We have been given “good news of great joy” dear friends, a reason to rejoice this day and every day, for “unto us is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord!” “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace among those with whom He is pleased!” These words punctuate the beginning of Jesus earthly life, the most remarkable, extraordinary life that has ever or will ever be lived, a life that has transformed our world.
Last Sunday, December 22, 2024, I offered the Christmas sermon at our home church, based on Luke 2:1-20. I want to invite you to watch and listen to this message, looking past the preacher to the amazing message from God, “good news of great joy for all people,” communicated through the Gospel writer Luke. May you be encouraged and challenged with the truth: The Savior is born according to God’s plan, so let us join in God-glorifying responses.
There were two main points I observed in Luke 2:1-20 (shown below). I found it interesting that Luke gave much more attention to the preparation for the birth of Jesus (Luke 1:5-2:6) than to the actual birth (2:7), and it seemed that Luke’s primary emphasis in this passage is on seven responses from heaven and earth to the miraculous event of God becoming man (2:8-20). These responses are also excellent patterns for us to imitate.
- God’s plan in the Savior’s birth. (1-7)
- Historic setting.
- Necessary journey.
- Humble birth.
- Our responses to the Savior’s birth. (8-20)
- Proclaim the Gospel with an angel.
- Worship with the heavenly host.
- Seek Jesus with the shepherds.
- Tell others with the shepherds.
- Marvel with those who heard.
- Ponder with Mary.
- Praise God with the shepherds.
To God be the glory, and may your Christmas be filled with joy and peace as we worship the Savior, Christ the Lord.