The birth of Jesus Christ came about this way: After his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, it was discovered before they came together that she was pregnant from the Holy Spirit.
INTRO—
[[WUV = Pentatonix - Mary Did You Know?]]
The answer is yes…& no.
Speaking of debates (discussions)…how about family at Christmas. Catching up and talking about…the news & other issues of the day. We can hear many things, many opinions, many conversations.
How about the family of Jesus that first, historical Christmas? As we look back to that time, what will we hear from those closest to Jesus—his family?
FAMILY, when they speak that first Christmas, we hear them...
QUESTIONING
Can God do this? (Luke 1.18-22)
Zechariah: Disbelief (18)…Consequence (19-20)…talking, not talking (21-22)
How will God do this? (Luke 1.29, 34-38)
Mary: Doubt (29, 34)…God’s plan (35-37)…Resolve (38)
REVERING (Awe)
A personal blessing & obedience (Luke 1.43, 59-60)
Zechariah: Obedience (w/ Elizabeth, from angel; 62-63)…Praise (God; 64)
CELEBRATING
A providential blessing (Luke 1.42, 44-45)
Elizabeth: Honoring Jesus (42)…John does, too (44)…Honoring Mary’s faith (45)
A salvation message & messenger (Luke 1.67-79)
Zechariah: His son the herald (76-77)…of SALVATION (68-75, 78-79)
The Greatness & Goodness of God (Luke 1.46-55)
Mary: Experience of God’s goodness (46-49)…Extolling God’s greatness (50-55)
CONCL—
In closing, a word about Joseph...
We never hear him utter a word…yet we see evidence of his important roll throughout this entire time! (Matthew 1.18-25)
The reality among us. We question…revere…celebrate…and are even quiet. We contribute to the life of our church and the work of the kingdom…through frailty and faithfulness.
Luke 1:38 CSB
“See, I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary. “May it happen to me as you have said.” Then the angel left her.