An Angelic Proclamation

TEXT: Luke 2:1-20

The angelic proclamation, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11), announced God’s greatest gift to mankind. This message was given to the shepherds on the Judean hills. They did not doubt the wondrous declaration, for they saw the attendant glory, and they would soon spread the news to others. God’s angels must have realized the importance of the announcement, for as soon as the good tidings were made known, a multitude of the heavenly host joined in the exultation, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).

QUESTIONS

1. Where was Mary living previous to the birth of Jesus? Where was it prophesied that Jesus should be born? See Micah 5:2.
2. What circumstance did God use to make sure Mary would be in Bethlehem at the birth of Jesus?
3. Why do you feel God chose to proclaim the good news to shepherds rather than to some authoritative figures?
4. What did the shepherds do with the great news that was told to them?
5. Write what you feel is meant by the word pondered as used in verse 19.
6. Read Philippians 2:5-8. In your own words, explain why you feel it was necessary for Jesus to be born “in the likeness of men.”
7. The celebration of Christmas can be used to spread the story of Jesus. Write down some ways the Christmas season can provide opportunities for evangelistic outreach.