Luke 2:1-21; 1:26-38; and Matthew 1:18-2:13

Grow

• Read more about “What Child is This?” in this article.

• Why was the baby’s birth proclaimed to shepherds?  Here are 5 reasons to consider.

Share

• Who do YOU say the Child is? How can you share the wonder that He is our Savior and King in words or actions this week?

• Jesus, in humility, came as a baby to bring us salvation. How can you humbly put others before yourself this week?

Connect

• Listen to this hymn several times. Journal or discuss how this song helps you revere Christ even more.

• Read Psalm 130:4. Discuss what this stanza means to you personally: “Good Christian, fear: for sinners here, the silent Word is pleading.”

Revelation 20:7-10; 21:1-5; 22:1-5

Grow

• Consider the biblical meaning of “Peace” by watching this video.

• What does Jesus’ “peace on earth” really mean? Consider further by reading this article.

Share

• This hymn reminds us that because of Jesus, we can have peace, even in turmoil. How can you share this peace with others this week?

• Read Revelation 21:1-5 Journal what stirs in your heart and mind. How does this reality change your perspective?

Connect

• Read the third verse together. What “despair” are you facing right now? Discuss then spend time praying for one another.

• What “wrongs” do you long to be made right? How can we remain faithful in this “in-between” time as we await Jesus’ return?

• Listen to or read the lyrics of “What Child is This?.” Then explore Colossians 1:15-23 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Isaiah 35

Grow

• Consider the biblical meaning of “Joy” through this video.

• For a deeper look at the Joy of the Lord and how it is possible for Jesus’ followers, read this article.

Share

• This hymn tells us why we can choose JOY in all circumstances. How can you share your joy with others this week?

• Write out Luke 2:10. How will you use your words, actions, and attitude to bring this good news to those with fearful hearts this week?

Connect

• “Let every heart prepare Him room.” What might be crowding out Jesus in your heart? What needs to happen for that to change?

• We celebrate Christ’s first coming. How could also living in anticipation of his second coming open the way to more joy?

• Listen to or read the lyrics of “I heard the Bells on Christmas Day.” Then explore Revelation 20:7-10 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.

Gen. 3:15, Isa. 9:6, Matt. 6:10, and Eph. 2:4-6

Grow

• Take a deeper at this hymn’s themes in this advent video series.

• Turn a few lines from this hymn into a prayer. Pray daily as you anticipate Christ’s coming at Christmas.

Share

• Are you longing for Jesus? Make a point this week to demonstrate hope, joy, wonder, and faith in your words and actions.

• As you Listen to “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus,” journal ways this song helps you celebrate Christmas differently this year.

Connect

• Jesus is our Redeemer, Shepherd, and Friend. Which of these names brings you the most gladness. Why?What practical steps can we take together to slow down and love better this holiday season?

• This hymn encourages us to celebrate Christ’s first coming and anticipate his second coming. What is one way we can practically do that together this month?

• Listen to or read the the lyrics of “Joy to the World.” Then explore Isaiah 35 together to prepare for next week’s sermon.