While tens of thousands are born each day, none are more significant than the birth of Jesus. Matthew and Luke provide many details about the birth of the Lord.

  • It was announced beforehand by an angel (Luke 2:26-28).
  • He would be God among men (Matthew 1:23).
  • He was born of a virgin (Luke 2:31-32).
  • It was announced to shepherds and celebrated by angels (Luke 2:8-14).
  • Magi from the east would visit and worship Him (Matthew 2:1-12).
  • It would be met by opposition from powerful people (Matthew 2:13-23)

Luke also records an incident when Jesus was presented by His parents at the temple (Luke 2:21-35). God promised a devout Jew named Simeon not to die before seeing the Messiah. When Jesus is brought to the temple, Simeon holds Him and makes some stunning proclamations.

Through this Child…

Salvation would be offered to all people (Luke 2:30-32).

  • Jesus would not just be a Savior for the Jews. He would be a Savior for all the nations.
    • He would be a “light of revelation to the Gentiles.”
    • He would save even people like us!
  • This statement was likely perplexing to Mary and Joseph.
    • Even in the Old Testament, God was thinking about us. He loved and cared about us. He was using the Jews to bring into the world a Messiah for all.
    • Simeon proclaimed the good news of the gospel!

Many would rise and fall (Luke 2:34).

  • Luke’s gospel is full of reversal stories.
    • The tax collector found favor with God (Luke 18:9-14).
    • The Samaritan was the neighbor to the abused Jew (Luke 10:30-37).
    • Only the Samaritan returned to thank Jesus after being healed (Luke 10:11-19).
  • Jesus’ ministry would separate the prideful from the humble.
    • People like the scribes and Pharisees would reject Him and fall spiritually.
    • While the tax collectors, prostitutes, and poor would accept Him, repent, and find favor with God.

A sword would pierce Mary’s soul (Luke 2:35).

  • This is referring to Mary having to watch her son suffer and die on the cross.
  • Can you imagine having to endure that with your child?
  • These words likely haunted Mary every day until they finally came to pass.

The thoughts of many hearts would be revealed (Luke 2:35).

  • Jesus can read men’s hearts (Luke 5:22; 6:8; 7:39; 9:46-48).
  • Through our response to Him and His gospel, our hearts are revealed. Either they are revealed to be humble and honest or hard and determined to rebel.

Take Home Points

  • The birth of Jesus is a big deal!
  • The birth of Jesus provides us an opportunity to share the gospel!
  • We are part of the birth story (Galatians 3:26-29)!

Conclusion:

If Jesus was not born, He could not die and be the Savior (Isaiah 53:5-8).