DECEMBER 7, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
LIGHT OF THE WORLD: FEAR
Luke 1:26–38
Guest Preacher: Bro. Erdie Carter, Associate Pastor
View all of the "Light of the World" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/light.
DECEMBER 14, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Light of the World: Angels
Matthew 1:18-25
What do you know about angels? What does the Bible teach about these angelic beings?
The Christmas story is filled with appearances of angels, God's messengers. Take the time to read the following Bible verses: Matthew 1:20-21 (Joseph); Luke 1:28 (Mary); and Luke 2:10-12 (shepherds). How did these individuals interact with the angels?
In today's culture, we find myths and truths about angels. How would you answer the following three questions? Your answers must be founded on the authority of God's Word.
Does every person have a guardian angel? (Matthew 18:10)
Do people become angels when they die? (Hebrews 1:14
Do angels sit on clouds, play harps, and eat angel food cake? (Is this a misconception?)
The goal of this week's study is to discover who angels are and what they do. The Bible is filled with references to angels. You'll find them present and active in both the Old and New Testaments.
Angels are created beings, spirit beings, intelligent beings, obedient beings, and powerful beings.
Here are four words that give you a biblical picture of angels.
1. Worshipers. Angelic beings worship, celebrate, and adore the Lord. Where in the Bible do you see angels worshiping God? Open your Bibles and read Isaiah 6 and Revelation 19. Angels worshiped the Lord, not themselves. As believers in Christ, you've experienced God's grace, goodness, and glory. He saved you. How are you worshiping, celebrating, and adoring the Lord?
2. Warriors. Angels are mighty, powerful, and strong. These angelic beings are more than cute and cuddly beings featured in many Christmas productions. The Bible talks about "angel armies" (2 Kings 19:35). Angels are warriors, fighting in a spiritual battle. Can you discuss specific Bible verses that describe angels as warriors? There are at least two angels listed by name. Can you name them?
3. Workers. Angels have a purpose, and they serve the Lord and His people. Open your Bibles again and read Matthew 4 and Acts 12. How did angels serve Jesus and Peter? Angels are workers. How have you experienced the personal ministry of angels? As believers, the Lord saved you, gifted you, and left you on earth for a reason. How are you serving Him, working for Him?
4. Witnesses. Angels are messengers. In God's Word, you see angelic messengers and human messengers (Revelation 2-3). Pastors are classified as messengers. How did angels proclaim the truth about the Lord? You can focus on two seasons of Jesus' life, His birth and His resurrection. In Acts 5, how did an angel help Peter and the apostles? How are you witnessing for the Lord?
In this week's sermon, our pastor is going to give you five behaviors of angels that believers must copy. What do you think will be on the list? Take a few moments and discuss possible words or phrases.
Angels point people to the Light of the World, Jesus Christ. How are you doing the same thing?
Here are three closing questions to answer:
How has this week's study enhanced your understanding of angels?
Can you share a moment when God used an angel to protect you?
Is your life available for God to use to help others?
As we celebrate Christmas at FBC Clarksville, we'd love for you to join us. You're being prayed for by our church family. Our vision as a church is to worship God, love people, share Jesus, and make disciples.
We hope to worship with you this weekend.
Grace and Peace!
View all of the "Light of the World" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/light.
DECEMBER 21, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Light of the World: Wickedness
Matthew 2:1-12
The morning headlines constantly reveal that evil, wickedness, and sin are present today. Shootings. Terrorist attacks. Road rage. Theft. Wickedness is a constant enemy to God's people and His plans.
Jesus was born into a dark, wicked, and sinful world. However, as God's Word declares, Jesus is the Light of the World. By His death, burial, and resurrection, Jesus has defeated darkness, wickedness, and sin.
Take a few moments and share what you know about the following people: Jesus, the Wise Men, and Herod.
What Does the Word Wickedness Mean? "It refers to actions, thoughts, or intentions that are contrary to God's character and commandments. In biblical words, it means a deliberate choice to engage in sinful behavior. Jesus was born into a dark, wicked, and sinful world." What would you add to this definition?
In your study group, read Matthew 2:1-12. Over the next thirty minutes, discuss the following seven words. How do these words relate to life today?
I. Darkness (2:1,3). Jesus was born into a dark, sinful world. Herod was a wicked, evil ruler. What did he ask the wise men? Why did he want to know about Jesus' birth? How do you see darkness (wickedness) in today's world?
II. Devotion (2:2,11). The wise men were faithful. These men wanted to see Jesus. When they saw Him, what did they want to do? What does it mean to worship Him? What did the giving of gifts mean? Are you living a devoted life?
III. Discernment (2:12). The wise men were discerning men. God spoke to them in a dream and by His servants. Discernment is needed to live faithfully to Jesus in a wicked, dark world. Are you listening to God's voice?
IV. Direction (2:2,10). The Lord used a star to direct the wise men. Those men followed because they needed God's direction. God still directs His people. How do you need God's direction in this season of your life?
V. Destination (2:13). God protected Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. Knowing Herod's wicked plans, God led this family to Egypt before finally moving to Nazareth. He blessed them with safety. Where is God leading you?
VI. Declaration (2:6,15,18). Throughout the Christmas story, you see the presence of God's Word. God used His prophets, His Word. God's primary way of speaking today is the Bible. Are you in the Word every day?
VII. Deliverance (2:19-23). The wise men and Jesus' family knew firsthand that evil and wickedness didn't win. The wise men returned home, and Jesus lived in Nazareth, as God promised. How do you need the Lord to deliver you?
Before you finish this week's study, take a few minutes and read Matthew 4:13-16. Darkness in this text is more than physical darkness; it's about spiritual darkness. How has Jesus led you out of darkness into light?
What's the spiritual significance of John 8:12 in today's dark, evil, and wicked world? Close in prayer for one another, asking God to help you walk in light this week.
Thank you for studying God's Word with us this week. We welcome you to join us this Christmas season for worship. Worship is at the heart of the Christmas story.
You can join us on our campus on Sunday mornings at 9:00 am for Connect Groups and 10:30 am for worship. You can always connect with us at www.fbct.org, too.
Blessings to you and your family!
View all of the "Light of the World" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/light.
DECEMBER 28, 2025
Light of the World: Obedience
Luke 2:21-38 (CSB)
Guest Preacher: Jason Johnson