Small Group Discussion Week 5

Dwell

Week 05 - The Savior Arrives

Transition:

This year our Christmas series is called Dwell. The premise is that God came to dwell with us so that we (His children could dwell with Him. Each message will be predicated on the word dwell (although the meaning will be used in various ways). Last week, the message was focused on Mary and Joseph, and in particular, the challenges they each faced and endured in following the plan of God

Context:

This week, we turn our attention to perhaps the most well-known of the Christmas passages (it is quoted by Linus in explaining the meaning of Christmas to Charlie Brown in the classic TV show, "A Charlie Brown Christmas"). Counterintuitively, the announcement from God of His Son's birth is first given to those whom society deemed as lowly (shepherds). They were then directed to find Him in a lowly place (a manger). Last week, we saw that Nazareth, Joseph, and Mary were all considered lowly (for various reasons) also. At the very least, God's lowly approach assures us that God has chosen to relate with every one of us, even the "lowest.

Opening Questions:

- How did your family celebrate Christmas as you were growing up? Have you carried on any traditions? If so, which ones, and why?

- How do you and your family keep Jesus in the center of Christmas? What are some of the challenges you face?

Scripture/Storying: Luke 2:1-20

Discipleship Questions:

- Why is the information about the census important to the story?

- Why do you think God had the angels announce the birth of Jesus to shepherds (and not other groups)?

-What do you learn from this? What does it communicate to you about God? How does knowing this about God affect you?

- What was the angel's message? What did the host of angels say? Pretend you are one of the shepherds witnessing this spectacle... what's going through your heart and mind? What are you feeling in that moment?

- When did God reveal the truth about His Son to you? How did it happen? How did you respond? Share the story.

-The passage says that Mary was treasuring and pondering all that happened. Including what was said to her in Luke 1:26-38, what all do you think Mary was treasuring/pondering? What do you learn from Mary's approach to revelation from God? When have you treasured/pondered a message from God?

- What is the central message of the birth of Jesus? How has it impacted your life up to now? How do you imagine it will continue to impact your life going forward?

- What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you through this passage and its discussion? What are some action steps you will take in following His lead?

Prayer time:

This week we are praying for our church body and the elders. Pray that many will come to Christ for salvation this coming year and that they will grow to maturity in Christ. Pray for those who are hurting and need comfort and hope. Pray for wisdom and strength for the elders-to lead the church as faithful under-Shepherds.