The Gift That Changes Everything: Understanding the True Meaning of Christmas

Introduction

The Gift of Love: Unwrapping John 3:16 This Christmas

SLIDE: Scripture John 3:16

John 3:16 (NIV)

16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

In need to offer a warning here to you parents with kids in the room, what you are about to hear may give them ideas. But maybe they thought of this already. Just sayin...

When I was a kid I loved Christmas, but the anticipation of and waiting to open the gifts was too must for me. So, to cope with the frustration of having to wait; I devised a mischievous plan to unwrap the presents to find out was inside and then wrap them back up. I became very good at it. At least I think so, since, I was never called out for doing it.

Well, let’s do a little unwrapping of the present given to us in John 3:16:

In the context of the entire Bible, John's proclamation of God's love through Christ serves as the fulcrum of salvation history. Jesus is the ultimate expression of God's love and the fulfillment of His promise to redeem humanity.

John 3:16 succinctly summarizes the core message of the Gospel — God's boundless love for humanity, exemplified through His gift of Jesus for our salvation.

Thus, the true meaning of Christmas is found in recognizing and sharing Christ’s incredible gift of love, as revealed in John 3:16.

Let’s look at the Greek word ἀγαπάω ( agapaō ). which is the verb to love. however, in the original language agapaō Involves a deep level of affection and intimacy.

Now think about Jesus on the cross when in Mark 14:36 "Abba Father" Abba is an Aramaicword used in biblical tradition to describe an intimate relationship with God. It characterizes God as both a loving parent and a divine authority.

So, if we think about it John 3:16 is far more than just an opportunity to have eternal life: John 3:16 is an invitation to be adopted into an intimate ( which is a private and personal ) relationship with God the Abba ( the Father ).

Main Teaching

We can break down John 3:16 into 3 parts to gain a deeper understanding of the implications of this opportunity given therein:

1. God's Great Love

John 3:16a (NIV)

16 For God so loved the world...

I once met a man who shared his story of being lost in addiction. As he hit rock bottom, a family member showed up out of nowhere, refusing to give up on him.

This act of relentless love made him realize the depth of love he had taken for granted. It reminded me of God's unwavering love for us, always reaching out, no matter how far we stray.

The magnitude of God's love show in John 3:16 is universal and inclusive in nature. He offers this gift to anyone and everyone, the only requirement is a heart felt acceptance of the gift.

It shows us God's intention to embrace every individual.

This season is a celebration of God's expansive love that surpasses human understanding and is demonstrated through the creation of family, unity, and connection. This divine family is deeply loving. extremely personal that provides the most glorious inheritance.

2. Gift of His Son

John 3:16b (NIV)

16 ...he gave his one and only Son...

A young woman named Sarah always put others before herself. One cold winter day, she noticed a homeless man shivering on the street. Instead of hurrying past, she gave him her warm coat. Sarah knew she could buy another, but that man needed it more. Days later, she found a surprise gift in her mailbox—a brand new coat, anonymous but sent with love. This act reminded her that selflessness not only blesses others but often returns to us in unexpected ways.

God in a similar but even more profound manner saw out need to be loved and to have a way back into the family that He sent His absolutely only Son to build that bridge in an unexpected manner. this became God's sacrificial gift by giving His "only begotten Son."

This immense sacrifice, might be a challenge for you to ponder ( especially if you are a parent ): The cost of God’s love, along will Jesus’s willingness an immense act of selflessness. In our Christmas giving we participate in a merest echo of God's ultimate act of generosity.

I urge you to reflect on Christ, and how you represent and share Christ your own actions.

3. Grasping Eternal Hope

John 3:16c (NIV)

16 ...whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

On the last day of high school, amidst laughter and tears, a group of friends took a moment to share their hopes for the future. One friend, who had recently faced the loss of a family member, spoke up about how the promise of eternal life from John 3:16 changed everything for him. He explained that it provided solace during the hardest times, allowing him to cherish the memories while finding joy in the promise of reunion. Each friend, moved by his words, found new strength in facing the uncertain roads ahead, united by a shared faith and hope.

I want to emphasize the purpose of God's gift: that "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Christmas can bring hope into our hearts if we hold firmly upon the assurance of the promise of eternal life. This should inspire hope in you, not just for future eternal realities, but also for bringing transformative love into the spaces of hurt and need during that many find in the Christmas season.

Application (conclusion)

I heard of an advertisement that boldly claimed, 'Get a Free Trip! Inquire Within!' Obviously — it was a clever marketing tactic.

But it strikes me; that God’s offer of eternal life is much like that ad. It's so enticing yet many walk by without inquiring. We often get caught up in life’s busyness, overlooking the most important question:

Have you asked for His free gift?

God stands waiting, eager to share His love and grace with those who simply ask!

With this deeper understanding of the implications John 3:16, wee can offer a free trip to people.

Christmas is first and foremost about God's incredible love demonstrated through the gift of His Son. It emphasizes that our understanding of Christmas should provoke a response of gratitude and love toward others.

We are told..

Go and Share Love

SLIDE: Scripture Matthew 28:19-20

Matthew 28:19–20 (NLT)

19 Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. 20 Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

The love received through God’s gift calls us to action. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 serves as a command to share the love of Christ through discipleship and spreading the gospel.

The Christmas story does not end with receiving love but continues in the active engagement of sharing that love. We MUST engage in missions, service and evangelism as a demonstration of your faith and love in action, not only fulfilling the Great Commission this Christmas, but to do so beyond now ( to do it always ).

The essence of Christmas goes beyond traditions and presents; it is an opportunity to embrace and share God's love. It challenges us to reflect on how we can show love and kindness to others during this season, especially to those who may feel unloved or marginalized.

Invitation

Now as an act of love and kindness from myself and Curry’s Chapel Church: I now invite you to join the family of God. Jesus is here right now offering you the opportunity of a lifetime. And without meaning manipulative. we want you to know do not to wait, you may not have much time left. You don’t want to die without accepting this gift. Nor do you want the offer to expire when Jesus comes back to claim His Bride ( the Church ), which will include you if you accept the free trip.

I urge you right now to accept the most wonder trip you could ever take, the trip to the New Earth and New Jerusalem.

Will you do that right now.

With every eye closed, if you accept the free trip raise you had right now.

Acknowledge raised hands...

SLIDE: The Sinner’s Prayer

Ask all to repeat the...

Sinners Prayer:

"Dear Lord Jesus,

I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. In Your Name.

Amen."

SLIDE: Welcome to the Family

If you raised your hand, please, come speak with me after the service.

I just want to welcome you into the family.