Bible Studies To-Go | Christmas Day: The Gift of Immanuel

"The Almighty appeared on earth as a helpless human baby, needing to be fed and changed and taught to talk like any other child. The more you think about it, the more staggering it gets. Nothing in fiction is so fantastic as this truth of the Incarnation."  - J.I. Packer, English-born Canadian evangelical theologian (1926-2020)

Amid the joy of gift-giving and family gatherings, Christmas points to an even more significant reality: the arrival of Jesus Christ. We celebrate Him as "Immanuel," the ultimate gift showing that God is with us. Let us reflect on this wonder and its continuing influence in our lives.

Opening Prayer: "Heavenly Father, thank You for bringing us together to celebrate Jesus, our Hope. Bless this time with Your presence, warm our hearts with love, and let the spirit of Christmas remain with us. In Jesus' Name, Amen."

His Coming, Our Hope

Scripture Readings: Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6

Long before the stable in Bethlehem, prophets foretold the coming of the Messiah, building anticipation and hope for the Savior.

Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 9:6 connect the prophecy of a coming savior. Isaiah 7:14 prophesies that the virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, who will be called Immanuel (which means "God with us"). 

This promised child is further identified in Isaiah 9:6 as a son who will be given, upon whose shoulder the government will rest. He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, signifying a divine ruler who brings salvation and eternal peace.

Points to Ponder: 

• What does it feel like to know that "God is with you," as Immanuel signifies?
• In what ways did Old Testament prophecies serve as a spiritual preparation for the arrival of the Messiah?
• During challenging times, which of Jesus's titles in Isaiah 9:6 (Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace) brings you the most comfort?

Bethlehem: The Fulfillment

Scripture Readings: Luke 2:10-14; John 1:1, 14

The Christmas story in the Gospels details how God fulfilled His ancient promises in a humble, unexpected way.

Drawing from the messages in the Gospel of Luke and the Gospel of John, a core Christian summary is that the eternal, divine Word of God—who coexisted with God from the beginning and was God himself—graciously took on human form. This incarnation is presented as "good news of great joy for all the people" because this divine figure is a Savior, the Messiah and Lord, born in Bethlehem. 

His advent brings "glory to God in the highest heaven" and extends peace on earth to those who have God's favor, a peace realized through the "Word who became flesh" and lived among humanity, full of grace and truth. 

Points to Ponder: 

• The biblical account describes the angels announcing "good news of great joy". What aspect of that historical news continues to inspire joy in your life currently?
• Jesus began life in humble beginnings: a stable and manger. What does this reveal about God's nature and His heart for humanity?
• How does the concept presented in John 1:14 – that God became human – influence your perspective on how approachable or connectable God is?

Living the Gift: How Christmas Changes Everything

Scripture Readings: John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9

The core message of the Christmas story is that it remains unfinished without our involvement. Its theological purpose goes beyond a simple, humble scene in a stable; it's an imperative to become active participants in the mission, rather than remaining mere spectators.

Points to Ponder: 

• How can we intentionally make Jesus the focus of our Christmas celebrations and daily living?
• If you truly believe "God is for us" (Romans 8:31), how does that influence your choices?
• Generosity stems from an abundance of affection. How can you express divine love today by offering your time, resources, or attention to those around you?

A Last Word

The birth of Jesus means we are never alone. Whether in joy or struggle, "Immanuel" means God is walking beside us every step of the way.

Closing Prayer: "Gracious God, as we close, our hearts overflow with gratitude for Your Son, Jesus. He is our Immanuel, proof of Your constant presence. Empower us by Your Spirit to embody this truth and effectively share the message of Your nearness with all those we encounter. Amen."

The Lord Jesus bless you,

Danielle