December 2018 at Living Word. Do you have the full picture of Christmas?
The world is being tossed about in a sea of darkness. It is important that we remain stable not just for our benefit but for those who are lost and need to see the Light. We must anchor to God and stick to His plan. His plan began a long time before Jesus was born. God’s plan offers redemption to the world. This year make your gift of service and worship reflect God’s love.
Children learn – Jesus was born – This is a great season to make the Bible come alive for your children. God came to earth to provide an example, teaching lessons and most importantly salvation.
December 2 Prophets told about Jesus- Isaiah 7:14; 9-6; 11:1-5; Micah 5:2 – God planned for Jesus to be the Savior from the beginning of time.
December 9 Angels spoke to Mary and Joseph – Luke 1:26-38; Matthew 1:18-24; Isaiah 7:14 – Angels tell the good news. Angels told that Jesus would be born.
December 16 Mary Visited Elizabeth – Luke 1:39-56; Isaiah 7:14 – God sent Jesus to earth in human form.
December 23 Jesus was born – Luke 2:1-20; Isaiah 7:14: John 1:12 – God provided a plan for salvation because He loves me.
December 30 Wise men visited Jesus – Matthew 2:1-12; Isaiah 7:14; Psalm 66:4 – People can obey Jesus as a response to His love.
Youth learn – The full picture of CHRISTmas. God had a plan. God told others of His plan and they were waiting & watching. This is a full motion picture so you need to take action and be involved.
December 2 Isaiah’s prophecy – Isaiah 7:10-14; 9:6-7; 11:1-5 – The birth of Jesus was not a surprise. It was planned by God. Here is your sign.
December 9 Joseph’s obedience- Matthew 1:18-25- Following God’s plan will require changes in your life. The change is well worth it.
December 16 Mary’s trust – Luke 1:26-38 – Embrace God’s call on your life. Know that nothing is impossible with God. You don’t have to know how it works just trust God to work.
December 23 The Angel’s announcement – Luke 2:1-14 – Jesus came for our salvation.
December 30 Simeon’s Proclamation – Luke 2:25-35 – We have a sure hope when we trust in Jesus.
Sometimes the circumstance you are in may not be a coincidence it could be part of the plan.
Do not go through life without a plan. God wants you to take a stand and share His plan.
To get the full picture of Christmas you must go back over 700 years before baby Jesus was born.
The birth of Jesus was not a surprise. It was planned by God. Here is your sign.
Prophets told about Jesus- Isaiah 7:10-14; 9:6-7; 11:1-5; Micah 5:2 – God planned for Jesus to be the Savior from the beginning of time.
The life & death of Jesus was not unanticipated or uncontrollable, it was planned in order to achieve a desired effect that involves you.
God’s word for king Ahaz was also for you & I. Matthew 1:22-23
Moses knew mankind could not do it alone, the load was too heavy Numbers 11:14
God told David of His plan for a kingdom 2 Samuel 7:11-16. A place for God to dwell and the kingdom will last forever.
Who – Isaiah 9:6-7
Wonderful Counselor – Nothing boring about the reign. A Counselor with wisdom to rule effectively
Mighty God- Power to execute His wise plans
Eternal Father – Father of eternity. Everlasting relationship to time. Provides His people protection forever
Prince of Peace – Son of God. Will bring an end to conflict & remove sin bringing peace to those who trust in Him.
Vast dominion with prosperity that will never end with Justice & Righteousness from now and forever
Lord of Armies that will accomplish – Warrior who defeats sin & death
Isaiah 11:1-5 – a shoot will grow and the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him. The Spirit came upon David when he was anointed king. The Spirit provided Jesus with power and wisdom to carry out His calling. That same Spirit wants to dwell in you if you will allow it.
Spirit of wisdom & understanding
Spirit of counsel & strength
Spirit of knowledge & fear of the Lord
Wisdom & understanding with supernatural perception to execute God’s plan with includes justice.
We are called to live in obedience to God and pursue righteousness. We struggle and fall short but what Jesus does is just, right, and true. When we put our trust and faith in Jesus, His grace allows us to become like Him and His righteousness becomes ours.
Put on your belt of righteousness & faithfulness. Take a stand and share the plan.