Countdown to Christmas
Luke 1:39-56
Mary meets Elizabeth -Luke 1:39-56
Discussion Questions
1) Why did Mary visit Elizabeth? List some possible motives and reasons you think they are valid.
2) We can understand Elizabeth being filled with the Holy Spirit but what about John being filled with the Spirit while still in the womb? Luke 1:15 cf 1:41.
3) How do Luke 1:15, 31,35,41-44 inform the Christian view on abortion? See also Psalm 139:13-16.
4) For major events in Israel’s history a song was written and sung, usually one per major event. The Magnificat is one of the 4 songs celebrating Christmas which shows how significant an event it is. Do you know the other 3? Do you know their Latin names? If you scan through from this passage to chapter 2:35 you will find the other 3 (a sort of “where is Wally). Some seem more like a speech than a song. If all else fails, try Google or a Bible dictionary or phone a friend.
5) The Magnificat is Latin for magnify the Lord. How can we make the Lord Jesus bigger in the perceptions of people, in our church services and in our own lives?
6) Throughout the story of Christmas the words “Joy” and “rejoicing” pop up repeatedly. Why does Christmas bring joy and what things can turn our Christmas into a joyless holiday?
