Why does Jesus' birth matter to us today?

Intro

Last week

Why was Jesus’ birth so significant when it happened

The Jews were waiting for a king to be born in Bethlehem according to OT prophecy

Jesus’ birth signaled a new age for the Jews where God had fulfilled his promises to his people

This week

Why does Jesus’ birth matter to us today?

Body

Jesus presented at the temple

Paraphrase Luke 2:22-28

Read Luke 2:29-32

Simeon says a few interesting things

“My eyes have seen your salvation”

But he’s looking at a baby?

What is salvation?

“A light for revelation to the Gentiles”

Who are the gentiles?

What is being revealed to them

“Glory to your people Israel”

Why does Jesus bring Israel glory?

Application

Reframing how we think about Christmas

Not that presents, time with family, time off of school are bad

But many people who claim to be Christians often times only celebrate the birth of Jesus at a Christmas eve service at church

Following Jesus, claiming to be a Christian is more than just saying you believe something

It means you actually act on what you say you believe in

If you wouldn’t call yourself a Christian/you just kinda believe in God because its what your parents believe in consider this:

Christmas is a celebration that God came down to earth in human flesh to rescue you from your sin because he dearly loves you

Conclusion

So, why does Jesus’ birth matter to us today?

The birth of Jesus was the beginning of God’s plan to bring salvation to people who were not Jewish descendants.

It is an incredible act of love by the Almighty God of the universe who has no reason to do such a thing, but chose to do it anyway because he loves us