Because of Bethlehem Study Guide
2016 by Max Lucado
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ISBN 978-0-310-68705-4
ISBN 978-0-310-68707-8 (eBook)
First Printing July 2016
In this ebook edition, please use your devices note-taking function to record your thoughts wherever you see the bracketed instructions [Your Notes] or [Your Response Here]. Use your devices highlighting function to record your response whenever you are asked to checkmark, circle, underline, or otherwise indicate your answer(s).
GROUP SIZE
The Because of Bethlehem video study is designed to be experienced in a group setting such as a Bible study, Sunday school class, or any small group gathering. To ensure everyone has enough time to participate in discussions, it is recommended that large groups break up into smaller groups of four to six people each.
MATERIALS NEEDED
Each participant should have his or her own study guide, which includes notes for video segments, directions for activities and discussion questions, as well as practices to deepen learning between sessions.
TIMING
The time notationsfor example (16 minutes)indicate the actual time of video segments and the suggested times for each activity or discussion. Adhering to the suggested times will enable you to complete each session in about an hour. If you have a longer meeting, you may wish to allow more time for discussion and activities.
PRACTICE
Each session includes an application activity called a practice for group members to complete on their own between meetings. Although the practice is completed outside of group time, its a good idea to briefly review it before concluding the meeting to clarify any questions and to make sure everyone is on board.
FACILITATION
Each group should appoint a facilitator who is responsible for starting the video and for keeping track of time during discussions and activities. Facilitators may also read questions aloud and monitor discussions, prompting participants to respond and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate.
The Word became flesh and blood, and moved into the neighborhood.
John 1:14 MSG
The celebration of Advent is possible only to those who are troubled in soul, who know themselves to be poor and imperfect, and who look forward to something greater to come.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer,
Dietrich Bonhoeffers Christmas Sermons
WELCOME
Welcome to session 1 of Because of Bethlehem. If this is your first time together as a group, take a moment to introduce yourselves to one another before watching the video. Then lets begin!
VIDEO: GOD HAS A FACE (16 MINUTES)
Play the video segment for session 1. As you watch, use the outline provided to follow along or to take additional notes on anything that stands out to you.
Notes
Christmas is a season of traditions. To most kids, that jolly old elf is the very face of Christmasand that face is everywhere this time of year.
[Your Response Here]
Christmas can also be a season of sadness, of lost hope and disappointments.
[Your Response Here]
The story of Mary and Joseph:
The Word became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14 NKJV).
[Your Response Here]
Why did God go so far? A chief reason is this: he wants us to know that he gets us.
[Your Response Here]
Through a scandalous pregnancy, an imposed census, an untimely trip, and an overcrowded inn, God triumphed in Marys story.
[Your Response Here]
The story of George Harley:
Everything changed when the villagers saw the tears of the missionary. Everything changes for us when we see the face of God.
[Your Response Here]
God became one of us, and because of this, he knows us.
[Your Response Here]
If the King was willing to enter the world of animals and shepherds and swaddling clothes, dont you think hes willing to enter yours?
[Your Response Here]
God took on your face in the hope that you would see his.
[Your Response Here]
GROUP DISCUSSION (39 MINUTES)
Take a few minutes with your group members to discuss what you just watched.
1. What part of the teaching had the most impact on you?
[Your Response Here]
Preparing for Christmas
2. At the beginning of the video, Max acknowledged some of the Christmas traditions he looks forward to each year, such as sleigh bells, carolers, and the holiday classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas. These are just a few examples of traditions that typically lead up to Christmas Day and help us experience the Christmas spirit. Using the list of categories below as a prompt, briefly describe one or two traditions that help you to enjoy the season and prepare for Christmas each year.