Chapter Summary

Birth of Jesus. His adoration by the shepherds. Adoration and prophecy of Simon and Anna. Return to Nazareth. Jesus and His parents at the Passover.

Discussion Questions for Luke, Chapter 2

1. How does the census being taken play a major part in fulfilling God's plan for the birth of Jesus? Why is Bethlehem so significant for this birth? How does this prove that God can use difficult situations for His glory and His ultimate purposes?
2. Why do we not see any wise men in this chapter? How does their absence in the narrative challenge our understanding of what our culture says is the true "Christmas story"? In what ways does it make it more important for us to have a Biblical understanding, rather than a cultural understanding?
3. Why do you think that lowly shepherds were the first to hear the news of the birth of the Messiah? How does this help us understand that God does not work according to the way the world thinks He should work? What is the spiritual connection of "shepherding" and Jesus's life and ministry?
4. What do you imagine the "heavenly host" looking and sounding like? How does the glory of God shining like this reveal the majestic importance of the birth of Jesus? How does this display of power help you understand the majesty and glory of God?
5. The shepherd's praised God for seeing Jesus "just as they were told". Why is the truth of the angel's announcement so important? How does this build a foundation of trust in the messages of God and His people? What are ways that you can build trust in God's Word with those around you?
6. Why do you think Mary "treasured" (HCSB) in her heart all the things the shepherds said the angels had announced? Is it sometimes easy for us to overlook the humanity of Mary and her human emotions as a mother? How does this change your view of parenting and family?
7. In what ways does Mary pondering over her encounter with the shepherds cause us to stop and reflect more deeply about God's work in our lives? Why is it so easy to sometimes forget to truly consider all that God has done in our lives?
8. Have you ever thought about the fact that Jesus was the firstborn male, and therefore dedicated to God at the temple? How does that fit into his role as the Messiah? Why is it important that Jesus conform to the Jewish customs from birth?
9. What kind of emotions do you think Simeon experienced upon seeing Jesus? How does his reaction testify to the joy we can have when we see the heart of God revealed? What are some ways that you have seen God's promises come true in your own life?
10. Why is it significant that Jesus stayed behind in the synagogue at 12 years of age? How does this show that He was already understanding who He was? How does this reflect both His humanity and deity? How would you respond if someone of Jesus's age showed the spiritual maturity that He did?

Key Words/Phrase

Glad Tidings, v. 10.

Characters

Jesus, Caesar, Augustus, Cyrenius, Joseph, Mary, Moses, Simeon, Anna.

Strong Verse(s)

10, 49.