Sermon Based Curriculum
Sermon Date: May 9, 2010
Sermon Title: Holding On by Letting Go
Sermon Text: Luke 1:31-38, 2:41-52; John 2:1-5, 19:25-27, Acts 1:14
Small Group Text: Luke 1:26-38, 1:46-55
Introduction
There is a Spanish proverb that says, “An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.” Who can deny the influence of a good mother in a child’s life? Think of your mother or the person who played that role for you. What would you say is the one most important life-lesson you learned from her? Was the lesson verbal or taught by example? This week we’re looking at a mother’s role through the experience of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Let’s see if her example might give modern day moms insight into how to raise up children who, like her own (Jesus, James and Jude), would have transformational impact upon their world.
Discussion
Read Luke 1:26-38, 46-55 1. How would you characterize Mary’s response to such a strange assignment from God (v. 38)? Mary demonstrated a humble obedience to the will of God. Understandably frightened and confused, she still answered God's call to duty: “I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. “May it be to me
as you have said." In essence: I belong to the Lord, body and soul, let it happen as you say.
2. Mother love becomes dangerous when it becomes smother love. Obviously, Mary was a typical mom. She worried when Jesus was not with the caravan returning home from Jerusalem (Luke 2:4152). Her heart likely broke when Jesus returned to his hometown and was mocked by villagers (Mark 6:1-5). And it only got worse as she stood at the foot of the cross when He was crucified (John 19:25-27). What do you think enabled a loving mother like Mary to eventually release Jesus into a life-threatening ministry? Mary knew something most of us struggle with on a daily basis. She knew how to say “YES” to God. She understood her role as an agent of God in the birth of the Savior of the world.
3. Review Luke 1:46-55. Much of what we discover about Mary’s character is discerned from a prayer she prayed after being informed that she would give birth to the Messiah. What spiritual qualities are discernable from this passage? •
Mary was a woman who had an intimate relationship with God and understood her need for a Savior. She spoke of his faithfulness (v.48), power (v.49), holiness (v.49) and mercy (v.50).
•
Mary was obviously a woman who knew how to worship.
•
Mary was acquainted with the Scriptures (e.g., She quoted from Psalm 103:17; 107:9).
•
Application
She seemingly had a heart for the oppressed and downtrodden.
1. Review again Mary’s response to a difficult assignment from God (Luke 1:38). There is never a time when God is not calling us to an obedient trust. What is an area in your life that necessitates Mary’s response to accomplish your role in God’s story? What can you do to begin surrendering your will to the plan of God? 2. Mary's legacy is her trust in God. Parents can raise godly children and let them go in due time if they don't give into fear. “We honor parenthood as a sacred trust.” If you thought you were raising up the next generation of Christian leaders, how would this affect your ability to “let them go”? 3. Review Luke 1:46-55. Mary expressed her life-changing experience with God through a song. How will you share your life-changing experience with others?
Sermon-Based Curriculum