Discussion Guide | Dec. 14, 2025

December 15th, 2025

Introduction

"When God Appears - Part 1" - Sermon Summary

This Christmas message explores the epic story of Jesus' birth as the ultimate struggle between good and evil, emphasizing that God works even in seasons of silence. The sermon focuses on Mary's obedience and faith when the angel Gabriel announced she would give birth to the Messiah, highlighting how God orchestrates events in the 'fullness of time.' Pastor Bill encourages us to trust that God is working behind the scenes in our lives, even when we can't see it, and challenges us to respond like Mary with faith and surrender to God's will.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we gather together today to study Your Word and reflect on the Christmas story, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Help us to be receptive to Your Spirit and to see how the truths from over 2,000 years ago still speak to our lives today. Give us ears to hear and hearts to receive whatever You want to reveal to us in this time together. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is one Christmas tradition or memory from your childhood that still brings you joy today?

Main Study

Key Verses

Galatians 4:4
Luke 1:26-38
Genesis 3
Revelation 12:4-5, 17

Questions

Pastor Bill mentioned the '400 years of silence' between the Old and New Testaments. Have you ever experienced a season where God seemed silent? How did you handle it?
Mary was told she was 'highly favored' and that 'the Lord is with you.' How does it feel to know these same words can be spoken over your life?
When Mary asked 'How will this be?' she was expressing honest questions about God's plan. What 'how will this be' moments are you facing in your life right now?
Mary's response was 'I am the Lord's servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.' What makes it difficult or easy for you to surrender to God's will like Mary did?
Pastor Bill reminded us that being in God's perfect will doesn't mean life is stress-free. How do you reconcile following God with still experiencing challenges?
Gabriel told Mary 'nothing is impossible with God.' What situation in your life needs this reminder right now?
God often works differently than our expectations. Can you share about a time when God's plan was different but better than what you expected?
Mary's obedience changed all of history. How might your obedience to God, even in small things, impact others around you?

Life Application

This week, identify one area of your life where you've been asking 'How will this be?' like Mary did. Instead of focusing on the impossibility of the situation, practice responding like Mary by saying 'I am the Lord's servant. May your word be fulfilled in me.' Spend time in prayer surrendering this situation to God and trusting that He is working behind the scenes, even if you can't see it yet.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

God works even in seasons of silence - His apparent absence doesn't mean He's not orchestrating events in your life
The Christmas story reminds us that 'nothing is impossible with God' when we face our own 'how will this be' moments
Mary's obedience and surrender to God's will changed all of history, showing the power of saying 'yes' to God
Being in God's perfect will doesn't eliminate stress, but it provides the foundation for trusting Him through difficulties
God surrounds us with a support team and draws together like-minded people to accomplish His purposes

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Mary's faith and obedience. Help us to trust You in our own 'how will this be' moments, knowing that nothing is impossible with You. Give us the courage to say like Mary, 'I am the Lord's servant. May Your word be fulfilled in me.' As we go from this place, help us to remember that You are working behind the scenes in our lives, orchestrating events for our good and Your glory. Fill us with Your peace and joy as we surrender our expectations to Your perfect will. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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