A newborn baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, shepherds dusty from the fields, a radiant Mary and beaming Joseph—it’s a scene we know well, but what lessons has God hidden among such familiar details? Dr. Stanley brings overlooked details of the nativity story to the forefront, painting a big picture that is so much more complex than we think.
Sermon Outline
Jesus’ arrival as a human baby is a familiar story, yet its implications are anything but ordinary. With Christmas just a few days away, Dr. Stanley inspires us to expand our perspective, focus on the greatest gift, and share our Savior with the world.
Key Passage: Luke 2:8-18
Supporting Passages: John 3:16
What comes to mind when you think about Christmas? Here’s a look at the big picture.
► “That little baby, who was Jesus, would die on the cross for the sins of the whole world.”
What appears to be an insignificant event can have eternal consequences.
The birth of a baby in a stable seems commonplace at first glance.
However, that event had eternal consequences: Jesus was crucified to pay for our sins, rose, ascended into heaven, and is seated at God’s right hand.
God will use anything and anyone to accomplish His divine purpose. For example:
In the 8th century B.C., Micah prophesied that the Savior would be born in Bethlehem. (See 5:2.)
Seven hundred years later, Caesar’s decision to tax the population meant Mary and Joseph had to return to Bethlehem (Luke 2:1-5).
► “People oftentimes belittle themselves and say, ‘Well, how could God ever use me?’”
God frequently does His greatest work through unlikely people.
There was nothing obviously significant about most of the people in the story of Christ’s birth. But God is going to accomplish His will in His way. That means He can use us, too.
We can’t determine people’s value by their surroundings.
Jesus was born in a humble place, surrounded by animals. We can never fully grasp what God will do in our life or the lives of those around us.
God chose to make this remarkable revelation to people of a lowly position in life.
Jesus’ birth was first announced to shepherds, and they immediately left their flocks to see Him (Luke 2:8-15).
► “What have you shared about the revolutionary, awesome, eternal gift you received through faith in Jesus Christ?”
Jesus’ arrival was revealed to those with the courage to proclaim it.
Like the shepherds, when we understand who Jesus is, we’re compelled and excited to share Him with others (vv. 16-18).
We should be telling others about the big picture of Christmas—that is, how Jesus saved us and is the greatest gift for all who seek forgiveness from Him (John 3:16).
After Watching
Have you trusted in Jesus for your salvation? If not, you can pray to receive this awesome gift right now. If you’ve already received it, try to share your “Christmas experience” with someone else this week.
Do you wonder how to be useful for God’s kingdom? Ask Him to use you for His glory, and watch as He works.
