Dear Friends,
A speaker once declared that he had no desire to be called an 'expert' - because an 'ex' was a has been and a 'spurt' was a drip under pressure!
My problem with experts is that they are all always absolutely right but rarely agree with one another!
So for that reason and others I see no point in entering a debate about the exact date of the birth of Jesus Christ.
But Jesus was born in Bethlehem and some 2000 years on many millions of people will celebrate His birth.
Churches will be full - carols will be sung - cards will be sent - people might even 'give peace a chance' if only for a few hours.
But why?
What is it that seems to be so powerful and persuasive about the birth of one baby amongst billions?
- The birth of Jesus was expected.
It was something dearly predicted by the prophets and promised by God.
Micah identified His birthplace. Isaiah spoke of a virgin who would conceive and give birth to a son. God assured Abraham that all nations on earth would be blessed through him and his offspring.
The whole of the Old Testament points towards the coming of Christ - the Messiah. Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53 both describe clearly His crucifixion.
- The birth of Jesus was exceptional.
God, in Christ, became one of us. Love came down at Christmas. Light entered our dark world. Life was seen in its original purity.
Jesus was born sinless and unlike us he broke none of God's commands.
Jesus came into the world to save sinners. He came to relieve us of the heavy load of sin and guilt and shame.
- The birth of Jesus was experienced.
The story of the Saviours birth is clearly recorded in the gospels. Mary, Joseph and the shepherds were there - each of them a witness to the fact that a Saviour had been born. Unknown shepherds were given the story to share with others.
This story in its completeness takes us to the cross where Jesus died - and to the tomb, which was found to be empty after He rose again - and into heaven itself where Jesus returned.
The story will only be fully complete when a multitude of people too big to be counted from every nation, tribe and language upon earth have become Christians.(Rev 7:9)
Your conversion could be part of it!
With warm Christmas Greetings
For further information on our church please contact 01291-423092 (Pastor) or 01594-528232 (Secretary)
With our constant prayers
Eddie Jones
Pastor
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