Ebenezer Free Lutheran - December 4, 2016

Summary

The speaker delves into the true essence of Christmas, contrasting it with the idyllic imagery often portrayed. They discuss the historical context of Jesus' birth during a time of darkness and tyranny under King Herod, emphasizing the world's need for salvation. The narrative pivots to Mary and Joseph, highlighting their faith and submission to God's plan despite the challenges and societal judgment they faced. The speaker encourages embracing the 'Christmas spirit' of surrendering personal plans to God's will, exemplified by Mary's obedience and Carson Wentz's 'Audience of One' philosophy, ultimately urging listeners to live for an audience of one—God.

Takeaways

• 🎄 The true essence of Christmas is often overshadowed by the commercial and festive aspects, but it represents a difficult and challenging time, marked by the need for a savior.
• 🌑 The period before Jesus' birth was characterized by darkness and death, with people living in a state of despair under the rule of a tyrant like King Herod.
• 👑 Despite the joyous image often associated with Christmas, the birth of Jesus was set against a backdrop of violence, abuse of power, and fear, much like the world today.
• 🙏 The message of Christmas is one of humility and surrender, where individuals like Mary and Joseph had to accept their roles in God's plan without fully understanding the implications.
• 🤰 Mary's story exemplifies faith and obedience, as she was chosen by God for a significant role despite her youth and the challenges it entailed.
• 👼 The birth of Jesus was not just a miraculous event but also a testament to the power of faith, as demonstrated by those who accepted their part in the divine plan.
• 🕊️ The Christmas spirit is about recognizing our need for salvation and embracing the role God has for us, even when it involves personal sacrifice and hardship.
• ⚖️ The story of Christmas challenges us to reflect on our own lives, acknowledging our flaws and weaknesses, and accepting the gift of salvation offered by Jesus.
• 💡 The concept of 'audience of one' as demonstrated by Carson Wentz, aligns with the Christmas spirit, which is about living life for God and being willing to be used by Him.
• 🙌 The Christmas spirit is not just a seasonal sentiment but a lifelong commitment to living in obedience to God's will and being open to His plans for our lives.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the message titled 'The Heart and Difficult Christmas'?

The main theme of the message is to reflect on the true nature of Christmas, which was not just a joyful and serene event but also a time of hardship and difficulty, as depicted in the scriptures. It emphasizes the need for salvation and the role of Jesus as the savior amidst a world filled with violence, injustice, and grief.

How is King Herod described in the context of the first Christmas?

King Herod is described as a tyrant and an absolute ruler who was responsible for acts of violence and injustice, including the slaughtering of members from the previous ruling group and the execution of half of the Jewish Sanhedrin, as well as the order to kill 300 of his noble courtiers upon his death.

What does the speaker suggest about the world at the time of the first Christmas?

The speaker suggests that the world at the time of the first Christmas was a place filled with violence, abuse of power, hopelessness, and grief, and that these conditions necessitate the need for a savior, which is why Jesus came into the world.

What is the significance of the quote from Matthew 4:16 in the message?

The quote from Matthew 4:16, which is a reference to Isaiah, signifies that the arrival of Jesus brought light to a world that was previously shrouded in darkness and death, symbolizing hope and salvation for those living in such conditions.

Why does the speaker say that Christmas has become a season of difficult gift-giving?

The speaker suggests that Christmas has become a season of difficult gift-giving because to receive the gift of Jesus Christ requires one to acknowledge their flaws, weaknesses, and the need for salvation, which is a humbling and pride-swallowing experience.

How does the speaker relate the concept of 'highly favored' to Mary in the context of the Christmas story?

The speaker relates the concept of 'highly favored' to Mary by explaining that her selection by God to bear Jesus was an act of divine grace and favor, not because of her own merits or understanding, but simply because God chose her for this significant role.

What does the speaker say about the faith required of the characters in the Christmas story?

The speaker says that the faith required of the characters in the Christmas story, such as Mary and Joseph, was very difficult. They had to trust in God's plan despite not fully understanding it and facing complications and challenges in their lives.

How does the speaker describe the reaction of Mary when the angel told her she would be the mother of the Lord?

The speaker describes Mary's reaction as one of confusion and questions, but ultimately of faith and submission. Despite not understanding how she could become a mother as a virgin, Mary chose to trust God and accepted her role as 'The Lord's servant'.

What does the speaker mean when they say 'the Christmas spirit'?

The speaker refers to 'the Christmas spirit' as the attitude of surrendering one's life to God's plan, acknowledging one's need for salvation, and living a life that is focused on serving and glorifying God, rather than on personal desires or plans.

How does the speaker connect the quarterback Carson Wentz to the Christmas spirit?

The speaker connects Carson Wentz to the Christmas spirit by highlighting Wentz's decision to customize his football cleats with a message about Jesus and the motto 'audience of one,' signifying that he plays for God's glory and lives his life before God as his primary audience, which aligns with the selfless and God-centered attitude of the Christmas spirit.