January 10th, 2025
by Dalton Jenkins
by Dalton Jenkins
Type your new text here.
Article
Embracing Jesus: God's Special Gift to the World
Introduction
As we conclude our three-part series on "Jesus: God's Special Gift to the World," we reflect on the profound message of faith, surrender, and the transformative power of accepting Jesus Christ. This final sermon of the year invites us to look forward with anticipation and trust in God's plan, just as Mary did when she received the news of Jesus' birth. Let's delve into the key points and lessons from this powerful message.
Mary's Faithful Response: A Model for Us
What Does It Mean to Surrender to God's Will?
In Luke 1:38, Mary responds to the angel's message with, "I am the Lord's servant, may your word be fulfilled." This declaration exemplifies faith, humility, and submission. Mary's response to God's call was anything but easy; it required her to overcome fear, embrace uncertainty, and surrender her own will to God. Her example challenges us to respond to Jesus' gift with the same level of trust and obedience.
The Indescribable Gift of Jesus
Paul describes Jesus as an "indescribable gift" in 2 Corinthians 9:15. This gift calls us to love one another, as John writes in 1 John 4:9-11, because God first loved us. Accepting this gift means embracing the Great Commission—to go and tell others about Jesus. This gift is not just for personal consumption but for sharing with the world.
The Prophecies and Their Fulfillment
How Do Biblical Prophecies Affirm Our Faith?
The first part of our series explored the prophecies foretelling Christ's birth and their precise fulfillment. These prophecies, recorded centuries before Jesus' birth, demonstrate God's meticulous plan of salvation. The specific details about Jesus' birthplace, lineage, and mission affirm the reliability of Scripture and the certainty of God's promises.
The Significance of Christmas
Christmas is not just a historical event but the unfolding of God's perfect plan of salvation. It points us to Christ's coming, His crucifixion, and His promised return. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded to prepare our hearts and lives for His second advent.
Responding to the Gift
What Is Your Response to Jesus?
Mary's response to the angel's message was one of faith and submission. Our response to Jesus' gift should be similar. We can either accept or reject this gift; there is no middle ground. Accepting Jesus means a life-changing commitment that requires us to surrender our will to His.
The Cost of Following Jesus
Following Jesus comes with a personal cost. Mary understood the magnitude of what was being asked of her, knowing it could lead to public disgrace and even death. Similarly, accepting Jesus may require us to give up certain relationships, habits, or lifestyles. However, the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.
Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty
How Can We Trust God in Uncertain Times?
Mary's initial response was one of fear and uncertainty. However, the angel reassured her that God would provide all she needed. Similarly, we may face uncertainties when we decide to follow Jesus, but we can trust that God will guide and provide for us. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God."
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in calming our anxieties and providing the strength we need to follow God's will. Just as the angel reassured Mary, the Holy Spirit reassures us that God is in control and will fulfill His promises.
Life Application
How Can You Apply This Message to Your Life?
As we reflect on Mary's response to God's incredible gift, we are called to respond with faith and submission. Here are some questions to ponder:
What personal changes or sacrifices might God be asking you to make in light of the gift of Jesus?
How can you trust Him to provide the strength to make these changes?
Are you willing to surrender your will to God's plan, even when it comes with personal costs?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, challenge yourself to identify one area of your life where you need to surrender more fully to God's will. Pray for the strength to make the necessary changes and trust that God will provide all you need. Let Mary's declaration be your own: "I am the Lord's servant. Let it be according to your word."
Conclusion
As we end this year and look to the future, may we, like Mary, embrace the gift of Christ with faith and courage. Allow Him to shape your life for His glory, trusting in His promises and surrendering to His will. Remember, the gift of Jesus is not just for you but for the world. Share this indescribable gift with others and live in the light of His coming, both His first and His glorious return.
Introduction
As we conclude our three-part series on "Jesus: God's Special Gift to the World," we reflect on the profound message of faith, surrender, and the transformative power of accepting Jesus Christ. This final sermon of the year invites us to look forward with anticipation and trust in God's plan, just as Mary did when she received the news of Jesus' birth. Let's delve into the key points and lessons from this powerful message.
Mary's Faithful Response: A Model for Us
What Does It Mean to Surrender to God's Will?
In Luke 1:38, Mary responds to the angel's message with, "I am the Lord's servant, may your word be fulfilled." This declaration exemplifies faith, humility, and submission. Mary's response to God's call was anything but easy; it required her to overcome fear, embrace uncertainty, and surrender her own will to God. Her example challenges us to respond to Jesus' gift with the same level of trust and obedience.
The Indescribable Gift of Jesus
Paul describes Jesus as an "indescribable gift" in 2 Corinthians 9:15. This gift calls us to love one another, as John writes in 1 John 4:9-11, because God first loved us. Accepting this gift means embracing the Great Commission—to go and tell others about Jesus. This gift is not just for personal consumption but for sharing with the world.
The Prophecies and Their Fulfillment
How Do Biblical Prophecies Affirm Our Faith?
The first part of our series explored the prophecies foretelling Christ's birth and their precise fulfillment. These prophecies, recorded centuries before Jesus' birth, demonstrate God's meticulous plan of salvation. The specific details about Jesus' birthplace, lineage, and mission affirm the reliability of Scripture and the certainty of God's promises.
The Significance of Christmas
Christmas is not just a historical event but the unfolding of God's perfect plan of salvation. It points us to Christ's coming, His crucifixion, and His promised return. As we celebrate Christmas, we are reminded to prepare our hearts and lives for His second advent.
Responding to the Gift
What Is Your Response to Jesus?
Mary's response to the angel's message was one of faith and submission. Our response to Jesus' gift should be similar. We can either accept or reject this gift; there is no middle ground. Accepting Jesus means a life-changing commitment that requires us to surrender our will to His.
The Cost of Following Jesus
Following Jesus comes with a personal cost. Mary understood the magnitude of what was being asked of her, knowing it could lead to public disgrace and even death. Similarly, accepting Jesus may require us to give up certain relationships, habits, or lifestyles. However, the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices.
Overcoming Fear and Uncertainty
How Can We Trust God in Uncertain Times?
Mary's initial response was one of fear and uncertainty. However, the angel reassured her that God would provide all she needed. Similarly, we may face uncertainties when we decide to follow Jesus, but we can trust that God will guide and provide for us. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God."
The Role of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in calming our anxieties and providing the strength we need to follow God's will. Just as the angel reassured Mary, the Holy Spirit reassures us that God is in control and will fulfill His promises.
Life Application
How Can You Apply This Message to Your Life?
As we reflect on Mary's response to God's incredible gift, we are called to respond with faith and submission. Here are some questions to ponder:
What personal changes or sacrifices might God be asking you to make in light of the gift of Jesus?
How can you trust Him to provide the strength to make these changes?
Are you willing to surrender your will to God's plan, even when it comes with personal costs?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, challenge yourself to identify one area of your life where you need to surrender more fully to God's will. Pray for the strength to make the necessary changes and trust that God will provide all you need. Let Mary's declaration be your own: "I am the Lord's servant. Let it be according to your word."
Conclusion
As we end this year and look to the future, may we, like Mary, embrace the gift of Christ with faith and courage. Allow Him to shape your life for His glory, trusting in His promises and surrendering to His will. Remember, the gift of Jesus is not just for you but for the world. Share this indescribable gift with others and live in the light of His coming, both His first and His glorious return.
Devotions
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the transcription:
Day 1: God's Indescribable Gift
Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Devotional: As we reflect on God's "indescribable gift" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9:15, let's consider the magnitude of Jesus Christ coming to earth. This gift wasn't just a token of affection, but the very embodiment of God's love for humanity. How often do we pause to truly appreciate the enormity of this gift? Today, spend time meditating on what it means that God gave His only Son for you personally. How does this change your perspective on your daily life and challenges? Remember, this gift calls us to love others as God has loved us. Consider one practical way you can share God's love with someone today, reflecting the generosity and grace you've received.
Day 2: Faithful Response to God's Call
Reading: Luke 1:26-38
Devotional: Mary's response to the angel's announcement is a powerful example of faith and submission. Despite her fear and uncertainty, she declared, "I am the Lord's servant. May your word to me be fulfilled." This level of trust in God's plan, even when it disrupts our own, is challenging but transformative. Reflect on areas in your life where God might be calling you to step out in faith. What fears or doubts are holding you back? Remember, like Mary, you don't need to have all the answers. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. Today, practice surrendering one area of concern to God, trusting in His provision and guidance.
Day 3: The Power of God's Promises
Reading: Isaiah 55:8-11
Devotional: The sermon emphasized how God's plan of salvation through Jesus was carefully orchestrated and revealed through numerous prophecies. This reminds us of the reliability and power of God's promises. His word never returns void. As you read Isaiah 55, consider how God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours. In what areas of your life do you need to trust God's promises more fully? Are there situations where you're trying to figure everything out on your own instead of relying on God's wisdom? Today, identify one promise from Scripture that speaks to your current circumstances and meditate on it throughout the day, allowing it to shape your thoughts and actions.
Day 4: Embracing Change for Christ
Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Devotional: The message emphasized that accepting Christ requires change - we become new creations. This transformation often involves leaving behind old habits, relationships, or ways of thinking. It's not always easy, but it's essential for spiritual growth. As you read today's passage, reflect on what it means to be an "ambassador for Christ." How has your life changed since accepting Jesus? Are there areas where you're still clinging to old ways that don't align with your new identity in Christ? Today, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal one area where you need to embrace change more fully. Take a small, practical step towards that change, trusting God to empower you.
Day 5: God's Presence in Our Weakness
Reading: Romans 8:26-39
Devotional: The sermon touched on how God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, and how He provides reassurance and support through the Holy Spirit and fellow believers. Today's passage beautifully illustrates how nothing can separate us from God's love, even in our weakest moments. Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence most powerfully - was it during a moment of strength or weakness? How does knowing that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us impact your prayer life? Today, instead of trying to hide your weaknesses from God, bring them openly before Him. Ask for His strength, and reach out to a fellow believer for support and encouragement, remembering that we're called to bear one another's burdens.
Day 1: God's Indescribable Gift
Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-15
Devotional: As we reflect on God's "indescribable gift" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 9:15, let's consider the magnitude of Jesus Christ coming to earth. This gift wasn't just a token of affection, but the very embodiment of God's love for humanity. How often do we pause to truly appreciate the enormity of this gift? Today, spend time meditating on what it means that God gave His only Son for you personally. How does this change your perspective on your daily life and challenges? Remember, this gift calls us to love others as God has loved us. Consider one practical way you can share God's love with someone today, reflecting the generosity and grace you've received.
Day 2: Faithful Response to God's Call
Reading: Luke 1:26-38
Devotional: Mary's response to the angel's announcement is a powerful example of faith and submission. Despite her fear and uncertainty, she declared, "I am the Lord's servant. May your word to me be fulfilled." This level of trust in God's plan, even when it disrupts our own, is challenging but transformative. Reflect on areas in your life where God might be calling you to step out in faith. What fears or doubts are holding you back? Remember, like Mary, you don't need to have all the answers. God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. Today, practice surrendering one area of concern to God, trusting in His provision and guidance.
Day 3: The Power of God's Promises
Reading: Isaiah 55:8-11
Devotional: The sermon emphasized how God's plan of salvation through Jesus was carefully orchestrated and revealed through numerous prophecies. This reminds us of the reliability and power of God's promises. His word never returns void. As you read Isaiah 55, consider how God's thoughts and ways are higher than ours. In what areas of your life do you need to trust God's promises more fully? Are there situations where you're trying to figure everything out on your own instead of relying on God's wisdom? Today, identify one promise from Scripture that speaks to your current circumstances and meditate on it throughout the day, allowing it to shape your thoughts and actions.
Day 4: Embracing Change for Christ
Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Devotional: The message emphasized that accepting Christ requires change - we become new creations. This transformation often involves leaving behind old habits, relationships, or ways of thinking. It's not always easy, but it's essential for spiritual growth. As you read today's passage, reflect on what it means to be an "ambassador for Christ." How has your life changed since accepting Jesus? Are there areas where you're still clinging to old ways that don't align with your new identity in Christ? Today, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal one area where you need to embrace change more fully. Take a small, practical step towards that change, trusting God to empower you.
Day 5: God's Presence in Our Weakness
Reading: Romans 8:26-39
Devotional: The sermon touched on how God's strength is made perfect in our weakness, and how He provides reassurance and support through the Holy Spirit and fellow believers. Today's passage beautifully illustrates how nothing can separate us from God's love, even in our weakest moments. Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence most powerfully - was it during a moment of strength or weakness? How does knowing that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us impact your prayer life? Today, instead of trying to hide your weaknesses from God, bring them openly before Him. Ask for His strength, and reach out to a fellow believer for support and encouragement, remembering that we're called to bear one another's burdens.
Discussion Questions
Small Group Guide: Responding to God's Special Gift
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. Jesus is God's indescribable gift to the world, fulfilling specific prophecies.
2. Our response to this gift should be like Mary's - faithful and obedient.
3. Accepting Christ requires personal change and sacrifice.
4. God provides reassurance and strength through the Holy Spirit.
5. True discipleship involves surrendering our will to God's purpose.
Discussion Questions:
1. What does it mean to you personally that Jesus is God's special gift to the world? How has this gift impacted your life?
2. The sermon mentions that accepting Christ means we are "no longer living for ourselves but living for Christ." What challenges have you faced in living out this principle?
3. Mary's response to God's call came with fear and uncertainty. Can you share a time when following God's will required overcoming fear? How did you handle it?
4. The pastor emphasized the importance of in-person worship and fellowship. How has being physically present in church impacted your spiritual growth compared to online experiences?
5. What "re-gifting piles" might we be tempted to put Jesus in? How can we ensure we're fully embracing God's gift?
6. The sermon touched on the personal cost of following Jesus. What sacrifices have you had to make in your walk with Christ? How has God provided for you in those times?
7. How can we, like Mary, cultivate an attitude of "I am the Lord's servant" in our daily lives?
Practical Applications:
1. This week, identify one area of your life where you need to surrender control to God. Write it down and pray over it daily.
2. Make a commitment to attend in-person worship services regularly if you haven't been doing so.
3. Reflect on your current friendships and activities. Is there anything you need to change to align more closely with your faith?
4. Practice saying "I am the Lord's servant" each morning this week. Reflect on how this mindset changes your approach to daily challenges.
5. Share your faith journey with someone this week, focusing on how accepting Christ has changed your life.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the indescribable gift of Jesus. Help us to respond like Mary, with faith and obedience. Give us the courage to make necessary changes in our lives and to trust in Your provision. May we live as Your servants, always ready to follow Your will. Amen.
Opening Prayer
Key Takeaways:
1. Jesus is God's indescribable gift to the world, fulfilling specific prophecies.
2. Our response to this gift should be like Mary's - faithful and obedient.
3. Accepting Christ requires personal change and sacrifice.
4. God provides reassurance and strength through the Holy Spirit.
5. True discipleship involves surrendering our will to God's purpose.
Discussion Questions:
1. What does it mean to you personally that Jesus is God's special gift to the world? How has this gift impacted your life?
2. The sermon mentions that accepting Christ means we are "no longer living for ourselves but living for Christ." What challenges have you faced in living out this principle?
3. Mary's response to God's call came with fear and uncertainty. Can you share a time when following God's will required overcoming fear? How did you handle it?
4. The pastor emphasized the importance of in-person worship and fellowship. How has being physically present in church impacted your spiritual growth compared to online experiences?
5. What "re-gifting piles" might we be tempted to put Jesus in? How can we ensure we're fully embracing God's gift?
6. The sermon touched on the personal cost of following Jesus. What sacrifices have you had to make in your walk with Christ? How has God provided for you in those times?
7. How can we, like Mary, cultivate an attitude of "I am the Lord's servant" in our daily lives?
Practical Applications:
1. This week, identify one area of your life where you need to surrender control to God. Write it down and pray over it daily.
2. Make a commitment to attend in-person worship services regularly if you haven't been doing so.
3. Reflect on your current friendships and activities. Is there anything you need to change to align more closely with your faith?
4. Practice saying "I am the Lord's servant" each morning this week. Reflect on how this mindset changes your approach to daily challenges.
5. Share your faith journey with someone this week, focusing on how accepting Christ has changed your life.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the indescribable gift of Jesus. Help us to respond like Mary, with faith and obedience. Give us the courage to make necessary changes in our lives and to trust in Your provision. May we live as Your servants, always ready to follow Your will. Amen.
Scripture References
Here are the scripture references mentioned or alluded to in the sermon:
1. Luke 1:38
2. 2 Corinthians 9:15
3. 1 John 4:9-11
4. John 3:16
5. Luke 1:29-30
6. Isaiah 41:10
7. 2 Corinthians 12:9
8. Luke 1:34
9. Romans 12:1
10. 1 Samuel 15:22
11. Zechariah 4:6 (alluded to with "not by might, not by power, but by your spirit")
Additional relevant verses that align with the sermon's themes:
1. Matthew 28:19-20 (Great Commission)
2. Galatians 2:20 ("I have been crucified with Christ...")
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ("If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation...")
4. Hebrews 10:25 ("Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...")
5. Psalm 122:1 ("I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord.'")
6. Matthew 11:30 ("For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.")
7. John 4:28-29 (Woman at the well telling others about Jesus)
8. Hebrews 13:5 ("I will never leave you nor forsake you.")
9. John 14:16 (Promise of the Holy Spirit as Comforter)
10. Philippians 2:7-8 (Jesus taking the form of a servant)
1. Luke 1:38
2. 2 Corinthians 9:15
3. 1 John 4:9-11
4. John 3:16
5. Luke 1:29-30
6. Isaiah 41:10
7. 2 Corinthians 12:9
8. Luke 1:34
9. Romans 12:1
10. 1 Samuel 15:22
11. Zechariah 4:6 (alluded to with "not by might, not by power, but by your spirit")
Additional relevant verses that align with the sermon's themes:
1. Matthew 28:19-20 (Great Commission)
2. Galatians 2:20 ("I have been crucified with Christ...")
3. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ("If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation...")
4. Hebrews 10:25 ("Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...")
5. Psalm 122:1 ("I was glad when they said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord.'")
6. Matthew 11:30 ("For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.")
7. John 4:28-29 (Woman at the well telling others about Jesus)
8. Hebrews 13:5 ("I will never leave you nor forsake you.")
9. John 14:16 (Promise of the Holy Spirit as Comforter)
10. Philippians 2:7-8 (Jesus taking the form of a servant)
Dalton Jenkins
Recent
Archive
2025
January
February
March
April
2024
Categories
no categories
No Comments