To the world, Christmas is "The most wonderful time of the year". Word comes from Latin meaning "Mass of Christ". Romans had various pagan gods with festivals and/or
birthdays on December 25. The Western Church moved celebration of Christ's birth to this day to counter paganism.
What is factual about Christmas story? 1. Jesus' parents (common peasant birgin) 2. birth town (tiny, nothing town of Bethlehem) 3. birth place (dirty, smelly animal barn) 4. those present (low-class shepherds)
Came in humility (Philippians 2:5-11).
Why was Jesus born? To die! More emphasis on his death than his birth. Purpose seen in fascinating dialogue with Pilate (John 18:33-38). 1. Born to be King 2. His Kingdom is not of this world 3. His claim of truth
Questions for the hearer: "Are you of the truth"? (Both the person of truth and the word of truth). "Have you heard the voice of Christ calling you?" (or does this world - which is not his Kingdom -
draw you).
Christ came that we may have life : John 10:10-11
Conclusion: The true meaning of Christmas is found in Isaiah 9:6-7
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
