The Real Reason For Christmas
“The saying is sure and true and worthy of full and universal acceptance, that Christ Jesus (the Messiah) came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am foremost.” (1Tim. 1:15 AMP)
Hello Saints, (short and sweet today),
Oh what manner of love the Father has demonstrated to the world by sending His one and only Son to free us from the consequences and power of sin through the cross and blood of Jesus (John 3:16; John 3:34-36; Romans 5:8). In his first letter to Timothy, Paul is writing to encourage Tim to continue to preach the “glorious gospel of the blessed God” (1Tim. 1:11). It seems that in the middle of writing, while focusing on the sins that the law reveals (vs. 9-10), and the mission he has been called to (vs. 12), Paul suddenly remembers his own condition before Christ came into his life - he who has sinned much has been forgiven much - the Apostle Paul used to persecute Christians (vs. 13). “I obtained mercy” he repeats twice and realizes that it is only because “the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus” (vs. 14). Paul is who he is for one reason – the mercy and grace of God rolled up into one glorious ‘good news’ gift – Jesus Christ and everlasting life (vs. 15-16). And upon realizing his own salvation, he bursts into praise: “Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen” (vs. 17).
Oh Friends! What Good News Christmas is for us who believe and receive the truth. Mercy, grace, salvation, freedom, forgiveness, sonship, peace, joy and everlasting life! Just a few of the benefits Christ purchased for us at Calvary by shedding His blood on that cruel cross. “The Son of Man came to seek and save the lost” (Luke 19:10). “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him” (John 3:17). “This is how God’s love was revealed among us: God sent His one and only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. And love consists in this: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as the atoning sacrifice for our sins” (1John 4:9-10).
Oh Friends! What Good News Christmas is, so great that it needs to be, even must be shared with all those we interact with this season – those who have not heard and those who have not yet received the truth unto salvation. Let’s first, like Paul, remember our condition before Christ. Let’s remember the Gospel by which we are saved. Let’s get excited, praising God for rescuing us from our sins and their consequences. Let’s remember that we are living witnesses to the mercy and grace of God – we demonstrate the Gospel to the world, so let us be bold to share our salvation story with the ones we love as we partner with Holy Spirit in bringing people to Jesus.
“But that is why God had mercy on me, so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of His great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in Him and receive eternal life.” (1Tim. 1:16 NLT)
I believe there is only one reason God allows Christmas - so the Gospel can be preached. Let's do that in word and deed!
Merry Christmas!
"Advancing the Kingdom of God by releasing Spirit-filled followers to serve Jesus in freedom and joy."
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