The Angels' Song

Why do you think God chose shepherds—social outcasts—to be the first recipients of the good news? Read: Luke 2:8–12; 1 Corinthians 1:26–29 Apply: Where in your life do you feel “overlooked,” and how does God’s choice of shepherds encourage you?

When human beings encounter a divine or angelic figure they always respond with fear. Read: Matt. 28:5; Mark 6:49; Luke 1:12; Rev. 1:16. Apply: When has God interrupted your life with His light? What fear or resistance is He asking you to surrender?

The angel says, “Do not be afraid…I bring good news of great joy” (v. 10). The word in Greek for good news is, euangelion. It can also be translated gospel. What is the good news the angel has come to bring? Apply: How has the gospel changed your life?

Jesus is declared Savior, Messiah, and Lord (v. 11). Which of these titles do you struggle most to embrace? Why? Read: Luke 2:11; John 1:1–2; Acts 5:42 Apply: What is one area of your life you need to surrender to the Lordship of Jesus? What will you do to surrender this week?

The angel says this good news is “for all the people” (v. 10). Read: Revelation 7:9-10 Apply: Why is it important that this good news is for all people? What does this teach us about God’s love (John 3:16)?

The shepherds are given a sign: a baby in a manger (v. 12). Read: Luke 2:12; Isaiah 7:14 Apply: How does the humility of Jesus’ birth challenge your expectations about how God works? Where do you need to embrace Jesus’ humble ways instead of your preferred ways?

The angels’ song begins with “Glory to God in the highest” (v. 14). Read: Luke 2:14; Psalm 148:1–2; John 1:14 Apply: What would it look like to make God's glory - not your comfort or success - the aim of your choices this week?

“Peace on earth…” (v. 14). Are you experiencing the peace Christ offers? Why or why not? Read: Luke 2:14; Romans 5:1 Apply: What relational conflict, inner turmoil, or spiritual unrest could you submit to Christ’s rule today so that His peace can reign?

God’s favor is given to those who trust in Christ (v. 14). Read: Luke 2:14; 3:22; Ephesians 2:8–9 Apply: What truth about grace do you need to hold onto this Christmas?

The shepherds responded with belief that led to action (v. 15). Read: Luke 2:15; James 2:17 Apply: What next step of obedience is God prompting you to take as an expression of genuine belief?

The shepherds “hurried” to find Jesus (v. 16). Read: Luke 2:16; Philippians 3:12–14 Apply: Are you pursuing Christ with urgency? Or have you become complacent in your walk with Christ? What is one practical way you will run toward Him this week?

After seeing Jesus, the shepherds proclaimed the message boldly (v. 17–18). Read: Luke 2:17–18; Romans 10:14–15 Apply: Who is one person you will share the good news with this Christmas season?

Mary “treasured up” and pondered these things (v. 19). Read: Luke 2:19; Psalm 46:10 Apply: How will you slow down and create space to reflect and worship Christ deeply during the busyness of Christmas?