Life Group Questions - December 7th

Ice Breaker: Share a time when something unexpected happened that completely changed your plans. How did you respond initially?

Discussion Questions:
Understanding the Text
  1. What stands out to you most about Mary's response to the angel Gabriel? What surprises you about what she didn't say or ask?
  2. Pastor mentioned that Jewish people of that time "lived their Bible." What does this mean, and how did it prepare Mary for this moment?
  3. Gabriel told Mary "the Lord is with you." According to the sermon, what four things did Mary understand this declaration meant? Which one resonates most with you right now?

Personal Reflection
  1. The sermon states, "You are never ready for God's interruptions." When has God interrupted your life? How did you respond initially versus how you see it now?
  2. Mary asked "How can this be?" while Zechariah asked a similar question but became mute. What was the difference in their hearts? How do we ask God questions with the right heart posture?
  3. Mary faced potential shame, rejection from Joseph, and misunderstanding from her community, yet she said, "I am the slave of the Lord." What fears or concerns keep you from fully surrendering to God's purposes?

Application
  1. Pastor mentioned people holding onto unforgiveness, hurt, or worry about their children. What area of your life have you not given over 100% to God? What would it look like to trust Him completely in that area?
  2. Mary understood that God's overshadowing presence would "take out of you everything that doesn't belong inside of you" and "create something new in you." What needs to be removed from your life for God to create something new?
  3. How does seeing yourself as "a slave of the Lord" change your perspective on your current circumstances, relationships, or decisions?

Prayer Time:
  • Pray for each person to have courage to trust God in their specific uncertain situations
  • Ask God to help the group let go of unforgiveness, fear, and control
  • Pray for complete surrender to God's purposes, like Mary demonstrated
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to overshadow each person and create something new in them