It's easy to become preoccupied with Christmas shopping, decorating, and holiday activities, but we must never lose sight of what happened two thousand years ago. Dr. Stanley revisits the story of Jesus’ birth and explores the many names and titles given to our Savior.
Sermon Outline
On the night Jesus was born, an angel made a great announcement. This week, Dr. Stanley’s message explains the meaning of the angel’s words and why they are only the beginning of learning about Jesus.
Key Passage: Luke 2:8-14
Supporting Passages: John 3:16; Romans 10:9-11; Romans 10:13; Ephesians 1:7-8; Colossians 1:13-15; Colossians 2:3-4; 1 Peter 1:18-21
God has made the process of salvation simple enough for a child to understand.
► “Jesus came into the world not simply to be an example, but for the purpose of dying in our place.”
The birth of Jesus …
Was announced by angels (Luke 2:9, Luke 2:13).
Identified Him with three specific titles (v. 11).
He is the Savior (v. 11):
He saves us from sin, a futile pursuit that destroys our life (1 Pet. 1:18).
Jesus shed His blood to redeem us (v. 19).
From the beginning, God planned for Him to be our Savior (v. 20).
His atoning death secures our forgiveness.
His death was necessary for us to have a right relationship with God (Eph. 1:7-8).
There are only two kingdoms—that of darkness and that of light (Col. 1:13).
Jesus is the Son of God, and He brings believers into His light (vv. 13-15).
► “When you understand who Jesus is, you begin to understand what life’s all about.”
He is the Christ (Luke 2:11):
“Christ” means “anointed one.”
All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are in Him (Col. 2:3).
As we grow in Jesus, we gain understanding about the world.
Through faith in Him, we become God’s children and are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who enables us to do and become all that the Lord intends.
He is the Lord (Luke 2:11):
“Lord” is a distinct title, just as “Savior” and “Christ” are. All three express specific qualities.
Believing in Christ’s Lordship results in our cleansing from sin (Rom. 10:9-11).
Calling on Him as Lord results in salvation (v. 13).
► “I understand enough about Jesus to praise Him and thank Him and live for Him every single day.”
Salvation …
Requires our understanding and acceptance of the fact that Jesus is our Savior, that He is the anointed Christ, and that He is the Lord.
Gives us the Holy Spirit’s presence to guide us into deeper understanding.
Is the result of God’s love for us (John 3:16).
Does not require perfect knowledge of God.
Fills us with gratitude.
After Watching
Which of Jesus’ three essential titles is the easiest one for you to comprehend? Which is the most difficult? Ask Him to reveal greater knowledge about Himself in the coming weeks.
Try writing a prayer to Jesus that acknowledges each title from Luke 2:11. Use your own words or start with something like this: Jesus, I was lost and hopeless without You, and I’m so grateful You redeemed me. I honor You as Christ, God’s Anointed One, and I proclaim that You are Lord of all. In His name, amen.
