This week, Pastor Matt kicks off a 10-month exploration on the Gospel of Luke by looking at the promise of miracle children in Luke 1:1-25 who portend the promise of God.
SERMON OUTLINE
“But the angel said to him: ‘Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.’” (Luke 1:13)
Hungering for the Promise (Amos 8:11-12)
Preparing for the Promise (Luke 1:5-17)
Shocked by the Promise (Luke 1:18-22)
Healing in the Promise (Luke 1:23-25)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When did you experience a great moment of hope in your life?
- This week we begin a journey with the Gospel of Luke with the first part in a series entitled “Beginnings.” Pray that God would speak to you and then, whether you are with a group or on your own, read Luke 1:1-25 aloud.
- Background: The Gospel of Luke is, with Acts, the first of a two-part work written by Luke, an early Christian and a physician. The Gospel of Luke was likely written around 70 or 80 and focuses on the life and ministry of Jesus, moving from Galilee to Jerusalem.
- Based on what we read in verses 1-4, what is Luke’s purpose in writing the Gospel? You may want to compare this to Acts 1:1-2.
- Zechariah is of the priestly line and has been selected to serve in the temple during either the morning or evening sacrifice (vss 5-10). An angel appears and brings a message to him about the promise an unexpected child. What are the specific features of this child’s identity, role, and activity from verses 11-17?
- In verses 18-20, how does Zechariah respond and what is the angel Gabriel’s response to Zechariah’s words?
- When Zechariah returns home after his service, he shares the message with his wife, Elizabeth, who does become pregnant (vss 23-25).
- What do you think about Zechariah’s response and Elizabeth’s response? Which one of them do you relate to more given their circumstances?
- What is one specific thing that God is speaking to you through this study? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down and share it with someone.