1. According to Luke Knowing Christ at Christmas: The Baptist

2. Luke – a great Storyteller -Styles -Allusions to OT -Themes -Links between stories

3. An Important Question Why is Luke telling us this?

4. Herod – King of Judea (of the Jews) -Sets our story in history and politics -Creates an implied contrast with others in the story

5. Zechariah & Elizabeth -contrast with Herod -Allusions to OT birth stories -Zechariah’s response contrasts with Mary -Elizabeth’s child makes her prophesy

6. What will John do? -We remember him for baptizing Jesus, but… -The spirit of Elijah -Family reconciliation -Ethical instruction -Prepared people for Jesus

7. Learning from John in Advent In Advent we prepare ourselves for Jesus but… -How can we help others to prepare? -How can we help to guide others in the way of Jesus?

8. What’s the Story we’re telling?

9. Transform your home into a magical Christmas grotto with the best of the baubles. Christmas is coming and it’s time to start thinking about decorating your home. Once you’ve decided on the main issue — a real or an artificial tree — then the fun of choosing lights and tinsel can begin.

10. What’s the Story we’re telling? A god is for life, not just for Christmas

11. Learning from John in Advent How am I going to prepare the hearts of others for the coming of Jesus?