The following discussion questions have been prepared to accompany the sermon on December 23, “Good News of Great Joy for All the People” (Luke 2:8–12). The questions can be used for discussion in small groups or for personal reflection.

Outline

1. Good News
2. Of Great Joy
3. For All the People

Main Point: The message of Christmas is a message of “good news of great joy for all the people.”

Discussion Questions

• What part do angels play in the Christmas story? What is the difference between the way angels are portrayed in the Bible and the way they are portrayed in art?
• What is the main difference between world religions and Christianity?
• What is the difference between the world’s version of joy and the Bible’s version of “great joy”?
• Jesus addresses the curse that came into the world because of sin—how does he address it at Christmas, at the Cross, and at the Second Coming?
• What is the difference between the worship of the redeemed and the worship of angels?

Application Questions

• Does your understanding of Christianity make it just like another religion or do you see and feel and love the distinctive difference?
• Describe your thoughts and reflections on how the gospel is a message designed to bring us “great joy.” Do you have this great joy? Do you worship with great joy as a redeemed worshipper—even more than an angelic worshipper?
• What things from the sermon stood out to you that you can share with an unbelieving friend? What things from the sermon would you share with a believing friend?

Prayer Focus
Pray for a grace to worship Christ as the redeemed who have received the gospel and rejoice with great joy!