Error
Group Discussion
Questions for facilitating dynamic discussion
Through Angels' Eyes
November 30,2024
Week 1: Our Wait is Brief
Jeff Griffin
Luke 1:11-20
Our new series is a study of Christmas from the perspective of the angels. In our first week, we learned about how to develop “The Art of Expectation.” By studying the first coming of Christ, we can learn how to better live with expectation for the second coming.
How many weeks before Christmas do you usually do your Christmas gift shopping?
1. Reread 1 Peter 1:12 (NLT): “Angels are eagerly watching these things happen.”
This verse describes the interest angels have in God’s salvation efforts for humanity. Why do you think God’s work in our world is fascinating to angels?
2. Reread Luke 1:17 (NIV): “He will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah. He will turn the hearts of the parents to their children!”
This prophecy about John the Baptist is a perfect fulfillment of the last words of the Old Testament (Malachi 4:5-6). The 400 years of waiting for the Messiah was finally over. Why did the Lord call John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus?
3. Reread Luke 1:19-20 (NIV): The angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to tell you this good news! Now you won’t be able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words, which will come true at their appointed time!”
While Gabriel is convinced that God’s prophecies will definitely happen, Zechariah and many of us struggle with doubt. Why is it hard to believe that Christ will appear as conquering king?
4. Reread 2 Peter 3:8 (NIV): “With the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.”
How does this verse help us understand the promise that the Lord will return soon.
5. Reread 2 Peter 3:9 (NLT): “The Lord isn’t being slow about his promised return. No, he is being patient. He doesn’t want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.”
What do you like about this verse?
6. Reread Philippians 3:20 (NLT): “We are eagerly waiting for Christ to return!”
How can we find more joy in the anticipation of the return of Christ?
7. Name an aspect of heaven that you look forward to.
The early church prayed, “Maranatha!” (Aramaic for “Come, Lord Jesus!”) Pray the same.