Read Luke 1.1-38
Bonus Reading: Mark 6.1-6; Mark 9.17-24; John 6.26-40
Introduction: How do you differentiate between doubt, unbelief, and lack of faith? What are some of the consequences of each?
Information: How does Zechariah respond to the angel’s prophecy? What does the angel say will happen to Zechariah because of his response?
Introspection: Throughout the gospels, we see the dividing line between those who choose to believe Jesus is who he says he is and that he can do all that he claims he can and will do, and those who do not believe. Zechariah introduces us to the difficulty of belief. But his unbelief, though we may view it as understandable, has a consequence. On the other hand, we need to be careful attributing unanswered prayers to lack of faith. Gabriel did not say that Zechariah could no longer have a son because of unbelief. What consequences do you think we might experience because of unbelief? What do you think we should do with our unbelief?
Impression: Like the father in Mark, we can ask God to help with our unbelief. Listen for God’s words for you today.