Advent 2025 Study | The Third Week of Advent: The Joy of the Lord as Strength - Luke 2:8-14 (Sunday, December 14 - Saturday, December 20, 2025)

"Our hope in Christ for the future is the mainspring and the mainstay of our joy down here today."  - Charles Spurgeon, 19th century English Particular Baptist preacher (1834-1892)

Welcome to the third week of Advent! This week, we examine how the joy of knowing Jesus provides enduring strength.

According to Luke 2:10 (NIV), Jesus' arrival is "good news that will cause great joy for all the people." This profound, unshakeable joy in Christ our Savior provides constant inner serenity and resilience, contrasting with fleeting worldly pleasures. 

Beginning Prayer: "Dear God, we thank You for the peace that comes from Your Son, Jesus. Help us prepare our hearts for His coming by focusing our lives on Your will. Guide our thoughts, open our ears to Your Word, and fill us with Your peace as we study today, in Jesus' name. Amen." 

I. The Savior's Coming: A Message of Great Joy

Key Scripture: Luke 2:8-11

The angel proclaimed to the frightened shepherds that Jesus, the Savior, the Messiah, and the Lord, had been born. 

Exploring the Scriptures: Read the following scripture verses for a deeper understanding of the preceding text.

• 2 Samuel 7; Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2; Matthew 1:21

Let's Talk About It:

1. Why did the sudden manifestation of an angel and God's glory "terrify" the shepherds in Luke 2:9, and what does this widespread biblical reaction reveal about the natural human response to divine holiness?
2. The angel calls the news "good news that will cause great joy for all the people." What makes the birth of Jesus a source of universal joy?
3. The world often seeks happiness through external circumstances. How was the message of "great joy" delivered by the angel?

II. A Message of Great Joy: Praise in Heaven, Wonder on Earth

Key Scripture: Luke 2:12-18

Upon hearing of Jesus's birth, the heavenly host erupted in praise, while the shepherds hurried to see the infant. 

Exploring the Scriptures: Read the following scripture verses for a deeper understanding of the preceding text.

•  Isaiah 7:14; John 14:27; Ephesians 2:14; Revelation 5:11-13

Let's Talk About It:

1. The angels' enthusiastic response to the birth was spontaneous praise. How, then, does genuine joy naturally manifest as praise in our own lives? 
2. The shepherds hurried off to Bethlehem. What does their swift response teach us about reacting to the good news of Jesus?
3. Upon seeing the baby, the shepherds "spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child." What's the connection between feeling joy and wanting to pass that feeling along to other people?

III. The Unshakeable Strength of Joy 

Key Scripture: Nehemiah 8:10

The joy of the Lord is a source of strength. This joy, rooted in God's promises and a relationship with Jesus, offers resilience.

Exploring the Scriptures: Read the following scripture verses for a deeper understanding of the preceding text. 

• Isaiah 9:6; Luke 1:79; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 2:14, 17

Let's Talk About It:

1. How does the assurance of salvation and forgiveness provide strength during suffering?
2. Galatians 5:22-23 describes joy as an internal "fruit of the spirit." How can spiritual practices like prayer and meditation help us develop it?
3. Finding joy in God's presence provides a stable anchor when navigating life's inevitable storms. Do you have an example from your life where relying on God's constant nature helped you feel strong during a tough situation?

On a Final Note: Living in the Strength of Joy

The Christmas story teaches that real joy comes from having Christ in our lives, which changes how we see things and gives us lasting strength to confidently handle difficulties.

Final Prayer: "Dear Lord, thank you for the good news and gift of Jesus, our Savior. Fill us with your unshakeable joy and strength. In Your Name, Amen."

In God's name,

Amy