Title: THE JOY OF CHRISTMAS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Luke 2:10-11
Supporting Texts: Philippians 4:4, Psalm 16:11
INTRODUCTION:
Christmas is a season of joy, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world. In Luke 2:10-11, the angel announced good tidings of great joy to the shepherds, declaring the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah. This joy is not just about festivities but is deeply rooted in the love, hope, and salvation that Jesus brings. Let us explore the reasons for the joy of Christmas and how it impacts our lives.
1. THE JOY OF GOD’S PRESENCE
a) Emmanuel – God with Us:
Jesus’ birth signifies God dwelling among humanity (Matthew 1:23).
b) Access to God’s Glory:
Through Jesus, we experience the presence and glory of God (John 1:14).
c) God’s Presence Brings Fulness of Joy:
In His presence, there is joy that surpasses all circumstances (Psalm 16:11).
d) Comfort in His Presence:
The joy of Christmas reminds us that God is always with us (Isaiah 41:10).
e) Biblical Example:
The shepherds were filled with joy after encountering the glory of God through the angels and visiting baby Jesus (Luke 2:8-20).
2. THE JOY OF SALVATION
a) A Saviour Is Born:
Christmas celebrates the arrival of Jesus, who saves us from our sins (Matthew 1:21).
b) Redemption Through His Blood:
The joy of Christmas is rooted in the salvation and forgiveness we receive through Christ (Ephesians 1:7).
c) Freedom from Sin and Death:
Jesus delivers us from the power of sin and eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23).
d) Eternal Life as Our Inheritance:
The birth of Jesus gives us the hope of eternal life with God (John 3:16).
e) Biblical Example:
Simeon rejoiced when he saw baby Jesus, recognising Him as the promised Saviour (Luke 2:25-32).
3. THE JOY OF PEACE ON EARTH
a) Jesus, the Prince of Peace:
His birth brought peace between God and man (Isaiah 9:6).
b) Peace That Surpasses Understanding:
The joy of Christmas includes the gift of peace in our hearts (Philippians 4:7).
c) Reconciliation Through Christ:
Jesus reconciles us to God and restores broken relationships (2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
d) Victory Over Fear and Anxiety:
The birth of Christ dispels fear and fills us with His peace (John 14:27).
e) Biblical Example:
The angels proclaimed peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased (Luke 2:14).
4. THE JOY OF HOPE FOR THE FUTURE
a) Hope for All Nations:
The birth of Jesus is a promise of hope for the entire world (Isaiah 42:6).
b) Hope That Does Not Disappoint:
The joy of Christmas reminds us of the unshakable hope we have in Christ (Romans 5:5).
c) God’s Promises Fulfilled:
Christmas celebrates the fulfilment of God’s promise to send the Messiah (Galatians 4:4-5).
d) Confidence in God’s Faithfulness:
The birth of Jesus reassures us that God is faithful to His word (Numbers 23:19).
e) Biblical Example:
The Magi rejoiced exceedingly as they followed the star that led them to the newborn King (Matthew 2:1-10).
5. THE JOY OF SHARING THE GOOD NEWS
a) The Angel’s Announcement:
The good tidings of great joy were shared with the shepherds, setting an example for us (Luke 2:10-11).
b) Our Role as Ambassadors of Joy:
As believers, we are called to share the joy of salvation with others (2 Corinthians 5:20).
c) Spreading the Love of Christ:
The joy of Christmas is multiplied when we extend God’s love to those around us (John 13:34-35).
d) Proclaiming the Gospel:
The birth of Jesus compels us to proclaim the message of hope and redemption (Mark 16:15).
e) Biblical Example:
The shepherds joyfully spread the news of Jesus’ birth after their encounter with Him (Luke 2:17-18).
CONCLUSION:
The joy of Christmas is not dependent on material gifts or festive celebrations but on the priceless gift of Jesus Christ. He brings us joy through His presence, salvation, peace, hope, and the privilege of sharing His love. As we celebrate Christmas, let us focus on the true reason for our joy—Jesus, the Saviour of the world.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for the joy of Christmas found in Jesus Christ.
2. Lord, let Your presence fill my life with joy unspeakable.
3. Father, help me to rejoice always, knowing You are my Saviour.
4. Lord, let the peace of Christ reign in my heart this Christmas season.
5. Father, renew my hope in Your promises through the joy of Christmas.
6. Lord, use me as a vessel to share the good news of Jesus Christ.
7. Father, let the joy of salvation fill my life and family.
8. Lord, give me the grace to shine as a light in the world this season.
9. Father, thank You for the eternal hope and joy found in Jesus.
10. Lord, let the joy of Christmas transform my life and those around me.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. I declare that the joy of Christmas will overflow in your life!
2. The peace of Christ will rule your heart and mind this season.
3. Every form of sorrow in your life is replaced with joy in Jesus’ name.
4. You will experience the fulness of God’s presence in this season.
5. The hope of Christ will keep you steadfast in all circumstances.
6. Joy unspeakable will fill your home and family.
7. You will share the good news of Jesus with boldness and grace.
8. This season, your life will reflect the love and light of Christ.
9. The promises of God concerning you will come to fulfilment.
10. The joy of the Lord will be your strength now and always!
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