The Power of a Gift Print

WELCOME ICEBREAKER

What was one of your most memorable Christmas gifts as a child?

WORSHIP

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

WORD

Read Luke 15:11-24 as a group. As you read look at this parable from the perspective of giving gifts and how they impact family and friends.

  • The prodigal son had lost his sense of self worth (verse 19). Review why he no longer feels worthy to be called a son. How is the father’s response like God’s response to us?
  • What do you think the son was expecting to get upon his return home?
  • Do you think the father had these gifts set aside for the son’s return?
  • What intangible gifts did the son also receive?
  • How do you think these three gifts impacted the son?

Read Prov.18:6, 19:6, 21:14 in respect to giving gifts at the workplace.

  • When do you think it is appropriate to give a gift in the workplace, when is it not appropriate?
  • What types of gifts, tangible or intangible, would you like to receive at your workplace?

Read Matthew 5:33,34; Romans 12:20,21; 1 Peter 3:9 in respect to giving gifts to your enemy. In discussing these verses use an example that the group can relate to or try one of the examples listed:

  • If you were a waiter/waitress in a restaurant and you had a customer angry over the quality of his meal how do you think you should handle it?
  • If you had a neighbour who always played his/her music too loud and knowingly aggravated you, how should you handle it in a Christ like way?
  • If your boss broke his/her word to you and unfairly dismissed you, how should you handle it in a Christ like manner?
  • If you had someone who was gossiping behind your back and mocking your faith in Christ, how should you handle it in a Christ like manner?

WORK

Remember that this Saturday night is water baptism. Please encourage your entire group to come and support any members getting baptized.
Also ask your group how they are doing with inviting out people to the services.