To begin the session:
Download the “Gift Flip” worksheet here.
The best gifts are those given by someone who truly understands the person to whom it is given. This exercise will test our gift-giving knowledge. Make two copies of this sheet. Cut one copy apart on the dotted lines. Keep the other for your reference.
Ask a class member to choose a slip and show it to you. Then ask that class member to fold it on the solid line so his or her preferred gift is face up. Then have the remainder of the class try to guess that person’s gift preference. Continue until all slips are chosen.
Lead into Bible study by saying, “We want to give a gift that will be appreciated. Today we will get some tips from some of the most famous gift-givers in history.”
To engage the learners in a study of the Scripture text:
Before class, recruit three volunteers to portray the magi in a role play. Volunteers should be prepared to answer these interview questions:
- Sometimes Christmastime travel is difficult. In your experience, what makes the trip worth it? See Matthew 12:1-2.
- So many voices tell us where to go and what to do to have a perfect Christmas. How can one tell whether they are being told the truth or just being strung along by someone with an agenda? See Matthew 2:3-8, 12.
- A common saying tells us that it is more blessed to give than to receive. What have you learned about the truth of that saying? See Matthew 2:9-11.
Act as the interviewer for your volunteers. After the role play, read the text together and point out any ideas that may not have been expressed in the interview. Refer to the commentary as necessary.