Discussion Guide | Dec. 21, 2025

December 22nd, 2025

Introduction

"When God Appears - Part 2" - Sermon Summary

This week's sermon explores the personal stories within the Christmas narrative, focusing on how God appears and transforms lives through unexpected people and circumstances. Pastor Bill examines the roles of Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, emphasizing how God chose ordinary individuals to fulfill His extraordinary plan. The message highlights how Joseph protected God's story by standing by Mary despite difficult circumstances, and how the shepherds were the first to receive the gospel proclamation. The sermon connects these ancient stories to our modern lives, encouraging believers to recognize God's presence and purpose in their own circumstances and families.

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 see beyond the familiar narrative to discover fresh truths about Your love, Your plan, and Your presence in our lives. Holy Spirit, make us receptive to Your voice and ready to apply what we learn to our daily walk with You. We pray that this time together would draw us closer to You and to one another. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is one family tradition or memory from Christmas time that always brings a smile to your face?

Main Study

Key Verses

Matthew 1:24
Luke 2:4-20
Luke 2:19

Questions

How does knowing that God chose ordinary, unexpected people like Mary and Joseph for His plan encourage you in your own life circumstances?
Joseph was described as a protector who stood by Mary despite difficult circumstances. How can we be protectors of God's story and truth in our generation?
Pastor Bill mentioned that families affect us more than any other group. How has your family shaped who you are, and how can you be an agent of blessing in your family line?
Mary 'treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.' What are some 'God moments' in your life that you should treasure and remember?
The shepherds were the first to hear the gospel proclamation. Why do you think God chose humble shepherds rather than religious leaders or royalty to receive this news first?
Joseph was a carpenter who liked blueprints and order, yet his life became chaotic. How do you handle it when God's plans seem to disrupt your own carefully laid plans?
This week we learned taht we all have a calling and purpose. How do you discern what God's unique calling might be for your life?
Christmas 'places everything else into proper perspective' and clarifies that God exists and loves us. How does remembering the Christmas story help you maintain proper perspective during difficult times?

Life Application

This week, take time to identify and treasure the 'God moments' in your life - times when you clearly saw God's hand at work. Write down at least three specific instances where God showed His faithfulness, brought someone important into your life, or provided for you in a meaningful way. Share one of these moments with a family member or friend, giving God glory for His goodness in your life.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

When God appears on the scene, everything changes - we talk, walk, and see people differently
God uses ordinary, unexpected people in extraordinary ways to fulfill His purposes
We each have a unique calling and purpose that God wants to fulfill through our lives
Families have generational impact, and we can choose to stop curses and perpetuate blessings
Like Mary, we should treasure and ponder the God moments in our lives, recognizing His presence and faithfulness

Ending Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the reminder that You came not just as a baby in Bethlehem, but as our living Savior who continues to work in our lives today. Help us to be like Joseph - protectors of Your truth and faithful in difficult circumstances. Help us to be like Mary - treasuring the moments when we see Your hand at work and responding with faith and obedience. May we recognize that You have a unique calling and purpose for each of our lives, and give us courage to walk in that purpose. As we leave this place, help us to see You at work in our families, our circumstances, and our daily lives. We pray that Your presence would be evident in all we do this week. In Your precious name, Amen.

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