Questions to Guide You:
- Reading Matthew 1:18-25 for the second time, what stands out?
- “Jesus” is the Greek version of the Hebrew “Joshua,” which means “God Saves.” From Deut 31 and Josh 1, how is Jesus like Joshua?
- Joshua led Israel into the Promised Land, where does Jesus lead us?
- Why do think Moses and God tell Joshua to be “strong and courageous” so many times?
- Where are places you need to be “strong and courageous” to follow your Joshua/Jesus?
- What does the child in Isaiah 9 accomplish? How has Jesus increased your Joy (v3)? What burdens do you need Jesus to lift off you (v4)? Can you let Jesus fight your battles from now on (v5)?
- What are his names? Think through them slowly. What do they each mean and why are they good news?
- In Is 11, what “Spirits” will Jesus, the “shoot of Jesse” possess? As followers of Jesus, how should these characterize us?
- What will the “Shoot of Jesse” (Jesus) accomplish? Good news?
For a printer-friendly copy of this reading plan, including sample questions to augment your study of Scripture, Download the PDF.