Advent Bible Study

 

 

Bible Study on Isaiah 9:1-7

 

1. Is Advent a spiritual high point in your year? If so, why? If not, why not?

 

2. Read verses 1-2 and then Matthew 4:13-15. How is Isaiah's prophecy fulfilled in Jesus?

 

3. Read verses 3-5. Why is the coming of the Messiah compared to a military victory? What yokes has Jesus shattered?

 

4. Read verse 6. 'A wonder it is that God should reveal himself as a baby' (Ephrem the Syrian). What does the Incarnation tell us about God?

 

5. Reflect on the titles given to the Messiah in this verse. How have you experienced Jesus as Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace?

 

6. Read verse 7. How is the kingdom of the Messiah different from earthly kingdoms? What does the increase of the Messiah's government look like?

 

7. 'The zeal of the LORD Almighty will accomplish this'. Why do we need to hear this promise?

 

You might also like to remind groups of the seven things they need to know about Advent (and what they can do to remember them):

 

- Israel: list Old Testament prophecies in the nativity stories of Matthew and Luke

- Light: light a candle (or a fire!)

- Joy: listen to advent music

- Liberation: memorise the Magnificat

- Incarnation: mediate on God becoming human

- Kingdom: invite others for meals as Jesus did as a sign of his new society

- Yahweh: praise God for his zeal for his people