Message Snapshot:
As we wrap up our "Surviving Christmas" series, Pastor Burt talked about the central message of the Christmas season. This exploration of Matthew 1:18-25 reminded us to keep Jesus at the center of Christmas and what that means for our lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Christmas is about Jesus, even when we don't remember it.
- Jesus came to save us from our sins. This means we need to acknowledge that we have actually sinned.
- Jesus being "Immanuel", meaning "God with us" has huge ramifications for our lives.
- Joseph, in accepting Jesus, took on tremendous sacrifice. For us to follow God, we will most likely have to sacrifice as well.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your favorite Christmas tradition and why?
- What is your least favorite Christmas tradition and why?
- As we looked into Joseph's actions before the angel appeared to him, Pastor Burt remarked that Joseph was not particularly gullible when it came to Mary's pregnancy and talked about "chronological snobbery." Have you ever believed that people in the past were more superstitious or less intelligent? If so, when? If not, why do you think people do that?
- Reflect on this line from the sermon- "You have sinned and you need a savior." Why do you think that it is hard for people to admit, not mistakes, but sins?
- Jesus being called "Immanuel" or "God with us" can be a good reminder that He will not leave us. If you're comfortable, share a time when you needed to know that, or when knowing it helped you.
- Pastor Burt pointed out that, for Joseph, God's activity would require sacrifice. He then remarked, "When God shows up it tends not to be convenient." If God loves and cares about us, why do you think He does that?
- What areas of convenience in your life do you have a hard time handing over to God?