Something Unexpected
Christmas 2023
December 24, 2023 | By Jim Burgen
Have you ever asked God for a sign? Jim dives into how God uses the stars to communicate with us and even tells the world that Jesus, our Savior, was born. In today's message, we'll uncover the hidden significance of the stars and how the wise men used astrology, to be informed about Jesus' birth. I bet you've never heard a Christmas message like this.
SETLIST
Relativity
O Come Let Us Adore Him
Hark "Praise"
Joy To The World
O Little Town Of Bethlehem
O Holy Night
Silent Night
Run Run Rudolph
GROUP QUESTIONS
// Bible References
1 Cor 2:7-8; Genesis 1:14; Luke 21:25-28; Romans 1:19-20,10:18; Psalm 19:1-4; Matt 2:1-3; 7-12; Rev 12:1-5
// Community Question: Pastor Jim shared a “If you’re their God, then (ex. make my dog talk)” story. Share your If/then story.
// Discussion Questions
- Read 1 Corinthians 2:7-8. In the sermon Jim relayed the Christmas season reflects God’s ultimate plan to reverse the consequences of sin and rebellion against God, by sending His son Jesus to restore and make all things new. Is there a broken area in your life that needs restored? How does understanding God’s ultimate plan impact the way we approach our and other people’s broken areas?
- Read Romans 1:19-20. Jim referenced this passage to show that God's creation, including celestial signs, points to His power and divine nature. Can you identify specific aspects of creation and share why it strengthens your faith and understanding of God?
- The sermon talked about the role of stars as signs from God and points to passages like Luke 21:25-28 where Jesus speaks of signs in the sun, moon, and stars. In what ways do you seek God's guidance and signs in your life? How can you be more attentive to God's guidance in your daily life?
- Jim asserts that the greatest sign of God's trustworthiness is Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, offering anyone salvation and reconciliation with God. How can you apply this truth to your faith and life? How does understanding this sign influence your relationship with God and your trust in His plan for your life?
- The sermon concluded with a reflection on personal kingship and the importance of trusting in Jesus' sacrifice to find peace and trust. Why is it important to recognize that trying to be the king or queen of our own lives can lead to stress and a lack of peace? What is one area of your life God is asking you to give up trying to control and what steps can you take to trust him with it?
// Challenge: As we embrace the joy of Christmas, think about unwrapping the incredible gift God offers each of us: grace, forgiveness, and a new life found exclusively in Jesus. If you've never taken that step of faith to put your life and trust in Jesus, what's holding you back from making this life-changing decision today? For those already on this journey, what would it mean to recommit to Jesus? How can we invite Him into the areas where trust falters as we step into 2024? Trusting in Jesus isn't just a gift; it's the best gift you can open for yourself and those around you.