ON THE NIGHT WHEN CHRIST WAS BORN

Title: ON THE NIGHT WHEN CHRIST WAS BORN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Luke 2:8-14
Supporting Texts: Matthew 2:1-2, Isaiah 9:6-7, John 1:14

INTRODUCTION:
The night when Christ was born is a night like no other. It was a night filled with divine purpose, heavenly joy, and earth-shattering significance. As we celebrate Christmas, we must reflect on the profound meaning behind the birth of Jesus. On that holy night, the Savior of the world entered human history, bringing with Him hope, peace, and salvation. Let us take a journey back to that night and discover what it truly means for us today.

1. A NIGHT OF DIVINE ANNOUNCEMENT

a) The Birth of a Savior
The angelic message to the shepherds was clear: "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11). This was the divine announcement of the Savior’s arrival, fulfilling prophecies long awaited.

b) Heavenly Glory Revealed
The heavens opened, and a host of angels praised God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). The birth of Jesus was not just a human event; it was a heavenly declaration of peace and goodwill.

c) God’s Gift to Humanity
God sent His Son as the greatest gift to the world, not just to be admired but to offer salvation to all who would believe (John 3:16).

d) A Promise Fulfilled
The night of Jesus’ birth was the fulfillment of God’s promises to Israel and the world, a promise of redemption, hope, and restoration (Isaiah 9:6-7).

e) Biblical Example: The angel's visit to the shepherds was a remarkable moment. These lowly shepherds were the first to receive the good news, reminding us that God often chooses the humble to reveal His glory and grace.

2. A NIGHT OF PEACE AND HOPE

a) The Prince of Peace Arrives
Jesus’ birth marked the arrival of the "Prince of Peace," whose reign would bring an end to the enmity between God and humanity (Isaiah 9:6-7). He came to establish peace in a troubled world.

b) Peace in Our Hearts
The peace that Christ offers is not just the absence of conflict but the peace that reigns in our hearts, transcending our circumstances (John 14:27).

c) Hope for a Broken World
Christ’s birth brought hope to a world filled with darkness. His light has come to dispel the darkness of sin, sorrow, and despair (Matthew 4:16).

d) Peace for All People
The message of peace on that night was for all people, regardless of their status or condition. Jesus’ birth was an invitation for everyone to experience peace with God (Luke 2:10-11).

e) Biblical Example: Simeon, a righteous man, took the baby Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying, "My eyes have seen Your salvation" (Luke 2:29-30). His declaration reflects the peace and hope that Christ brings to all who encounter Him.

3. A NIGHT OF TRANSFORMATION

a) The Shepherds’ Response
The shepherds, after hearing the angelic announcement, immediately went to see Jesus. Their encounter with Christ transformed them, and they spread the word of His birth to others (Luke 2:17).

b) A Change in Direction
Upon encountering Jesus, the wise men went back to their country “another way” (Matthew 2:12). Their encounter with Christ changed the course of their lives.

c) Salvation Through Christ
The birth of Christ marked the beginning of the greatest transformation available to humanity—salvation through Jesus (John 1:12).

d) A Personal Encounter with Jesus
When we meet Jesus, we are never the same. He transforms our lives, our hearts, and our destiny.

e) Biblical Example: The transformation of Saul to Paul after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus shows that an encounter with Christ changes everything (Acts 9:1-19)

CONCLUSION:
The night when Christ was born was more than just a historical event; it was a divine moment that changed the course of history. It was a night of divine announcement, peace, hope, and transformation. As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember that Christ’s birth is not just a story to be remembered, but a reality to be embraced. Just as the shepherds went away praising God, let our lives reflect the joy, peace, and transformation that comes from encountering the Savior.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for sending Jesus, the Savior, to bring peace and hope to the world.

2. I receive the peace of Christ into my heart today.

3. Father, help me to embrace the transformative power of Jesus in my life.

4. I pray for the peace of Christ to reign in every area of my life.

5. Lord, help me to share the good news of Jesus’ birth with others.

6. I declare that the joy and hope of Christmas will fill my heart and home.

7. Father, I pray for those who are still in darkness, that they may encounter the light of Christ.

8. I ask for divine encounters with Jesus, bringing transformation to my life.

9. Lord, let Your peace that passes all understanding guard my heart and mind.

10. Father, thank You for the greatest gift—Jesus Christ, our Savior.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that the peace of Christ will fill your heart this Christmas season.

2. I declare that the hope of Christ will renew your spirit and outlook on life.

3. I declare that your encounter with Christ will bring a radical transformation to your life.

4. I declare that you will be a messenger of the good news, spreading the joy of Jesus’ birth.

5. I declare that the peace of God will reign in your home and relationships.

6. I declare that Christ’s light will shine in the darkness of your circumstances.

7. I declare that you will walk in the transformation that comes from knowing Christ.

8. I declare that you will experience the love and grace of God this Christmas.

9. I declare that you will never be the same after encountering the true meaning of Christ’s birth.

10. I declare that this Christmas season will bring a fresh revelation of Christ as your Savior and King.