Table Talk | Dec. 16-17

Kyle Patrick   -   December 18, 2023

This weekend, our sermon was drawn from the Christmas song, “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” with the humble shepherds playing a central role. As a result of the incarnation of Christ, we dwell in awe of God’s unique rescue plan and the radiant joy it brought to those who embraced it.

Key Takeaways from the Sermon:

  1. The arrival of Jesus Christ marked a divine culmination of anticipation, providing enduring hope that transcends even the greatest celebrations in history.

  1. The shepherds, being the first evangelists, teach us the power of personal experiences with Jesus. Their unwavering commitment to spread the word, despite their humble beginnings, inspires us to boldly share our own stories.

  1. Each individual’s personal story holds immense power. Like the shepherds, we are all called to spread the good news of Jesus’ birth and the life-changing hope it brings to our world.

  1. The importance of hearing precedes seeing as an avenue of faith. Our lives should not only reflect the goodness of Christ, but we should also be active in sharing His message verbally. As we navigate through this festive season, let’s dive into the heart of Christmas, the celebration of Jesus’ birth, and the transformative hope it brings to our world. Let us strive to follow the shepherds’ example, embracing our mission to proclaim the gospel and spread hope.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Reflect on the comparison between the world’s relief at the end of World War II and the divine hope brought by Jesus’ birth. What are some ways in which these two events might parallel each other? (Reference: Luke 2:1-20)
  2. The humble shepherds were referred to as the first evangelists touched by the divine message. What lessons can we learn from their reaction to the angelic visit and their commitment to spread the word? (Reference: Luke 2:8-20)
  3. How do you feel about the idea of sharing your personal faith stories to spread the Gospel? Discuss some ways you could incorporate this into your own life. (Reference: 1 John 1:1-4)
  4. The shepherds were quick to spread the news of Jesus’ birth. What do you think motivated them to do this? What can we learn from their example about spreading hope and joy? (Reference: Luke 2:15-20)
  5. The sermon highlights the unconventional way God chose to save the world. How does this contrast with the world’s typical expectations for a rescuer or hero? How might this change our perspective on who can be used by God? (Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:27-29)
  6. How does the biblical narrative of the shepherds’ response to their divine encounter challenge our understanding of faith and obedience? (Reference: Luke 2:8-20)
  7. What are some practical ways we can follow the shepherd’s example and “Go tell it on the mountain” in our own lives? (Reference: Matthew 28:16-20)
  8. Why do you think personal testimonies are so powerful? Can you think of a time when someone’s personal faith story impacted you? (Reference: Revelation 12:11)
  9. Discuss the call to action at the end of the sermon. How can we practically share Jesus’ message and hope with those around us? (Reference: Mark 16:15)
  10. Reflect on the message of hope we are called to share, especially during the festive season. How can we keep the focus on Jesus’ birth and the hope it brings to our world, amidst all the commercialization of Christmas? (Reference: Luke 2:10-14)