12-31-25 S.U.M. It Up!

 

12-28-25 Kenwood Church of Christ Live Stream

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: The Wisemen 12-28-25

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: The Wisemen 12-28-25

INTRODUCTION

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭2:1-23‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him. When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “ ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’ ” Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. He sent them to Bethlehem and said, “Go and search carefully for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him.” After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.” When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt and said, “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.” So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets, that he would be called a Nazarene.”

‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭2:1-23‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

What have you done with the Christmas story?  How do you respond?

I.  WISEMEN WORSHIP THE SON

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.””

‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

"In modern research on Herod, the most discussed issue concerns the impact of his reign on his Jewish subjects. Opinions vary. Some scholars paint a picture of a cruel tyrant, even a maniac suffering from a personality disorder, who introduced the ancient version of a Gestapo state with an extended spy network and imprisonment, torture, and execution of anyone falling under the slightest suspicion. His own family was far from exempt, and the list of Herod’s executions of family members included three of his sons, his Hasmonean wife Mariamne, and his wife’s mother and grandfather. In light of this, Solomon Zeitlin said with reference to Herod’s ancestry and his death from a painful disease: “He attained his kingdom as a fox, ruled as a tiger and died as a dog.”

Others claim that his cruelty should be evaluated against the standards of ancient rulers and not modern sentiments. Even Josephus admits that during a famine Herod relieved the nation by distributing food from his royal supplies, just as he cut taxes twice, gave the Jewish nation a beautiful temple, and generally created a period of peace and growing prosperity.

It has been suggested by Geza Vermes and others that the conflicting nature of Herod’s reign is best explained as an outcome of an impossible vision of raising the Jewish nation to new heights by incorporating it solidly within the new Roman world order. This would explain why Herod, on the one hand, tried to be “a Jew to the Jews” by complying with Jewish customs. For example, he produced mostly aniconic art and coins (as suggested by archaeological excavations of his palaces); he married into the old, royal Hasmonean family; and he rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem. On the other hand, he tried to be “a Roman to the Romans” by putting pressure on the Jewish nation to accept Roman customs such as Greek sporting games and temples dedicated to the emperor.

If Herod’s intent was to incorporate the Jewish state into the Roman world order, his dream collapsed. As Vermes stated, the discontentment with Herod planted seeds that eventually grew into the great rebellion against Rome some 70 years after his death. In this light, Herod was not only one of the most famous “kings of the Jews,” but also one of the most fatal."

Morten Hørning Jensen, Herod the Great, December 15, 2023.

A.  Heard the story

B.  Bowed down

C.  Worshipped him

D.  Sacrificially gave

What happens after worship?

II.  WISEMEN FOLLOW GOD'S LEAD

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭9‬-‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.”

‭‭ Matthew‬ ‭2‬:‭9‬-‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A.  Listened

B.  Responded

"What is Christmas? It is tenderness for the past, courage for the present, hope for the future. It is a fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace."

Agnes M. Pharo

What is God leading you toward?

III.  WISEMEN STILL SEEK HIM

“To get ready for Christmas, God undressed. God stripped off his finery and appeared – how embarrassing – naked on the day he was born . . .

God could not be God-with-us if he wasn’t flesh . . .

As evangelicals we have focused on the saving death of Christ but thrown out the Incarnation in our Christmas wrappings.

As we cover God with Christmas, we hide what is most distinctive about Christianity. And this is the tragedy: What many don’t know about Christianity is that God has chosen to identify with their pain, their humanness, their flesh.

This is what we’ve lost as we’ve exchanged the Feast of the Incarnation for Christmas."

Mary Ellen Ashcroft, “Gift Wrapping God,” Christianity Today, 12-8-97, p. 32-33.

A.  Worship

B.  Follow God's lead

The shepherds

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 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.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

CONCLUSION

To quote Charles Spurgeon:

"It is joy to all nations that Christ is born, the Prince of Peace, the King who rules in righteousness...Beloved, the greatest joy is to those who know Christ as a Saviour...The further you submit yourself to Christ the Lord, the more completely you know Him, the fuller will your happiness become. Surface joy is to those who live where the Saviour is preached; but the great deeps, the great fathomless deeps of solemn joy which glisten and sparkle with delight, are for such as know the Saviour, obey the Anointed One, and have communion with the Lord Himself...you will never know the fullness of the joy which Jesus brings to the soul, unless under the power of the Holy Spirit you take the Lord your Master to be your All in all, and make Him the fountain of your intensest delight."

Todd Leupold, "Joy To The World", 12/21/2008.

The Christ child is our Easter sacrifice, but like the Christmas story the question is not whether you believe it, but what will you do after you believe it?

The greatest gift you can give the Christ child is your life!

INVITATION

It is our custom to offer an "invitation" following the preaching of the Word.  You may want to follow Jesus.  You may want to proclaim your faith.  You may want to repent (stop doing ungodly things and start doing Godly things).  Perhaps you want to be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins     and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Possibly, if you have already responded to God’s call in these ways, you would like to become a member of Kenwood Church.  If you have been moved by the Holy Spirit to make a decision in your life, you can come forward now.  If you would like, I would be honored to speak with you following the service about what God is doing in your life.

12-27-25 S.U.M. It Up!

12-21-25 Kenwood Church of Christ Live Stream

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: Jesus 12-21-25

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: Jesus 12-21-25

INTRODUCTION

The Cast of Christmas 

Joseph, Mary, the Shepherds, Simeon and Anna

What does our infatuation with Santa say about our view of Christmas?

“To perceive Christmas through its wrappings becomes more difficult with every year.”

E. B. White, The Second Tree from the Corner.

Why Jesus is Better than Santa

• Santa lives at the North Pole…JESUS is everywhere.

• Santa rides in a sleigh…JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

• Santa comes but once a year…JESUS is an ever present help.

• Santa fills your stockings with goodies…JESUS supplies all your needs.

• Santa comes down your chimney uninvited…JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart when invited.

• You have to wait in line to see Santa…JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

• Santa lets you sit on his lap…JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

• Santa doesn’t know your name, all he can say is “Hi little boy or girl, what’s your name?”…JESUS knew our name before we were born. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

• Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly…JESUS has a heart full of love

• All Santa can offer is HO HO HO…JESUS offers health, help and hope.

• Santa says “You better not cry”…JESUS says “Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.”

• Santa’s little helpers make toys…JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

• Santa may make you chuckle but…JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

• While Santa puts gifts under your tree…JESUS became our gift and died on a tree…the cross.

We need to put Christ back in CHRISTmas, Jesus is still the reason for the season.

‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“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.”

‭‭ John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:5b-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!”

‭‭ Philippians‬ ‭2:5b-8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

I.  BECOMING 

‭‭John‬ ‭1:1-18‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John testified concerning him. He cried out, saying, “This is the one I spoke about when I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ ”) Out of his fullness we have all received grace in place of grace already given. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God, but the one and only Son, who is himself God and is in closest relationship with the Father, has made him known.”

‭‭John‬ ‭1:1-18‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A.  The Word became flesh

B.  The Word dwelt among us

C.  His glory, the glory of the One and Only Son of God

D.  Who came from the Father, full of grace and truth

“This is the Christmas Gospel: Jesus, God in flesh, unrobed Himself from His divine essences to be encumbered in sinless human flesh; so that He might: atone, redeem, reconcile, justify, sanctify and glorify sinful humanity. The gift of eternal life is through faith in Christ. Jesus is our Savior, Redeemer, Sanctifier, Justifier, Glorifier, Lord and God!" 

David Tack, Sermon Central, December 14, 2010.

Jesus became exactly what his Father wanted.  What are you becoming?

II.  BECOMING NOTHING

According to the ancient historical writer Jerome, he feels Jesus was born in a stable because "...it would have been fitting for Christ to come into the Holy of Holies in the Temple, but he came into this world in a stinking stable, for us...

"Christ found no room in the Holy of Holies that shone with gold, precious stones, pure silk and silver. He is not born in the midst of gold and riches, but in the midst of dung, in a stable where our sins were filthier than the dung. He is born on a dunghill in order to lift up those who come from it: 'From the dunghill he lifts up the poor' (Ps 113:7)"

Jerome, On the Nativity of the Lord, ACCSNT 3:39.

Philippians 2:5b-7 NIV

Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.

Philippians 2: 5b-7 NIV

A.  Gave up equality with God

1.  Boundaried

2.  Confined

3.  Limited

B.  "Made himself nothing"

1.  Taking the very nature of a servant

2.  Being made in human likeness

"Jesus has come, moreover, not as a blaze which will soon die down, but as a light which will last our day, yea, last for ever. After the long dark and cold night of our misery, the Lord comes in the fittest and most effectual manner; neither as lightning, nor candle, nor flaming meteor, but as the sun which begins the day… The visits of God are like the dayspring, because they end our darkness. The dayspring banishes the night… Our night is ended once for all when we behold God visiting us in Jesus Christ. Our day may cloud over, but night will not return. O, you that are in the blackest midnight, if you can but get a view of Christ, morning will have come to you!"

Charles Spurgeon, The Tender Mercy of our God

What do you hope to become?

III.  BECOMING OBEDIENT TO DEATH

How extreme are you willing to get in obedience?

‭‭Philippians‬ ‭2:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death— even death on a cross!”

‭‭ Philippians‬ ‭2:8‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A.  Humbled himself by becoming obedient to death

B.  Even death on a cross!

James Martin tells about a trip to the Holy Land. While there, he buys a nativity set for his Sunday School class. It was carved out of olive wood in the town of Bethlehem and had all the traditional figures: sheep and oxen; wise men and the shepherds; Mary, Joseph, and, of course, the baby Jesus.

As he began the return trip home, he had to go through the very strict security at Tel Aviv airport. He didn’t figure that the nativity set would attract any attention but he was wrong. Each figure was carefully scrutinized and even X-rayed. Martin asked why they were being so diligent. The security officer explained it this way: "You see, we must make sure there is nothing explosive in them."

The Christmas story is explosive. It’s part of the dynamite of the Gospel story. There is power in knowing that almighty God loved us enough to come to this earth, be born, live a perfect life, die for our sins, and then raise from the dead and give us the promise of new, abundant, and eternal life.

Michael Luke, “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas”, 12/5/2009.

Does your personal obedience demonstrate a value for what God values?

CONCLUSION

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1:15-23‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation— if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.”

‭‭ Colossians‬ ‭1:15-23‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

It was Christmas Eve, 1910. General William Booth, the founder of The Salvation Army in London, England was near the end of his life. His health was poor, and he was going to be unable to attend the Army’s annual convention. Booth had become an invalid, and his eyesight was failing him. No one knew that he would not live to see another Christmas.

Somebody suggested that General Booth send a telegram or a message to be read at the opening of the convention as an encouragement to the many soldiers of the Salvation Army that would be in attendance following Christmas and their many hours of labor ministering to so many others through the holidays and the cold winter months. Booth agreed to do so.

Knowing that funds were limited and desiring not to use any more money than necessary so that as much money as possible could be used to help the many people in need, General Booth decided to send a one word message. He searched his mind and reviewed his years of ministry, looking for the one word that would summarize his life, the mission of the Army and encourage the others to continue on.

When the thousands of delegates met, the moderator announced that Booth would not be able to be present because of failing health and eyesight. Gloom and pessimism swept across the floor of the convention. Then, the moderator announced that Booth had sent a message to be read with the opening of the first session. He opened the telegram and read the one word message:

Others!

Signed, General Booth.

The bottom line is that while Jesus is the reason for the season - we are the reason for the reason!

INVITATION

It is our custom to offer an "invitation" following the preaching of the Word.  You may want to follow Jesus.  You may want to proclaim your faith.  You may want to repent (stop doing ungodly things and start doing Godly things).  Perhaps you want to be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins     and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Possibly, if you have already responded to God’s call in these ways, you would like to become a member of Kenwood Church.  If you have been moved by the Holy Spirit to make a decision in your life, you can come forward now.  If you would like, I would be honored to speak with you following the service about what God is doing in your life.

S.U.M. It Up! 12-17-25

12-14-25 Kenwood Church of Christ Live Stream

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: The shepherds and ensemble 12-14-25

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: The shepherds and ensemble 12-14-25

INTRODUCTION

Joseph and Mary and the Christmas story.  Their faithfulness and faith are vital characteristics of the cast of Christmas.

According to a British Paper (Romsey Advertiser):

"Christmas shoppers looking for a bargain should be wary of counterfeit goods which flood the market in the run-up to the festive season," the UK Border Agency has warned.

"Fake Ugg Boots, GHD hair straighteners, iPhones and iPads are among the tens of thousands of counterfeit items that have been seized by officers as they have been brought into the country in recent months."

While some people may unwittingly buy counterfeit gifts, many more people celebrate a counterfeit Christmas, celebrating Jesus’ birthday with little thought of Jesus.

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 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.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told. On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise the child, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he was conceived. When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.” 

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” 

There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. 

When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭39‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

The message of Christmas

I. THE SHEPHERDS

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭20 ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 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.” When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭8‬-‭20 ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A. Wonder

1. Angels

2. Angel army

3. Angel message

B. Wondering

1. “Let’s go see”

2. “What the Lord has told us about”

C. Witness

1. They hurried off.

2. They found Mary, Joseph, and the baby.

D. Witnessing

1. They spread the word about this child.

2.  All who heard it were amazed.

E. Worship

1. They returned glorifying and praising God 

2. “For all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.”

“This is the Christmas Gospel: Jesus, God in flesh, unrobed Himself from His divine essences to be encumbered in sinless human flesh; so that He might: atone, redeem, reconcile, justify, sanctify and glorify sinful humanity. The gift of eternal life is through faith in Christ. Jesus is our Savior, Redeemer, Sanctifier, Justifier, Glorifier, Lord and God!" 

David Tack, December 14, 2010.

II. SIMEON

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬-‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.” The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.””

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭25‬-‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A. A promise kept - Simeon sees the Christ child.

B. A blessing given - Simeon blessed them.

C. A prophecy proclaimed - Simeon shares with Jesus’ mother.

1. “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel”

2. “and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed”

3. “And a sword will pierce your own soul too.”

A British businessman is credited with creating the Christmas card in 1843 — as a way to save time. Too busy to write a personal holiday greeting, Henry Cole hired a well-known London artist to design a card he could send to all his acquaintances. Louis Prang, a German immigrant, is said to have brought the Christmas card tradition to America in 1875, printing a card depicting Killarney roses and the words Merry Christmas. In the last few years, Christmas card sales have declined because of the Internet. Thanks to all who carry on the tradition of sending cards.

Davon Huss, Sermon Central, December 20, 2011. 

Most important though is that we continue to the tradition of telling the story of Christmas.

III. ANNA

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“There was also a prophet, Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭36‬-‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A. A prophet

1. Anna, the daughter of Penuel, of the tribe of Asher

2. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four.

3. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying.

B. The prophecy

*. “Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.”

A Christmas Poem by Aaron Hand

The King of Kings, the Lord of Lords

Came to earth for you and me.

The salvation I could not afford

He paid for on Calvary.

What could I ever give Him

That would thank Him for His Son?

I’ll confess, and turn from my sin

And live in the victory won!

I often lose sight of Jesus,

Because of Santa and Christmas trees.

Jesus Christ is more than enough

To grant me eternity.

He’s the Wonderful Counselor,

The Mighty God, Prince of Peace,

He’s the Everlasting Father,

And to think – He came for me!

He deserves no less than my all,

Though it’s easy to give Him less.

Though born in a humble stall,

God sent me His very best.

- Aaron Hand, 2007

CONCLUSION

The cast of Christmas included the usual characters of Joseph and Mary, but the story also includes the shepherds, Simeon, and Anna. Their faith speaks to us today. They witnessed to the truth of the Christ. The shepherds told about the angels, the scene in Bethlehem, and the Messiah. Simeon proclaimed the outcome of His birth. Anna gave thanks to God connected Jesus to the redemption of Jerusalem.

INVITATION

It is our custom to offer an "invitation" following the preaching of the Word.  You may want to follow Jesus.  You may want to proclaim your faith.  You may want to repent (stop doing ungodly things and start doing Godly things).  Perhaps you want to be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins     and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Possibly, if you have already responded to God’s call in these ways, you would like to become a member of Kenwood Church.  If you have been moved by the Holy Spirit to make a decision in your life, you can come forward now.  If you would like, I would be honored to speak with you following the service about what God is doing in your life.

S.U.M. It Up! 12-10-25

12-7-25 Kenwood Church of Christ Live Stream

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: Mary 12-7-25

THE CAST OF CHRISTMAS: Mary 12-7-25

INTRODUCTION

NAME THAT CHRISTMAS CAROL

1. Bleached Yule

2. Castaneous-colored Seed Vesicated in a

Conflagration

3. Singular Yearning for the Twin Anterior Incisors

4. Righteous Darkness

5. Arrival Time 2400 hrs - Weather Cloudless

6. Loyal Followers Advance

7. Far Off in a Feeder

8. Array the Corridor

9. Bantam Male Percussionist

10. Monarchial Triad

11. Nocturnal Noiselessness

12. Jehovah Deactivate Blithe Chevaliers

13. Red Man En Route to Borough

14. Frozen Precipitation Commence

15. Proceed and Enlighten on the Pinnacl

16. The Quadruped with the Vermillion Probiscis

17. Query Regarding Identity of Descendant

18. Delight for this Planet

19. Give Attention to the Melodious Celestial Beings

20. The Dozen Festive 24 Hour Intervals

Answers:

1. White Christmas

2. Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire

3. All I Want for Christmas is My Two Front Teeth

4. O Holy Night

5. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

6. O Come, All Ye Faithful

7. Away in a Manger

8. Deck the Hall

9. Little Drummer Boy

10. We Three Kings

11. Silent Night

12. God Rest Ye, Merry Gentlemen

13. Santa Claus is Coming to Town

14. Let it Snow

15. Go, Tell It on the Mountain

16. Rudolph, the Red-nosed Reindeer

17. What Child is This?

18. Joy to the World

19. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

20. The Twelve Days of Christmas

As one department store advertised in December of 1983 "Make this Christmas one you will not soon forget – charge everything!"

Jeff Strite, Sermon Central, December 10, 2002.

The cast of Christmas - Joseph and his faithfulness

‭‭Luke‬ ‭1:26-2:7 ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.” Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭1:26-56‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2:1-7‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Faith - Mary trusted God.

I.  SHE BELIEVED

Bob Russell, pastor and author, tells a story of how about twenty years ago there was a house near the entrance of his subdivision that kept their Christmas lights burning long after the season was past. They burned through January. Even through the first of February those outside lights burned every night. Finally, about the middle of February, he said, he became a bit critical and said, "If I were too lazy to take my Christmas lights down, I think I’d at least turn them off at night."

But about the middle of March there was a sign outside of their house that explained why they’d left the lights on. It said simply, "Welcome home, Jimmy." Pastor Russell went on to say, “We learned that that family had a son in Vietnam, and they had unashamedly left their Christmas lights on in anticipation of his return. Lights are a symbol of hope."

Robert Russell, author and pastor of Southeast Christian Church, Louisville, Kentucky.

‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭26‬-‭38‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A.  Overcame fear and confusion

B.  I am the Lord's servant

C.  May your word to me be fulfilled.

There is a seldom noticed yet preciously tender lesson to be found in Mary’s actions immediately following the angel’s visit announcing her role as bearer of the Christ Child. She had been told that her cousin Elizabeth was also experiencing an unusual, though different, visitation of God’s grace: that now late in life, she was in the sixth month of pregnancy with her first child (Luke 1:36).

Now, almost immediately after she has discovered that she, Mary of Nazareth, is about to become the most unique woman in history, notice how beautifully her attention turns from herself to a need where she can serve.

She travels to help Elizabeth, and verse 56 says that Mary stayed with her aged relative and served her until Elizabeth’s baby was delivered.

This could well become our most important Christmas lesson for this year. Mary demonstrates a principle of God’s love in action: “May I be more concerned to assist the fulfillment of what the Lord is doing in another person than I am with what He is doing in me.”

Jack W. Hayford, Celebrate! Daily Devotions for the Spirit-Filled Life, Thomas Nelson Publishers, Nashville, 1992, page: December 9.

II.  SHE PRAISED GOD

‭‭Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭46‬-‭55‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors.””

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭1‬:‭46‬-‭55‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A.  Anyway  

B.  Humility

C.  Honor

We can get victory over hardships by singing praise to the Lord.

"My mouth is filled with Your praise...all day long." Ps. 71:8 NAS

Roger Bennett, pianist and songwriter died in 2007. Prior to his death he wrote on his website:

Our enemy stalks us exactly the way the Bible describes, as a roaring lion. He hides in the bushes waiting for any sign of weakness. Then he strikes. He didn't strike me physically. He struck a more critical part -- my joy...confidence...and hope. Every thought turned towards heaven bounced back like it was made of brass. Every time I tried to look on the bright side, I ended up imagining a dark future. Then he threw his most effective dart -- doubt. "You call yourself a Christian. What a hypocrite! You're more afraid than ever...more filled with despair. So much for your faith, Mr. Gospel Singer!" I believed every thing he said. I tried everything I knew to pull out of it...I thought if I dozed off it would pass...but the clock seemed to move in slow motion. Sleep was nowhere near. I tried to lose myself in the Bible, but the words blurred and I couldn't make sense of them."

Then Bennett had an epiphany, as he thought about Paul and Silas in prison. "They didn't despair," he wrote: "They sang praises and that became their weapon. One after another...old songs came to me and I sang them to my empty room. It wasn't a great performance, but it may be the most powerful blessing I've received." The Palmist wrote, "My mouth is filled with Your praise...all day long.

Ray Ellis, Sermon Central, November 22, 2010.

III.  SHE FULFILLED HER SERVICE

‭‭Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

“While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”

‭‭ Luke‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬-‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

A.  Gave birth

B.  Cared for

C.  Did the best she could

When Pope Julius I authorized December 25 to be celebrated as the birthday of Jesus in A.D. 353, who would have ever thought that it would become what it is today.

When Professor Charles Follen lit candles on the first Christmas tree in America in 1832, who would have ever thought that the decorations would become as elaborate as they are today.

It is a long time since 1832, longer still from 353, longer still from that dark night brightened by a special star in which Jesus the king was born. Yet, as we approach December 25 again, it gives us yet another opportunity to pause, and in the midst of all the excitement and elaborate decorations and expensive commercialization which surround Christmas today, to consider again the event of Christmas and the person whose birth we celebrate.

James W. Cox, The Minister’s Manual: 1994, San Fransico: Harper Collins, 1993, p. 254.

CONCLUSION

Mary believed the impossible and lived like it. She believed God. She praised God. She fulfilled her service to God.

The Days Before Christmas

Twas the days before Christmas, and all through the Church

The pews are all filling, as everyone perched.

The hands are all shaking, and greetings abound

Soon I’ll go to the pulpit, prepared to expound.

I spent the whole week trying to hear what God’s saying

Studying, reading, and earnestly praying

The choir has practiced and taken great care

Their singing this morning, for weeks they’ve prepared

We’ve had Christmas sermons of Angels and Wise men

Of Shepherds and mangers, no room at the Inn

I pray that this week, the message will do

The job of moving the folks from the pew

But I must keep it brief. I must watch my time

For at noon I will hear the watches all chime

This is a season so full of distractions

But we know that this world has no satisfaction

If we don’t share the Gospel of Christ

Not just his birth, but His paying our price

If we speak of the manger, but not of the cross

The fullness of Jesus, somehow gets lost

This Christmas season, do Jesus a favor

Make it a season to share Christ the Savior

Anonymous, Sermon Central, December 12, 2002.

INVITATION

It is our custom to offer an "invitation" following the preaching of the Word.  You may want to follow Jesus.  You may want to proclaim your faith.  You may want to repent (stop doing ungodly things and start doing Godly things).  Perhaps you want to be baptized for the forgiveness of your sins     and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.  Possibly, if you have already responded to God’s call in these ways, you would like to become a member of Kenwood Church.  If you have been moved by the Holy Spirit to make a decision in your life, you can come forward now.  If you would like, I would be honored to speak with you following the service about what God is doing in your life.