The Lord’s Birth

The Lord’s Birth - NCFC Sermon 121910
Speaker: Rev. David Chang
http://www.fellowshipusa.org

“Advent—(4) The Lord’s Birth”
Matthew 1:18-2:6

 I. How God Implemented His Plan
Participation of humans (Mt 1:18-19, 24-25)
Expectation of the Messiah (Christ) (Mt 1:18)
Significance of the virgin birth (Mt 1:18, 20)
Salvation for people (Jesus) (Mt 1:21)

 II. How We Benefit from His Plan
God saves us from our sins (Jesus) (Mt 1:21)
God is with us (Immanuel) (Mt 1:22-23)

 III. How We Are to Respond to His Plan
Expectation of the King and Ruler (Mt 2:1-2)
Worship of the King and Ruler (Mt 2:3-6)

 IV. Application 
Reflect on the faith and obedience of Mary and Joseph in the participation ofGod’s plan. Sometimes faith doesn’t make sense, but it is necessary for obedience. And obedience is necessary in our participation in God’s plan. How are you participating in God’s plan today?
In many ways, we are not that much different from the Jews in that we tend to have certain expectations of the Messiah that are not according to God’s plan. Do you have wrong expectations of the Messiah? Are they based on your needs, your situation, or your standards?
Many times, we seek out salvation in what we can do or what we have – our accomplishments, our prestige/position, our possessions/money, our intellect, or our life experiences. In what ways have you placed your salvation in things other than Jesus Christ? 
This Christmas, if hosting family dinners are more important, if getting presents (or getting the best deals on presents) are more important, if setting up the Christmas tree and decorations are more important than anything else, then they are in competition with the Lord and have become idols in our life. How can we respond to the Lord’s birth and worship him anew this Christmas?