Go Deeper This Week
Scripture and questions for study and reflection:
Today is the second Sunday of Advent and we are continuing our sermon series “A Savior is Born.” This morning we will learn a little more about a small town called Bethlehem and how the story of Christmas plays out every day, even in today’s world.
1. Last week we were reminded of God’s “crazy ask” of Mary. Have you had the opportunity to ponder any of God’s “crazy asks” of you? How are you planning to respond to Him?
2. Read Micah 5:2. What is the relevance of this Scripture text? What is it referring too?
3. Read Luke 2:1-4. What is the significance of Bethlehem? Why do you think God wanted Mary to give birth to Jesus in Bethlehem?
4. Why do you think Pastor Pete Briscoe referenced the Book of Ruth for this second week of Advent, which represents “peace”?
5. Pastor Pete Briscoe, in this study, introduces seven key thoughts that he discusses throughout the book of Ruth:Desperation, Despondency, Dropping-in, Loving-kindness, Availability, Redeeming and Including. Can you relate to any of these key thoughts? Do any of them remind you of your own story of salvation and redemption?
6. What are your thoughts on genealogy? Have you ever researched your own genealogy? Are or were you surprised by your own lineage? What do you think of Jesus’ genealogy? Are you surprised by His lineage? What do you think about some of the “characters” in His lineage? What does this tell you about Jesus? What does it tell you about you?
Prayer for the Week:
God of peace, help us to see you in all that we are doing. Help us to know that you are the Lord of Lords and the Prince of Peace. Give us the power to trade in our desperation for your powerful and life-giving peace. Amen.
