His Story

Episode 2: Jesus’ Birth

Break the Ice

What is one thing other people may not know about you?

Bring the Word

Read Luke 1:26-38

  • Why do you think Mary was troubled by Gabriel’s greeting?
  • What do we learn about the Messiah and His purpose?
  • Put yourself in Mary’s shoes, what are some problems this plan may cause you at this point in your life? 
  • How would you describe Mary’s response to all that Gabriel has just told her? 
  • Does it seem easier to go with our own plans or God’s plan? Why?

Read Matthew 1:18-25

  • What are some alternative courses Joseph might have considered?
  • Why did he decide on divorcing Mary quietly?
  • What might be some of the hardships for Joseph for accepting an already pregnant Mary as his wife?
  • What are some of the blessings for Joseph and/or Mary for following God’s plan?
  • Which would come first, hardship or blessings?

Read Luke 2:1-7

  • Do you think Joseph would have known anyone in Bethlehem? 
  • Why do you think we do not hear about his family coming to see the baby?
  • Do you think verse 7 is saying that all the rooms had been taken already or that no one wanted them to stay in their guest room?
    • It may help to look at different translations. For example, Young’s Literal Translation – “and she brought forth her son — the first-born, and wrapped him up, and laid him down in the manger, because there was not for them a place in the guest-chamber.”

Read Luke 2:8-21

  • How were shepherds regarded by society at this time? What are some things you know about shepherds?
  • What might the shepherds be risking by going?
  • Why do you think the bible places the shepherds as the first visitors of Jesus?
  • In what way do you think the shepherd’s message affected Mary and Joseph?

Bring it Home

  • In what ways might the story of Jesus’ birth be different if Mary, Joseph, or the shepherds had tried to follow their own plans?
  • Is there any way to calculate the impact you will have by following God’s plan?
  • Is there any way to know the blessing you will miss by not following God’s plan?
  • How can we pray for you?

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