The sermon compares us to the changeling eagle who never realized his true potential. In what ways might we be living like prairie chickens when God created us to soar like eagles?
John Piper states that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. How does our level of satisfaction in God reflect His glory to others around us?
Why do you think God chose to reveal His glory first to simple shepherds rather than to religious leaders or powerful rulers? What does this tell us about who God values?
The sermon describes glory as both God’s holiness on display and His weighty presence. When have you experienced the overwhelming presence of God in a way that left you terrified or in awe?
How does the concept that we are image bearers of God change the way you approach daily decisions and interactions with others?
The sermon suggests that God goes to those who have time to hear Him. What distractions or busyness in your life might be preventing you from hearing God’s voice?
Jesus radiates God’s glory rather than merely reflecting it, like the sun produces its own light. How does understanding Jesus as the embodiment of glory rather than just a messenger change your relationship with Him?
The autumn leaves analogy suggests that our true colors emerge as the false coverings fade away. What false coverings or masks might be hiding your true God-given identity?
The Westminster Shorter Catechism states that our chief end is to glorify God and worship Him forever. How does this purpose statement challenge or affirm the goals you have set for your life?
The shepherds could not help but share what they had seen and heard after encountering Jesus. What prevents us from responding with the same urgency and joy when we encounter Christ in our lives?
Discussion starters for a family table conversation based on the sermon. These questions aim to engage everyone in reflecting on the themes presented in the sermon:
- The Birth of Jesus:
- What stood out to you the most about the shepherds’ encounter with the angel and the birth of Jesus?
- How do you think the shepherds felt witnessing the angels and what can we learn from their response?
- Purpose and Glory:
- The sermon spoke about humans being created for a greater purpose and God’s glory. What do you think your purpose is, and how can we glorify God in everyday actions?
- How does the idea that we are made to glorify God influence how we live our lives?
- Fable of the Eagle:
- How does the fable of the eagle growing up with prairie chickens relate to the sermon’s message?
- Have there been moments where you felt like you weren’t living up to the true potential God has given you?
- Understanding Glory:
- The sermon defined God’s glory as both His presence and holiness. What do you think it means to see God’s glory in our world today?
- Can you share a moment when you felt overwhelmed by the beauty or majesty of God’s creation?
- Living Out Glory:
- In what ways can our actions reflect God’s nature, as discussed in the sermon?
- How can we practice gratitude in a way that glorifies God, based on the shepherds’ example?
- Transformation and Change:
- The sermon compared autumn leaves to our spiritual life changes. What are some “true colors” that you have seen come out in yourself as you grow spiritually?
- What are some challenges you face in trying to transform or grow in your faith?
- Christmas Reflection:
- The preacher mentioned that Christmas is for adults too. How can we experience the wonder and significance of Christmas in our faith lives, aside from the childhood stories?
- Personal Reflection:
- Share a story where you felt God’s presence or witnessed His glory. How did that experience change you?
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