Error
Group Discussion
Questions for facilitating dynamic discussion
The Villain of Christmas
December 17,2023
Week 4: Herod's Evil Legacy
Jeff Griffin
Matthew 2:19-23
Matthew 2:19-22
The first Christmas was almost ruined by an evil king, but God had other plans. Today we’re taking another look at the biblical events surrounding King Herod the Great and his attempt to dethrone the King of Kings — this time, by leaving a horrendous family legacy.
Kicking It Off: Jeff mentioned some proverbial wisdom tied to produce. If you could only eat one type of fruit for the rest of your life, which would you choose?
1. When you hear the phrase, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” who or what comes to mind?
2. By way of review, who were the key players in this week’s message? (See Matthew 2 and Acts 12:20-23.)
3. Based on what you learned in this week’s message, how would you explain Numbers 14:18 to someone who’s trying to understand what “generational curses” are? What are some examples of children living with the consequences of their parents’ or grandparents’ poor choices?
“The LORD is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion. But he does not excuse the guilty. He lays the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations.” (NLT)
4. Think of a situation where generational sin has caused issues for you or someone you care about. What truth or hope from Scripture do you cling to when life feels most overwhelming?
5. According to Ezekiel 36:26, we can gain hope from the Lord, often despite our messed-up families of origin, when we come to Him in faith. Does this challenge or comfort you? Why is that?
“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” (NIV)
6. When we embrace the concept of re-generation, it can lead to a radical positive change in our lives. Where could you most benefit from eliminating any pessimism and anticipating some good spiritual changes?
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NIV)
Wrapping Up: Our true family is the body of Christ, and the choice to follow Christ is the greatest gift we can give to the next generation. Spend time as a group in prayer, thanking God for your spiritual family.
“And, 'I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.'” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18, NIV)