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Bible Essentials

Luke 2:1-21

Jesus’ Birth

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Opening

  • Share life updates
  • Review highs and lows of the week
  • Share prayer requests and praises

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Ice breaker

  • What is your favorite birth story?
    • Ideas:
      • Yourself
      • Your child or grandchild
      • Your pet or other animal

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Luke 2:1-21

  • Read the passage
  • What is the context for this passage?
    • Luke 1:26-38: Mary is visited by the angel Gabriel and told she would give birth to Jesus.
    • Matthew 1: Jesus’ genealogy is given from Abraham to Jesus; Joseph learns about Mary’s pregnancy.

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Luke 2:1-21

  • Read the passage again, in a different version if available.
  • Summarize the passage in your own words.

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What does the passage say about God?

  • God fulfills his prophecies.
  • God is proud of his son’s birth.
  • God selects the most humble for the best news.
  • God assures people in his presence.
  • God has a host of angels.
  • God is to be glorified.
  • God is in heaven.
  • God’s favor rests on people.

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What does the passage say about people?

  • People even years ago were required to participate in a census.
  • Joseph and Mary were citizens who followed the requirements of the law.
  • People make do with what they have in difficult circumstances.
  • People are terrified when they see the glory of the Lord.

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What does the passage say about people?

  • People are naturally curious.
  • People talk about their experiences.
  • People’s natural response to an encounter with God is to glorify and praise him.

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What does the passage say about God’s plan?

  • God’s plan was that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem.
  • God’s plan was that the Messiah would be of the line of David.
  • God’s plan was that Jesus would be a Savior.
  • God uses people to spread the good news.

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Discussion

  • How does the passage fit into the overarching story of the Bible?
    • It shows us the beginning of God’s plan of redemption. He sent his Son to earth in human form to live a perfect life and be the perfect sacrifice.

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Discussion

  • What else strikes you about this passage?
  • How does the passage affect how you view God? How you view yourself?
  • How does this passage affect how you will live your life?