2025 Christmas Message #3

GLORY TO GOD, PEACE ON EARTH

Luke 2:1-20

Key Verse: 2:14

1. Why do you think God chose this specific time and political situation for Jesus’ birth (1-3)? What contrast do you see between Caesar’s authority and God’s redemptive work (4-7)? What does the manger symbolize regarding Jesus’ identity and mission?
2. Why do you think God chose shepherds as the first people to hear this news (8)? What does the phrase “good news of great joy for all the people” reveal about the meaning of Jesus’ birth (9-11)? What is the significance of the baby being wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger (12)?
3. Why do you think the birth of Jesus prompts such a powerful heavenly response (13)? What does “glory to God in the highest” tell us about the purpose of Jesus’ birth (14a)? What does “on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” suggest about God’s initiative (14b)?
4. What does the shepherds’ immediate response reveal about their faith (15-20)? What is the significance of Mary “treasuring” and “pondering” these things (19)? How are “glory to God” and “peace on earth” connected in our lives today?