INTRODUCTION

1. The Christmas Message

a) Coming of the Lord Jesus as Saviour

b) Continuing ministry as King

c) Compassionate ministry as God’s Servant

2. Appreciating afresh why the Lord Jesus came to earth

a) He brings a relevant message of Joy

b) He brings a special personal word

 

A MESSAGE OF WONDERFUL REDEMPTION

But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob,

And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you;

I have called you by your name; You are Mine Isaiah 43:1

1. From God as Creator

2. From God as Redeemer

a) A personal Call

b) A precious Call

 

A MESSAGE OF GREAT ASSURANCE

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.

When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. Isaiah 43:2

1. God’s promised presence amidst the challenges of life

I will be with you Isaiah 43:2a

a) God’s Presence

b) God’s Power

2. God’s promised protection

And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.

When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,

Nor shall the flame scorch you. Isaiah 43:2b

a) Fearful floods

b) Frightful fires

c) None will be able to overwhelm

 

A MESSAGE OF GREAT JOY

3 For I am the LORD your God, The Holy One of Israel, your Saviour;

I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place.

4 Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honoured,

And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you,

And people for your life. Isaiah 43:3-4

1. A Divine word

a) The LORD your God

b) The Holy One of Israel

c) Your Saviour

2. A Delightful word

a) Precious in My sight

b) Honoured

c) Loved

 

FURTHER WORDS OF PROMISE

5 Fear not, for I am with you;

I will bring your descendants from the east,

And gather you from the west;

6 I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’

And to the south, ‘Do not keep them back!’

Bring My sons from afar,

And My daughters from the ends of the earth—

7 Everyone who is called by My name,

Whom I have created for My glory;

I have formed him, yes, I have made him.” Isaiah 43:5-7

1. Dealing with fear

2. Delivering the descendants

3. Designed for glory

 

CONCLUSION

1. Reasons for a joyful Christmas

a) A deeper faith

b) A greater understanding of God’s plans

c) Personal comprehension

d) Grateful appreciation

2. Rejoicing in the LORD

a) Renewed faith

b) Revitalised life

c) Ready for the year ahead!