The Promise Foretold
Welcome to Day 1 of Journey to the Manger! Today, we begin with the incredible promises foretold in the Old Testament, prophecies that pointed to the coming of Jesus, our Savior. Discover how God's Word set the stage for the greatest gift of all time. Join us as we reflect on His faithfulness and prepare our hearts for Christmas!
Notes:
Introduction to God's Plan (Luke 1v1–38)
Focus: God’s faithfulness and the start of His promises.
Questions:
1. How do you think Zechariah’s doubt compared to Mary’s response to the angel?
2. What does Gabriel’s message about John reveal about God's plan for salvation?
3. How does Mary’s response to Gabriel reflect her trust in God's promises?
4. What do we learn about God's plan for salvation from Gabriel’s message about Jesus?
Takeaways:
God works through ordinary people like Zechariah and Elizabeth to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.
Faith in God's promises is essential, even when circumstances seem impossible.
God’s plans often require us to trust Him beyond what we can see.
The Holy Spirit plays an active role in the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Elizabeth and Mary Meet (Luke 1v39–45)
Focus: Joy and humility in response to God’s work.
Questions:
1. What can we learn from Elizabeth’s joy and humility when Mary visits her?
2. How does Elizabeth recognize the significance of Mary’s child?
3. How does Mary’s song of praise (the Magnificat) reflect her understanding of God’s character?
4. How can we cultivate similar gratitude in our lives?
Takeaways:
Joy is a natural response to recognizing God's faithfulness.
God confirms His work through the encouragement of others.
Praise and gratitude are proper responses to God's work in our lives.
Mary highlights God’s mercy, strength, and faithfulness to His promises.
The Birth of John and Zechariah’s Prophecy (Luke 1v57–80)
Focus: God’s promises fulfilled and Zechariah’s renewed faith.
Questions:
1. How do Zechariah’s words in his prophecy inspire you to trust in God’s promises?
2. What does this chapter teach us about God's timing?
3. How does this chapter deepen your understanding of God’s faithfulness?
4. Which character’s response to God’s work most resonates with you, and why?
Takeaways:
God’s plans are fulfilled in His perfect timing, not ours.
Zechariah’s prophecy reveals the power of God’s salvation and His faithfulness to His covenant.
God works through ordinary people to accomplish extraordinary purposes.
Faith and trust in God's promises bring joy and transformation.
Praise and gratitude draw us closer to God.
Prayer to End the Study:
"Lord, thank You for revealing Your faithfulness through Your Word and Your people. Help us to trust Your promises like Mary and Zechariah, and to rejoice in the work You are doing in and through us. Amen."
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