JESUS: THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

Title: JESUS THE REASON FOR THE SEASON

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 1:21
Supporting Texts: Isaiah 9:6, John 3:16, Luke 2:10-14

INTRODUCTION:
As the Christmas season approaches, it is easy to get lost in the celebrations, decorations, and festivities. However, as believers, we must never forget the central figure of this season—Jesus Christ. Christmas is not just about gifts, lights, or family gatherings; it is a time to reflect on the greatest gift of all—Jesus, our Saviour. This sermon focuses on understanding why Jesus is the reason for the season and how we can honour Him during this time.

1. JESUS IS THE FULFILMENT OF GOD’S PROMISE

a) The Promise of a Saviour:
From the fall of man, God promised a Redeemer who would save humanity from sin (Genesis 3:15).

b) The Prophecies About His Birth:
Prophets like Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah, describing Him as the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

c) Born to Save Us from Sin:
Jesus came to save His people from their sins, fulfilling the promise of salvation (Matthew 1:21).

d) God’s Love Manifested:
Jesus’ birth is a demonstration of God’s unconditional love for the world (John 3:16).

e) Biblical Example:
Simeon recognised Jesus as the fulfilment of God’s promise to bring salvation to all nations (Luke 2:25-32).

2. JESUS BRINGS PEACE AND JOY TO THE WORLD

a) He Is the Prince of Peace:
Jesus brings peace between God and humanity through His sacrifice (Isaiah 9:6).

b) Joy to the World:
The angels announced His birth with a message of great joy for all people (Luke 2:10).

c) Peace in Troubled Times:
In a chaotic world, Jesus provides peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7).

d) Rejoicing in His Presence:
True joy comes from knowing and experiencing Jesus (Psalm 16:11).

e) Biblical Example:
The shepherds, after encountering Jesus, returned glorifying and praising God (Luke 2:20).

3. JESUS IS GOD’S GREATEST GIFT

a) The Gift of Eternal Life:
Through Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life (John 3:16).

b) The Gift of Grace:
Jesus’ coming brought grace and truth to humanity (John 1:14).

c) The Gift of Redemption:
His birth marked the beginning of God’s redemptive plan for mankind (Ephesians 1:7).

d) The Gift of Hope:
Jesus gives us hope for a future filled with His presence and promises (Colossians 1:27).

e) Biblical Example:
The wise men brought gifts to Jesus, symbolising the recognition of Him as God’s ultimate gift (Matthew 2:11).

4. HONOURING JESUS DURING THE SEASON

a) Reflecting on His Sacrifice:
Christmas is a time to remember the reason Jesus came—to save us from sin (Romans 5:8).

b) Sharing the Good News:
Like the angels, we are called to proclaim the good news of Jesus’ birth (Mark 16:15).

c) Worship and Adoration:
Just as the wise men worshipped Him, we should make time to worship Jesus this season (Matthew 2:11).

d) Loving Others as He Loved Us:
Demonstrating Christ’s love to others is a practical way to honour Him (John 13:34-35).

e) Biblical Example:
Anna, the prophetess, dedicated herself to prayer and fasting, giving thanks to God for the birth of the Redeemer (Luke 2:36-38).

5. REMEMBERING JESUS BEYOND THE SEASON

a) Jesus Is Eternal:
He is not just the reason for Christmas but for every season (Hebrews 13:8).

b) Living a Christ-Centred Life:
Keep Jesus at the centre of your life every day, not just during Christmas (Matthew 6:33).

c) Seeking First His Kingdom:
Prioritise His will and purpose in your daily living (Matthew 6:10).

d) Walking in His Light:
Be a light to the world as He is the light of the world (John 8:12).

e) Biblical Example:
Mary treasured all the things about Jesus in her heart, meditating on them continually (Luke 2:19).

CONCLUSION:
Jesus is the true reason for the Christmas season. Without Him, there would be no celebration, no joy, and no salvation. Let this season be a time of reflection, gratitude, and rededication to Christ. As we celebrate, let us keep Jesus at the centre and share His love with those around us.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for sending Jesus as the reason for this season.

2. Lord, help me to always keep Jesus at the centre of my life.

3. I receive the grace to share the good news of Christ with others this season.

4. Father, let the joy and peace of Christ fill my heart and home.

5. Lord, empower me to reflect Christ’s love to those around me.

6. Father, I thank You for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.

7. Lord, help me to live a Christ-centred life beyond this season.

8. Father, let the light of Christ shine through me to others.

9. Lord, grant me the wisdom to honour Jesus in all I do this season.

10. Father, may my life continually glorify the name of Jesus.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:

1. I declare that the joy of the Lord will overflow in your life this season!

2. Peace that surpasses understanding will guard your heart and home.

3. You will experience the fullness of Christ’s love and grace in this season.

4. Every burden and sorrow in your life will be replaced with the joy of salvation.

5. The light of Christ will shine through you to bring hope to others.

6. You will proclaim the good news of Christ boldly this season and beyond.

7. The peace of God will reign in your family throughout this season.

8. You will encounter the love of Jesus in a deeper and more meaningful way.

9. This season, you will be a vessel of blessings to others around you.

10. Jesus will remain the centre of your life in every season, now and forever!