A Really Cool Baby Small Group Discussion Guide

Small Group Discussion Guide
based on a sermon preached by Tim Bach, 12/7/25

Opening Prayer: Begin with an opening prayer inviting God’s presence into the discussion and seeking understanding and openness among participants.

Scripture Readings: Include key scripture passages mentioned in the sermon such as Luke 2:1-16, Exodus 12:5-6, Exodus 13:2, Psalm 34:20, and John 19:36. Consider also having someone read the sermon’s main points from Luke 2 related to the birth of Jesus, the shepherds, and the angelic announcement.

Discussion Topics and Related Questions:

1. The Decree and Journey to Bethlehem: Discuss the historical context of Caesar Augustus’s decree and its significance. Why do you think God chose this time and method for Jesus’ birth? What does the journey to Bethlehem signify about Joseph and Mary’s faith?

2. Humility of Jesus' Birth: Reflect on the significance of Jesus being born in a manger. How does Jesus' humble beginning affect your understanding of his character and mission? What does this tell us about how God views status and humility?

3. The Lamb of God: Discuss the symbolism surrounding Jesus as the Lamb of God. How does understanding the Passover Lamb enhance our view of Jesus' purpose? Why is it important that not a bone of Him was broken?

4. Angelic Announcement: Discuss the angels’ message delivered to the shepherds. What strikes you about the titles given to Jesus: Savior, Christ, and Lord? How is the kind of peace announced by the angels different from worldly peace?

5. The Response of the Shepherds: Analyze the shepherds' reaction to the angelic message. Why is their response significant? How can we model our response to Jesus after theirs?

6. Personal Application: Discuss what it means to take Jesus seriously as Savior, Christ, and Lord. How can these titles impact our daily lives and choices? What does 'responding in faith' mean in your personal context?

Follow-Up Exercise: Encourage participants to spend time in the coming week reflecting on the title of Jesus that resonates most with them—Savior, Christ, or Lord. Challenge them to find one way to share the good news about Jesus or an aspect of their faith journey with someone else during the week.

Closing Prayer: End with a prayer of gratitude, thanking God for sending Jesus as our Savior, Christ, and Lord. Ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to live out the lessons learned and to respond in faith as the shepherds did.