Joy to the world, the Lord is come
. The opening line of this classic Christmas carol captures the delight and awe that surrounded Jesus’s birth. But how often does the Christmas season feel stressful rather than joyful? Why do we trade “all is calm” for all is chaos?
In this 4-session Bible study, you’ll spend the weeks of Advent learning to celebrate the good news of great joy found in the Christmas story. Jesus, the Son of God, came to earth to save us from our sins and sorrow and to make right our relationship with God. And He will return to finish setting everything right. With daily personal study, suggestions for family devotions, and engaging activities to transform your study experience, this beautiful resource will help you delight in Jesus's birth and joyfully anticipate His return this Christmas season and all year long.
Features:
4 weeks of personal study and guided reflection for the busy Christmas season
4 Advent-themed videos that will help individuals, families, and groups experience the joy of Advent. Videos feature music from Ellie Holcomb and devotional teachings
Leader guide to facilitate engaging small or large group conversation
Family devotion suggestions to help integrate your study experience with your family's Advent season
Beautiful full-color interior to enhance your experience
Creative Advent activities to strengthen community and put into practice what you’re learning
Benefits:
Delight in the Christmas story as you prepare your heart for Advent.
Trace the theme of joy throughout the Christmas story.
Learn how to live joyfully while you wait for Jesus to return.
Be inspired to share the good news of great joy with others.
Worship the Lord through study, song, prayer, and creativity.
Video Sessions:
Week One: The Lord Is Come (10:07)—
Join Ellie Holcomb and Janice Gaines for a time of worship and teaching on the theme of Jesus’s birth. This video includes Ellie's rendition of “Joy to the World” and devotional thoughts on John 1:1-14.
Week Two: The Savior Reigns (13:47)—
Celebrate the good news of Jesus’s first Advent, which made a way for salvation from sin and the hope of eternal life in God’s presence. Ellie Holcomb sings “O Come All Ye Faithful” and Alecia Bryant teaches on Jesus’s purpose and power.
Week Three: No More Let Sins & Sorrows Grow (16:08)—
Ellie Holcomb’s beautiful version of “O Holy Night” and Ashley Marviittori Gorman’s teaching on the presence of sin and promise of restoration remind us to anticipate Jesus’s certain return.
Week Four: Wonders of His Love (11:10)—
This video session wraps up the Joy to the World study with a focus on anticipating Jesus’s return. Heidi Lee Anderson teaches how to wait with joy and purpose, and Ellie Holcomb’s acapella “Silent Night” ushers in the joy of Christmas day.