A Foretaste of Glory | Discussion Guide
Summary
This sermon explores the Transfiguration of Jesus from Luke 9:28-36, where Peter, James, and John witnessed Jesus transformed in glory alongside Moses and Elijah. The pastor presents this event as a ‘foretaste of glory’ – a preview of the coming kingdom where Jesus will reign in all His glory. The message emphasizes four key points: the demonstration of a coming kingdom, the discussion of a completed work of redemption, the deduction of a confused disciple (Peter’s misguided suggestion to build shelters), and the declaration of a compassionate Father who commands us to listen to His Son. The sermon challenges believers to set their minds on things above, avoid distractions that dim their view of Jesus, and live with eternity in mind while recognizing that salvation is a completed work through Christ’s sacrifice.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, we come before You today with grateful hearts, knowing that You have something special to teach us through Your Word. As we gather together in this small group, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to receive what You want us to learn today. Help us to be vulnerable with one another and receptive to Your Spirit’s leading. May we see Jesus more clearly through our discussion and leave here changed by Your truth. We pray that You would speak to each person here according to their specific needs and draw us closer to You. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Ice Breaker
What is one Christmas tradition or family gathering tradition that you look forward to most each year, and why does it bring you joy?
Key Verses
Luke 9:28-36
Isaiah 53
Colossians 3:1-4
John 14:1-3
Philippians 2:9
2 Peter 1:16-18
Questions
The pastor mentioned that Jesus lived His life on ‘praying ground’ and that things happen when we pray. How has prayer made a difference in your own life, and what challenges do you face in maintaining a consistent prayer life?
Peter, James, and John were part of Jesus’ inner circle and witnessed this incredible moment. What do you think it means to have that kind of close friendship with Jesus, and how can we cultivate deeper intimacy with Him?
The sermon described the Transfiguration as a ‘preview of heaven.’ How does having a glimpse of future glory impact the way you handle current struggles or difficulties in your life?
Moses and Elijah discussed Jesus’ ‘departure’ and what He was about to accomplish in Jerusalem. Why is it significant that they understood the necessity of the cross when the disciples didn’t?
Peter wanted to build three shelters, essentially putting Moses and Elijah on the same level as Jesus. What are some ways we might inadvertently give other things or people the glory that belongs to Jesus alone?
The Father’s voice declared ‘This is my Son, the Chosen One. Listen to Him.’ What are some practical ways we can better listen to Jesus in our daily lives?
The pastor shared about the piano tuner using a tuning fork, saying that when we’re both tuned to Jesus, we’ll be in harmony with each other. How have you seen this principle work (or not work) in your relationships?
Fanny Crosby said she wouldn’t change her blindness because it helped her focus on eternal things. What ‘distractions’ in your life might be keeping you from setting your mind on things above?
Life Application
This week, identify one thing in your life that may be competing for the attention and glory that belongs to Jesus alone. It could be a relationship, achievement, possession, or even a good thing that has become too important. Commit to intentionally refocus your heart and mind on Christ, perhaps through daily prayer, Scripture reading, or simply pausing throughout the day to remember His completed work on the cross. Ask God to help you ‘see none but Jesus’ in that area of your life.
Key Takeaways
The Transfiguration was a preview of the coming kingdom where Jesus will reign in glory, and believers will appear with Him
The cross represents a completed work of redemption that we can only ‘get in on’ – there’s nothing we can add to what Christ accomplished
We must guard against giving anyone or anything the glory that belongs to Jesus alone, keeping Him as our singular focus
The Father’s command to ‘listen to Him’ means we should prioritize Jesus’ words above all other voices and influences
Living with eternity in mind helps us endure present struggles and keeps our perspective focused on things above rather than earthly distractions
Ending Prayer
Father God, thank You for giving us this glimpse into Your glory through the Transfiguration. We are amazed by Your love and the completed work of salvation through Jesus Christ. Help us to keep our eyes fixed on Him alone, not allowing anything to distract us from His supremacy in our lives. As we go from this place, may we live with eternity in mind, setting our hearts and minds on things above. Give us the strength to listen to Jesus above all other voices and to be people who reflect His glory to a world that desperately needs to see Him. May we be more than conquerors through Christ who loves us. In the precious name of Jesus we pray, Amen.