" Unto You is Born This Day . . . a SAVIOR ! "

 

Luke 2:1-20  "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was Governor of Syria). And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David): to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped HIM in swaddling cloths, and laid HIM in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the LORD came upon them, and the glory of the LORD shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a SAVIOR, which is CHRIST the LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD, and saying, Glory to GOD in the highest, and on Earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into Heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the LORD hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising GOD for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them."

     The LORD first gave HIS promise of a SAVIOR, a REDEEMER, to Adam and Eve back in the Garden of Eden immediately after they had sinned (Genesis 3:15 pictured above). Later, Isaiah prophesied the miraculous nature of CHRIST's virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14 see picture below), and Micah even foretold the location of HIS birth (Micah 5:2 2nd.picture from top of post). Centuries later, godly Simeon, who had been looking for the promised MESSIAH, praised GOD when sight confirmed his faith (Luke 2:25-32 pictured below). Today's text is GOD's inspired record of the fulfillment of the many Old Testament prophecies concerning the birth of JESUS CHRIST. Millions have read and rejoiced in these precious words, and many who have believed have thereafter happily joined in reiterating these precious words, "GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY" (Luke 2:10-11 pictured at top of post).

     Christmas, though its observance has obviously become a means of promoting religious ceremonialism, heathen observances, crass commercialism, and social debauchery, does provide a wonderful opportunity for Christian witness. Those who personally know JESUS CHRIST, the SAVIOR WHO indeed came into the world, are the very ones who must bear testimony of that blessed reality to others. Believers can use this season to tell the unsaved WHO JESUS is and why HE came, urging them to trust HIM as their personal SAVIOR. And, let us remember that although we do not know the precise date of JESUS' birth nor have we been told the exact date of HIS return, we do know that HE did come to Earth over 2,000 years ago and that HE is coming again -- it could be at any time; HE could even come today ! "Thanks be unto GOD for HIS unspeakable gift" (2nd.Corinthians 9:15), and praise the LORD for our "blessed hope" (Titus 2:11-13). MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

" GOD Sent Forth "

 

Galatians 4:4-5  "But when the fulness of the time was come, GOD sent forth HIS SON, made of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem them that were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption of sons."

     An unknown author wrote the following: "If our greatest need had been information, GOD would have sent us an educator. If our greatest need had been technology, GOD would have sent us a scientist. If our greatest need had been money, GOD would have sent us an economist. If our greatest need had been pleasure, GOD would have sent us an entertainer. BUT our greatest need was forgiveness, so GOD sent us a SAVIOR." In today's text, the words "sent forth" are the translation of a Greek word meaning "to send away forth, i.e. (on a mission)." Our GOD is the greatest at sending agents, and when GOD sends, HE appoints someone with a task, with the necessary resources to accomplish the task, and with the authority to represent HIM.

     HE sent the prophets to carry HIS message: Jeremiah records, "And the LORD hath sent unto you all HIS servants the prophets, rising early and sending them; but ye have not hearkened, nor inclined your ear to hear" (Jeremiah 25:4 two pictures above). HE sent John the Baptist as the forerunner of CHRIST: "There was a man sent from GOD, whose name was John. . .And he shall go before HIM in the spirit and power of Elias" (John 1:6; Luke 1:17). HE sent HIS SON to be the SAVIOR: "And we have seen and do testify that the FATHER sent the SON to be the SAVIOR of the world" (1st.John 4:14 pictured at top of post). HE sent the disciples with the Gospel: "As THOU hast sent ME into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world" (John 17:18 pictured above). And HE continues to work through man by sending him to accomplish HIS purpose. HE commissions us to be witnesses of HIS saving grace and power to a lost and dying world. We have been sent and equipped. Are we going forth ? JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" Joseph's Thoughtful Deliberation "

 

Matthew 1:18-25  "Now the birth of JESUS CHRIST was on this wise: When as HIS Mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with  CHILD of the HOLY GHOST. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the HOLY GHOST. And she shall bring forth a SON, and thou shall call HIS name JESUS : for HE shall save HIS people from their sins.

Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the LORD by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with CHILD, and shall bring forth a SON, and they shall call HIS name EMMANUEL, which being interpreted is, GOD with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the LORD had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: and knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn SON: and he called HIS name JESUS."

     "When as HIS Mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with CHILD of the HOLY GHOST" (v.18 pictured above). Put yourself in Joseph's shoes (sandals). Prior to the consummation of their marriage, Joseph discovered that Mary was pregnant. He knew that the CHILD was not his, and so it seemed that he could come to only one conclusion: Mary had been unfaithful. She must have been with some other man. Joseph was greatly troubled. It just did not make any sense. The Mary he knew would not have done this. What should he do ?

     As he considered his options, he did not wish to make a public spectacle of Mary. To deal with the matter in private seemed best. "He thought on these things" (v.20 pictured at top of post). Joseph did not act in haste or in anger. He deliberated. He waited on the LORD. "LORD, what should I do ? I love Mary; I can't believe this has happened. I don't understand it. LORD, show me what to do." GOD quickly answered and supplied the vital information that Joseph lacked (vv.20-21). May we avoid rash actions and not jump to conclusions before learning all the facts. We need to wait on the LORD and carefully evaluate the situation in light of what we know to be true. The person who manifests the love of CHRIST does not hastily prejudge a case but, rather, "believeth all things" (1st.Corinthians 13:7); that is, he tries to put the best possible construction on actions and events. May we believe that a person is innocent until the facts prove otherwise. It is important to accept what a person says in his own defense unless we have solid evidence to the contrary. "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage. . .Wait, I say, on the LORD" (Psalm 27:14 pictured above). GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" Was Joseph the Father of JESUS ? "

 

Luke 2:40-52  "And the CHILD grew, and waxed strong in SPIRIT, filled with wisdom: and the grace of GOD was upon HIM. Now HIS parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. And when HE was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the CHILD JESUS tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and HIS Mother knew not of it. But they, supposing HIM to have been in the company, went a day's journey; and they sought HIM among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found HIM not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking HIM.

And it came to pass, that after three days they found HIM in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard HIM were astonished at HIS understanding and answers. And when they saw HIM, they were amazed: and HIS Mother said unto HIM, behold, THY Father and I have sought THEE sorrowing. And HE said unto them, How is it that ye sought ME ? Wist ye not that I must be about MY FATHER's business ? And they understood not the saying which HE spoke unto them. And HE went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but HIS Mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And JESUS increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with GOD and man."

     "And Joseph and HIS Mother marveled at those things which were spoken of HIM" (Luke 2:33 picture at top of post). Notice that Luke does not say, "HIS Father and HIS Mother." Joseph was not JESUS' biological Father. The LORD JESUS was the SON of MAN. No man was involved in HIS supernatural conception. Now consider Luke 2:48 (pictured above) where Mary says, "THY Father and I have sought THEE sorrowing." Mary calls Joseph the Father of JESUS. Was Mary mistaken ? If anyone knew about the virgin birth and supernatural conception, Mary certainly did. Was Joseph the Father of JESUS or not ? Keep in mind what a Father is meant to be. Many fathers today are missing in action. Sadly, too many children are born out of wedlock and raised without the presence of a Father. Others have deadbeat Dads who refuse to play a responsible role in their upbringing. This was never GOD's intent. The breakdown of the family has been a curse on our society in so many ways.

     Back to our question: What is a Father supposed to be ? Here are three simple words that sum up the paternal responsibilities: The Father is to provide (1st.Timothy 5:8), protect (Proverbs 14:26), and teach (Ephesians 6:4). Joseph provided for his family by working diligently as a carpenter (Matthew 13:55), protected his family from harm (Matthew 2:13-14), and taught his family (two of his sons, James and Jude, authored books of the Bible). Joseph, our LORD's foster Father, faithfully fulfilled the role of a Father, even though he had nothing to do with JESUS' conception. "Joseph. . .fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the HOLY GHOST" (Matthew 1:20 pictured above). GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

" The GOD - MAN: A CHILD Born, a SON Given "

 

Isaiah 9:1-7  "Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at the first HE lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined. THOU has multiplied the nation, and not increased the joy: they joy before THEE according to the joy in harvest, and as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.

For THOU hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian. For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. For unto us a CHILD is born, unto us a SON is given: and the government shall be upon HIS shoulder: and HIS name shall be called WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR, The MIGHTY GOD, The EVERLASTING FATHER, The PRINCE of PEACE. Of the increase of HIS government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon HIS kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this."

     The prophet Isaiah gave a wonderful prophecy 700 years before CHRIST was born. In verse six, we learn of a CHRILD to be born (HIS humanity) and a SON to be given (HIS deity - John 3:16 above). Isaiah had previously foretold the virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14 above) emphasizing both CHRIST's humanity ("a virgin shall conceive, and bear a SON") and deity ("HIS name IMMANUEL," meaning "GOD with us"). The coming MESSIAH would be the Earth's KING, with the government (rule, dominion) resting upon HIS shoulder.

     This divine CHILD is given four names, each consisting of two Hebrew words: 

(1.) WONDERFUL COUNSELOR - the Hebrew term for wonderful means "that which surpasses human thought and power; incomprehensible." HE is the wonder of wonders ! Judges 13:18 uses this word for the name of the ANGEL of the LORD WHO, in verse twenty-two, is identified as GOD. See also Isaiah 28:29.

(2.) MIGHTY GOD - compare this identical phrase found in Isaiah 10:20-21 where "MIGHTY (heroic) GOD" refers to the LORD, the HOLY ONE of Israel. Here HIS deity is emphasized.

(3.) EVERLASTING FATHER - this is not suggesting the the MESSIAH will be GOD the FATHER. The persons of the GODhead are always distinct. Isaiah's prophecy is emphasizing that with respect to HIS people Israel, HE will ever be as a FATHER (Provider/Protector): "THOU, O LORD, art our FATHER; our REDEEMER; THY NAME is from everlasting" (Isaiah 63:16; Psalm 103:13).

(4.) PRINCE (Ruler) of PEACE - Isaiah 2:4 above, describes HIS future reign of peace: "And HE shall judge among the nations, . . .and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks:. . .neither shall they learn war anymore."  O come, let us adore HIM ! GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

" What Does Christmas Mean ? "

 

John 3:16  "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life."

     The Christmas season is a time of great anticipation. Children usually look forward to presents, and this holiday tradition provides an opportunity for parents to teach them about giving gifts to others. Adults often anticipate a time of fellowship with family and friends as loved ones gather together. This time of year presents us with the wonderful opportunity to express our love and appreciation to others and to treasure the relationships that the LORD has allowed us to have in this life. 

     Of course, the most important focus at Christmastime should be the GIFT that GOD the FATHER has given to the world in the person of HIS OWN SON. The fact that GOD gave HIS only begotten SON to be our SAVIOR is a truth each of us should continually dwell upon throughout the year. Our salvation, made possible through the sacrifice that JESUS CHRIST made for us on the cross, ought to be something that becomes more and more precious to us as we face the sin-cursed world around us. GOD's gift of salvation spiritually rescues us from this depraved , wicked world system. The Bible tells us that we, as believers, are delivered from this present evil age (Galatians 1:4 above). We who once walked in darkness are now "light in the LORD" and "children of light" (Ephesians 5:8 below).

     As GOD's child, may your life be filled with the wonder of Christmas - the marvelous fact that the SON of GOD, the second person of the triune GODhead, became man so  HE might die for our sins and be raised again the third day for our justification. It is an amazing reality indeed that the LORD would take on human flesh so mankind could receive GOD's gift of everlasting life. Oh how great is the wonder of Christmas ! GDF

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

" The Wonder of the Incarnation "

John 1:14   " And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the FATHER,) full of grace and truth. "

1st.Timothy 3:16   " And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: GOD was manifest in the flesh, justified in the SPIRIT, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. "

     Contemplate the wonder of the incarnation: " The WORD was GOD . . . And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us : (John 1:1, 14). The infinite GOD became a MAN. The eternal ONE stepped into time (Galatians 4:4). The GOD WHO never had a beginning and WHO always existed was born as an INFANT (Micah 5:2; Isaiah 7:14). The ALMIGHTY rested as a dependent BABY in the arms of Mary. The CREATOR of all things was laid in a receptacle made to hold food for animals (Luke 2:12). The ONE WHO was " high and lifted up " (Isaiah 6:1) was placed in a lowly manger and greeted by lowly shepherds. Perhaps the most wondrous fact of the incarnation was that it made it possible for the IMMORTAL ONE to die. The living GOD cannot die. Man's sin deserved and demanded death (Romans 1:32; 6:23), thus dooming man to an eternal destiny separated from the LORD of Life (Isaiah 59:2; 2nd.Thessalonians 1:8-9).

     GOD, in HIS love, devised a way to provide Salvation for sinful man without compromising HIS OWN just and righteous character. Serving as man's SUBSTITUTE, HE HIMSELF would pay the death penalty for sinful man. In order for this to be done, GOD had to become a MAN, " that HE by the grace of GOD should taste death for every man " (Hebrews 2:9). The IMMORTAL GOD cannot die, but HE took upon HIMSELF humanity so that, as the GOD-MAN, HE could die and did die for our sins (1st.Corinthians 15:3; 1st.Peter 3:18). HIS saving work was accomplished, not in Bethlehem's cradle, but on Golgotha's cross. HIS birth made HIS death possible; HIS death made our Salvation possible. Praise the LORD for HIS condescending love and grace by which HE stooped so low in order to raise us so high (2nd.Corinthians 8:9) ! GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide

Used  with  permission.   www.feasite.org

" Our Ways Are Not GOD's Ways "

Luke 2:1-14   " And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was Governor of Syria) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn SON, and wrapped HIM in swaddling clothes, and laid HIM in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the LORD came upon them, and the glory of the LORD shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, ' Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a SAVIOR, which is CHRIST the LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. ' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD, and saying, ' Glory to GOD in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. ' "

     Suppose men had been put in charge of CHRIST's grand entrance into this world - how differently things would have unfolded ! If the planning of this event were put in our hands: (1) We would want HIM to come to one of the world's greatest cities (New York, Beijing, Paris, London) - yet CHRIST came to Bethlehem, a small village sparsely populated. (2) We would want HIM to come to some world famous edifice or some amazing palace and have the nicest accommodation - yet CHRIST was born in a stable and laid in an animal feeding trough. (3) We would want the world's most important people to be present when HE comes to earth (heads of state, presidents, prime ministers, kings) - yet CHRIST was welcomed by common folk: humble shepherds. (4) We would want the whole world to be told of HIS arrival; we would want the event to be covered by all the major media outlets - yet CHRIST's coming was unnoticed by the vast majority of people. (5) We would want to see GOD in all of HIS power and glory, to see what HE could do and how great HE is - yet CHRIST entered the world as a dependent baby, not putting HIS power and glory on outward display.

     Yes, GOD's marvelous plan for HIS SON's entrance into the world came about, not by the cunning schemes of man, but by the infinite wisdom of the GOD WHO knows exactly what this wold needs. " For ye know the grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, that, though HE was rich, yet for your sakes HE became poor, that ye through HIS poverty might be rich " (2nd.Corinthians 8:9). So also JESUS CHRIST's great unveiling at HIS second coming will unfold, not as men may want it, but according to the FATHER's perfect plan. GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide

Used  with  permission.   www.feasite.org

" Glorious Expectation "

Psalm 71:19-24   " THY righteousness also, O GOD, is very high, who has done great things:  O GOD, who is like unto THEE !  THOU, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth. THOU shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side. I will also praise THEE with the psaltery, even THY truth, O my GOD:  unto THEE will I sing with the harp, O THOU HOLY ONE of Israel. My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto THEE; and my soul, which THOU hast redeemed. My tongue also shall talk of THY righteousness all the day long: for they are confounded, for they are brought unto shame, that seek my hurt. "

     The psalmist had to endure weakness, frailty, and the physical limitations that inevitably come with advanced age. Nevertheless, we see in our text that this elderly man of GOD expected even greater things ahead (vv.19-21). Looking prophetically forward, GOD's people have HIS promise of the literal, earthly fulfillment of the irrevocable covenant promises HE made to the patriarchs of old. The Millennial Kingdom shall indeed come, and the promised KING will rule the world in righteousness from David's throne. David himself looked forward to his promised resurrection when he, along with the other Old Testament saints, will be raised again to serve with their MESSIAH and KING in that glorious kingdom of which so many of the prophetic Scriptures speak. Yes David certainly was a great king when he ruled Israel of old, but his reign does not even begin to compare with the far greater glory that is to follow when the LORD JESUS CHRIST returns to rule and reign with HIS saints.

     Although the timing is different, the believer in this church age also has the blessed promise of resurrection. All who have trusted JESUS CHRIST during this present dispensation, be they Jew or Gentile, will be  "caught up" at the LORD JESUS CHRIST's return in the air, which takes place before the seven-year Tribulation period (Rev.3:10; 1st.Thess. 4:13-18). Those who have died in CHRIST will be resurrected; believers who are living at CHRIST's return (to the clouds only) will be raptured, without seeing death. Does the prospect of JESUS' imminent return give us joy ? The promise of future glory caused the psalmist to abound with thanksgiving and to be strengthened in his witness (vv.22-24). DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used with permission.   www.feasite.org

" GOD's Love Gift to the World "

John 3:16   " For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish but have everlasting life. "

JESUS CHRIST is GOD's love gift personified. HE gave HIS best. HE was not stingy with HIS gift, nor was HE reluctant in HIS giving. HE  "so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON."  GOD's love was not limited to the cross but was expressed from eternity past. GOD loved us in that all the prophecies of CHRIST's first coming were literally fulfilled to the jot and tittle (the letter). GOD loved us in that JESUS, the Eternal SON,  "made HIMSELF of no reputation, and took upon HIM the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men" (Philippians 2:7), all without ever ceasing to be GOD. Yes,  "great is the mystery of godliness: GOD was manifest in the flesh"  (1st.Timothy 3:16).

"GOD is love,"  and  "love is of GOD"  (1st.John 4:7-8).  The baby in the manger was the  "SAVIOR, which is CHRIST the LORD"  (Luke 2:11).  HE came  "to seek and to save that which was lost"  (Luke 19:10; Matthew 18:11).  Being given the name  "JESUS,"  meaning  "JEHOVAH saves,"  HE came to  "save HIS people from their sins"  (Matthew 1:21).  HE came  "that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly"  (John 10:10).  HE came "not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give HIS life a ransom for many" (Matthew 20:28; Mark 10:45). "What shall we then say to these things ?" (Romans 8:31-32).  Yes, JESUS is GOD's love-gift to you ! Have you received HIS gift ?  "But as many as received HIM, to them gave HE power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on HIS name"  (John 1:12).  Oh "thanks be unto GOD for HIS unspeakable gift"  (2nd.Corinthians 9:15) ! PNF

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.feasite.org

" Unto You Is Born This Day ... a SAVIOR "

Luke 2:1-20   " And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was Governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused (promised) wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn SON, and wrapped HIM in swaddling clothes, and laid HIM in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the LORD came upon them, and the glory of the LORD shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tiding of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a SAVIOR, which is CHRIST the LORD. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the BABE wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising GOD, and saying, Glory to GOD in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the LORD hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the BABE lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising GOD for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. "

     The LORD first gave HIS promise of a SAVIOR, a REDEEMER, to Adam and Eve back in the garden of Eden immediately after they had sinned (Genesis 3:15). Later, Isaiah prophesied the miraculous nature of CHRIST's virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14), and Micah foretold even the location of HIS birth (Micah 5:2). Centuries later, godly Simeon, who had been looking for the promised MESSIAH, praised GOD when sight confirmed his faith (Luke 2:25-32). Today's text is GOD's inspired record of the fulfillment of the many Old Testament prophecies concerning the birth of JESUS CHRIST. Millions have read and rejoiced in these precious WORD's, and many who have believed have thereafter happily joined in reiterating these  "good tidings of great joy" (vv.10-11).

     Christmas, though its observance has obviously become a means of promoting religious ceremonialism, heathen observances, crass commercialism, and social debauchery, does provide a wonderful opportunity for Christian witness. Those who personally know JESUS CHRIST, the SAVIOR WHO indeed came into the world, are the very ones who must bear testimony of that blessed reality to others. Believers can use this season to tell the unsaved WHO JESUS is and why HE came, urging them to trust HIM as their personal SAVIOR. And, let us remember that although we do not know the precise date of JESUS' birth nor have we been told the exact date of HIS return, we do know that HE did come to earth over 2,000 years ago and that HE is coming again - it could be at any time; HE could even come today !  "Thanks be unto GOD for HIS unspeakable gift"  (2nd.Corinthians 9:15), and praise the LORD for our  "blessed hope"  (Titus 2:11-13) ! MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, Feature: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

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