Embodied pt 3 - The Church

Series Context: In our Advent series, Embodied, we are exploring the profound mystery of God taking on flesh and dwelling among us. This week, we consider what it means to be the body of Christ as a church community—united in diversity, breaking down divisions, and embodying Jesus’ presence in the world.

Opening Reflection

Begin by reflecting on this statement: “God became flesh and moved into the neighborhood.” What thoughts or feelings come to mind as you consider the physical, human aspect of God’s incarnation?

Scripture Focus

1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27
Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. … Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

Key Themes

1. Unity in Diversity
   Paul’s metaphor of the body shows that our differences are not erased but essential to the flourishing of the whole. We are called to embrace diversity while practicing unity.

2. Belonging and Interdependence
   Each member of the body is vital. When one part suffers, the whole suffers; when one part rejoices, the whole rejoices. Healing and wholeness happen together, not in isolation.

3. Embodying Jesus’ Presence
   As the church, we are the physical presence of Jesus in the world, called to love, reconcile, and renew. This is both a beautiful invitation and a challenging responsibility.

Discussion Questions

1. Reflecting on the Body of Christ

• What stands out to you in Paul’s metaphor of the church as a body?

• How does the idea of being part of one body challenge or encourage you personally?

2. Diversity and Unity

• Paul emphasizes that differences (gifts, backgrounds, identities) are essential for the health of the church. How have you seen diversity strengthen a community you’ve been part of?

• What practical steps can we take to ensure our differences unite rather than divide us?

3. Belonging and Interdependence

• Paul writes that when one part of the body suffers, the whole suffers. How have you experienced this dynamic in community?

• What does it look like for us to care for one another in a way that embodies Jesus’ presence?

4. Embodying Jesus in the World

• Paul’s image of the church as Jesus’ body invites us to be his presence in the world. What might this look like in your daily life? In our church community?

• What barriers might prevent us from living out this calling, and how can we address them?

Practice Together

1. Communal Prayer: Spend time praying for unity and healing in the church, both locally and globally. Ask God to help us embody Jesus’ presence in the world.

2. Acts of Belonging: Identify one practical way to connect with or support someone in your community this week. How can you help them feel valued and cared for as part of the body?

3. Table Reflection: If your group gathers around a meal or the Lord’s Table, reflect on how this act symbolizes our shared belonging in Jesus. What does it mean to “practice receiving and giving” as part of the body?

Closing Reflection
What is one takeaway from this conversation that you want to carry into the week? How might it shape how you view yourself and others as part of the body of Christ?