The Peace of Christmas

Isaiah 9:2–7 ESV

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone. You have multiplied the nation; you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as they are glad when they divide the spoil. For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian. For every boot of the tramping warrior in battle tumult and every garment rolled in blood will be burned as fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.

Peace in Chaos

Life Exists in Chaos

-Every Life has chaos no matter who you are

-Example in the Christmas story- Going to Bethlehem because of a census so they could be taxed; Far from home, no where to stay all because of government orders.

b. God interjects Himself into chaos.

-Immanuel- “God with Us”

-Chaos doesn’t cease but God works amongst the chaos

2. Peace Rejected

a. Active Rejection

i. Satan and Herod attempt to thwart the plans of God.

-Both are driven by pride, selfishness, or fear

-Despite the humble begins of Jesus, Herod was threatened by the new king, even to the point of killing many boys.

ex. Saul- Attempting to follow his understanding of God leads him the wrong direction

b. Passive Rejection

i. Innkeeper, religious leaders, Bethlehem visitors/citizens

-Some leaders were able to be a part of the Christmas story

-ex. Simeon and Anna recognized the Messiah

-We can be so busy with our lives , there are times we don’t see where God is leading or working.

3. Peace Accepted

a. Jesus is Lord

-Not dependent on our belief or recognition

-He is wonderful counselor. His victory is ensured regardless of our response.

-

b. His victory ensures peace

-He has crushed the staff of the oppressor

-Through birth, life, death, resurrection and assention Christ demonstrates a life of absolute victory crushing the head of the serpent.

c. Available to all, Effective to those who believe

-Mary, Joseph, Shepherds, wise men

-Even though Mary and Joseph still have to flee to Egypt, God provides.

-Gifts of the wise men

-Warning to flee