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Group Discussion
Questions for facilitating dynamic discussion
The Villain of Christmas
December 3,2023
Week 2: Herod's Foiled Scheme
Jeff Griffin
Matthew 2:9-15
The first Christmas was almost ruined by an evil king, but God had other plans. This week we’re taking a closer look at the biblical events surrounding King Herod and his attempt to dethrone the King of Kings — and asking the question, Is God for you?
King Herod and Al Capone were both villains at a key period in history. If you had a time machine that would work only once, at what point in the future or past history would you visit?
1. What impacted you most from the sermon? What was new information to you?
2. What might have been some potential benefits for King Herod to align with the new Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus? Why can it be good to have powerful people in your corner?
3. Romans 8:31 essentially explains that if God is for us, it doesn’t matter who’s against us. What does this verse mean to you? How can it give you courage to live out your faith?
What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us?”
4. According to Romans 8:32, God purposefully adds grace and blessings to our lives. What have been some blessings in your life as a result of your spiritual journey? Share how these past blessings can give you confidence for the future.
“Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else?”
5. What’s significant about knowing God adopts and chooses us, as shown in Romans 8:33?
“Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself.”
6. What’s the difference between recognizing that God forgives us and admits His believers into Heaven (while still allowing issues), versus thinking that in Christ there will be no more problems in life?
“Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.”
7. Imagine that you heard God tell you how much He adores you (see Romans 8:35). How might that truth affect your relationships? (Plus your usual responsibilities, and how you spend your time?)
How might living as a chosen and adopted child of God impact your world? What would you do differently if you fully believed the truth that God is FOR you? How can your group pray for you to reflect and embrace this Heavenly reassurance?