An advent of joy

Study Guide

The following may help you reflect further on the message
(the points could also be used as a discussion guide at fellowship groups)

1. How can we counteract the idea of ‘Merry Christmas’ from friends and relatives? Discuss this in the context of an advent of joy. See Isaiah 65:18-19.
2. Why is it important to reflect on God’s joy in himself (Zephaniah 3:17). How is this seen in 1 Timothy 1:11?
3. How is God’s joy seen in the birth of Christ? See John 1:14-18. How does Zephaniah 3:14 encourage us to respond to this?
4. How is it possible to rejoice in the Lord always (Philippians 4:4)?
5. How does Isaiah 42:1 compare with 2 Peter 1:17?
6. How can we as Christians handle the dark side of winter? Why is Christmas important in this context? See John 15:11 and John 17:13.
7. Discuss the implications of the visit of the angels to the shepherds in Luke 2:8-11.
8. If the fruit of the Spirit is joy, how should this be reflected in our lives? How does this compare with the experience of Jesus in John 10:21?
9. Discuss the important differences between pleasure, happiness, and joy. How can Revelation 21:3-5 help in your discussion?