QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU DIG DEEPER INTO THE MAIN MESSAGE FOR YOUR FAMILY DEVOTIONS OR SMALL GROUPS:
Read Luke 20:45-21:4.
What undermines the authority of the religious leaders in these verses? How does the poor widow differ from these leaders? What is Jesus’ point in making this contrast?
Read Matthew 2:11. What is significant about the wise men’s gifts?
What is the right amount for you to give to the Lord and His work financially? Explain.
What are some of the characteristics of ‘the remnant’ according to Zephaniah 3:13 – “The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down and none shall make them afraid” ?
What percentage of those who call themselves ‘Christians’ would you consider are part of God’s true remnant? Why?
Family Discussion Questions for children’s message: “Jesus Was Born”
Have a volunteer read Matthew 1:22-23
Hundreds of years before Jesus was born, the prophet Micah said the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem. The prophet Isaiah said He would be called Immanuel. God came to earth as a human baby to be with us. Every prophecy about Jesus’ birth came true.
- What news did the angel share with the shepherds? Why was it good news? Lead kids to recall that the angel announced the birth of a Savior and Messiah. This was good news because God the Son had come into the world to rescue sinners. (Option: Choose a volunteer to read Mark 1:15.)
- How did people celebrate Jesus’ birth? How do you celebrate? Review that the angels and shepherds praised God and shared the good news with others. Invite kids to share their own family traditions for celebrating the birth of Jesus. Encourage them to spend time this week praising God and telling someone else the good news about Jesus. (Option: Choose a kid to read Rom. 16:25-27.)
- How can we follow Jesus’ example of humility? Point out that Jesus came to earth humbly—not as a strong earthly king, but as a baby. He did not come demanding others to serve Him; rather, He served others. He humbled Himself to the point of death, giving up His own life for sinners. Challenge kids to consider ways they can show Jesus’ love through humility. (Option: Choose a volunteer to read Phil. 2:5-11.)
Children’s Activity Pages that go with the Children’s Message:
