The King's Birthday - Nathan Rages

Luke 2:1-7 records the familiar account of Jesus' birth.  This message focuses on these six details:  

1. The historicity of the Gospel (v1-2).

2. The significance of Bethlehem (v3-4).

3. The sovereign providence of God (v1,6).

4. The obedience to civil government (v3-5).

5. The strangeness of the manger scene (v7).

6. The instructive symbolism. 

Appreciating Joseph - Nathan Rages

Matt. 1:18-25 describes the announcement of Jesus' conception from the perspective of Joseph, Mary's underappreciated fiance:

1. His difficult dilemma (v18-19).

2. His angelic visitor (v20).

3. His royal heritage (v20).

4. His shocking revelation (v20-23).

5. His risky obedience (v20,24).

6. His unusual marriage (v24-25).

7. His valuable fatherhood (v25).

Zechariah's Song - James Voon

[NOTE: We apologize for the imperfect audio quality, but we think the excellent content is still worth posting.]

Luke 1:57-80 describes the birth of John the Baptist and the song of his father Zechariah:

1. The birth (v57-66),

2. The three covenants: Davidic, Abrahamic, and New Covenant (v67-75).

3. John as forerunner and Jesus the Sun of Righteousness (v76-80). 

The Magnificent Magnificat - Nathan Rages

Luke 1:46-56 contains Mary's famous song, traditionally called the Magnificat.  It's a hymn of praise that reveals two things about Mary and six things about Mary's glorious God.  

About Mary:

1. Her knowledge of Scripture.

2. Her worshipful heart.

About God:

1. His salvation (v47).

2. His power (v49,51).

3. His holiness (v49).

4. His mercy (v50,54).

5. His judgment (v51,52,53).

6. His faithfulness (v50,54,55).

A Visit of Two Miracle Mothers - Nathan Rages

Luke 1:39-45 tells about Mary's visit to the home of Elizabeth.  Both of these women were pregnant as a result of miraculous conceptions, and their two unborn baby boys were the Messiah and His Forerunner.  

This story highlights three frequently despised things that God highly values:

1. Christian fellowship.

2. Unborn babies.

3. People who believe God’s Word. 

The Wonder of Christ's Conception - Nathan Rages

Luke 1:26-38 describes Mary's surprise encounter with the angel Gabriel in which she is told that she will supernaturally conceive baby Jesus.  

Three things stand out in the story:

1. Mary’s godly character.

    Composure, thoughtfulness, purity, faith, submission, and courage. 

2. Jesus’ humble greatness.

    Humble in: place, family, wealth, conception circumstances.

    “He will be great … Son of the Most High … His kingdom will have no end”

3. Incarnation’s mysterious glory.

    “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; and for that reason the holy Child shall be called the Son of God.”

The Virgin Birth is essential for our salvation:

1. To fulfill prophecy. 

2. To avoid Original Sin. 

3. To provide a Mediator.

God's Absolute Sovereignty Over Human Affairs - Clark Lasse

Zacharias' experience in the Temple in Luke 1:5-25 provides valuable illustrations of God's sovereign involvement in human affairs:

1. He works in the macro movements of human history.

2. He works even through those who do not honor Him.

3. He works on behalf of His covenant people.

4. He works to fulfill His prophesied promises.

5. He works in the details of individuals' lives.

Take away applications:

1. Be alert to ways God is getting your attention.

2. Be active in seeking God's wisdom and provision (by prayer).

3. Be ready to embrace God's correction.

4. Celebrate when God fulfills His purposes.