THE HOPE OF PROPHECY

God gives us glimpses into the future to brighten the road ahead of us.

Notes And Next Steps

Isaiah 9:2-7  + Part 1 of the series “Advent: The Light Has Come"

Are there really naughty words and nice words that can win or lose the war on Christmas?

The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. (Isaiah 9:2)

During that night the Lord said to Gideon, “Get up, go down against the camp, because I am going to give it into your hands.” (Judges 7:9)

As warriors rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. (Isaiah 9:3,4)

Better than simply saying the right greeting for Christmas, let’s have a holier Christmas season by believing the words of God himself.

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. (Isaiah 9:6)

Discussion Questions

  1. What do Christmas lights at your home look like? 
  2. How did today’s message influence your opinion about “happy holidays” and “Merry Christmas?”
  3. Compare the story of Gideon (Judges 7) to the birth of Jesus.
  4. Read Isaiah 9:6. Discuss what each of these names of Jesus means to A) a new believer journeying into faith for the first time, and B) a long-time Christian deep in faith.