Looking at the Story of Christmas in greater depth by exploring a recent book by Paula Gooder called, “Journey to the Manger.” Some of you may remember Paula as someone who came and led a most successful Church weekend at Brunel Manor, in Devon a few years ago. Paula is now at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. She is a very engaging writer and speaker, and we look forward to sharing the Christmas story through her eyes and through Scripture.
Week 1 : The Genealogies of Matthew and Luke
Biblical Text: Matthew 1: 1-17
Introduction
Three Lots of Fourteen
Four Women
Biblical Text: Luke 3: 23-38
Journeying Backwards, Journeying Onward
Adoption
Jesus – Both Priest and King
Week 2 : The Genealogy of John
Biblical Text: John 1: 1-18
Introduction
Genesis Again
Light and Darkness
The Seven Signs of Jesus
The Intimacy of Father and Son
The Word
Week 3: The Prophecy of John’s Birth
Biblical Text: Luke 1: 5-25
Introduction
An Old, Old Story: Abraham and Sarah
An Old, Old Story: Samson and Samuel
An Old, Old Story: Elijah
A Priest Named Zechariah
John’s Life Will Not Be an Easy One
Week 4: The Prophecy of Jesus’ Birth
Biblical Text: Luke 1:26-56, and Matt 1.18-23
Introduction
Virgin birth
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth
The Magnificat
The Prophecy to Joseph
The names of Jesus
Week 5: The Birth of John
Biblical Text: Luke 1:57-80
Introduction
The Benedictus – the value and importance of Blessing
The Benedictus – the value and importance of Worship
The Benedictus – the value and importance of Salvation and salvation history
The child grew and became strong in the Spirit
In the wilderness
Week 6: The Birth of Jesus
Biblical Text: Matt 1:24-25, Luke 2:1-20
Introduction
The Census – its problems and its challenges
David and Bethlehem
There was no room for them in the Inn..
Shepherds and the Visit of the Angels
Saviour, Messiah, Lord
Week 7 – Herod and the Magi
Biblical Texts: Matt 2: 1-23, Micah 5: 2, 2 Sam 5: 1-2, Isaiah 60: 3,6.
Introduction
The significance of Bethlehem and the prophecy of Micah 5:2
A contrast of power and leadership
The importance and place of Worship in the life of the Magi
