Sunday 24th December  2023

TOPIC: The implications of the presence of the God who became flesh in the believer’s life. 

Texts: Jhon 1:11-14

Preacher: Jeremie NDABO

Christmas is here! Lights twinkle, music fills the air, families gather, etc. The tradition of Christmas is adopted and celebrated in many cultures; Yet, amidst the festivities, a profound question lingers: "Christ is born, so what?" In order not to miss out on the reason for the season, today, let us peel back the festive facade and explore the transformative implications of Christ's presence in the believer's life. 

Christmas reminds us of the following key points:

1. The privilege of those who receive Christ and believe in him:  2 Corinthians 6:18 whispers a beautiful truth: "I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters." Christ's birth grants us not just a Savior, but a Father. This is no distant relationship; it's one of intimacy, protection, and boundless love. We are no longer orphans, but cherished children basking in His embrace. He offers provision, guidance, forgiveness, and unconditional acceptance.

1. The process of becoming God’s Children: To truly understand something, we sometimes need to know what it's not. John 1:12-13 clarifies who God's children are: "To all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—children born not of natural descent, nor human decision or will, but of God." This transformation is a gift, not an achievement. It transcends human efforts, powered solely by God's grace. Through this supernatural act, we are born anew, becoming His beloved children.

1. The proximity of God with humanity through the person of Christ: Through Christ, God tabernacled among us. In Jesus, the invisible God became visible, bridging the chasm between heaven and earth. He wasn't a celestial being, but a tangible presence, sharing our laughter and tears, He's not just a Savior, but a companion, who understands our struggles because he has faced them himself.

1. The purpose of Christ’s coming in the Flesh: The cross of Jesus embodies the perfect balance of grace and truth. What Moses glimpsed; Jesus revealed in its fullness. He offered grace to sinners undeserving of it and exposed the ignorance preventing others from seeing God's glory and the reality of His judgment.

Brethren, Christ's presence is not just a festive memory, but a transformative reality. It changes who we are and calls us to live as His children, bearing His truth and grace into the world. So, let's go beyond the festive facade and embrace the profound transformation that Christ offers us.