The Angel tells Zechariah news that was too good to be true and hard to believe.

1. In what ways are we like Zechariah in his response to the news?
2. Or like the disciples who prayed for Peter?

What practical choices can we make so that we live more expectantly that God will or can work?

Are there any ways you are “going through the motions” in your prayer life?

How does God want us to approach our own doubt and unbelief?

What does Zechariah likely learn during his time of quietness?

Zechariah and Elizabeth received a depth of understanding- nothing is too hard for you!

• In what ways has God accomplished the impossible in your life?
• How has God used difficult circumstances in your life to reveal aspects of Himself?

Elizabeth may have believed that God was causing her barrenness due to something she had done to displease God. Have you ever wondered if suffering or unanswered prayer was due to your own sin or unfaithfulness?

Read Together: Begin by reading Luke 1:18-25 as a family. Take turns reading verses or have one person read while everyone listens.

Kickoff Question:

• “Why do you think Zechariah found it hard to believe what the angel said?”

Discussion Starters for All Ages:

• For Younger Kids (Ages 4-7):
• “What did Zechariah say when the angel told him the big news? How did the angel respond?”
• “How do you think Zechariah felt when he couldn’t talk anymore? Would you think that’s funny or surprising?”
• For Middle Kids (Ages 8-11):
• “Why do you think the angel made Zechariah silent until the baby was born? What lesson do you think Zechariah learned from this?”
• “Imagine you were Elizabeth and saw Zechariah trying to explain what happened without words. How would you feel?”
• For Older Kids and Teens (Ages 12+):
• “Why do you think it was important for Zechariah to trust God’s promise, even if it seemed impossible?”
• “Have you ever experienced something that seemed hard to believe but turned out to be true? How did you react?”

Family Connection Moment:

• Share a family story where someone had to wait or believe in something before seeing it happen. Discuss how trusting God, even when it’s hard to understand, can help us grow in faith. Maybe use other examples from Church history as well.

Closing Thought:

• “Just as Zechariah had to wait in silence and trust God, we sometimes need to trust Him without knowing how things will work out. What’s something you’re praying or hoping for that might need patience and trust?”