Explore how God communicated with both humble shepherds and wise men during the Christmas story, emphasizing that His messages are for everyone. Discover the joy of Jesus' birth, which signifies good news even amidst life's challenges. Learn about the universal need for salvation and the transformative power of faith. Reflect on the importance of listening—not just to God, but also in our relationships. Finally, consider the impact of mindless consumption on our spiritual lives and the significance of embracing God's goodness.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Emergency Landing
Greg Laurie usually puts on headphones and ignores safety instructions during flights.
On one flight, he had to listen when an emergency landing was announced due to landing gear problems.
insights INSIGHT
Listen to God
God speaks to people, but not usually audibly.
Greg Laurie emphasizes listening to God like he listened during the emergency landing.
insights INSIGHT
Shepherds First
God chose shepherds, the lowest in society, to first hear about Jesus's birth.
This shows God's willingness to reach ordinary people.
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Though they couldn't be any more different, God spoke to both the shepherds and the wise men. See the part they play in the Christmas story and what we can learn from them.
Notes:
Focus verses - Luke 2 and Matthew 2
Jesus said, “My sheep hear My voice and they follow Me”
God spoke to the Shepherds and the Wise Men in a language they understood.
In a humble manger in Bethlehem, bible prophecy was fulfilled and the Messiah finally arrived.
Jesus was God spelling Himself out in a language we can all understand.
God gave the most important announcement in all of human history to shepherds. A shepherd in this culture was at the bottom of the social ladder.
#1 On Christmas, Jesus came to ordinary people like you and me. 1 Corinthians 1:27–31 MSG
Read Luke 2:8–15
The real message of Christmas is good news!
Jesus came to this earth for you. Galatians 2:20
For some, Christmas may not be full of love or joy. The season can be filled with anxiety and stress.
Christmas reminds us there is a future for us.
The birth of Christ was for the death of Christ and for the resurrection of Christ. Because Jesus rose from the dead, we will never die.
#2 Christmas is about God sending a Savior.
“And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world.” 1 John 4:14
Jesus came to save us from the power and penalty of sin.
God keeps his promises. He came the first time, and He will come again! Titus 2:13
The message of the gospel is, “Good tidings of great joy!”
The Christmas season is a wonderful time to share your faith.
This was such an amazing announcement, the Shepherds moved quickly. Luke 2:15
Jesus came for all of us. John 3:16
Salvation is for everyone! 2 Peter 3:9
Read Matthew 2:1–6
The Shepherds rushed to see the Baby Jesus. In contrast, Herod wanted to kill Him.
The Wise Men were highly educated with a superb knowledge of science.
God came to the Wise Men in a way that they could understand and relate to.
Jesus said, “I am the Good Shepherd.” John 10:11
Jesus also said, “My sheep hear My voice and they follow Me.” John 10:27
Jesus speaks to you if you are one of His sheep.
God primarily speaks to us today through the Bible.
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Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org.
This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.
Greg Laurie Podcast