Christmas Reminders
By Senior Pastor Dr. Bill Rains | December 10, 2023
Turn to Matthew 1:18-25 for today’s message, “Christmas Reminders.” In a world of secularized, materialistic Christmas, we need to return to the basics. Matthew 1:18-25 says: “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise… Mary was found with child of the Holy Ghost… Joseph… did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him…” Let’s pray: Father, thank You for this great host, our faithful attendees, first-time and returning guests, and a family joining our church. We’re grateful for this text. If any lack assurance of Heaven, save them today. Help me preach, inadequate as I am, in Jesus’ name, amen.
The Fulfillment of Scripture
Christmas reminds us of Scripture’s fulfillment. Matthew 1:22-23 says: “Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet… Behold, a virgin shall be with child…” (Isaiah 7:14). Hundreds of years before, prophets like Isaiah (9:6) foresaw Emmanuel—“Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father”—and Micah (5:2) pinpointed Bethlehem. Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, and Psalm 16:10 predicted His suffering, death, and resurrection. The Bible, uniquely divine, demands we teach and embrace it. An acquaintance mocked my King James stance, calling it idolatry. I countered with Daniel 3:25—only the KJV preserves “Son of God” in the fire, not lesser terms. Trust this Book—it’s God’s preserved Word.
A Savior With Us
Christmas reminds us of a Savior with us. Matthew 1:23 says: “…they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” That manger scene—Joseph, Mary, baby Jesus—isn’t just a cute image. This child was the God of creation (Genesis 1:1), able to unmake the universe with a thought. Yet, He’s not against us—He’s with us. Not wrathful, but for us, walking Galilee’s roads beside us. I don’t care what you’ve heard about God—Christmas declares a Savior who loves you, not a foe who abandons you. Emmanuel, God incarnate, is here for you.
Salvation From Sin
Christmas reminds us of salvation from sin. Matthew 1:21 says: “…thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” We need a Savior—every one of us, sinners all (Romans 3:23), bound for Hell without rescue. If we could save ourselves, why would God send His Son to die? No smidgen of a chance exists apart from Jesus. Acknowledge your sin, turn to Him, and He’ll lift you, cleanse you, casting sins “as far as the east is from the west” (Psalm 103:12). Forever saved—sin’s power broken by the One named Jesus.
A Servant’s Obedience
Christmas reminds us of a servant’s obedience. Matthew 1:24 says: “Then Joseph… did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him…” Facing Mary’s pregnancy, he obeyed despite society’s cruelty. In Luke 1:38, Mary said: “Be it unto me according to thy word.” She ignored shame and accusations, trusting God. I recall a woman in my childhood, scorned for her child, yet my mom taught dignity. That boy, mocked as illegitimate, got saved, became a preacher—God used him mightily. Obey like Joseph and Mary—do what God says. It’s no mystery: turn to Jesus, seek forgiveness, and find peace.
A Call to Remember
This Christmas, enjoy the lights and songs—I love them all, even the drummer boy—but don’t forget the basics. Scripture fulfilled, a Savior with us, salvation from sin, and obedience to God. Are you saved? Say, “Lord, forgive my sins, save my soul—I trust Jesus alone.” Feel His peace. Obey Him—it’s simple. On Judgment Day, the answer to all ills is doing what the Bible says. Stand—will you embrace these Christmas reminders today?