Objectives for Advent
advent |ˈadˌvent|
the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event.
the first season of the Christian church year, leading up to Christmas and including the four preceding Sundays.
the coming or second coming of Christ.
Objectives for Every Family Concerning the Gospel and Christmas:
1. Teach clearly the Biblical story of Christmas and the Doctrinal meaning of Christmas.
Old Testament Prophecies: Isaiah 9:6–7 (ESV)
6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 7 Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.
New Testament Narrative (Luke 2): Luke 2:8–11 (ESV)
8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Doctrinal Emphasis (Incarnation): Philippians 2:6–8 (ESV)
6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.
2. Recognize the Worldview of materialism and consumerism; Beware of The Law of Unintended Consequences.
materialism: a tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values
consumerism: the preoccupation of society with the acquisition of consumer goods.
The law of unintended consequences, often cited but rarely defined, is that actions of people—always have effects that are unanticipated or unintended.
3. Find and Advent Guide and use it!
Lakeshore Church Advent Devotional Guide- Nick Holder
4. Model the example of Jesus and serve .
Philippians 2:4–5 (ESV)
4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. 5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,
John 13:13–15 (ESV)
13 You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.
