Chris Reighley

Managing Director | Bible-teaching ministry | Colson Fellow | Digital Marketing

Blog Categories

Topics

Session 1 – The Road to Bethlehem

The Christmas Story with Gary and Chris

December 11, 2022 • Gary Olsen, Chris Reighley



In a world noisy with distraction and sentimental traditions, The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris invites you to return to the raw, radiant truth of the Incarnation—when God stepped into history not with pomp, but with purpose, humility, and hope. This 3-session Bible study combines rich biblical exposition, pastoral conversation, and cinematic storytelling from The Chosen’s Christmas episodes (The Shepherd and The Messenger). Together, we explore what it meant for Jesus to be born not just in Bethlehem, but into the brokenness of real life—and what it still means for us today.

Filmed for Sunday Night Bible Study, this resource is for educational purposes only and features commentary from Gary and Chris as they walk scene-by-scene through Luke’s Gospel, weaving in prophecy, theology, and devotion.

Whether you’re watching for the first time or rediscovering the wonder of the Nativity, this series will stir your heart and strengthen your faith.


SESSION 1: The Road to Bethlehem

Main Theme: Faithful Obedience in the Face of Scandal and Sovereignty

Summary:

Mary receives a shocking message. Joseph wrestles with betrayal. Rome issues a decree that sets in motion divine prophecy. In this opening session, we explore how God works through unlikely people and inconvenient timing to fulfill His perfect plan.

Key Scriptures:

  • Luke 1:26–38 – Gabriel announces Christ’s birth to Mary
  • Matthew 1:18–25 – Joseph’s dream and decision
  • Micah 5:2 – Prophecy of the Messiah’s birthplace
  • Isaiah 7:14 – Virgin birth prophecy
  • Luke 2:1–5 – Journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem
  • Galatians 4:4–5 – God’s perfect timing

Key Themes:

  • God’s sovereignty over global events
  • The scandal of grace (unwed pregnancy, misunderstood righteousness)
  • Courageous obedience by Mary and Joseph

Application:

Are we willing to follow God even when it costs us our reputation? How do we walk by faith when His plan seems inconvenient or unclear?



Copyright and Usage Disclaimer

Copyright Notice:

This study incorporates visual content from The Chosen Christmas Special, including:

These films are the property of The Chosen LLC and Angel Studios.

We do not own, monetize, or distribute the video content. This study is used exclusively for educational and devotional purposes within the Sunday Night Bible Study.

👉 Please support the creators by visiting:


Home | Teaching Series | The Christmas Story with Gary & Chris | Session 1 – The Road to Bethlehem