Confirmation Week 3: The Birth of Jesus (Luke 2:1-21)

Week 3 :Luke 2:1-21 -The Birth of Jesus

To Do: Read this passage in your study bible. Think about these questions and your own experience. We will discuss the passage and our answers in our meeting. Remember to set a reminder for your prayer routine.

The Birth of Jesus in Humble Surroundings

Luke 2:1-21 begins with the unexpected setting for the birth of Jesus. Mary and Joseph travel to Bethlehem for a census, and Jesus is born in a stable because there’s no room at the inn. This humble beginning reflects God’s way of using ordinary circumstances to do extraordinary things. God could have chosen a palace for the Messiah’s birth but instead chose simplicity, emphasizing that Jesus came for everyone, not just the rich or powerful.

The Shepherds Hear the Good News

The first to hear about Jesus’ birth are shepherds, ordinary workers tending their flocks. Angels appear to them, announcing the arrival of the Savior with words of peace and joy: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom he favors!” (Luke 2:14, NRSV). The shepherds’ response is immediate—they go to Bethlehem to see Jesus for themselves. Their joy and willingness to act on the message remind us to respond with faith when God speaks to us.

Mary Treasures the Moment

After the shepherds visit and share what the angels told them, Mary quietly reflects. The text says she “treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19). This moment captures the mix of awe, gratitude, and wonder that often accompanies encountering God’s work in our lives. Mary’s response encourages us to pause and consider how God is moving, even in the quiet, unexpected moments.

Jesus as Messiah, Savior, and Lord

The birth of Jesus is more than just a historical event—it’s a personal invitation to know him as Messiah, Savior, and Lord. As Messiah, Jesus fulfills God’s promises and shows us how to live in God’s love. As Savior, he rescues us from sin and separation from God. As Lord, he invites us to trust him and follow his ways. Like the shepherds, we’re called to respond with joy, praise, and a willingness to share the good news with others.

Reflection Questions:

Discussion Questions for Luke 2:1-21 (The Birth of Jesus)

1. Why do you think God chose such a humble setting—a stable—for Jesus’ birth?

2. When the angels announced Jesus’ birth, they appeared to shepherds, not kings or important leaders. Why do you think God chose shepherds to be the first to hear the news?  How would you feel if you were one of the shepherds hearing this message?

3. The angels said, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (verse 14). What does “peace” mean in this context?

A follow-up question: How does knowing Jesus bring peace into our lives?

4. The shepherds responded to the angels’ message by going to see Jesus right away. What can we learn from their response?

5. Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (verse 19). What do you think Mary might have been thinking about?

6. The birth of Jesus was good news for everyone, yet it happened in a very small, quiet place. What do you think this teaches us about how God works?  Can you think of examples where God might be working quietly or unexpectedly today?

7. The shepherds returned “glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen” (verse 20). Why do you think they felt so joyful? Have you ever felt joyful because of something God has done in your life?

9. Everyone in the story reacts to the birth of Jesus.  What do you think Jesus’ birth means for you personally?

Prayer (this is when we invite/ask God into our situation):

Is there something going on in your life right now that is bothering you, is difficult, frustrating, or scary? Ask God for help, wisdom, and for friends or family members who can help you.

Praise (this is when/how we tell God thanks for what he has done).

Tell God thanks for valuing all people like the shepherds and others who are often overlooked in the world. Tell God what the birth of Jesus means to you.

Ideas We Will Discuss

Messiah: This means “the chosen one” or “the anointed one.” Jesus was the one promised by God to come and lead people back to him. As the Messiah, Jesus shows us the way to live and understand God’s love. He brings us hope and the promise of God’s salvation.

Savior: A Savior is someone who rescues us from danger or harm. When we call Jesus our Savior, we mean he came to save us from being separated from God. Through his life and sacrifice, he opens the way for us to have a relationship with God forever.

Lord: Calling Jesus “Lord” means he has the highest authority in our lives. It’s like saying he’s our leader or king. When we say Jesus is our Lord, we’re saying we trust him and want to follow his ways, knowing he guides us with wisdom and love.