Before the Name Was Spoken
SUMMARY
This Epiphany Sunday sermon explores John's prologue, emphasizing that Jesus existed before creation as the eternal Word who became flesh. Pastor Brandon contrasts John's theological approach with Matthew's narrative, highlighting that Jesus didn't merely arrive at Christmas but was revealed as the one who already was. Using the illustration of Joshua Bell playing violin unrecognized in a subway station, the sermon challenges listeners to recognize Christ's presence in ordinary circumstances. The message emphasizes that Jesus embodies both grace and truth, and calls believers to see clearly and love deeply, recognizing that the Word continues to dwell among us today.
INTRO PRAYER
Gracious God, as we gather together on this Epiphany Sunday, we thank You for revealing Your light to the world through Jesus Christ. Open our hearts and minds to receive what You want to teach us today. Help us to be attentive to Your voice and receptive to Your truth. May we see You clearly and welcome You fully into our lives. Guide our discussion and draw us closer to
You and to one another. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
ICE BREAKER
What's one way you hope Christ will lead you throughout this new year?
KEY VERSES
John 1:1-5
John 1:9-14
John 3:6
Genesis 1:1
QUESTIONS
What does it mean to you that Jesus 'already was' rather than simply 'arrived' at Christmas?
How does understanding Jesus as the eternal Word change your perspective on the Christmas story?
In the Joshua Bell subway experiment, why do you think people failed to recognize greatness? How might this relate to recognizing Christ in our daily lives?
What's the difference between having information about Jesus and actually recognizing His presence in your life?
How do grace and truth work together in Jesus, and why do we need both rather than just one?
The wise men were foreigners who recognized Jesus while religious leaders nearby did not. What does this teach us about who can see God's truth?
Where do you see examples of people missing Christ's presence in our world today?
How can we cultivate the kind of attentiveness that allows us to recognize God's light in ordinary circumstances?
LIFE APPLICATION
This week, practice being more attentive to Christ's presence in ordinary moments. Look for ways to embody both grace and truth in your interactions with others, seeing clearly while loving deeply. Pay attention to where God might be revealing Himself in unexpected places or
through unexpected people.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Jesus is the eternal Word who existed before creation and was revealed, not created, at Christmas
Recognition of Christ requires both grace and truth working together in our hearts
God's presence can be missed when we're not attentive or when we expect Him to appear only in familiar, ceremonial contexts
The incarnation means God fully entered human experience, assuming our vulnerability and mortality
Epiphany challenges us not just to know about Jesus but to recognize and welcome His ongoing presence in our lives
ENDING PRAYER
Eternal God, thank You for the gift of Your Son, the Word made flesh who dwells among us. Help us to carry the light of Christ into this new year, recognizing Your presence in both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of our lives. Give us eyes to see Your truth clearly and hearts to extend Your grace generously. May we be faithful followers who not only recognize Your light but reflect it to others. Guide us as we seek to live as Your children, full of grace and truth. In the name of Jesus, the light of the world, we pray. Amen.
