The Christmas Story
Bethlehemchurch   -   December 27, 2024

Sermon Summary: Lessons from the Christmas Story

Main Characters and Their Lessons

  1. Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
    • Mary was confused but submitted to the Lord’s will, showing that obedience and faith bring God’s promises to fulfillment.
    • Key verse: “Nothing is impossible for God” (Luke 1:37).
    • Lesson: Obey and submit to God’s will, trusting in His power.
  2. Zacharias (Luke 1:5–20)
    • Zacharias doubted God’s promise, limiting Him with his disbelief.
    • Key lesson: Don’t limit God with doubt—trust in His plans, even when they seem impossible.
  3. Joseph (Luke 2:4–8)
    • Joseph faithfully led Mary to Bethlehem and cared for her, even amidst humble and challenging circumstances.
    • Lesson: Obey God and proclaim His goodness in both word and action.
  4. Innkeeper (Luke 2:8)
    • The innkeeper missed an opportunity to make room for Jesus.
    • Key verse: Malachi 1:8 (warning against offering less than the best to God).
    • Lesson: Don’t push God aside or miss His presence in the busyness of life.
  5. The Shepherds (Luke 2:8–20)
    • The shepherds obeyed the angel’s message, witnessed the Savior, and worshiped Him.
    • Lesson: Respond to God’s call with obedience, witness His work, and worship Him wholeheartedly.
  6. The Baby Jesus (Luke 2:52)
    • Jesus, even as a baby, had a purpose: to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10).
    • Lessons:
      • Don’t keep Jesus as just a part of the Christmas story—embrace Him as Savior.
      • Live for God, not for self, showing wisdom and favor with God and others (Micah 6:6–8).
      • The heart matters more than the quantity or quality of what we give to God.

Closing Thought

  • Acknowledge the purpose of Jesus’ coming—to save humanity. Live each day with the prayer, “I need You more today than yesterday,” and reflect His light to the world (Titus 2:7–8).

Main Scripture Highlights:

  • James 4:7–8: Submit to God.
  • Malachi 1:8: Don’t offer God less than your best.
  • John 1:14: The Word became flesh.
  • Luke 19:10: Jesus came with a purpose.

Call to Action

  • Make room for Jesus in your heart and life today. Don’t let distractions keep you from embracing the purpose and joy of the Savior.