FOR UNTO YOU

LUKE 2:1-14                                                      

Pastor Rick Jackson

In Philippians 4:8 the Word of God admonishes us, “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

 

I. THE TIDINGS

1. They Were “Good Tidings” [v. 10-11, Pr. 25:25]

As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.

2. They Were Joyous Tidings [v. 10, 15:10]

Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

3. They Were Tidings of “Good Will” [v. 14, 2 Pet. 3:9, Jeremiah 29:11]

-The Lord is…  not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

-For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

 

II. THE RECIPIENTS OF THE TIDINGS

1. Shepherds [v. 8, Gen. 46:33-34, 1 Sam. 16:11]

-And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you, and shall say, What is your occupation? That ye shall say, Thy servants trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

- And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither.

2. All People [v. 10, Jn. 3:16, 1 Jn. 2:2]

-For God so loved the world…

-And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

3. Men [v. 14, Mt. 4:19] mankind

- And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.

 

III. THE RESPONSE OF THE RECIPIENTS OF THE TIDINGS

1. Alarm (fear) [v. 9, Pr. 9:10]

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

2. Acceptance [v. 15-16, Jn. 1:12]

-But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

3. Action (telling others ) [v. 17-18, Mk. 16:15]

Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.