Advent is a time of thoughtful anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. This opportunity allows us to focus on the Scriptures, stories, and prophecies related to the birth of our Savior. It is a unique chance for us to explore these aspects. By studying the Bible during Advent, we can deepen our understanding of God's plan of redemption and draw closer to Him.

Sometimes, the Christmas season arrives during a time of heartbreak, illness, suffering, or waiting. Leaning into Advent is a meaningful way to connect in a fresh way with Jesus while carrying grief and sorrow. He understands suffering, as He chose to experience it with us.

Studying the Bible during Christmas can be a meaningful experience. It can also deepen the joy of the season. Whether you decide to follow an Advent reading plan or choose an Advent Bible study video course, you'll be blessed by it!

Advent Bible Study: Studying the Bible During Christmas

The Promise of the Messiah

During Advent, we encounter the remarkable prophecies found in the Old Testament that foretell the coming of the Messiah. These promises instill a sense of hope and expectation within us as we recognize the fulfillment of these prophecies in Jesus. By studying passages such as Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 9:6-7, we can appreciate the magnitude of God's plan. We can relate to the anticipation that filled the hearts of believers throughout history.

The Announcement

The story of the angel Gabriel's visit to Mary (Luke 1:26-38) is a pivotal moment in the Advent narrative. The Gospel of Luke tells us about Mary's faithful response to the angel's message. She became the vessel through which God's Son came into the world. Studying this account of Mary's life helps us to reflect on her obedience, humility, and surrender to God's will.

Mary's devotion and openness to God's plans for her life can inspire us to emulate her example. We can apply this knowledge to our own lives and remain open to God's plans.

The Birth of John the Baptist

Before the birth of Jesus, the angelic proclamation of John the Baptist's arrival (Luke 1:5-25) brought joy and anticipation. We explore the faith journey of Zechariah and Elizabeth. This couple experienced the miracle of conceiving a child in their old age.

God is faithful to His promises and He works in mysterious and wondrous ways.

The Birth of Jesus

At the center of the Advent season lies the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. The Gospels of Luke (2:1-21) and Matthew (chapter 2) provide us with the details of His humble arrival in Bethlehem. As we study these accounts, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound significance of God the Son's incarnation.

He became one of us and took on human flesh and bone to dwell among us. Immanuel!

This reflection on Jesus' birth cultivates a sense of awe, gratitude, and reverence as we recognize the love that compelled Him. He came into the world for our salvation. For relationship.

The Advent Themes

The four traditional themes of Advent —

• hope,
• peace,
• joy,
• and love

— invite us to reflect on the transformative power of Christ's coming. The Scriptures remind us that in Christ we find true hope. We discover lasting peace and abundant joy. We also experience unconditional love that surpasses all understanding.

The Prophetic Voices

The Advent season introduces us to John the Baptist, whose role was to prepare the way for Jesus' ministry. His powerful message of repentance and the coming of the Messiah resonates with us today. (Luke 3:1-19)

We can use John's words and the impact of his ministry to examine our hearts. We can align ourselves with God's purposes. We can make room for Christ to transform our lives.

The Visit of the Magi

The story of the wise men from the East is a captivating part of the birth of Jesus. They saw the signs and engaged in a long expedition to worship the newborn King. By studying the account in Matthew 2:1-12, we uncover the significance of their journey. Dig a little deeper and we can uncover the meanings behind their offerings of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

• The wise men seeking and worshiping Jesus teaches us the importance of actively seeking Him in our own lives.

We may not have expensive gifts, but we can still show our appreciation for Him. We can give our time, talents and resources. This is our best way to honor and glorify Him.

The Purpose of Studying the Bible during Advent

Why study the Bible during the Christmas season?

• Studying the Bible during Advent is transformative.
• It deepens our faith and increases our appreciation of God's love and grace.
• Through the prophecies, the Announcement, the birth of John the Baptist, the birth of Jesus, the Advent themes, the prophetic voices, and the visit of the Magi, we gain a comprehensive understanding of the whole story.
• Hopefully, we also gain an appreciation for the significance of Christ's coming.
• Become engrossed in the Scriptures about the birth of our Savior is tremendously moving. The faithfulness of those who eagerly awaited the Messiah and their response to God's calling inspires us.
• Studying the Bible during Advent invites us to examine our own lives. What better time to cultivate a spirit of expectation and hope, and prepare our hearts to receive Christ anew.

Christmas Bible Studies

Waiting Here for You by Louie Giglio

Watch session 1 now.

Watch Waiting Here for You on StudyGateway.

Because of Bethlehem by Max Lucado

Watch session 1 now.

Watch Because of Bethlehem on Study Gateway.

Who Needs Christmas by Andy Stanley

Watch session 1 now.

Watch Who Needs Christmas on Study Gateway.

The Advent Conspiracy by Rick McKinley

Watch session 1 now.

Watch The Advent Conspiracy on Study Gateway.

The Case for Christmas by Lee Strobel

Watch session 1 now.

Watch The Case for Christmas on Study Gateway.

May Advent season be a time of deep reflection, fervent prayer, and intentional study of the Scriptures. Let's embrace this opportunity to draw nearer to God, allowing His Word to shape and transform us. May our hearts be filled with gratitude for the gift of Jesus, the true reason for our joyful celebration.

RESOURCES

What Is Advent and Why Do Christians Celebrate Advent?

Christmas Studies on StudyGateway

Session on Bethlehem from The Rock, The Road, and The Rabbi on Study Gatewat

Verse Mapping Luke by Kristy Cambron on Study Gateway