John MacArthur "The Truth About Christmas"

Summary

This sermon contrasts the pervasive societal lies with the absolute truths found in the Bible, particularly during the Christmas season. The speaker critiques common beliefs such as the randomness of life, relative truth, and the idea that humans are inherently good. In contrast, he emphasizes the purposeful nature of life, the absoluteness of truth, and humanity's need for redemption through Jesus Christ. The message calls for a focus on the true meaning of Christmas—celebrating the birth of the Savior—and urges the audience to embrace Christ for eternal hope and salvation, highlighting the profound significance of His coming.

Takeaways

• 🎄 Christmas should focus on celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, not the fictional character of Santa Claus.
• 🛡️ The belief in Santa Claus, while harmless in some ways, distracts from the true meaning of Christmas, which is the celebration of Jesus' birth and what it represents.
• 🔍 Our society is surrounded by lies that influence thinking and behavior, such as the belief that life is random and without purpose.
• ⚖️ Truth is absolute, not relative. Despite varying opinions, moral and spiritual truths are defined and unchanging as revealed in the Bible.
• 👥 The belief that man is inherently good is incorrect. According to Scripture, humanity is fundamentally sinful and separated from God.
• ✌️ The highest virtue is not tolerance but righteousness, which is living in alignment with God’s standards and doing what is right.
• 💰 Life is not about material possessions or achievements; true worth is defined by what one believes and their relationship with God.
• 😌 The goal of life is not personal satisfaction but to glorify God and honor Him, which in turn brings true fulfillment and peace.
• 🕊️ Death is not a peaceful transition to something better for everyone; without Jesus, it leads to judgment, not salvation.
• 🙌 True transformation comes not from within ourselves but from God, who changes our hearts and makes us new creations through faith in Jesus Christ.

Q & A

What is the primary message the speaker conveys about Christmas?

The speaker emphasizes that Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, not a fantasy figure like Santa Claus. It is about the truth of God's love and the salvation brought through Jesus, rather than secular myths or traditions.

What does the speaker identify as a major societal lie related to life?

The speaker identifies the belief that life is random as a major societal lie. They argue that life is not random, but is governed by God's design, purpose, and power.

How does the speaker contrast relative truth with absolute truth?

The speaker argues that truth is absolute, not relative. They give the example of gravity to show that certain laws apply universally, whether or not people believe in them. Similarly, spiritual and moral truths are absolute and revealed in the Bible.

What does the speaker say about humanity's nature?

The speaker claims that humanity is not basically good, but sinful. People are alienated from God, motivated by selfishness and pride, and in need of redemption.

What is the highest virtue, according to the speaker?

The speaker argues that the highest virtue is righteousness, doing what is right according to God's standards, rather than tolerance, which is often promoted in society.

What is the speaker's view on material possessions and success?

The speaker criticizes the belief that life is defined by what one possesses. They stress that what you own or achieve does not define life or bring salvation, and that true value comes from what one believes.

What does the speaker say about the goal of life?

The speaker asserts that the goal of life is not personal satisfaction, but to glorify and honor God. Living for God's glory is presented as the ultimate purpose of life.

How does the speaker view death?

The speaker rejects the idea that death is a pleasant transition. Instead, they emphasize that death is a serious reality, often leading to eternal judgment without the salvation offered by Jesus Christ.

What is the good news the speaker highlights in the script?

The good news is that God loves the world and sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to offer salvation. By believing in Jesus, people can have eternal life and be reconciled with God.

How does the speaker view the myth of Santa Claus in relation to Christmas?

The speaker views the myth of Santa Claus as a distraction from the true meaning of Christmas. While not inherently harmful, it has become a widespread fantasy that overshadows the profound truth of celebrating Jesus Christ's birth.