December 8, 2024

THE POWER OF CHRISTMAS

The Power of Peace

Icebreakers:
Would you rather have peace and quiet all alone or be surrounded by people and activity?
Discussion:

1. Where do you see the absence of peace in today's world?
   
2. Why do you think there's so much lack of peace?
   
3. Read John 14:23-27.
   1. How does Jesus leave or give us peace?
   2. What role does our obedience to his teaching play in us experiencing peace?
   3. What role does the Holy Spirit play in us experiencing peace?
4. Read Isaiah 11:1-9. This is a messianic prophecy text promising the coming of the Messiah. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him and he will lead us into peace (pictured in verses 6-9).
   
   1. What is the "stump of Jesse" and what does "from his roots a Branch will bear fruit" mean?
   2. What role do the six characteristics named in verse 2 play in bringing peace?
      1. Wisdom
      2. Understanding
      3. Counsel
      4. Might
      5. Knowledge
      6. Fear/Awe/Reverence of the Lord
   3. Why is "delighting in the Lord" so important for peace?
   4. What's the difference between judging by what is seen or heard and by righteousness and justice?
   5. Why do the wolf, leopard, and lion lay so easily with the lamb, goat, and calf and the reverse?
      Leader note: The wolf, leopard, and lion aren't hungry. They've satisfied themselves in the Lord.
      
5. In verse 3, what does it mean to "delight in the fear of the Lord"?
6. In what areas of your life are you lacking a sense of peace?
   
7. Is there any role you or your decisions can play in finding peace in those areas?

Prayer
Take time to ask for personal prayer requests and pray for each other.