Small Group Guide for "The Life of Christmas Present"

The Life of Christmas Present

Sunday, December 17th 2023

First Scripture: Ezra 1:1-4; 3:1-4, 10-13

Second Scripture: Luke 15:1-7

Use the Two Passages: Focus on the primary and secondary passages used in this sermon.

Pray for Understanding: Before diving into the text, take a moment to pray for guidance and illumination from the Holy Spirit. Ask for wisdom and insight as you study.

Read the Scriptures: Begin by reading the selected Scriptures thoughtfully and prayerfully. Read the passages more than once to familiarize yourself with the content.

Observation Questions: After reading the text, go through the "Observation Questions" section. These questions will help you notice and record specific details about the text. Look for key words, phrases, repeated ideas, and any observations that stand out to you.

Interpretation Questions: Once you've observed the text, proceed to the "Interpretation Questions" section. These questions will guide you in understanding the meaning and context of the passage. Consider the historical and cultural background, the author's intent, and how the passage fits into the larger narrative of the Bible.

Application Questions: Finally, explore the "Application Questions." These questions will help you apply the lessons and insights from the Scriptures to your own life. Reflect on how the text speaks to your faith, relationships, and daily choices.

Journal Your Insights: Write down your observations, interpretations, and applications in a journal or notebook. This will serve as a valuable record of your spiritual growth and understanding of the Word of God.

Discussion and Sharing: If you are studying in a group, take time to discuss your findings with others. Share your insights, listen to their perspectives, and learn from one another.

Pray for Transformation: As you conclude your study, pray for the transformation of your heart and mind. Ask God to help you live out the truths you've discovered in the Scriptures.

Consistency is Key: Make a habit of using this inductive Bible study method regularly. The more you practice, the more confident and skilled you will become in studying and understanding the Bible.

Remember that the goal of this inductive study method is not just to gain knowledge but to deepen your relationship with God and apply His Word to your life. Approach your study with an open heart, a curious mind, and a desire to grow in your faith.

May your study be richly blessed, and may God's Word transform your life as you engage with it through the inductive method.

View the Sermon this Guide was Created For

Key Points:

  1. "The reality of God's kingdom is that it is past, present and future." 
  2. "Our God is at work in our world, seeking out the lost, seeking out the broken, seeking out the lonely."
  3. "Scrooge begins to see what he didn't see before and that is a life of joy that comes with being with others, being in someone else's company, being fully included and being fully invited."
  4. "Too often we go about our daily lives...we don't pay any attention to who is missing."

Observation Questions:

  1. What is the connection between Scrooge's redemption and the Christmas story?
  2. How does the parable of the lost sheep relate to the Christmas message?
  3. How does the ghost of Christmas present help Scrooge see what is missing from his life?
  4. What do the visits to the mining town and the lighthouse reveal about how Christmas is celebrated?

Interpretation Questions:

  1. How does the intertwining of past, present, and future relate to the Christian faith and the story of Christmas?
  2. How does Scrooge's transformation illustrate the concept of redemption in the Christian faith?
  3. What is the significance of noticing who and what is missing in our lives, as reflected in Scrooge's journey?
  4. How does the Christmas Carol convey the message of finding joy in the darkest of places?

Application Questions:

  1. How can we apply the lesson of making peace with our past, as seen in Scrooge's journey, in our own lives?
  2. How can we become more aware of those who are missing from our lives and reach out to them, inspired by the parable of the lost sheep?
  3. What steps can we take to find joy in the darkest of places, as Scrooge does in his journey?
  4. How can we share the true meaning of Christmas with others, particularly those who may be missing from our celebrations?
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