1.

Verses 1-7 describe the place where the Savior was born. What does the Bible say about the Savior’s birthplace? (Micah 5:2) What does this passage indicate about the Father God who sent the Savior as he had promised? 

2. 

Verse 7 says that after his birth the Savior was placed in a manger (a feeding trough for animals).  This implies that Jesus was born in a stable used for animals.  What does the expression “because there was no room for them in the inn” tell us about: 1) Joseph and Mary; 2) the people under the rule of Caesar Augustus; and 3) God the Father?

3.

Consider the shepherds in verses 8-9. What does “keeping watch over their flocks at night” tell us about them? Why might they have been “terrified” upon seeing the glory of the Lord? What does their response suggest about the condition of fallen men?

4.

 Meditate on the meaning of the angel’s words in verses 10-12. What do the following statements mean to you? 1) Do not be afraid; 2) Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to “you”; 3) He is Christ, the Lord; 4) This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.  

5.

Imagine yourself being at the scene described in verses 13-14. What do the following lyrics tell us about the way God grants great joy to man? 1) Glory to God in the highest (Isaiah 40:1-31); 2) on earth peace to men; 3) on whom his favor rests.

6.

Read verses 15-16. What do the shepherds’ actions suggest about the way for us to take possession of the great joy the Lord has in mind for us? 

7.

Read verses 17-20. What did the shepherds do with the good news they received? How did the Lord bless their service?