This 4-part Christmas Bible study explores four background characters in the Christmas story to teach students how god uses ordinary people in His extraordinary plans. 

Here is how this free Bible Study on the Background Characters of Christians breaks down:

Part 1: John the Baptist

Scholars consider John the Baptist to be the “front-runner” of Christ. Like a Christmas caroler singing on the street corner, John got to proudly pronounce the coming Messiah. Ultimately, it was John’s job to pave the way for Jesus. That’s why Luke recounts John’s birth before the nativity scene. John set the stage for the savior.
Scripture: Luke 1:80

Part 2: The Innkeeper 

Pregnant Mary and Joseph begged the innkeeper for a place to stay, but he insisted there was no room for them. The front desk manager had no idea that he was missing a miracle. Jesus, the son of God, could have been born in his hotel. Can you imagine the advertising campaigns he could have run? “Miracle Child born here!” “Stay in the Savior suite!” Instead, he just sent them away into a stable surrounded by cows and sheep.
Scripture: Luke 2:1-7

Part 3: King Herod

Herod was a dictator who conquered the people of Israel by force. While sitting on his golden throne, Herod heard reports of Jewish prophecies that claimed, “O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, you are by no means least among the rulers of Judah, because from you will come a ruler who will shepherd Israel” (Matt 2:5-6). Herod’s fear led him to a fanatical decision. He demanded that all of the baby boys in the country be murdered (Matt 2:16). King Herod tried to stop the first Christmas because he didn’t want a new king threatening his control.
Scripture: Matthew 2:13

Part 4: Simeon and Anna

Why don’t more people know the powerful story of Anna and Simeon? Think of this moment like a post-credit scene of a Marvel movie. We tend to stop the story at the angels singing and shepherds bowing. If you leave the theater too soon, you will miss out on this powerful encounter. Simeon and Anna had spent their whole lives waiting on God’s promise to unfold, and now they were experiencing it first hand.
Scripture: Luke 2:25-34

You might also like these free Christmas social media graphics or this bundle of our favorite Christmas resources for your church! 

Most of our series have been recorded and are available in our free video library! You can access those Bible study videos by clicking here.

This Free Bible Study on the Background Characters of Christmas includes:

–4-part small group guide (intended for stand-alone small groups)
–Graphics to reinforce this content on social media
–Bonus 5-day devotional on the Wise Men and the gifts they gave

Talk to our Curriculum Pastor about this small group Bible study!
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Do you want more free small group Bible studies for your youth group?
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