 | The Statement: ...grounded in Jesus Christ ....
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| The Conversation: From the very earliest time of Christ's ministry when the John the Baptist sent his disciples to find out whether Jesus was the Messiah, the Church has taken its identity from the birth, life, death and resurrection of Christ even while debating who
exactly he was.
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| Different Vantages:
 | Scripture notes that Jesus Christ is the "Son of God." However, we have always had conversation about the mystery of Jesus as fully God and Jesus as fully human.
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| One body of Christendom focuses on Christmas, the incarnation of God into the world.
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| Another segment of the Christian community focuses on the death and resurrection of Christ, seeing our salvation coming through that Easter event.
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| Another segment of our community focuses on Pentecost, finding comfort and solace in God with us through the presence of the Holy Spirit.
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| Questions for Reflection:
| As you reflect on the person of Jesus Christ, what is the importance of his presence in the World to you? Is his identity as a prophet and teacher the essential part of who he is? Is his identity as the Son of God critical?
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| We have had many conversations about whether Christ really lived as the Gospels record, or whether Christ really died and was resurrected. What do you make of those conversations?
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| Would you consider yourself primarily a "Christmas," "Easter," or "Pentecost" Christian? Why is that particular event special to you in your live as a Christian.
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| Resources for Research:
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| The Invitation: Talk with a friend who has a different concept of Jesus the Christ than you. See if you can find the similarities in how your beliefs shape your lives and help you find meaning and guidance. |
