Celebrate Jesus at Christmas December 22, 2013 Bible Passages: Luke 1:26-56; 2:1-7 Explore the Bible KJV: Lifeway Bible Study Winter 2013-2014

BACKGROUND PASSAGE OVERVIEW Special Announcement……………………………………………………….Luke 1:26-33 Submissive Servant……………………………………………………………Luke 1:34-38 Spirit-Filled Proclamation……………………………………………………Luke 1:39-45 Song of Praise……………………………………………………………………Luke 1:46-56 Savior’s Arrival………………………………………………………………..……Luke 2:1-7 Key Doctrine: Incarnation – Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God. In His incarnation, He was conceived of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. Jesus perfectly revealed and did the will of God, taking upon Himself human nature with its demands and necessities and identifying Himself completely with mankind yet without sin. Biblical Truth: Jesus, God’s Son, was conceived supernaturally and born of a virgin into humble circumstances; all these are reasons to celebrate his birth. Life Goal: To help you make Christmas foremost a time of celebrating Jesus’ birth.

QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER How will you declare on Christmas Day one or more of Jesus’ unique qualities in word? In deeds? In songs? Is God leading you to serve Him in a situation that seems far beyond your ability or comfort level? What hinders (stops) you from saying yes? What are some Christmas song lyrics you can use right now to offer praise to God? How have you welcomed Jesus the Savior into your life? Into your family? YOUR MISSION WITH WHAT YOU HAVE LEARNED IN GOD’S WORD ABOUT CELEBRATING JESUS’ BIRTH. Seek to make your words, deeds, and songs declare to others your understanding of who Jesus is. Make time to minister life-giving joy to someone who cannot repay you, just as Christ has done for you. Join with others in times of worship to celebrate God’s greatness and holiness. Be thankful for Jesus’ willingness to embrace the humblest of beginnings when He came to provide the way of salvation.