Encounter, Week 3: A Disruptive Decision

Matthew 1:18-21 (NIV)

⇒ Pleasing God breaks attachments to other people’s .

⇒ Choosing God’s way may means facing .

Matthew 1:24 (NIV)

⇒ Faith is the we take by trusting God to take care of the details.

Matthew 1:25 (NIV)

Encounter Christmas Practice: Be Present in your decisions.

Theme: Following the Steps of the Stepfather of The Savior

Share Together:

Why is there so much stress in the season that is called, “The Most Wonderful time of the Year?”

Reflect Together:

What impacted you the most from Sunday’s message, and how were you able to apply this week’s Spiritual Practice?

Read & Discuss Together:

Matthew 1:18-25

• What can you imagine were Joseph’s initial thoughts and feelings when he heard the news that Mary was pregnant?
• How does the Bible describe Joseph’s character and his initial intention to follow tradition and do the “right thing” by divorcing her? What cultural pressures do you think he faced?
• How can you relate with the pressure Joseph felt, contemplating the ramifications of a tough decision? Give an example and the results of this decision.
• What caused Joseph to choose to continue plans of marriage to Mary?
• The scripture does not speak of the response of others to Mary and Joseph leading up to Jesus’ birth. What would you speculate were the challenges and criticisms from others?
• What can we learn from Joseph’s situation that will help us determine God’s will, especially when we face a tough decision that forces us to choose between pleasing others, ourselves, or God?
• How does God reward us when we choose to step out in faith even when it is unpopular?

Pray Together:

Take time sharing needs this holiday season that need prayer.