Emmanuel: The Hope and Joy of His Coming

Devotional

Day 1: Liberation Through Christ's Reign

Jesus' birth heralds the arrival of a liberator who offers rest, hope, and an eternal kingdom. This liberation is not limited to personal salvation but extends to societal transformation, where Jesus' rule brings peace and justice to all, from the marginalized to the mighty.

Isaiah 9:6-7 - "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end."
Reflection: How can you invite Jesus to reign in areas of your life where you feel powerless or oppressed?

Day 2: Joyful Anticipation of Christ's Return

The Christian life is marked by a joyful anticipation of Jesus' return, which is celebrated with cosmic imagery and communal rejoicing. This eschatological hope encourages believers to live generously and with a readiness for the divine encounter.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of joy and generosity as you anticipate Jesus' return?

Day 3: Worship in Response to the Incarnation

The incarnation invites all to recognize and honor the divine presence in Jesus, who chose humility and vulnerability in his birth. This act of divine condescension calls for a life of gratitude and devotion, acknowledging the profound journey from divine glory to human vulnerability.

Philippians 2:6-8 - "Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness."
Reflection: How does the humility of Jesus' incarnation challenge the way you view power and prestige in your own life?

Day 4: Triumph Over Death and the Grave

The victory of God over death is a cornerstone of faith, providing hope and assurance. This triumph inspires worship and praise, as believers declare God's worthiness and trust in His promises.

1 Corinthians 15:54-57 - "When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: 'Death has been swallowed up in victory.' 'Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?'"
Reflection: How can you live out the victory of Christ in your daily struggles and triumphs?

Day 5: The Incarnation as Fulfillment of Hope

Christ's incarnation represents the fulfillment of ancient longings and the dawn of a new era of righteousness and peace. The divine light shining in the darkness offers guidance and comfort to all who seek it.

Micah 5:2-4 - "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God."
Reflection: How does the light of Christ's birth illuminate the dark areas of your life, and how can you share that light with others?

Sermon Summary

The sermon explores the profound significance of Jesus' birth, his anticipated return, and the deep spiritual implications of these events. Jesus is portrayed as the one born to liberate humanity from fears and sins, offering rest and hope. He is the strength of Israel and the joy of every lonely heart, destined to reign forever. The speaker expresses a yearning for Jesus to rule in their hearts and the hearts of all, from shepherds to kings.

The anticipation of Jesus' return is a central theme, with vivid imagery of the skies opening and the trumpet sounding to herald his arrival. The speaker envisions a church filled with joyous cries at the sight of Jesus and repeats the plea for his coming. This longing for Jesus' return is intertwined with a call for the congregation to embody generosity.

The sermon concludes with a prayer invoking Emmanuel, the Son of God, to appear and bring relief to captive Israel. The speaker rejoices in the anticipation of Emmanuel's coming and asks for the Lord to rule over them.

Reflecting on the wise men's visit to the newborn Jesus, the speaker emphasizes Jesus' identity as the Son of God and the Prince of Peace. The narrative of the angels and shepherds witnessing Christ's birth is recounted, inviting the audience to witness the newborn King. Jesus' choice to embrace weakness and humanity, reigning from a manger, is praised, and the speaker expresses gratitude for Jesus' journey from heaven to the cradle and the cross.

The power and victory of God are proclaimed, celebrating that the grave could not contain Him. The congregation is encouraged to sing praises to God, their king. The speaker worships God, acknowledging His loveliness, worthiness, and faithfulness in giving hope and fulfilling promises. The anticipation of Jesus' birth and his mission to bring peace are highlighted.

The speaker rejoices in the coming of Emmanuel, expressing hope for salvation and a white Christmas. Despite the mixed emotions of the holiday season, the speaker calls on Jesus to make the season wonderful, to be a source of strength and comfort, and to be crowned with many crowns in praise and thanksgiving.

Lastly, the speaker reflects on Christ's birth in Bethlehem, adored by the highest heaven and described as the everlasting Lord. Christ's incarnation is celebrated as the fulfillment of hope, bringing light and life, laying aside glory for humanity's eternal life. The hymn "O Little Town of Bethlehem" is referenced, emphasizing the everlasting light and the meeting of hopes and fears in Christ's birth.

Key Takeaways

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Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What titles are given to Jesus in Isaiah 9:6-7, and what do they signify about His role and character?
According to Luke 2:10-14, what message did the angels bring to the shepherds, and how did they react?
In Revelation 21:3-4, what promises are made about God's future dwelling with humanity and the state of the world?

Interpretation Questions

How does the title "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9:6-7 relate to the sermon’s emphasis on Jesus bringing peace and hope to all levels of society? [30:19]
What is the significance of the angels announcing Jesus' birth to shepherds in Luke 2:10-14, and how does this reflect the sermon’s theme of Jesus' humility and accessibility? [17:44]
How does the imagery of God wiping away every tear in Revelation 21:3-4 connect with the sermon’s message of Jesus' return bringing ultimate relief and joy? [31:23]

Application Questions

Reflecting on Isaiah 9:6-7, how can you personally embrace Jesus as your "Wonderful Counselor" and "Prince of Peace" in your daily life?
The sermon speaks of Jesus' birth bringing hope and liberation. How can you share this message of hope with someone who is struggling this holiday season? [30:19]
Considering the angels' announcement in Luke 2:10-14, how can you cultivate a sense of joy and wonder in your worship and daily life, especially during the Christmas season? [17:44]
The sermon calls for a spirit of generosity in anticipation of Jesus' return. What specific actions can you take to embody generosity in your community this week? [31:23]
The speaker expressed a longing for Jesus to rule in their heart. What steps can you take to allow Jesus to have a greater influence in your decisions and actions? [30:19]
Reflecting on the victory of God over death, how can you live out a life of praise and gratitude, acknowledging God's faithfulness and promises? [25:37]
The sermon highlighted the mixed emotions of the holiday season. How can you find strength and comfort in Jesus during times of sadness or loneliness? [08:34]

Sermon Clips

"Born to set thy people free From our fears and sins Release us, let us find our rest in thee Israel's strength and God's revelation Hope of all the earth thou art Dear desire of every nation Joy of every lonely heart." [29:44] (Download)

"Control the hearts of shepherds Control the hearts of kings Even as a baby You will change everything You called me to your kingdom Before your lips could speak And even as a baby You were reaching out for me." [31:10] (Download)

"So Lord, would you help us to be a generous people, O come, O come, Emmanuel and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear." [01:12:53] (Download)

"Our God has overcome; let heaven and nature sing. This is our king." [25:04] (Download)

"Glory be to you, oh King who reigns from a manger's home. My life, my praise, everything I owe to Jesus, the king of the manger home." [26:28] (Download)

"You give hope to the hopeless; you keep all your promises. Come, thou long-expected Jesus, born to set thy peace." [27:49] (Download)

"The Prince of Peace has come to us, Oh, crown him with glory. Crown him with many crowns, the Lamb of God his throne. Hark how the heavenly anthem drowns all music but his own." [15:15] (Download)

"Veiled in flesh the Godhead see, Hail the incarnate Deity, Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus, our Emmanuel." [01:21:18] (Download)

"Yet in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light; The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight." [01:24:39] (Download)

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