Point One: The promises of God bring hope.

Point Two: Hope can look different than what we expect.

Discussion Questions:

Watch the past message, then choose questions to discuss with your Growth Group.

  1. What was something that stood out to you from this past Sunday’s message? Share what you learned and how it will impact your life.

  2. Read Luke 1:1-38. Gabriel announced that this child would be the fulfillment of a 400-year-old prophecy from the book of Malachi. Read Malachi 4:5-6. How does this prophecy relate to what is happening in Luke 1? Is there anything in this prophecy that you find surprising?

  3. Silence does not mean God has ignored our prayers. When the angel arrives, he confirms that our prayers “have been acknowledged.” Zachariah wasn't expressing personal desires at the altar of incense. How does the idea that silence doesn’t mean God is unresponsive influence our response to His silence?

  4. Read John 1:14. The angel of the Lord told Zechariah that he and Elizabeth would have great joy and gladness, because their son John would be “great in the eyes of the Lord.” Is this where you find your joy and gladness, in God’s definition of greatness, in being right before him? How does the world tempt us to define greatness and find our gladness in other things?

  5. Read John 1:28-31. How does the angel support Mary? Have you ever experienced God’s grace or favour in an unusual way? Share your experience. What was it like for you? How did you react?

  6. In Luke 1:32, the angel Gabriel states that Jesus will be “great.” He then outlines four characteristics that Jesus will embody, possess, or accomplish. What are these characteristics? Why are these descriptions significant?

  7. What significance does it hold for us today that Jesus is a king, an everlasting king, whose reign will last forever? In your opinion, where is his kingdom located today? How could this broaden or deepen your understanding of Jesus? What are your genuine feelings toward him based on this?

  8. In what ways does Luke illustrate that God accomplishes what appears unattainable to us? Which assurances from God provide you with reassurance? In what ways should we exercise caution when implementing God’s promises in our lives?

  9. What are your expectations of God for your situation? What would it look like for you to receive the hope God has promised to you?