BIRTH OF CHRIST
“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (and this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria). And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, unto the city of David, which is Bethlehem, (Because he was of the house and lineage of David), to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country, shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, ‘Fear not: for behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let us now go even unto Bethlehem and see this thing, which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.’
And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.
And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.” Luke 2:1-20
THIS IS WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ALL ABOUT! While it is true that Jesus wasn't born on December 25 (we don't know the exact day) we do know he was born of a virgin (Mary) and was placed in a manger and shepherds came after hearing the Good News from the angels. We do know Herod tried to kill Him when He was a young child but God, the Father, had other plans! Jesus grew and entered His public ministry at the age of 30. after a controversial three years the time had come for Him to die for the sins of the world. He was crucified, died and was buried. BUT......
Three days later He rose from the dead and is seated at the Father's right hand where He lives to make intercession for us! If you believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord and confess with your mouth you will be saved! Yes, He died for the sins of the world, but YOU have to accept this free gift of salvation. It's not a blanket coverage. Believe (hold on to, abide in, trust) in Him and confess your sin and you will be saved!
Merry Christmas!
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