We Live In Expectancy
Luke 2 - John Sellers
Read Luke 2:25-28 and listen to what we are told about Simeon and Anna.
1. Discuss the characteristics of Simeon and Anna that set them apart from others in Jerusalem. What made their expectancy and hope authentic?
2. What distinguishes an authentic pursuit of God from religious practices performed without genuine devotion? How can one ensure that one's pursuit of God remains authentic?
3. Simeon and Anna’s relationship with God allowed them to truly know His heart. How does someone’s knowledge of God’s heart and character help stir up their faith?
4. To live in expectancy, you must believe what God has said and step forward in faith. Can you think of an example from your life where you allowed your faith to shape your actions in a way that took courage?
5. Living in expectancy should drive us to invite others into what God is doing. As we approach Christmas, what step is God calling you to take when it comes to inviting the people around you to experience what God wants to do? How can you move forward with faith?
"The Gift of Christmas: Hope, Joy, and Emmanuel"
Tim Bulleman
1. What is your favorite Christmas Movie? Have you ever watched “A Christmas Carol?
2. Read 1 Samuel 5:1-3. Have you ever been in a situation like the Israelites where you thought God had abandoned you, or you felt miles away from him with little hope?
3. Read 1 Samuel 7:3-4. What significance do you find in the Israelites turning away from foreign gods and committing themselves to the Lord? What lessons can we draw from their example regarding the importance of genuine repentance and commitment in our own spiritual journeys?
4. For 400 years, God was silent and sent no prophet, angel, or word to his people before the Angel came to the shepherds in the field tending to the lambs. How is this Similar to the previous scripture?
5. Read Isaiah 9: 6-7 and Luke 2:8-20. Share a time when you chose to find joy even through the worst circumstances.
6. Read Mathew 1:23. What does Emmanuel mean? How can this change everything?