Quotes

Max Lucado: “God goes to those who have time to hear Him—And so on this cloudless night He went to simple shepherds.”

Unknown: “The simple shepherds heard the voice of an angel and found their lamb; the wise men saw the light of a star and found their wisdom.”

John 1:14: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Questions for Community Groups, Family & Friends

Luke 2:8-11 / God’s Sovereignty Over Christmas Part II

Especially for the children:
a. What were hard things about being a shepherd in the first century?
b. Why is it surprising that the angels would announce such good news to shepherds?

What was your top takeaway from this sermon?
Why is the fact that the shepherds were the first recipients of the good news that a Savior was born VERY encouraging for us!
The fact that God came after sinners should remind us of two things: First, that if we know Him, it is an incredible work of His Spirit to show us our need for Him and we should rejoice. Second, His grace towards us should work in us grace towards those who are still lost. Discuss ways that these truths should impact us day to day (think of lost family members, neighbors, peers, co-workers, enemies, etc.).
What is interesting about the typical response of sinful man at the appearance of angels?
The angel gave three reasons they were not to fear: Because of good news, because a Savior was born and this Savior was born for them! Discuss the two following responses of the shepherds (read Luke 2:8-20 to find them both: they spread the good news and they worshipped God!).
In what way are we displaying worship and gospel-spreading day to day?
Why is the “spreading the gospel” part so difficult? What might help us get past those obstacles?