Go Deeper This Week
Scripture and questions for study and reflection:
Read Luke 2:8-20.
1. The word angel most literally translates to mean “messenger.” In what ways were the angel and the great company of the heavenly host messengers? What was their message?
2. What is the significance of the great company of the heavenly host saying to the shepherds, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”? What does this tell us about on whom God’s favor rests?
3. In this week’s video lesson, Pete Briscoe says that God’s favor rests on the broken ones. Do you agree? What does that mean for you? Are you one of the broken ones? Are we all broken ones in some way?
4. Pete Briscoe uses the story of Silent Night to highlight what God can do with brokenness. What did you think about this story? Had you heard it before? What does it mean for us?
5. In what ways have you felt broken in your life? Has God made anything beautiful out of that brokenness yet? If so, are you comfortable sharing with the group?
6. Read Romans 8:28, Ephesians 2:10 and Philippians 1:6. How do these passages relate to today’s passage in Luke 2?
7. How do you think the shepherds felt at first when the angels left them? How would that make you feel? Have you ever felt all alone in your faith?
8. Verse 15 tells us, “The shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’” What is the significance of them all going together? What does this teach us about our own discipleship? (Hint:The pastor used Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 to help explain it)
Prayer for the Week:
Gracious and loving God, we confess that we all have brokenness in our lives. Thank you for redeeming our brokenness and molding us into something beautiful – your image. Remind us that we are better together; that you created us to live in community with each other and in communion with you. Help us to spread the Good News by singing your praises and bringing you glory. We pray all of this in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.
