Adam Hamilton - Not a Silent Night Leader Guide: Mary Looks Back to Bethlehem

NOT A SILENT NIGHT

LEADER GUIDE

Book

Not a Silent Night

978-1-426-77184-2Also available as an eBook

Not a Silent Night: Large Print Edition

978-1-630-88295-2

DVD

Not a Silent Night: DVD

978-1-426-77185-9

Leader Guide

Not a Silent Night: Leader Guide

978-1-426-77199-6Also available as an eBook

For more information, visit www.AdamHamilton.org .

Also by Adam Hamilton

ADAM HAMILTON

MARY LOOKS BACK TO BETHLEHEM

LEADER GUIDE

BY MARTHA BETTIS GEE

NOT A SILENT NIGHT:
MARY LOOKS BACK TO BETHLEHEM
LEADER GUIDE

Copyright 2014 Abingdon Press
All rights reserved.

No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system, except as may be expressly permitted by the 1976 Copyright Act or in writing from the publisher. Requests for permission can be addressed to Permissions, The United Methodist Publishing House, P.O. Box 801, 201 Eighth Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37202-0801, or e-mailed to .

This book is printed on elemental, chlorine-free paper.

ISBN 978-1-426-77199-6

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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MANUFACTURED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Welcome! In this study, you have the opportunity to facilitate a group of learners as they explore the meaning of Christmas through the lens of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in Adam Hamiltons book and video study Not a Silent Night: Mary Looks Back at Bethlehem.

As Hamilton tells us, no one was closer to Jesus than Mary, and no one shaped his life more than she. Because no one knew him better or loved him more, no one paid a bigger price for his birth, life, and death than his mother. Though we may have formed the impression that Marys life was blessed, peaceful, and blissful, it was also challenging and painful. At times, it was filled with sorrow. Yet even in the face of pain and adversity, Mary would magnify the Lord and rejoice in God her Savior.

Beginning with what Scripture and early church tradition tell us about the end of Marys life, then moving backward, the five sessions of this study will recount Marys story, ending on Christmas with the birth of Jesus. In the process, learners will gain a new perspective of the beloved Christmas story and its connection to Christs life, death, and resurrection.

This five-session study makes use of the following components:

Adam Hamiltons book Not a Silent Night;

a DVD containing videos in which Hamilton, using stories and Scripture, presents and expands upon some key points from the book;

this Leader Guide.

Participants in the study also will need Bibles. If possible, notify those interested in the study in advance of the first session. Make arrangements for participants to get copies of the book so that they can read .

Scripture tells us that where two or three are gathered together, we can be assured of the presence of the Holy Spirit working in and through all those gathered. As you prepare to lead, pray for that presence and expect that you will experience it.

Because no two groups are alike, this guide has been designed to give you as study leader some flexibility and choice in tailoring the sessions for your group. The session format is listed below. You may choose any or all of the activities, adapting them as you wish to meet the schedule and needs of your particular group.

In the book and videos, participants will discover a rich offering of information presented in an accessible way. As study leader, you will want to tailor your session activities to the needs and interests of your particular group, as well as to the time frame you have available.

Session Format

Planning the Session

Session Goals

Biblical Foundation

Special Preparation

Getting Started

Opening Activity

Opening Prayer

Learning Together

Video Study and Discussion

Bible and Book Study and Discussion

Wrapping Up

Closing Activity

Closing Prayer

Preparing for the Session

Pray for the leading of the Holy Spirit as you prepare for the study. Pray for discernment for yourself and for each member of the study group.

Before each session, familiarize yourself with the content. Read the weeks book chapters again and watch the video segment.

Choose the session elements you will use during the group session, including the specific discussion questions you plan to cover. Be prepared, however, to adjust the session as group members interact and as questions arise. Prepare carefully, but allow space for the Holy Spirit to move through the group members and through you as facilitator.

Secure a TV and DVD player in advance.

Prepare the space where the session will be held so that it will enhance the learning process. Ideally, group members should be seated around a table or in a circle so that all can see each other. Movable chairs are best, because the group may form pairs or small groups for discussion.

Bring a supply of Bibles for those who forget to bring their own. Having a variety of Bible translations is helpful.

For most sessions you will also need a chalkboard and chalk, a whiteboard and markers, or an easel with paper and markers.

Shaping the Learning Environment

Create a climate of openness, encouraging group members to participate as they feel comfortable. Remember that some persons will jump right in with answers and comments, while others need time to process what is being discussed.

If you notice that some group members never seem able to enter the conversation, ask them if they have thoughts to share. Give everyone a chance to talk, but keep the conversation moving. Moderate to prevent a few individuals from doing all the talking.

Communicate the importance of group discussions and group exercises.

If no one answers at first during discussions, do not be afraid of a silence. Count silently to ten; then say something such as, Would anyone like to go first? If no one responds, venture an answer yourself and ask for comments.