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Bible Study Dec. Week 3

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The Gift Of Peace

SCRIPTURE

LUKE 2:8–20

BACKGROUND & CONTEXT

Shepherds. Shepherds were the first people to whom God sent his message of peace. They were some of the first ones to get a glimpse of Christ. Because of their work—living outside, managing livestock—shepherding was not the job most people wanted. They were pretty low in the social pecking order. They were both physically and ceremonially unclean. This disqualified them from worshiping in the temple or synagogue. Yet, they were able to worship Jesus in person soon after his birth.

Read Luke 2:8 – 12 and discuss 1 – 2 of these questions:

• Why do you think God chose to reveal the birth of Jesus to shepherds, who were considered lowly by their society?

• God chose to enter the world as a baby born in a stable. What does this teach us about God’s values?

• When have you ever experienced a moment of awe or wonder in your faith life? How did it impact you?

Read Luke 2:13 – 15 and discuss 1 – 2 of these questions:

• Why do you think the angels sang about peace on Earth? What does that have to do with Jesus?

• The shepherds immediately went to find Jesus after hearing the news. What can we learn from their sense of urgency and excitement?

• Jesus brought peace to earth by providing all people a way back to a right relationship with God. Is that peace present in your life, or are you caught up in the world's chaos?

Read Luke 2:16 – 20 and discuss 1 – 2 of these questions:

• Verse 19 says that Mary “treasured up" the words of the shepherds and "pondered them in her heart.” What does that mean?

• The shepherds encountered Jesus and immediately began sharing the Good News with others. What does that mean for us today?

CONNECTION

Jesus’ birth was an amazing miracle. Does your life reflect the peace and joy he brings? Does it burst out of you with the same fanfare as the chorus of angels?

APPLY IT

There is a lot that can get between you and Jesus. Busyness, distractions, and sin can separate us from Christ the Lord, who brings peace into chaos and joy into sorrow.

What can you do to keep your eyes on Jesus, follow him closely, and spread his peace far and wide?

Be Specific:

What are you going to do?

When are you going to do it?

Is there someone who can keep you accountable?

PRAYER:

Take time to pray for each other’s applications in the upcoming weeks.

MEMORY VERSE:

Parent Disscussion Questions.:

*Why do you think God chose to reveal the birth of Jesus to shepherds, who were considered lowly by their society?

*Jesus brought peace to earth by providing all people a way back to a right relationship with God. Is that peace present in your life, or are you caught up in the world's chaos?

*When have you ever experienced a moment of awe or wonder in your faith life? How did it impact you?