts or ideas from the sermon that you are still thinking about or wrestling with? Is there anything from the sermon that caused a sense of overwhelming joy or praise in any way? As a result of hearing the words of God, what has your reaction been?

Who was your hero during your childhood? Was he or she fictional or real? What was your hero able to do that you couldn't? Was there any specific lesson you learned from your hero that you still carry with you today?

What does Isaiah mean when he says, "the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him" (v. 2; see 2 Kings 2:15)? What is the significance of the Spirit of the LORD within your own relationship with God?

What stories about Jesus or sayings from Jesus' teachings come to mind as you read verses 2-5? Which of these aspects of Christ has particularly made an impact in your life?

Jesus' birth brought about so much hope, yet so many disappointments and tragedies have ravaged humanity since then. As you have learned about the prophecies surrounding the Messiah and as you celebrate the season of His birth, how has your life been filled with hope? What disappointments and tragedies seem to be surrounded by hope once again?

How will you allow the Spirit of the LORD to fill you with hope this week?