Advent Sunday #3 "To Worship Him": Joy for a Broken World

2025 Advent Series #3, "JOY"

“TO WORSHIP HIM”

Joy For A Broken World

Matthew 2:1–12 (Go to ESV Bible Verses)

Key Verses: 2:10–11, ¹⁰ When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. ¹¹ And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.

1. After Jesus is born, who shows up in Jerusalem, and why (1–2)?
2. Who is Herod, how does he respond to the wise men (3), and why? How is this situation like our broken world today?
3. Who does Herod assemble, what does he ask (4), and what is wrong with his motive? What answer does he get (5–6), and what do these words tell us about Jesus? What does Herod do next, and why (7–8)?
4. What do the wise men do, and how is the star involved (9)? Read verse 10. Why is it that these men are so full of joy? What do they do next (11)? How are joy and worship interrelated (Ps.16:11; 35:9; 100:1–2)?
5. What happens afterward (12)? Review what we learn in this passage about Jesus. How can we live with his joy in this broken world?

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References:

Q4: Psalm 16:11: “You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.”

Psalm 35:9: “Then my soul will rejoice in the LORD, exulting in his salvation.”

Psalm 100:1–2: “Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!”