SMALL GROUP GUIDE
Beyond Bethlehem: “How Long Will You Wait?”
Scripture Focus: Luke 2:22-35
ICEBREAKER
What’s something small you absolutely hate waiting for?
OR
Describe a time you had to wait for something meaningful. What did the waiting shape in you?
INTRODUCTION
Waiting is woven into the Advent story—Israel waited centuries for the Messiah, and Simeon waited his entire life for God’s promise. His waiting was Spirit-led, hope-fueled, and rooted in God’s character. This week we explore how Simeon models expectant waiting.
INTO THE WORD
Read Luke 2:25, Isaiah 40:31, and Psalm 27:13–14. What stands out to you about Simeon’s character while he waited? How do these cross-references deepen your understanding of waiting on the Lord? What helps you wait with trust?
Read Luke 2:25–26, John 14:26, and Romans 8:24–27. What role does the Holy Spirit play in Simeon’s waiting? How do these passages expand your understanding of the Spirit’s guidance? When have you sensed the Spirit sustaining you in waiting?
Read Luke 2:28–32, Isaiah 52:9–10, and Revelation 21:3–5. What does Simeon celebrate when he finally sees Jesus? How does ‘consolation’ speak into our own waiting? Where do you see God offering consolation right now?
EMBRACE AND EMBODY
Reflect and discuss:
• Where is God inviting you to wait expectantly rather than passively?
• What promise of God will define your hope this Christmas?
• How might your character or rhythms shift if waiting became spiritual formation?
TAKE YOUR NEXT RIGHT STEP
(Prayerfully consider one of the following potential next steps)
• Seek God Daily: Read Luke 2:22–35 each morning and ask what God is forming in you.
• Live Generously: Bless someone who is waiting for encouragement with a kind text or hand- written card.
• Build Deep Relationships: Share the promise you’re holding with a trusted friend so they can be praying with you in the waiting.
• Serve Others: Meet a practical need e.g. make a meal, shovel a driveway for someone waiting.
• Make God Known: Share a story of how God met you in waiting with someone who needs to know the hope of Jesus.
• Worship God: Pray Micah 7:7 over a situation you are facing.
GROUP REFLECTION MOMENT
Encourage your group to take 1–2 minutes of silence and ask: “Lord, what promise do You want me to hold onto in this season of waiting?” Close this time with: “As we wrap up this reflection, if anyone sensed a word, Scripture, or encouragement from the Spirit, you’re welcome to share—but there’s no pressure. Sometimes what God whispers to one person can strengthen us all. Let’s close by thanking Him for meeting us here.” Take a moment to pray over your group thanking the Holy Spirit for His presence and guidance.
CLOSING PRAYER
Jesus, thank You for Simeon’s example—steadfast, Spirit-led, full of hope. Teach us to wait with trust and expectancy. Renew our hope and anchor us in Your promises this Advent season. Amen.
