Hillside Missionary Church
Whether you’re a guest or a long-time attendee we’re glad you’re here with us. We’re a friendly and caring group of Christians who are here to help people be CONNECTED with Jesus, CHANGED by Jesus, and COMMITTED to the mission of Jesus. If you're new with us today, thank for joining us! We truly believe that you’re not here by accident and that God has some amazing plans for your life.
Luke 2:8-20 ESV
Throughout this sermon series we are looking at characters that are typically overlooked in the Christmas story, and what their stories can teach us. This week, we’re looking at the Shepherds’ story. Lowey and despised by society, an Angel came to these Shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. By taking a look at their story, we learn some essential truths about who God is, how we can know Him, and what our reaction to Him should be.
1. God uses all sorts of people and events to bring forth His will
Luke 2:8-10, 2 Pet. 3:9, Col. 1:16, Matt. 28:18, 2 Pet. 3:13,
2. It is through Jesus, and only through Jesus, that we can have peace
Luke 2:13-14, John 14:27, 16:33, 2 Thess. 3:16, Rom. 8:28
3. Our reaction to experiencing God should be to experience Him more, and spread the good news
Luke 2:15-20, 1 John 4:16, John 17:3, Ps. 34:8, Mark 16:15
Reflection Questions
1. Have you ever studied this part of God’s Word before? Did anything stand out? Did anything from the shepherds’ story surprise you?
2. In the story of Christ’s birth, God uses the actions of godly people, as well as the actions of ungodly people, to bring forth His will on earth. Through realizing this, we can have peace when our world seems like it is falling apart. How can you better remember this truth and hold onto God’s peace?
3. Read Matthew 2:14. It is through Jesus, and only through Jesus, that we can have peace. In what ways do people try to obtain peace, but ultimately fail because it lacks Jesus?
4. Looking at your answers from question #3, which one of the ways of obtaining peace without Jesus are you guilty of trying?
5. Looking at your answers from question #4, how can you replace those failed attempts at peace, with trusting in Jesus for your peace?
6. The shepherds’ reaction to experiencing God is to experience Him more, as well as to spread the good news of Jesus. How can you do the same?
7. What is your biggest take away from this message? What did God teach you? Do you feel led to put anything into action? If so, what, and what practical step(s) do you need to take to be obedient to what God has led you to do? Who can keep you accountable to accomplishing this?