Jesus, Son of God

[Slide - 1: Keep Slide up]

Intro:

I am going to start this morning by saying a list of words. As I say each words, I want you to keep track of the initial emotion or reaction you have to each one. Ready?

Christmas

December

Holidays

Black Friday/Cyber Monday/Giving Tuesday

Yet as wonderful as Christmas is for many people, it seems that our culture is finding itself more and more fatigued by the season each year. The expectations that the season brings, that don’t take our personal struggles and challenges into account, can leave each of us overwhelmed, confused and discouraged. Think about it, we all have expectations, about don’t we? When you entered this morning most of you expected to find what? Food in the Cafe and the lights decorating the sanctuary. Christmas is no different. From a child we have been taught to expect Christmas each year to be epic, the best ever, awesome! But it’s not, at least not every Christmas.

Presents

Parties

“Christmas” or DecemberI was in Lowe’s about a month ago and I started to see Christmas items for sale. Christmas is a season of joy and celebration. From the parties, to the gifts, to the ugly sweaters, Christmas is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful times of the year. Yet as wonderful as Christmas is for many people, it seems that our culture is finding itself more and more fatigued by the season each year. The expectations that the season brings, that don’t take our personal struggles and challenges into account, can leave each of us overwhelmed, confused and discouraged. Think about it, we all have expectations, about don’t we? When you entered this morning most of you expected to find what? Food in the Cafe and the lights decorating the sanctuary. Christmas is no different. From a child we have been taught to expect Christmas each year to be epic, the best ever, awesome! But it’s not, at least not every Christmas.

W

For many of you, your reaction to each of these words was one of joy, excitement or anticipation. Memories of childhood come to mind as you remember running downstairs to find your Christmas tree filled with presents underneath or the music, food and celebrations that surround the season. It just makes sense b/c as a culture we love Christmas! Each year there is a part of us that has expectations of making this Christmas the “best year ever.”

That’s why it’s not uncommon then, to walk through the mall on Halloween and see stores preparing for the Christmas season. It seems in a matter of minutes storefronts or websites become a winter wonderland and radio stations are welcoming Christmas songs to their playlist.

[Slide - 2] Chip Gaines, from the HGTV show Fixer Upper, tweeted this on Oct. 31st:

“My wife is convinced that #Halloween is NOT too early for Christmas music…please tell me she’s wrong, right?? #TOOEARLY!!

[Slide - 3] Another Twitter user said this:

“It’s November 1st, which means it’s socially acceptable to talk about Christmas without people silently judging me and looking at me askance (with disapproval),” he posted, along with a photo wearing a “This Guy Loves Christmas” t-shirt and a Santa hat.

Before the jack-o-lanterns are off the front steps, Christmas commercials are on YouTube.

It’s for this reason and more, the phrase “Christmas fatigue” has been created. Though it can’t be found in the dictionary, the phrase has been expressed countless times on the internet and has been defined by working use. Christmas fatigue is the exhaustion found by some in the winter holiday season, due to the celebration’s time span. And as this fatigue seems to be growing each year, with it grow the feelings of exhaustion, disappointment and discouragement as those yearly expectations are not met or once met, are so fleeting.

different. From a child we have been taught to expect Christmas each year to be epic, the best ever, awesome! But it’s not, at least not every Christmas.

“Christmas” or DecemberI was in Lowe’s about a month ago and I started to see Christmas items for sale. Christmas is a season of joy and celebration. From the parties, to the gifts, to the ugly sweaters, Christmas is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful times of the year. Yet as wonderful as Christmas is for many people, it seems that our culture is finding itself more and more fatigued by the season each year. The expectations that the season brings, that don’t take our personal struggles and challenges into account, can leave each of us overwhelmed, confused and discouraged. Think about it, we all have expectations, about don’t we? When you entered this morning most of you expected to find what? Food in the Cafe and the lights decorating the sanctuary. Christmas is no different. From a child we have been taught to expect Christmas each year to be epic, the best ever, awesome! But it’s not, at least not every Christmas.

When you entered this morning most of you expected to find what? Food in the Cafe and the lights decorating the sanctuary...

That’s why, this Advent season - the 4-Sundays leading up to Easter, we are going to ask ourselves a question. A question that, if really thought about and reflected upon may leave some of us, if we are honest with ourselves, a bit taken aback to the answer we might come to: [Put Back Up Slide 1]

Question: What would Christmas be like if all we had was Jesus?

Question: What would Christmas be like if all we had was Jesus?

That’s why, this Advent season, we are going to ask ourselves this question: What would Christmas be like if all we had was Jesus? If we were to remove the festivities and gifts, the cards and pies, the plays and performances, and all we had was Jesus, what would we then think about the Christmas season? To accomplish this, we are going to take a look at the different roles of Christ given to us in Jesus from . It is our goal to see how each of these roles impacts our lives and how in Christ, God has given us “everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of

Christmas is a season of joy and celebration. From the parties, to the gifts, to the ugly sweaters, Christmas is undoubtedly one of the most wonderful times of the year. Yet as wonderful as Christmas is for many people, it seems that our culture is finding itself more and more fatigued by the season each year. The expectations that the season brings, that don’t take our personal struggles and challenges into account, leave many overwhelmed and discouraged. That’s why, this Advent season, we are going to ask ourselves this question: What would Christmas be like if all we had was Jesus? If we were to remove the festivities and gifts, the cards and pies, the plays and performances, and all we had was Jesus, what would we then think about the Christmas season? To accomplish this, we are going to take a look at the different roles of Christ given to us in Jesus from . It is our goal to see how each of these roles impacts our lives and how in Christ, God has given us “everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of

Transition: If we were to remove the festivities and gifts, the cards and pies, the plays and performances, and all we had was Jesus, what would we think then about the Christmas season?

This isn’t a foreign concept, remember what happened at the end of the movie The Grinch - the tree was empty, we just knew what was going to happen next. But what if the gifts never came back, what if the tree was going to stay empty and the lights were not going to be hung? What would our Christmas be like then?

To answer this question each week, we are going to take a look at the different roles of Christ fulfills that were given to us in Jesus from . It is our goal to see how each of these roles impacts our lives and how in Christ, God has given us everything we need to follow him ().

To answer this question, each week, we are going to take a look at the great gift of Jesus. Particularly, we are going to look at the different roles of Christ fulfills that were given to us in Jesus from . It is our goal to see how each of these roles impacts our lives and how in Christ, God has given us everything we need to for life and following Him ().

To accomplish this, we are going to take a look at the different roles of Christ given to us in Jesus from . It is our goal to see how each of these roles impacts our lives and how in Christ, God has given us “everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of

To answer this question each week, we are going to take a look at the different roles of Christ fulfills that were given to us in Jesus from . It is our goal to see how each of these roles impacts our lives and how in Christ, God has given us everything we need to follow him ().

[Take Down Slide 1]

Turn with me then to and let’s look at the situation surrounding the promise of Jesus’ coming birth.

I. A World Broken Without Christ

A.

A. Context

Isaiah 8:16–22 TNIV

Bind up this testimony of warning and seal up God’s instruction among my disciples. I will wait for the Lord, who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob. I will put my trust in him. Here am I, and the children the Lord has given me. We are signs and symbols in Israel from the Lord Almighty, who dwells on Mount Zion. When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? Consult God’s instruction and the testimony of warning. If anyone does not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn. Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness.

Isaiah 8:16–17 TNIV

Bind up this testimony of warning and seal up God’s instruction among my disciples. I will wait for the Lord, who is hiding his face from the house of Jacob. I will put my trust in him.

Isaiah 8:21–22 TNIV

Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness.

It describes a time in Israel’s history Assyria was on the doorstep, wanting to take people as slaves.

When people are going to be looking for something to satisfy them, apart from God and they are not going to find it.

Isaiah 8:21–22 TNIV

Distressed and hungry, they will roam through the land; when they are famished, they will become enraged and, looking upward, will curse their king and their God. Then they will look toward the earth and see only distress and darkness and fearful gloom, and they will be thrust into utter darkness.

The nation of Israel will continue to dwell in spiritual darkness and be sent into Exile.

Transition: However, there is hope. There is a...

II. Promise of Overflowing Joy

[Slide - 2]

Isaiah 9:1–2 TNIV

Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan— The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.

Isaiah 9:1 TNIV

Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan—

“Humbled the land of Zebulun and . . . Naphtali” = Northern Kingdom became Assyrian province in 732 B.C. [Slide - 4]

“Humbled the land of Zebulun and . . . Naphtali” = Northern Kingdom became Assyrian province in 732 B.C.

Break all oppression

Jesus upbringing and early ministry was mostly in this very area near the Sea of Galilee

From this location Jesus will arise and wipe away the gloom and darkness brought on by the Assyrians

Jesus teaching and healing ministry will be the “great light” that will shine upon this region (cf. )

God the Father will lead them from darkness into spiritual light

Isaiah 9:3–5 TNIV

You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as soldiers rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.

This increased joy will be a supernatural work of God much like the nation’s deliverance when Gideon defeated Midian (cf. Jud. 7:1-24; )

It will be like taking a burden off one’s back as the Messiah will usher in world peace

Isaiah 9:

Isaiah 9:6–7 TNIV

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Isaiah 9:6–7 TNIV

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

End all hostility

Isaiah 9:3–7 TNIV

You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as soldiers rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire. For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Isaiah 9:1–5 TNIV

Nevertheless, there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honor Galilee of the nations, by the Way of the Sea, beyond the Jordan— The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned. You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as soldiers rejoice when dividing the plunder. For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor. Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.

Luke 2:14 TNIV

“Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

End all hostility

Isaiah 9:6–7 TNIV

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.

Promised from of Old

Promised from of Old

In the Beginning

In the Beginning [Slide - 5]

Genesis 3:15 TNIV

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

Romans 8:1 TNIV

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

Genesis 3:15–16 TNIV

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” To the woman he said, “I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with pain you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband, and he will rule over you.”

To King David [Slide - 6]

To King David [Slide - 6]

2 Samuel 7:12–13 TNIV

When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.

2 Samuel 7:11–13 TNIV

and have done ever since the time I appointed leaders over my people Israel. I will also give you rest from all your enemies. “ ‘The Lord declares to you that the Lord himself will establish a house for you: When your days are over and you rest with your ancestors, I will raise up your offspring to succeed you, who will come from your own body, and I will establish his kingdom. He is the one who will build a house for my Name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.

Transition: Throughout the Bible we find great joy in the person and work of Jesus. And, in the passing of time,

III. God Sent Us Jesus

A. Managing Expectations

Expectations - Physical Deliverance

Apparently, Isaiah assumed that the Messianic Child, Jesus Christ, would establish His reign in his first Advent, that when the Child grew up, He would rule in triumph (Triumphal Entry)

Where he would rule the world with justice and righteousness, world peace to all mankind

The Bible Knowledge Commentary 9:6–7

Apparently Isaiah assumed that the messianic Child, Jesus Christ, would establish His reign in one Advent, that when the Child grew up He would rule in triumph. Like the other prophets, Isaiah was not aware of the great time gap between Messiah’s two Advents

The Jews in Jesus’ day expected the Messiah to redeem Israel by overthrowing the rule of the Romans and establishing an earthly kingdom.

Even as believers we too can have such expectations of Jesus - no sickness, easy life, all needs and “wants” met

Wrong expectations caused frustration and rejection

You entering this morning - Expectations

Even as believers we too can have such expectations of Jesus - no sickness, easy life, all needs and “wants” met

Wrong expectations cause frustration and rejection

Expectations - Spiritual Deliverance

Spiritual Deliverance

Jesus…the

Rock in the midst of a storm

“Our” Expectations - Physical Deliverance

B. “God’s” Expectation - Spiritual Deliverance

Rock then in the midst of the storm

B. Jesus...the Christ

Luke 2:11–14 TNIV

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Savior [Slide - 7]

Acts 5:31 TNIV

God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might bring Israel to repentance and forgive their sins.

Acts 13:23 TNIV

“From this man’s descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised.

Jesus came to die to be the substitute for our rebellion against God, to die in our place.

He took the full force of God’s justice on Himself, so that forgiveness and pardon might be available to us - heal our brokenness

[Slide - 8]

Luke 2:11 TNIV

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

Such a role is even in His “name” - Jesus “Christ”…Messiah [Slide - 9]

Hebrew word - “Anointed/Chosen One”

Today, Jesus is still the Messiah—God’s chosen, anointed One who came to deliver us from sin and Satan.

To deliver us from our brokenness in sin and restore us unto Himself

As the Messiah, He offers you forgiveness for your sins. He promises you salvation and a place in His coming kingdom. “Come to Me,” He urges, “. . . and you will find rest for your souls” (, ).

Daily Deliverance

Luke 2:11 TNIV

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.

“Lord” - Jesus is God Himself

All Knowing

3. Lord - God Himself

All Powerful

All Merciful, loving and just

This means that Jesus has all authority in Heaven and on Earth (cf. )

Matthew 28:18–20 TNIV

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Lord of Lords

Revelation 17:14 TNIV

They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will triumph over them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers.”

The realm of Christ’s reign covers everything that happens in heaven and on the earth. No one — not even those who deny His existence — can be free of His rule or outside His sphere of authority. Although Satan tries to convince us that liberty is found in doing what we want, true freedom is acquired only through submission to Christ’s loving lordship.

The realm of Christ’s reign covers everything that happens in heaven and on the earth. No one — not even those who deny His existence — can be free of His rule or outside His sphere of authority. Although Satan tries to convince us that liberty is found in doing what we want, true freedom/joy is acquired only through submission to Christ’s being Savior and Lord.

Many of the promises of Christ can only be experiences as we daily submit to his rule and reign in our lives, where we let go and let God be in charge.

It’s getting to the place where we want Jesus and nothing more. Oh, don’t get me wrong, things are nice but it’s the cry of our hearts to have Jesus. We just want God to move in our midst, to change our lives for His glory, no matter the cost.

Conclusion

That’s what Christmas is all about! That’s why, if all we had was Jesus for Christmas, Jesus would be all we need.

Many of the promises of Christ can only be experiences as we daily submit to his rule and reign in our lives, where we let go and let God be in charge.

It’s getting to the place where we want Jesus and nothing more. Oh, don’t get me wrong, things are nice but it’s the cry of our hearts to have Jesus. We just want God to move in our midst, to change our lives for His glory, no matter the cost.