The Worst Laid Plans

 “The Worst Laid Plans”

Sermon Study Guide for December 3, 2023


Downloadable Version


Scripture: Genesis 38:12-26


1. Tamar

mother of Perez & Zerah (Matthew 1:2) 


levirate marriage


“more righteous”




2. Advent Lessons

a. righteousness

Matthew 23:2, 23





b. hope

Revelation 21:1-6





God takes the _____________________________







Questions to Discuss or Ponder:

  1. What is your favorite part of the Advent season?
  2. What do you think about Judah’s actions in this story? Why does he treat Tamar the way he does?
  3. In what way is Tamar “more righteous” than Judah?
  4. What does it mean to be righteous? Give examples from everyday life.
  5. On what do people today place their hopes? How is that kind of hope different from Biblical hope?
  6. How do you live out having a hope like the Scriptures describe?
  7. How have you experienced God taking the “broken things” and making them into something good? Can you share that story? Where will you share it this week?
  8. What have you learned about the “daughter of promise,” Tamar?


Scripture for the Week:

Monday - Matthew 23:1-23

Tuesday - Matthew 23:24-39

Wednesday - Revelation 21:1-6

Thursday - Matthew 24:36-44

Friday - Psalm 122

Saturday - Joshua 2:1-24


In response to this Scripture, how will you live?



Prayer Prompt: To be righteous.

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