Message Outline

1. Eyewitnesses

2. Shepherds

3. What Do they Witness?

4. Angels (Fear)

5. Baby in the Manger (Joy)

Next Steps

1. Think of what you fear. In prayer hand your fears over to God.

2. Think of what gives you joy. In prayer, hand your source of joy over to God.

Growth Group / Personal Reflection Questions

1. Considered lowly and marginalized, why do you think God chose shepherds to be the first to hear the news of Jesus’ birth? What might this reveal about God’s kingdom priorities?

2. The Shepherds initial response to the Angels is fear. Why do you think they feared? What do you think they feared?

3. The shepherds next response to the angel’s message is to hurry and find Jesus and spread the news. What can we learn from the shepherds about responding to God and sharing the good news?

4. Verse19 contrasts Mary's response to the shepherds. Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart,” while the shepherds glorified and praised God. Are either of these reactions better than the other? If so, how? If not, why not? How do these reactions speak to you?How do these contrasting reactions—quiet reflection and outward praise—illustrate different ways to respond to God’s work in our lives?

5. What do you fear during this season in life?

6. What brings you joy in this season of life?

7. How can Jesus sustain you best in the midst of fear and joy?

Worship Song List
1. Joy to The World ( Unspeakable Joy) - Chris Tomlin version
2. O Little Town of Bethlehem - Lewis Redner and Phillips Brooks, chorus by Lee Krabbe
3. Good Good Father - Chris Tomlin
4. In Christ Alone - Stuart Townend & Keith Getty
5. The First Noel - Julia Stone & John Gardner